I was excited to try the ASICS Nimbus 27. For the past 10 years, I’ve had some version of the Nimbus in my running shoe rotation. It’s been a great daily trainer. The latest iteration, the Gel-Nimbus 27, continues this legacy with some small updates to make the ride smoother.
I was curious of the first Nimbus version I reviewed and it was apparently the Asics Nimbus 17. Time flies. I’ve run in most versions since then.
Before trying the ASICS Nimbus 27, I had a few questions:
- Is the ASICS Nimbus 27 good? Yes, if you are looking for a highly cushioned daily trainer or walking shoe, it’s a great option.
- Does the ASICS Nimbus 27 fit true to size? While ASICS generally fits on the narrower side, the ASICS Nimbus 27 runs more true to size than previous versions.
- Has the ASICS Nimbus 27 gotten a big update? There are some bigger changes to the midsole that effect how the shoe fits and feels. It’s one of the bigger updates it’s gotten in a while.
Now let’s get into an honest review of the ASICS Nimbus 27.
ASICS Nimbus 27 Quick Facts
- Price: $165
- Weight: 10.7 oz (men’s); 9.2 oz (women’s)
- Stack Height: Men’s: 43.5 mm heel / 35.5 mm forefoot; Women’s: 41.5 mm heel / 33.5 mm forefoot
- Drop: 8 mm
ASICS Nimbus 27 Fit
I’ve had a love-hate relationship with the Nimbus throughout the years. There have been some years when I couldn’t even wear the women’s size 11 wide because it fit so narrow. Thankfully, the 27th version fits more true to size.
But what’s new? The Gel-Nimbus 27 features a new engineered jacquard mesh upper, offering a more structured and breathable design compared to previous knit versions. The toebox is more accommodating, providing additional room for toe splay, which enhances comfort during longer runs. The midfoot offers a snug fit, thanks to a thin, gusseted knit tongue that wraps the foot securely. The heel is well-padded and includes a sturdy heel counter, ensuring a secure lockdown.
The best running shoes disappear on your feet, and for the most part, the ASICS Nimbus 27 does just that. I haven’t had any issues with hot spots or discomfort. In running shoes, I wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide, and the ASICS Nimbus 27 in size 11 fits well.
ASICS Nimbus 27 Ride
When people ask if there are big updates in the ASICS Nimbus 27, I usually say yes. ASICS has incorporated an additional 2 mm of FF Blast Plus Eco foam into the midsole, resulting in a total heel stack height of 43.5 mm.
Despite this substantial cushioning, the ride is slightly firmer and more responsive than one might expect. I think ASICS has been excelling in creating highly cushioned yet responsive daily trainers. You don’t feel like you’re running (or walking) on a pile of mush. It’s definitely not as responsive as the Superblast 2, but it’s responsive enough to pick up the pace. The shoe’s geometry promotes a smooth heel-to-toe transition, aided by a well-designed heel bevel and a snappy forefoot. This design makes the Gel-Nimbus 27 suitable for easy runs, recovery runs, or even long runs.
Where does the ASICS Nimbus 27 fit into my rotation? My first run in the ASICS Nimbus 27 was on a blustery day when I just wanted to “get through it.” It was an easy run, and the Nimbus handled it well (no surprises—there is plenty of cushion there).
The surprise came when I tried to pick up the pace, and it was a lot smoother than previous versions. It didn’t feel like I was forcing the shoe. Is it a workout shoe? No, I would still use it for an easy run, but you can pick up the pace if you want.
Outsole
If you’ve ever tried an ASICS shoe, you know they are usually durable and provide good traction. The outsole utilizes a HYBRID ASICSGRIP construction with a more traditional, ribbed pattern, which is expected to enhance durability compared to previous versions.
I’ve used the Nimbus on rainy days and light trails with no issues of sliding. I’ve put about 100 miles on the Nimbus and expect it to last around 400. I can’t think of a Nimbus or ASICS running shoe that hasn’t lasted its full expected lifespan.
ASICS Nimbus 27 Conclusion
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is a premium daily trainer that offers a high stack height with a balanced ride. Its updated upper provides improved fit and breathability, while the midsole delivers a cushioned yet responsive experience. I’ll continue to use it as an easy and daily run shoe.
Who Should Buy the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
- Runners looking for a high-cushion shoe for daily training and long runs.
- Those who prefer a slightly firmer ride with responsive transitions.
- Individuals seeking a durable shoe with a breathable and accommodating upper.
Who Should Not Buy the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
- Runners who prefer a plush, ultra-soft cushioning experience.
- Those seeking a lightweight shoe for speedwork or racing.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0 Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 ,
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
What is your favorite daily trainer?
Is there a running shoe you’ve used for a decade?
