Check out Coach Sherry’s column in the Arizona Daily Sun about the benefits of trail running shoes.
“Many runners would rather take their chances with a sprained ankle or bruised foot than trade in their favorite road runners for the running equivalent of a tractor trailer. Want to add a little more difficulty to 30-minute climb on a 15 percent grade at 8,000 feet? Throw on a pair of trail shoes from about 10 years ago. Fortunately, a lot has changed in 10 years. Technology has advanced and every major running shoe manufacturer offers a lightweight, stable, protective, breathable trail running shoe.”
Based on the fact the you like the Mizuno Wave Rider, I would suggest the Ascend. It’s build on the mid-sole of Mizuno’s Wave Precision, which is one of their light weight neutral road shows (similar to the rider with a bit less cushion). There is no “rock plate” so it will have a smooth ride for a bit of road running, but the tread is ample and will serve you well on the trails. Keep in mind that the mid-soles of trail shoes are typically more dense for added stability and protection on rough terrain, so they’ll never be as soft for road use.