Written by

Ruggero Loda

Founder and Publisher, Running Shoes Guru

The ASICS Nimbus and the ASICS Kayano are possibly some of the most popular premium running shoes. What are the differences? We compare the latest model of each: ASICS Gel Nimbus vs ASICS Gel Kayano.

Sitting at the top of ASICS' 'traditional' Gel line of running shoes, the Nimbus and Kayano are some of the most popular running shoe franchise in the world.

Nimbus is ASICS' top neutral shoe, while the Kayano is their top stability shoe. They both share a soft, cushioned ride but differ in the way the handle the runner's gait.

Similarity and differences: Gel Nimbus 28 vs Gel Kayano 32

Gel Nimbus 28

$160.00

was $169.95

See deal

Gel Kayano 32

$159.00

was $164.95

See deal

Brand

Asics

Review

Gel Nimbus 28 review

Gel Kayano 32 review

Shoe type

Cushioning

Road

Expert score

7/10

Expert score

10/10

User score

0 user reviews

Weight

9.6 oz

10.5 oz

Heel Drop

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.

What it is: Overall, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 is a refined stability trainer that delivers plush comfort, reliable support, and a smoother, lighter ride. With its responsive midsole, secure upper, and durable outsole, it offers a versatile and dependable option for daily miles and long-distance training. Verdict: I enjoyed running in the Kayano 32 across everything from easy recovery miles to longer tempo runs. The small refinements—slimmer midsole, more responsive FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco, and adaptive upper—felt profound, enhancing the shoe’s overall versatility. My only minor gripe was the slightly reduced breathability could feel limiting on hotter days. Still, the Kayano 32 is capable of carrying you through all of your training, whether your next race is a 5K or a 50K.

Recommended for

Daily training, long distance racing

Daily training

Cushioning type

Balanced/plush

Cushioning amount

Highly cushioned

Flexibility

medium

Stability

some stability

very stable

Sizing

true to size

Retail price

US$169.95

US$164.95

Price today

$160.00

See deal

$159.00

See deal

Sole unit: Gel Nimbus 28 vs Gel Kayano 32

The sole of these two shoes are similar, but at the same time radically different.

Let’s start with the most traditional of the two: the ASICS Gel Nimbus. The Nimbus has a midsole made of super soft FF Blast+. It delivers a really plush underfoot feel. The Nimbus has one GEL unit in the heel. The GEL unit absorbs vibration during foot strikes.

The Gel Kayano is a true traditional stability shoe and implements stability solutions. The Kayano contains basically every latest technology ASICS offers in their stability line. The stability of the Kayano is primarily provided by a firmer medial wedge and a wide, stable midsole base.

Overall the Nimbus and the Kayano both offer a soft, cushioned ride for long mileage also to heavier-set runners. The Kayano adds true and tested stability solutions for the runners with unstable ankles or that prefer a more “guided” stride.

Upper unit: Gel Nimbus 28 vs Gel Kayano 32

The Kayano has an upper made of soft, engineered mesh whereas the Nimbus has an upper made of knitted material which is more stretchy and even softer than the Kayano. The Nimbus has a flat, knitted tongue which the Kayano does not have but the Kayano has a more structured upper. The Nimbus has a narrower fit than the Kayano so you might need to get the wide version.

Both uppers are amongst the most comfortable out there.

Which one to buy: Gel Nimbus 28 vs Gel Kayano 32

This is quite an easy recommendation to make.

If your ride is stable, you never put your foot in an awkward position while running even longer distances, the ASICS Gel Nimbus is your choice.

If you have unstable ankles and would like a shoe that can help you maintain a proper gait and form throughout long mileage the Kayano is the shoe for you. It has a similar level of comfort over long mileage but with the added stability.