Contender - Cordura

The Contender is an archive silhouette originally released in 1995, incorporating design ideas from Mizuno's founder, Rhiachi Mizuno. This was a lightweight model characterized by stability and support, intended for beginners seeking a well-cushioned shoe for road or trail running. This new version of the original Contender combines Cordura fabric with suede reinforcements to ensure a more durable construction with maximum comfort. The midsole consists of a compressed, molded EVA foam with Mizuno's Transpower technology in the heel area, a highly reactive foam insert that also provides shock absorption and additional cushioning. A new one-piece full rubber outsole with flex grooves in the forefoot was used to allow for a smoother heel-to-toe transition. The classic look and the balanced way Cordura mesh and suede are alternately used create a unique blend of casual feel and the athletic origins of this silhouette.