The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 is a premium trainer built to prioritize comfort and impact protection for easy runs, recovery miles, and long days on your feet. It uses a tall FF BLAST+ midsole with a gently rockered shape and a plush, premium upper to keep the ride smooth and easy at relaxed paces. Compared to the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27, it sits a bit lower at the heel and feels less like a pure comfort cruiser, but the lower weight makes it more cohesive, so it comes across as smoother and noticeably more versatile. Even with the slightly reduced stack, it still does an excellent job soaking up impact, giving it a more refined, better-executed feel overall.
Our Verdict
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 can cover the marathon distance, but it isn't built to feel fast or efficient at race pace. Its high stack and protective cushioning help keep your legs fresh late in the race, and the platform stays reasonably stable when fatigue sets in, but the shoe's very muted rebound and unplated design make it feel more like a comfort-first cruiser than a true marathon racer. It's best for runners who want to stay protected, not for those chasing a snappy, performance-oriented ride.
Impressively cushioned.
Satisfactory lateral stability for a high-stack shoe.
Heavy for racing.
Very poor energy return.
Unplated.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 is a comfort-focused trainer, so it's not at home in 5K and 10K racing. The shoe lacks the lively response and quick turnover you want when you're trying to push hard, and its high weight make it harder to sustain explosive surges. It works far better as an easy-day shoe than as a race-day pick for shorter distances.
Heavy for racing.
Very poor energy return.
Unplated.
Changelog
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Updated Jul 16, 2026:
We've updated the Weight Box to include a link to the newly reviewed R.A.D MALLOW.
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Updated Jul 02, 2026:
We've updated the Popular Comparisons section to include a link to the newly reviewed Saucony Triumph 24.
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Updated Jun 29, 2026:
We've updated the Popular Comparisons section to include a link to the newly reviewed ASICS GEL-KAYANO 33.
- 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.
- Updated Apr 28, 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 30, 2026:
We updated the review to include a link to our article about the best ASICS running shoes.
- Updated Jan 27, 2026: Review published.
- Updated Jan 23, 2026: Early access published.
- Updated Jan 12, 2026: Our testers have started testing this product.
- Updated Jan 08, 2026: The product has arrived in our lab, and our testers will start evaluating it soon.
- Updated Jan 08, 2026: We've purchased the product and are waiting for it to arrive in our lab.
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 ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 isn't a bouncy shoe up front either, so it doesn't add pep or propulsion when you try to spice up your run. If you want a more energetic feel for daily training, options like the ASICS NOVABLAST 5 or the ASICS MEGABLAST make more sense, since they're built to deliver more rebound.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 provides almost no bounce from the heel. Landings feel damped and muted, with the midsole absorbing impact rather than rebounding you forward. This is great if you want a relaxed, low-effort ride on easy days, but it won't give heel strikers the springy sensation that some modern trainers deliver.
Stability
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 is decently stable for a soft, high-stack trainer. A super-wide platform and secure upper help keep the shoe feeling planted during relaxed running, especially as your form starts to fade, and it doesn't feel overly unstable for its height. That said, the softer heel can still compress noticeably under heavier loads, so runners who need strong guidance may want something more inherently supportive.
Satisfactory lateral stability for a high-stack shoe.
Wide platform.
Soft heel can feel unstable under load.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 has a very soft heel that compresses easily on landing. This helps it feel plush and forgiving at relaxed paces, especially if you tend to load the rearfoot. The downside is that the heel can feel a bit mushy under heavier loads or abrupt changes in direction, which can reduce the sense of stability.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28's forefoot is moderately firm, and it feels more supportive than squishy when you're toeing off. Even though our measurements indicate it's softer than the previous iteration, that difference doesn't really translate into a noticeably softer ride compared to the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27. In practice, it still feels fairly firm for a premium trainer.
Cushioning
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 provides excellent cushioning that feels protective for long, easy runs and recovery days. It offers a consistent buffer underfoot, particularly in the forefoot, that keeps the ride forgiving as you rack up mileage. That protective character is ideal for comfort-focused training, though it also means the shoe doesn't deliver a connected, ground-feel sensation.
Impressively cushioned.
Midsole absorbs impacts really well over long distances.
This shoe still offers very protective heel cushioning, even with its slightly reduced stack height. It does an excellent job soaking up impact, helping the shoe feel comfortable and forgiving on easy days and during long stretches of steady running. The heel remains a strong point for heel strikers who prioritize shock absorption over ground feel.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 delivers excellent forefoot cushioning that feels premium even for its category. It keeps impact well controlled when you're cruising, and it stays comfortable even as the miles add up. That said, some standout max-cushion trainers, like the Nike Vomero Premium or the HOKA Skyward X, are even more protective up front.
