A Complete Look at the GEL-NIMBUS 28, ASICS's Premier Cushioning Model!

Named after "Nimbus," the Latin word for "cloud," the GEL-NIMBUS series from ASICS is a legendary long-seller. True to its name, it delivers a soft, cloud-like ride that has won over countless runners since its 1999 debut. It's a massive hit, particularly in Europe and the United States, where the cushioned shoe market is huge.

In recent years, its popularity has also exploded for everyday wear, with many people using them for walking. So, what upgrades does the latest in the series, the GEL-NIMBUS 28, bring to the table?

Shedding About 20 Grams from Its Predecessor

One of the biggest upgrades to the GEL-NIMBUS 28 from its predecessor is a significant weight reduction. Although the stack height and midsole material are the same, the shoe is now about 20 grams lighter (comparing a men's size 27.0 cm and a women's 25.0 cm).

"Our quest to make running as comfortable as possible for runners led us to focus on making the shoe lighter. While changes to the upper material and a revised midsole shape contributed, the most significant factor in reducing weight was re-evaluating the outsole's layout.

By trimming away unnecessary areas, we achieved a lighter shoe while maintaining the same level of grip and durability as the previous model," explains Tomoko Fujihata from the Product Planning team at ASICS Japan Corporation.

The previous GEL-NIMBUS 27 weighed around 305g (for a size 27.0cm). Shaving off 20g without sacrificing core performance is a major upgrade. While you might not notice it on a short jog, over long distances, this 20-gram reduction (around 40g for both feet) is sure to lessen the strain on your legs.

Switching the Upper from Mesh to Knit

Along with its lighter weight, another major upgrade is the change in the upper material. While the previous GEL-NIMBUS 27 featured an engineered mesh upper, this new model boasts an engineered knit. This lightweight and highly breathable knit upper comfortably wraps the entire foot like a sock, ensuring a flexible and snug fit.

Interestingly, the model before last, the GEL-NIMBUS 26, also used an engineered knit. The switch to engineered mesh in the GEL-NIMBUS 27 was made to boost breathability and keep feet comfortable on long runs. So, does this return to knit mean a step back in ventilation? Not at all, it seems.

"The change back to engineered knit is another outcome of our mission to maximize runner comfort. We switched to mesh for the GEL-NIMBUS 27 because we believed improving the breathability of the knit upper from the GEL-NIMBUS 26 would bring us closer to 100% runner satisfaction.

Since then, material technology has advanced, allowing us to use a knit material that offers excellent breathability. That's why we've returned to knit. When it comes to gently enveloping the foot like a sock, knit surpasses mesh, so we think you'll enjoy a fit that's even more comfortable than the last model."

The GEL-NIMBUS: A Hit for Everyday Streetwear Too

While subtle, the design around the collar and lace holes has also been updated. This simple, minimalist look makes the GEL-NIMBUS 28 a stylish choice for everyday wear, adding to its appeal.

"The GEL-NIMBUS is a popular model not only for running but also for walking and general town use. With that in mind, we've focused on a simple, minimalist aesthetic that makes it easy to incorporate into daily life."

Furthermore, since the GEL-NIMBUS 26, ASICS has been disclosing the carbon footprint—the greenhouse gas emissions over the product's lifecycle (from materials and manufacturing to transport, use, and disposal). The figures have dropped from 10.8 kg CO2e for the 26, to 10.6 kg CO2e for the 27, and now down to 9.3 kg CO2e for the 28. Reducing its environmental impact while enhancing performance is another fantastic update, wouldn't you agree?

A Soft Ride with Outstanding Cushioning

The "GEL-NIMBUS 28"'s midsole features FF BLAST PLUS for lightweight, superior cushioning (about 24% of the foam material is made from renewable sugarcane-based sources). Additionally, the heel incorporates the shock-absorbing PureGEL. This combination delivers an incredibly soft ride.

The standout appeal of the "GEL-NIMBUS 28" lies in its incredible cushioning, which softens the hard asphalt, and the soft, comfortable fit of its engineered knit upper. At the same time, it provides ample stability and support, making it a solid choice for runners aiming to complete a full marathon.

This is a must-consider shoe for anyone looking to start running, or for those seeking a versatile pair that works for both runs and everyday wear.