If the Honi is a “stretchy slipper” for the gym, the Ulysses Waya is the high-performance sport sedan of the lineup. Designed to lead the brand’s “invasion” of the road running market, the Waya is a distance-oriented trainer that balances a lightweight build with the structural integrity needed for the marathon distance.
“The shoe for the road is called Waya… it has a less aggressive bottom and the upper is made with Jacquard Mesh. It’s a mix—not too tight, but not too stretchy.” — Massimo Moradi, Designer
Model and Purpose
The Waya is a neutral daily trainer engineered for everything from high-mileage training blocks to race day. Built on the 98 Gold Last, it offers a more performance-oriented, secure fit than the indoor model. It is engineered for:
- Long Training Days: High-mileage efforts where foot protection is paramount.
- Asphalt & Pavement: Optimized for the repetitive impact of hard city surfaces.
- Balanced Support: Providing a “locked-in” feel that avoids the excessive stretch of gym shoes while remaining breathable.
- Injury Prevention: Utilizing the brand’s signature geometry to mitigate lower back fatigue.
Specs and Measurements
The Waya provides a substantial amount of protection while remaining impressively light, coming in well under the 300g mark.
- Weight: 278g (USM 8.5).
- Stack Height: 34mm heel / 28mm forefoot.
- Drop: 6mm.
- Upper: Jacquard polyester mesh with a protective TPU toe cap and ultra-soft lining.
- Midsole: G-FOAM (Supercritical EVA) for cushioning and energy return.
- Insole: 5mm EVA En-Sole footbed.
- Sizing: Unisex fit from USM 4–14 (+½).
- Price: €160.
Key Features of the Ulysses Waya
1. Performance Jacquard Mesh Unlike the ultra-stretchy 4D knit found on the Honi, the Waya utilizes a high-tenacity Jacquard Mesh. Massimo describes this as a “mix”—it provides enough structure to keep your foot stable during high-speed cornering but remains flexible enough to accommodate natural foot swelling over long miles. The addition of a TPU toe cap adds a layer of durability against road debris.
2. G-FOAM & FIS Technology The heart of the shoe is the supercritical G-FOAM midsole. It works in tandem with the FIS (First Impact Spoiler). For road runners who tend to heel-strike when they get tired, this protruding rear spoiler absorbs the initial shock and quickly rolls the foot into a flat, stable position, preventing “shocks” from traveling up to the lower back.
3. Paw-Grip Outsole The “Full-length Paw-Grip” outsole is designed specifically for the road. It features strategic weight-reducing cutouts that balance the need for rubber-to-road traction with the desire for a lightweight, nimble feel.
On-Foot Running Experience
The Waya feels remarkably balanced. The 34mm of supercritical foam provides a “snappy” energy return that feels more responsive than traditional EVA, making it easy to pick up the pace.
On the road, the transition from heel to toe is fast and fluid. While the 98 Gold Last provides a more precise and snug fit than the “Honi,” the ultra-soft polyester lining ensures there are no hot spots or irritation, even during 20km+ efforts. It feels like a true “marathoner’s tool”—reliable, protective, and energetic.
Final Verdict: Is the Waya Right for You?
The Ulysses Waya is a versatile contender for runners who want a high-tech Italian trainer that can handle daily miles and race day alike.
Choose the Ulysses Waya if:
- You need a reliable daily trainer for distances from 10k to a Full Marathon.
- You are a heel-striker looking to reduce lower back impact on the road.
- You prefer a secure, performance-oriented fit with a responsive foam.
Stick with the Honi (Indoor) or Maikoh (Trail) if:
- You primarily run on treadmills (the Waya’s mesh is more rigid).
- You are heading off-road into mud and technical terrain.
