Is the King of High Cushion ready to reclaim his throne?  The Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 just released and in this review I’ll be covering the ride, fit/sizing, and updates of this beloved model. I’ll also be discussing how it compares to its previous model and where it could fit in your running shoe lineup.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 At a Glance

Category: High Cushion Daily Trainer

Support: Neutral

Weight: ~9.8 oz (Men's 9) / ~8.4 oz (Women's 7.5)

Drop: 8mm

Best For: Long runs and recovery days

Ride Feel: Light, soft, and smooth

Pros: Incredibly lightweight, soft under foot, and a more streamline design

Cons: Thin tongue, sluggish for faster paces, and a little narrow 

Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 Review 

Asics has always had a pulse when it comes to high cushion running shoes.  The Gel-Nimbus is one of their most iconic shoes and a fan favorite.  For a while though the industry was very categorical with low, medium, and high cushion options.  However, new competitors like Hoka have flipped the industry on its head with their max cushion running shoes.  Now the pendulum has swung into Asics favor but with more competition than ever before. 

I believe this new Gel-Nimbus can compete in this tough environment.  After an iffy Asics Gel-Nimbus 27, Asics has really honed in on their errors.  The Gel-Nimbus 28 is almost a full ounce lighter than its predecessor and has even better shock absorption.  A complaint a lot of runners had about the Nimbus 27 was the exposed midsole.  Asics has completely redone their tread and replaced it with their Hybrid ASICSGRIP™ for better durability.  

What’s New in the Asic’s Gel-Nimbus 28? 

As just mentioned, Asics fixed the outsole of the shoe by changing the rubber they use.  The Hybrid ASICSGRIP™ feels great but, another aspect that we noticed are extra flex grooves. Flex grooves allow for more flexibility in the foot and keeps the shoe from feeling rigid.  In addition to the new tread Asics dropped a lot of weight on the Gel-Nimbus 28.  They were able to drop 0.9 ounces due to the new outsole and streamlined it for less bulk.  You’ll notice this streamline design in the heel area where Asics tightened up the design and added a pull tab.  

One thing that I’m not too keen on is the tongue.  Usually Asics knocks the tongue design out of the park.  However, I find it sub par due to a lack of padding.  I like the flexibility it has and the way it wraps around the top of my foot but I worry about the laces digging into my foot.  Outside of the tongue’s thinness, I’ve enjoyed the feel of the Gel-Nimbus 28.  It’s similar to some of the older models but has a more refined air about it.  

Gel-Nimbus 28 Fit and Sizing

A common question most runners have is how a shoe fits. I find the Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 to be a good fit, true to size.  I would be careful of the width, however, as the streamlined feel of the heel does seem to apply throughout the shoe.  It’s not a horribly tight fit but if you are someone that has a wide foot or prefers a wider feel, I’d get a

wide.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 Performance Review: On the Run

Let's start off with the ride.  I like how the foam is dispersed throughout the shoe.  It feels like Asics really wanted to put an emphasis on the mid and fore foot region.  There’s a good bounce there without feeling like too much.  A problem I have with shoes that have a heel drop of 8mm or more is that a big heel can get in the way when I’m running.  Essentially I feel like I’m heel striking.  With the Asics Gel-Nimbus 28, I don’t get that feeling at all.  I’m able to easily get up onto my mid/forefoot and I feel comfortable throughout my miles.  

Next, the upper fit well and I didn’t have any problems with blisters or irritation.  However, my foot is more on the narrow side so it sits a lot better in the shoe.  Someone with a wider foot will probably have a different experience compared to mine.  I did like the heel collar more than last year’s Asics Gel-Nimbus 27.  I think the streamlined approach makes for a better fit and holds the foot more securely.  The final piece is the tongue and while it isn’t my favorite of the Asics Gel-Nimbus line, it isn’t the worst either.  Sometimes I felt like the laces were digging into the top of my ankle but not enough for me to stop and retie my shoes.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 vs Gel-Nimbus 27

The biggest takeaway from this matchup is going to be the weight of the two shoes.  The Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 is way lighter than the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27.  When I put on a Gel-Nimbus 27 I feel like I had boats for feet whereas the Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 is more fluid.  I also appreciate the foam distribution in the newer model over last year’s.  I enjoy the emphasis on the midfoot/forefoot region and it really helped me push off as I was running.  

Overall, I don’t have much to say here.  The Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 is a great update and I

believe it beats out the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 quite easily.  If you have been skeptical of the Asics Gel-Nimbus in the past, I think you will be happy with the newest iteration.  Stop by a local Dave’s Running Shop location to try on a pair of the Asics Gel-Nimbus 28!

The Final Verdict: Is the Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 Worth It?

With how the running shoe market has been shaped over the past few years, the high cushion category has become a battlefield of shoes.  Every brand is fighting tooth and nail to get their name out front.  I believe that the Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 is a step in the right direction for Asics.  It’s a great shoe that sets the tone for what’s needed in today’s shoe economy.  Additionally, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 sets the bar of what a quality high cushion option should be.  

If you are looking for a soft, smooth ride, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 is a great place to start.  I would pair it against the New Balance 1080v15, Hoka Bondi 9, and the Saucony Triumph 24.  As I stressed in the previous paragraph, the high cushion running shoe has many great models to choose from.  In a chaotic environment with many choices, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 is a familiar face that many will find comfort with.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 FAQ

Who is the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 best suited for? 

The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 is designed for runners and walkers who prioritize maximum cushioning and comfort. It is a great option for daily training, long-distance runs, recovery days, and all-day wear for people who spend a lot of time on their feet.

Is the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 good for long-distance running?

Yes. The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 is designed for runners seeking maximum cushioning during long-distance training and recovery runs. Its plush midsole helps absorb impact and provides comfort over extended mileage, making it a popular choice for marathon training and daily running.

How does the Gel-Nimbus 28 fit compared to previous versions?

The Gel-Nimbus 28 offers a comfortable, secure fit with a breathable upper and improved foot lockdown. Most customers find it fits true to size, but those with wider feet may benefit from trying a wide-width option if available.

What is the difference between the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 and Gel-Kayano?

The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 is a neutral running shoe focused on maximum cushioning and comfort, while the ASICS Gel-Kayano is a stability running shoe designed to provide additional support for runners who overpronate. Choosing between the two depends on your gait, support needs, and running goals.

Is the Gel-Nimbus 28 a good choice for standing or walking all day?

Yes. Many customers choose the Gel-Nimbus 28 not only for running but also for walking, travel, and occupations that require long periods of standing. Its plush cushioning and supportive design can help improve comfort during extended wear.