Responsiveness
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 delivers a very subdued, low-rebound ride that prioritizes impact absorption over propulsion. The midsole feels more damped than springy in both the heel and forefoot, so you don't get that energetic pop when you try to pick up the pace. This tuning is great if you want a relaxed, no-fuss feel for easy miles, but runners who like a bouncy, responsive trainer will find it flat.
Very poor energy return.
True To Size
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 is still on the heavy side, but the update feels far better executed than before. The reduced weight makes the ride feel more balanced underfoot, with less of the bottom-heavy sensation synonymous with older Nimbus versions. Instead, the weight feels more evenly distributed across the shoe, and it's much lighter than other cruisers like the R.A.D MALLOW, which helps it feel more cohesive and noticeably more nimble for a high-stack trainer.
This iteration sits a bit lower at the heel than the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27, and that difference is noticeable. In practice, the heel feels less intrusive and less likely to get in the way, which makes the shoe feel smoother and less clunky. This also pulls the drop-down, unlike the previous iteration.
This shoe provides great forefoot protection for long runs and stays comfortably cushioned as fatigue builds. The cushion does settle and lose some of its initial feel fairly early, but it continues to absorb impacts extremely well, so it remains protective for longer distances. It delivers a similar level of long-run forefoot protection to shoes like the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2, but the SUPERBLAST 2 is still the better long-run tool overall, since it feels more energetic and its stiffer, more structured geometry holds its shape better over time. Meanwhile, the NIMBUS's softer rocker can flatten a bit under load, making transitions feel less smooth late in long efforts.
Popular Running Shoe Comparisons
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 is a premium daily trainer that focuses squarely on comfort and protection, and this version feels like a thoughtful refresh. Cushioning is still the headline, but the standout change here is weight reduction, which makes the ride feel more cohesive and less bottom-heavy than previous NIMBUS versions. The heel sits a bit lower with a slightly reduced drop compared to the previous iteration, yet there's still plenty of protection underfoot, along with a stable platform that works well for easy miles and recovery runs. This isn't a modern, bouncy trainer that tries to balance bounce and cushioning, such as the Mizuno Neo Zen or the Saucony Triumph 24; the NIMBUS happily stays in the cushioning-first lane. If all you want is the deepest cushioning possible, more extreme super-max cushion shoes like the Nike Vomero Premium or HOKA Skyward X go even further in that direction. The Nimbus 28 makes more sense if you want a simpler, less extreme max-cushion shoe that still feels well executed and easy to run with day after day.
Within ASICS' lineup, the GEL-NIMBUS 28 plays the premium trainer role. Compared to the ASICS GLIDERIDE MAX 2, which adds a pronounced rocker and a partial plastic plate for more rolling transitions, the NIMBUS keeps things simpler and more relaxed. The ASICS GEL-KAYANO 33 is the premium support shoe for overpronators. The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 is the more modern-feeling daily trainer if you want noticeable bounce on everyday runs, while the ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 remains the better choice for long, steady miles when you want an unplated shoe that stays efficient over distance. The ASICS MEGABLAST is the most versatile, pairing cushioning with a bouncier compound for a wider range of paces.
If you're looking for more shoes from ASICS' lineup, take a look at our recommendations for the best ASICS running shoes. If you're looking for more options, check out our recommendations for the best running shoes, the best long-distance running shoes, and the best shoes for running a marathon.
The HOKA Bondi 9 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are two popular premium trainers built around plush cushioning, but they differ in a few aspects. The ASICS comes in lighter and feels very protective underfoot, delivering a smooth, absorbent ride that doesn't really try to add much energy return. The HOKA, on the other hand, has a bit more noticeable liveliness from its midsole, along with very plush initial cushioning that outperforms the ASICS. However, as the distance stretches toward longer runs, the ASICS tends to absorb impact a bit more consistently, while the HOKA maintains a slightly more dynamic feel. In practice, both offer similar overall performance for easy and recovery miles.
The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 and Brooks Glycerin 23 are two premium daily trainers with slightly different philosophies. The ASICS is the lighter, more versatile, and more protective shoe overall, with better cushioning underfoot, and it holds up impressively across everything from short, easy efforts to longer runs. The Brooks is the more traditional option: a workhorse with a smaller stack, it can handle most daily mileage, but it's better suited to heel strikers who still want a decent amount of cushioning, just with a bit more ground feel.
The ASICS NOVABLAST 5 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are both neutral daily trainers, but they're built around two very different priorities. The NOVABLAST 5 is the more modern option, with a lighter, bouncier, more playful ride that makes everyday miles more energetic and fun, even if you're not trying to run fast. The GEL-NIMBUS 28 is the comfort-first cruiser, with a more protective, cushioned feel that's meant to keep your legs fresh and absorbed on easy and recovery runs, but without that same lively rebound. If you want daily mileage that's springy and engaging, go NOVABLAST, but if you want pure cushioning and protection above everything else, the NIMBUS is the better fit.
