Up Close – Mizuno Wave Ignitus 4 MIJ

The latest from Mizuno brings a touch of class with a splash of extreme attitude as the Wave Ignitus series takes on the “Made in Japan” label. If you a modern boot that oozes quality, the Wave Ignitus 4 MIJ is about as futuristic next generation as you will find.

And Mizuno has kept things simple with a half-half Black/White K-Leather upper rather than splashing unnecessary flashy colors. This is a boot that is built to suit heritage fanatics with a desire for a technically advanced, power focused option.

Find this colorway available at soccer.com.

When Mizuno label a boot with MIJ, you are immediately entitled to associate them with extreme quality. And compliments of that big label on the lower lacing, these are absolutely unmistakable. “Made In Japan” basically means that the boots are handcrafted in Japan without stressing about how long it takes to piece them together.

Each pair is placed and shaped on a last for 24 hours in order to create the perfect shape. In comparison, your average boot on the market gets just 20 minutes on a last. That is a HUGE difference, and one that allows Mizuno to provide players with a boot built on detail and not hype. Think of the natural stress and fit in the material before they even get to you.

For players in need of a pair of boots to replace their lost adidas Predator or Nike T90 Laser boots, this is about the best option you are likely to find. Up across the forefoot, there is plenty of technology to help you connect and perfect your strike. The highly defined strike zone consists of a new Bio Vamp Zone, intended to allow for a sweeter connection and extra grip with the ball. It is not the same Muiketan panel found on the Wave Ignitus 3, so players should expect a different experience through the important strike zone. Personally, I enjoy the padded area through the midfoot that helps cushion long passes or firm passes in tight situations.

It has been nearly 2 years since Mizuno entered the US market. At that time, there was huge desire from fans for easier access to the Japanese specialists boots. But, sales have been slow and the regular versions of their boots have been removed from the market. That leaves the more expensive MIJ selection listed as the remaining available option. With the top-tier price comes a boot with double the quality, comfort and natural fit. Key to deciding they are the right boot for you involves having confidence to drop some serious cash on a pair with their price tag.

If you’ve never tried Mizuno MIJ boots before, you really need to at some point. These might not fit your budget right now, but should the price drop and you can invest, I highly recommend it!

Check the latest price of Mizuno Wave Ignitus MIJ at soccer.com.