Cushion Game Strong: ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 in Action

The first pair of running shoes many of us ever loved were ASICS. I know they’ve held a special place in our running closets ever since. Though we’ve branched out to other brands over the years, ASICS has remained a consistent favorite.

See all our posts on ASICS here!

So, when we got the chance to try out the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27, we were eager to see how it stacks up. Spoiler alert: It didn’t disappoint.

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Looks

You really can’t go wrong with black and white, and the black and lake grey colorway we received is a testament to that. These shoes effortlessly pair with just about any running outfit, and while we’re not ones who are obsessed with matching, the simplicity of black makes everything flow.

The thick white soles stand out (in the best way), and we’re big fans of the stretchy tongue and handy pull loop on the back. These little touches make sliding the shoes on so easy—perfect when we’re in a rush to hit the road.

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Construction and Fit

The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is designed as a neutral running shoe, catering to normal-sized arches. Built for the road, these are excellent everyday runners packed with max cushioning for extra comfort. It’s also super stacked – towering at well over 40 mm.

The jacquard mesh upper ensures solid ventilation, which is key when our feet start to sweat mid-run. Despite the beefy look of the shoe’s FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning, they feel surprisingly lightweight thanks to the addition of PureGEL technology. For grip, the HYBRID ASICSGRIP outsole ensures durability and versatility on different terrains.

In terms of fit these stayed true to size for us. The stretchy mesh upper feels soft and breathable, and the OrthoLite X-55 sockliner provides a comfortable, gently hugging feel. The slightly wider toe box is an added bonus, especially for runners like us who appreciate a bit more room up front.

It’s got an extra 2mm of stack from v26 and lost about a half ounce of weight in the process. It’s still pretty heavy though – all things considered. However, the added stack doesn’t really feel as soft as previous. In his experience with the 26, Matt found the Nimbus line a tiny bit too cushioned for comfort. Even with the massive height, it doesn’t seem as marshmallowy soft as before – which is a good thing for me.

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Specs

• Stack Height:
  • Mens = 43.5mm (heel), 35.5mm (forefoot)
  • Womens = 42.5mm (heel), 34.5mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8mm
• Weight: 10.8 oz (Men’s size 9), 9.3 oz (Women’s size 8)

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Upper

The jacquard mesh upper is a standout feature, balancing breathability and support. It adapts well to foot movement and prevents overheating during runs. The knit tongue was immediately noticeable when we first put them on—it’s a unique touch that adds to the overall comfort and secure fit.

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Midsole

The midsole is where these shoes truly shine. The FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning delivers a plush ride without feeling overly squishy, striking the right balance between comfort and responsiveness. It’s like running on clouds, but with enough firmness to keep transitions smooth. The integration of PureGEL technology adds to the softness, making them lighter and more flexible than their predecessors.

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Outsole

The HYBRID ASICSGRIP outsole ensures durability and reliable traction. Whether on wet or dry pavement, we felt stable and secure with every stride. While these are road-focused, the grip can handle light variations in terrain, giving them a bit of versatility.

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Conclusion

From the moment we slipped on the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27, we knew they were something special. The combination of comfort, cushioning, and durability makes them a go-to for daily runs or long efforts alike. With seamless transitions and no signs of discomfort after both casual and longer runs, these shoes are an easy recommendation for runners seeking a plush yet supportive ride.

ASICS has been a cornerstone of the running world for years, and the Gel-Nimbus 27 is another solid entry in their lineup. If you’re looking for a reliable and cushioned companion for your miles, these are well worth considering.