The Nimbus is Asics' franchise max cushioned shoe. It is a premium, cushioned, soft and comfortable shoe to run long miles. Last years' version, the 26th, was one of our favorite shoes of the year.
This year, Asics makes some changes to both the sole unit, the upper and the price. Are these updates improvements? Is the 27 a better shoe than the 26? I've run in both, and here are my observations.
Let’s start with similarities in the sole unit. Both shoes utilize the FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam to deliver a very plush and supportive underfoot feel. Both shoes have a PureGEL technology integrated in the heel to help with soft landings, absorb impact effectively, and create a smooth transition from heel to toe. Both shoes also utilize the HYBRID ASICSGRIP rubber on the outsole for good traction. The cushion feel and the ride are both similar on this shoe.
The difference in the sole unit between the two shoes is the fact that the Nimbus 27 uses an updated version of the FF BLAST PLUS ECO foam that produces the same comfort but at a lighter weight. The Nimbus 27 adds about 1.5mm of stack height but the shoe overall stays the same weight. Outside of that, there really are no noticeable differences between the two sole units.
Both shoes utilize an engineered upper with a gusseted tongue. The tongue is very stretchy and soft. It is a highlight of the upper unit.
The difference between the two shoes comes down to how the upper is designed.
The upper on the 27 is engineered differently and is said to provide great ventilation as a result. It is also said to deliver a more adaptive fit. In our own testing, the differences were slight, at best although most of the runs were done in the winter so it’s difficult to say how much the breathability was improved for warmer months.
In my testing, there was a slight irritation in the upper for the 27 where no such irritation existed for the 26.
When you compare the two generation of shoes, which would I recommend?
The first big difference is the base price. The newer 27 is $5 more in base price.
You are paying for stack height at a lower weight, so there is justification for that price increase.
Because the 26 is an older model, you are likely to see it at much lower price right now as they clear the shelves for the 27.
I’m personally recommending to skip out on the updated model and find the 26’s on sale somewhere and stock up. We can hope that the 28 model will come out and be more worthwhile. If the one thing you’re looking for is a higher stack height, then that would be the only reason to pay for the 27.
