The Asics Gel Nimbus 26 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

ASICS Gel Nimbus 26 is a high-performance running shoe designed for long-distance runners seeking enhanced comfort and support. This model is particularly suitable for individuals with a preference for plush cushioning, thanks to its verified breathable upper and expanded toebox.

Lab tests indicated notable improvements, including a more breathable construction that translates to better airflow during runs. The shoe retains its signature plush cushioning, providing a stable and comfortable experience for runners.

While the weight of the shoe may be significant for some, the overall design supports performance goals effectively. Future iterations could benefit from refinements in the tongue design for added comfort.


Pros

  • Premium all-around comfort
  • Enhanced toebox design
  • Exceptional traction
  • Best-in-series outsole
  • Ideal for long distances
  • Superb knit upper
  • Surprisingly stable
  • A dream for heel strikers

Cons

  • Increased weight
  • Limited energy return
  • Tongue lacks padding

Key Features

  • Updated 4D guidance system for optimum stability
  • PureGEL cushioning in the heel area for increased softness
  • FF BLAST+ Eco technology for superior energy recovery
  • Breathable functional mesh upper to keep your feet cool
  • Ideal for long distances and daily training

Specifications

  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Shaft height: Ankle Strap
  • Outer material: Synthetic
  • Inner material: Mesh

Asics Gel Nimbus 26 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

ASICS Gel Nimbus 26 ASICS Superblast 2 ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 Puma MagMax Nitro
Price $160 $200 $165 $180
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.7 oz / 303g 8.9 oz / 252g 10.5 oz / 299g 10.3 oz / 291g
Drop lab Drop brand 8.4 mm 8.2 mm 8.3 mm 9.6 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Soft Balanced Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Normal Small Small Big
Toebox durability Good Good Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Good Good Good Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Good Decent
Breathability Moderate Breathable Moderate Moderate
Width / fit Wide Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Stiff Stiff
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Stiff Moderate
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 40.4 mm 42.8 mm 42.7 mm 42.9 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 32.0 mm 34.6 mm 34.4 mm 33.3 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons Summer All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 25% Top 21% Top 48% Top 9%
Popularity Top 7% Top 7% Top 5% Top 46%