The Asics Gel Nimbus 27 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 is a high-cushioned daily trainer designed specifically for comfort-focused runners. With its ultra-thick midsole, the shoe offers a stable and shock-absorbing ride, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort during easy miles. However, the firm foam, measuring 31.5 HA, may result in a bottom-heavy feel which may not appeal to all users.

This model features a notable 12 mm drop, making it particularly suitable for heel strikers. While the shoe excels in providing cushioning, it may lack the versatility needed for varied paces. Additionally, although the price has increased slightly, this may not align with the expectations of long-time Nimbus users.


Pros

  • Even more foam underfoot!
  • Premium-feel, breathable upper
  • Fantastic stability
  • Improved toebox with extra wiggle room
  • Flexible knit tongue
  • True maximalist comfort for recovery runs
  • Amazing heel lockdown
  • Top-tier grip

Cons

  • Feels bulky and heavy
  • Minor price increase
  • Lacks energy return

Key Features

  • Engineered jacquard mesh upper: Wraps your foot in a soft feel while ensuring breathability.
  • Sustainable materials: At least 75% of the main upper material is made from recycled content, reducing waste and carbon emissions.
  • Eco-friendly dyeing process: The sockliner utilizes a solution dyeing process that cuts water usage by approximately 33% and reduces carbon emissions by about 45% compared to conventional methods.
  • PureGEL technology: Delivers lightweight cushioning for softer landings, enhancing comfort during runs.
  • FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning: Made with around 24% bio-based content sourced from renewables, this technology offers both a plush landing and responsive toe-off.

Specifications

  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber for enhanced grip and durability
  • Outer material: Mesh for improved breathability
  • Inner material: Knit for added comfort and flexibility

Asics Gel Nimbus 27 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 ASICS Superblast 2 Hoka Skyflow ASICS Gel Kinsei Max
Price $165 $200 $160 $180
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 10.5 oz / 299g 8.9 oz / 252g 9.9 oz / 282g 11.4 oz / 322g
Drop lab Drop brand 8.3 mm 8.2 mm 8.7 mm 8.6 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Heel Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Balanced Soft Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Normal Small
Toebox durability Decent Good Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Good Good Good Decent
Outsole durability Good Good Good Good
Breathability Moderate Breathable Breathable Moderate
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Narrow Medium
Stiffness Stiff Stiff Stiff Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Moderate Stiff Stiff
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 42.7 mm 42.8 mm 39.3 mm 38.8 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 34.4 mm 34.6 mm 30.6 mm 30.2 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons Summer Summer All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 48% Top 21% Top 31% Bottom 27%
Popularity Top 5% Top 7% Top 39% Bottom 19%