The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 is the latest update to ASICS' long-running max-cushion daily trainer, building on the formula of the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 with a few key refinements. It retains FF BLAST PLUS ECO midsole foam and PureGEL heel insert but adds 3mm of stack height in the heel while keeping the same weight, thanks in part to a lighter mesh upper. The midsole has also been slightly reworked for a softer underfoot feel. While still best suited for easy miles and recovery days, it offers a more cushioned and relaxed experience than its predecessor. However, its bulkiness and lack of bounce may limit its versatility for runners who want to pick up the pace.
Our Verdict
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 isn't built for race day performance. While it offers impressive cushioning and decent stability for longer efforts, it lacks the energy return, snappiness, and lightweight design typical of modern marathon racing shoes. Its EVA-based midsole compresses well for comfort but doesn't rebound efficiently, and it's considerably heavier than most race-day options. This makes it more suitable for marathon training or long, easy runs than actual racing.
Impressively cushioned.
Satisfactory lateral stability.
Heavy.
Terrible energy return.
Unplated.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 isn't suited for shorter races. Despite having a moderately firm forefoot, its heavy build, low midsole rebound, and lack of a plate make it feel sluggish when picking up the pace. Runners looking for a versatile race day shoe will find it too bulky for anything faster than aerobic efforts.
Heavy.
Terrible energy return.
Unplated.
Changelog
- Updated Sep 02, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.14, which adds new lace-specific results. We've included a close-up photo of the laces, as well as details including lace type, width, thickness, and stretch. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
- Updated Sep 02, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.13, which identifies the different foams used in the shoe's midsole. We've included a microscopic image of the foam cells to give you an idea of what the microstructure looks like. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
- Updated Jun 17, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.12, which fixes how we measure firmness, a component of the Stability and 5K/10K Racing usages. There may be inconsistencies between the text and the scores for these usages, but the scores should still be considered valid. We've also brought back the Energy Return score and added two new usages: Daily Training and Long Run. To read more about the changes, see the changelog.
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Updated Jun 09, 2026:
We modified the writing due to the new test bench. We've updated the Responsiveness box text to reflect the new scores and added text to the True to Size box.
- Updated May 26, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.11, adding two new rocker measurements to the Design section, and three new responsiveness tests to the Performance section. The Energy Return usage score has been replaced with Responsiveness. Check out the details in our changelog.
- Updated Mar 25, 2026: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.10, adding a new set of fit tests to the Design section and an overall fit performance usage. Check out the details in our changelog.
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Updated Jan 12, 2026:
We added a mention of the ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX 2 in the Popular Running Shoe Comparisons section of the review.
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Updated Dec 08, 2025:
We updated the Popular Running Shoe Comparisons to include some new releases like the ASICS GT-2000 14.
- Updated Oct 28, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.9, which adds a Forefoot Long Run Cushioning test to our performance section. Read more in our changelog.
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Updated Oct 20, 2025:
We've adjusted this review's writing to align with the new test bench, including updates to all usage scores, and test boxes for Cushioning, Firmness, and Energy Return.
- Updated Oct 20, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.8.2, which updates our methodology for the impact force range used in our compression tests to improve their accuracy. This also affects all usage and performance usage boxes using those compression tests as score components.
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Updated Aug 04, 2025:
We updated the Forefoot Cushioning box to ensure the text remains in line with the latest test bench scores.
- Updated Aug 01, 2025: We've converted this review to Test Bench 0.8.1, which mainly updates the score components for the Marathon Racing and Lateral Stability usage boxes to improve accuracy.
- Updated Jul 04, 2025: Review published.
- Updated Jun 27, 2025: Early access published.
We've bought and tested more than 250 running shoes. Every pair purchased with our own money, never supplied or sponsored by brands. Our data-driven tests are designed to go beyond marketing claims, and since every shoe goes through the exact same methodology, you can directly compare results to find the right pair for your needs.
Test Results
Energy Return
The foam in the forefoot offers little to no bounce on toe-off, which can make the ride feel dull during midfoot or forefoot striking. While this setup works fine for relaxed paces, runners looking for pop will be underwhelmed.
This model offers very poor energy return at the heel. The soft FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam compresses easily but doesn't rebound with much force, making it feel sluggish during transitions. This dampened sensation is noticeable on heel strikes, especially over longer distances, where the lack of responsiveness can contribute to an overall flat ride.
Stability
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 offers decent lateral stability, especially for such a tall shoe. The wide base, gusseted upper, and firmer forefoot help compensate for the soft heel foam and reduce unwanted side-to-side movement, even on longer runs when fatigue sets in. It's a reliable option for runners who prioritize comfort but still need some help underfoot.
Gusseted tongue secures the upper.
Forefoot has some firmness.
Big and wide platform.
Big and soft chunk of foam at the heel.
