Comparison:
ASICS Nimbus 28 vs ASICS Nimbus 27
The Nimbus is ASICS’ plushest max-cushioned trainer. Here we'll be comparing the Nimbus 28 and the Nimbus 27.
Comparison:
The Nimbus is an immensely popular trainer designed for easy and recovery runs. It's one of ASICS’ oldest trainers. The Nimbus has a large, loyal following for its comfort, consistency and reliability.
It gets an update every year and there are some significant changes in the latest version. This comparison will tell you which version you should get.
Similarity and differences: Gel Nimbus 28 vs Gel Nimbus 27
Expert score
7/10
7/10
Weight
9.6 oz
10.4 oz
Heel Drop
8 mm
8 mm
Verdict
The ASICS Gel Nimbus 28 is a comfortable, firmer-than-average, max-cushioned trainer. Version 28 is significantly lighter than version 27 however, it has the same FF Blast+ midsole that lacks energy return considering its high price. This is the best Nimbus version to date but I crave more excitement and more liveliness whenever I run in it.
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 is a highly cushioned and stable daily trainer for runners of all kinds. Regardless of your running ability, this shoe can range from a do-it-all, everyday shoe or as a recovery or easy day type of shoe. It feels smooth underfoot and wraps your foot in cushioned comfort.
Recommended for
Daily training, long distance racing
Daily training
Cushioning type
Balanced/plush
Responsive/balanced
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Highly cushioned
Flexibility
medium
rigid
Stability
some stability
very stable
Sizing
true to size
true to size
Retail price
US$169.95
US$164.95
Sole unit: Gel Nimbus 28 vs Gel Nimbus 27
Both these versions use FF Blast+ midsoles and they have a gel pad hidden in their heel. The ride is cushioned and soft but not squishy like some other max cushioned trainers.
The midsole of the Nimbus 28 is slightly softer than the 27 but it’s not very noticeable. The 28 midsole is also more sculpted and more streamlined which is how they managed to reduce the weight. The 28 is 7% lighter than the 27.
The lighter, nimbler Nimbus 28 is better for faster paced runs. The sturdier 27 is better for slower, relaxed runs. It’s harder to pick up the pace in the 27.
Both versions have a relatively stiff forefoot and high toe spring that creates a forefoot rocker. The Nimbus 28 has a stiffer forefoot with a more prominent rocker so it speeds up transitions more.
There’s less rubber on the outsole of the 28 than the 27. This results in more ground feel in the 28 but less durability. The 27 has more outsole protection so you’ll be able to get more mileage out of the 27.
The 27 is more stable than the 28. This is because it has a firmer midsole with less lean bias and it has a fuller, less sculpted midsole than the 28. If you need a lot of support and stability, the 27 is better for you.
Upper unit: Gel Nimbus 28 vs Gel Nimbus 27
The Nimbus 28 has a new engineered mesh while the 27 has a jacquard mesh. The engineered mesh is softer and more comfortable but breathability isn’t as good as the jacquard mesh so the 27 is better for warm climates.
They both have flat, knitted tongues which are semi gusseted so there’s no tongue slide during runs. Foot lockdown is excellent in both versions.
Both versions fit true to size but they are more suited to narrow feet. Runners with wide feet will need to get the wide or extra wide version.
Which one to buy: Gel Nimbus 28 vs Gel Nimbus 27
If you prefer a lighter, faster trainer, the Nimbus 28 is the version that you should buy. It has more ground feel and it’s 7% lighter which makes it easier to pick up the pace. It also has a softer, more comfortable upper than the 27.
If you prefer a firmer, more stable trainer, the Nimbus 27 is the version that you should buy. It has a more durable outsole thanks to more rubber and it has a more breathable upper which is better for warm temperatures.
Best price online: Gel Nimbus 28 vs Gel Nimbus 27
This expert review is written by
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African marathoner based in Malaysia, where the humidity is high and his shoe rotation is even higher. He’s a runner with a full-blown addiction to running shoes. Most people buy shoes to run—Brandon runs to justify buying more shoes. If there’s a new drop, he’s probably already logged 100km in them.