The HOKA Clifton 10 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are both premium daily trainers that fall within a similar weight range, but they deliver cushioning in very different ways. The Clifton 10 feels comfortably cushioned at first and has a smooth, easygoing ride, but its underfoot protection tends to fade more quickly as the miles add up, so it can feel less consistently protective on longer runs or later in a training block. The GEL-NIMBUS 28, on the other hand, does a better job maintaining its cushioning character over prolonged use, making it the more dependable choice when your main goal is steady protection, especially for longer, easy runs and recovery mileage.
The ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are both daily trainers, but they occupy different roles in ASICS’ lineup. The CUMULUS 28 is the no-frills option, better suited to runners who don't want a supremely cushioned ride and prefer a more traditional feel for relaxed mileage. The NIMBUS 28 is a much more cushioned, premium shoe, with significantly better forefoot protection and long-run cushioning, making it the better pick for recovery runs, longer efforts, and runners who want maximum protection underfoot.
The ASICS SUPERBLAST 2 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are two popular models from ASICS, but they target different types of runners despite both offering generous cushioning. The SUPERBLAST 2 is a category-bending shoe, delivering a highly cushioned yet very energetic ride without a plate, making it versatile for many types of runs, especially strong for steady long runs with pace changes. It also feels lighter and more agile overall. The GEL-NIMBUS 28 is a premium trainer with very plush cushioning and a comfortable, refined upper. It feels a bit softer in the forefoot, especially under higher forces, and its geometry and overall tuning aren't really meant for picking up the pace. This makes it the preferred option for relaxed, recovery-oriented mileage.
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 Brooks Glycerin 22 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are both premium daily trainers built for comfort, but they deliver that comfort in very different ways. The GEL-NIMBUS 28 feels better executed, staying surprisingly light even with a higher stack and delivering a more protective, softer ride that better isolates you from the road on easy miles and longer runs. The Glycerin 22, on the other hand, is more traditional and planted, with a steadier platform that feels more stable underfoot, plus a touch more rebound and liveliness from its midsole compared to the NIMBUS. If you want maximum protection in a lighter, higher-stacked shoe, the NIMBUS makes more sense, but if you prioritize a stable, predictable ride with a bit more bounce back, the Glycerin is the better match.
The Saucony Triumph 24 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are two premium, max-stack daily trainers that have similar cushioning underfoot. The ASICS is the slightly more stable shoe, making it the better pick for runners who want the most security with all that cushion. The Saucony, however, is way more energetic underfoot, making it the more engaging option for everything from easy miles to longer efforts.
The ASICS GT-2000 15 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are two daily trainers by the same Japanese brand, but only the GT-2000 includes dedicated guidance for overpronation. It's also much lighter and more energetic. The NIMBUS provides substantially deeper cushioning that stays more protective over long distances, making it the better option for neutral runners who don't need extra guidance and those prioritizing recovery and long runs.
The ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 and the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 sit in two clearly different categories despite sharing a premium feel. The KAYANO 31 is heavier and built as a dedicated stability shoe, with a lower drop, a more structured platform, and guidance elements that make it noticeably more stable and controlled, especially for runners who need support over long mileage. The NIMBUS 28, on the other hand, is a max-cushioned neutral trainer that prioritizes comfort and impact absorption, offering a softer and more forgiving ride but with less inherent stability. In short, the KAYANO is about control and support, while the NIMBUS is about cushioning and relaxed comfort.
The R.A.D MALLOW and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are both comfort-first daily trainers, but the ASICS is the more premium shoe. It’s lighter, much more protective, and better suited to longer efforts. However, the R.A.D is more energetic underfoot, slightly more stable, and retails for far less, making it the pick for runners looking for a great price-to-performance ratio who don't mind sacrificing some comfort for a bit more life beneath the feet.
The ASICS DYNABLAST 6 and ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 are two stable neutral trainers by the same brand, intended primarily for easy mileage. The GEL-NIMBUS 28 is better for comfort and long runs because it’s much more cushioned and retains more impact absorption over distance, though it's even less energetic. Get the DYNABLAST 6 if you prefer a firmer, more direct, and more rolling ride, or if you're not willing to spend more for the extra cushioning that the Nimbus has to offer.
Differences Between Sizes And Variants
We bought and tested the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 in men's US size 9, as noted on the label for our pair. The pair we purchased is the Cold Moss/Illuminate Green colorway, but you can also buy the shoe in a wide range of colors, depending on the region. The men's variant ranges from Black/Graphite Grey and Black/Feather Grey to Twilight Blue/Anzu and Bluebell/White, while other available options include Pearl Pink/Morganite, among many more. There's also a PLATINUM version with silver-toned accents. You can buy this shoe in regular or wide widths. The design section applies only to the exact model we tested, but we expect other size and gender variants to perform similarly.