The heel of the shoe feels noticeably softer than the previous ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26. This softness contributes to its smooth and cushioned ride, but it may feel unstable or overly squishy for runners who prefer a firmer rearfoot landing.
Cushioning
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 has great cushioning. It delivers a plush, protective ride with ample underfoot foam in both the heel and forefoot. With a padded and structured feel and effective shock absorption, it provides great comfort for longer efforts, walking, or recovery runs. If your priority is comfort and impact protection over responsiveness, the Nimbus excels.
Impressively cushioned.
FF BLAST PLUS ECO midsole absorbs impacts really well.
Cushioning is one of the standout features of the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27, and the thick, soft slab of foam under the heel offers great shock absorption and impact protection. It's a noticeable improvement over the previous version and helps provide a smooth and protective landing, especially for heel strikers on longer runs.
Responsiveness
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 has poor responsiveness. While it offers a protective ride, especially at the forefoot, it doesn't spring back with much force. The ride feels dampened rather than dynamic, which is fine for relaxed running but feels inefficient for anything uptempo.
Terrible energy return.
True To Size
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 fits superbly well. The length is true to size, and the forefoot and arch have an accommodating fit, so most runners can confidently buy their normal size. There are also Wide and Extra Wide versions of the shoe.
Length is true to size.
Accommodating width in forefoot.
Available in Wide and Extra Wide.
This is a heavy shoe, even compared to other premium max-cushioned trainers like the Saucony Triumph 22. While it's not the bulkiest in its class, it still sits on the heavier side of the spectrum and isn't ideal if you're looking for something nimble or fast. That said, it weighs about the same as the previous ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26, despite an increase in stack height—so ASICS has done a good job keeping the added volume from becoming an even greater burden.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 is a premium neutral max-cushioned daily trainer built with comfort and long-distance protection in mind. While much of the industry is shifting toward higher rebound foams and aggressive geometry to bring bounce into everyday miles, the NIMBUS remains firmly committed to its safe, protective identity. What sets it apart isn't energy return or responsiveness; it's the plushness, shock absorption, and smooth transitions that make it ideal for recovery runs, easy jogs, or long days on your feet. That said, in a market where many max-cushion shoes now pair softness with liveliness and lightness, the NIMBUS feels somewhat dated in character. Runners looking for a dynamic and fun trainer may find it too squishy or unresponsive. It's common for flagships to evolve slowly, and the NIMBUS is no different. While this update is a step in the right direction, it might not be a big enough one to keep pace with the fast-moving industry.
Within ASICS' lineup, the GEL-NIMBUS 27 stands as a max-cushioned, premium daily trainer, but it's far from the most versatile. The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 offers a more modern take on daily training, with plenty of protection, a lighter build, and more bounce. For those who need added support, the ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 and the ASICS GT-2000 14 are good options with built-in stability features. Meanwhile, the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 delivers a responsive ride for runners who want a lightweight, unplated uptempo trainer. Another max-cushioned shoe in the lineup is the ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX 2, which is a lighter, slightly more performance-leaning trainer with a partial plastic plate and a pronounced rocker for smoother, rolling transitions. The NIMBUS still holds its place for those prioritizing pure cushioning and reliable landings, but runners seeking versatility or higher performance will be better served elsewhere in the ASICS ecosystem.
For more options, check out our recommendations for the best running shoes, as well as the best running shoes for men and the best running shoes for women.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 are both neutral daily trainers built for comfort but cater to very different preferences. The NOVABLAST 5 is a modern, high-stack trainer that combines soft FF BLAST+ ECO foam with a responsive geometry, giving it a fun, energetic bounce while staying light and super cushioned. It's the more playful of the two, capable of handling some pace variations and offering a more engaging ride for runners who like to feel their shoes give them something in return for their efforts. The GEL-NIMBUS 27, in contrast, is ASICS' flagship soft-cruiser and focuses on plushness and stability. It provides excellent impact absorption for all types of easy runs. However, it's noticeably heavier and less dynamic than the NOVABLAST 5, and it lacks the versatility and excitement of its sibling.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 and HOKA Bondi 9 both fall into the premium daily trainer category. The ASICS midsole features FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam and a PureGEL heel insert, that delivers a soft, plush ride. It delivers less energy return though, so it's a more difficult shoe to to pick up the pace. The HOKA's supercritical EVA midsole gives it a fun and energetic ride, with more bounce and responsiveness than the NIMBUS 27. Though the HOKA is firmer than the ASICS, both offer great protection, stability, and comfort.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 and HOKA Clifton 10 are both protective daily trainers, but they sit at different points on the max-cushion spectrum. The ASICS is the more true max-cushion option, with a bigger stack, a plusher and more premium feel, and a ride that prioritizes softness and impact dampening above all else, especially for easy days and long recovery-focused mileage. The HOKA, with this iteration, pushes closer to that territory than past versions, offering a protective high-stack that works well for everyday training, but it still stops short of the ASICS in pure depth and plushness. On the flip side, the HOKA feels lighter and more stable, which makes it compelling if you want a daily trainer that doesn't feel quite as bulky.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 and Saucony Triumph 23 are both highly cushioned daily trainers that prioritize cushioning over performance. However, the Triumph 23 is noticeably lighter and has more bounce than the NIMBUS 27. This weight difference is largely due to the NIMBUS 27's much higher stack height, and the taller stack of foam in the ASICS shoe does provide better impact absorption.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 and the Nike Vomero 18 are both daily trainers designed for comfort, but they offer distinct experiences underfoot. The ASICS is higher-stacked overall and noticeably more cushioned in the forefoot, delivering a plush, soft ride ideal for runners prioritizing impact absorption and an easygoing feel. The Nike, by contrast, is firmer throughout, with a more structured platform and a slightly snappier forefoot, giving it a bit more responsiveness during toe-off. While the ASICS excels in softness and step-in comfort, the Nike edges it out for stability and liveliness, making it a better fit for runners who want a more grounded, supportive ride without sacrificing cushioning.
