Written by

Brandon Law

Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
The Nimbus is ASICS’ softest, plushest running shoe. Here we will be comparing the Nimbus 25 and the Nimbus 24.
ASICS Nimbus 25 vs ASICS Nimbus 24

The Nimbus is an extremely popular max-cushioned trainer and it receives substantial updates every year. This makes it a very exciting running shoe series.

Here we will be comparing the Nimbus 24 with the Nimbus 25.

Similarity and differences: Gel-Nimbus 25 vs Gel Nimbus 24

Brand
Expert score
Expert score
8/10
Expert score
8/10
Weight
10.2 oz
10.2 oz
Heel Drop
8 mm
10 mm
Verdict
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 is a maximalist, highly cushioned trainer with a gentle rocker. It’s not the softest max-cushioned trainer on the market nor is it the most energetic but it’s still a supremely comfortable trainer (as long as you size up or get the wide version because it has a very narrow toe box). Version 25 uses the brand new FF Blast+ Eco midsole foam. It feels firmer than the Nimbus 24 but it has more cushioning and stability thanks to the increase in midsole stack height and width. The redesigned outsole results in smoother transitions and better durability.
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 24 is a super soft max cushioned trainer with a versatile ride. It has an onslaught of new updates, the biggest one being the addition of FF Blast+ foam in its midsole. Version 24 is lighter, nimbler, and bouncier than version 23 but it has a less plush upper and isn't as sturdy.
Recommended for
Daily training, long distance racing
Daily training, long distance racing
Cushioning type
Balanced/plush
Balanced/plush
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Highly cushioned
Flexibility
medium
flexible
Stability
very stable
some stability
Sizing
buy half size bigger
buy half size bigger
Retail price
US$160
US$159.95

Sole unit: Gel-Nimbus 25 vs Gel Nimbus 24

The 2 versions use different foams in their midsoles so they have completely different rides. The Nimbus 24 uses FF Blast+ while the Nimbus uses the newer FF Blast+ Eco.

The Nimbus 24 has a thinner midsole which compresses much more easily than the Nimbus 25. The Nimbus 25 feels denser underfoot so there’s less ground feel in the Nimbus 25.

The Nimbus 25 midsole is also a lot thicker than the Number 24 so you get a higher level of cushioning. This feature makes it better for long runs.

The Nimbus 24 has better energy return so it feels more versatile than the Nimbus 25. The 24 can pick up the pace more easily.

The Nimbus 25 has a stiffer forefoot due to its thicker midsole so it has a more prominent forefoot rocker. This makes it feel more efficient during runs.

Stability is better in the Nimbus 25 than the Nimbus 24 because it has a firmer ride and a wider base so there’s less lean bias.

The outsole of the Nimbus 25 has better durability than the Nimbus 24. The newer midsole foam is less susceptible to cuts and abrasions than the midsole foam in the Nimbus 24.

Upper unit: Gel-Nimbus 25 vs Gel Nimbus 24

Both versions of the Nimbus have knitted uppers but the Nimbus 24 feels like more of a traditional knit.

The Nimbus 25 has a stretchy, smooth kind of knit. Both uppers don’t have great breathability and are more suited to cold climates.

The Nimbus 24 and 25 have very narrow toe boxes so they don’t run true to size. You have to either buy the wide version or you have to go up a half size.

Which one to buy: Gel-Nimbus 25 vs Gel Nimbus 24

If you are looking for a very soft, versatile trainer that can pick up the pace, the Nimbus 24 is the shoe you should pick. The Nimbus 24 has a flexible forefoot with natural transitions.

If you want an easy or recovery run shoe only, the Nimbus 25 is the shoe that you should pick. The Nimbus 25 is also better for long runs because of its forefoot rocker which saves you energy its thicker midsole.

Best price online: Gel-Nimbus 25 vs Gel Nimbus 24

Gel-Nimbus 25

Gel Nimbus 24


This expert review is written by

Brandon Law

Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African who lives and trains in Malaysia. He is a marathon runner who eats, sleeps and dreams running shoes. While most people wear shoes to run, he runs to wear shoes.