The Brooks Glycerin Max and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 are two popular max-cushioned daily trainers on the market, each built to deliver a plush and protective ride. Both are similarly soft underfoot and close in weight, offering maximum comfort for easy miles or long days on your feet. The Brooks shoe has a slightly higher overall stack, and absorbs impact better. The Brooks also benefits from a more pronounced rocker geometry, making transitions feel smoother and more rolling, especially for heel strikers who want a bit of help moving forward. In contrast, the ASICS feels more traditional in its underfoot feel, prioritizing softness and impact absorption over forward momentum.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 and Brooks Glycerin 22 are contemporary premium daily trainers from their respective brands. The ASICS is the softer, better-cushioned of the two, and it holds up much better over long runs. The Brooks isn't the fastest shoe, but it has much better energy return than the ASICS, and is also much more stable, thanks to its firmer midsole and lower stack height.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 are two iterations of ASICS' premium cushioned trainer, and cushioning remains the headline in both, but the update shifts the feel in a meaningful way. The GEL-NIMBUS 28 trims weight, making the ride feel more cohesive and less bottom-heavy, and it sits a bit lower at the heel with a slightly reduced drop while still providing plenty of protection for easy miles and recovery runs. If you want the more comfort-cruiser take on the lineup, the GEL-NIMBUS 27 fits that role well, but if you want even more premium protection in a lighter, more polished package that feels easier to use across more of your training, the 28 is the better evolution.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 and ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX 2 are both max-cushioned trainers, but they deliver protection in different ways. The GLIDERIDE is the more performance-leaning option: it's lighter, uses a partial plastic plate, and has a more pronounced rocker, so transitions feel smoother and more rolling. The GEL-NIMBUS 27 is the more traditional max-cushion shoe. It doesn't rely on a plate or an aggressively guided rocker to move you forward, so the ride feels more relaxed. Cushioning also differs: the NIMBUS tends to feel less cushioned in the heel but more cushioned in the forefoot. Overall, the NIMBUS 27 is usually the better pick for pure recovery, where you just want comfort without thinking about the shoes you're wearing, while the GLIDERIDE MAX 2 makes more sense if you still want max protection but with more substance and a smoother geometry.
The ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 are both daily trainers offering high cushioning and comfort, but they serve slightly different runner profiles. The GEL-NIMBUS 27 is a neutral max-cushion trainer focused on plushness and impact absorption, delivering a very soft underfoot experience that excels on easy runs and recovery days. Its smooth, pillowy ride makes it ideal for runners who prioritize comfort and don't mind a bit of extra weight for the sake of protection. The GEL-KAYANO 31, on the other hand, is ASICS' flagship stability model, designed for runners who need extra lateral support. Thanks to its new 4D Guidance System, it provides stability without harsh posting or stiff medial foam. The ride is firmer than the Nimbus, especially at the forefoot, and it lacks some protection for longer runs.
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We tested the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 in men's US size 9, as viewable on the label for our pair. The color shown here is Carbon/Mojave. This model is also available in several other colorways, including White/Glacier Grey, Black/Graphite Grey, Flash Red/Black, Citron/Cream, White/Fawn, Black/Khaki, Black/Lake Grey, and two LUXE editions with special visual designs. Width options include regular, wide, and extra wide for men and narrow, regular, and wide for women. The design section applies only to the exact model we tested, but we expect other size and gender variants to perform similarly. ASICS also offers ATC and TR versions of the GEL-NIMBUS 27, which are respectively an 'ASICS Trail Club' design inspired by the 1980s and a trail-specific edition. Those may feature different materials or constructions—our results do not apply to those variants. As for other size and gender variants, the design section applies only to the exact model we tested, but we expect those to perform similarly.
