ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 vs Brooks Glycerin 23
Gel-Nimbus 28 or Glycerin 23? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
Want steady, protective cushion for long runs? Get the Gel-Nimbus 28.
Want plush, pillowy comfort? Get the Glycerin 23.
Get the Gel-Nimbus 28 if
- You want more foam underfoot (5.5mm more at the heel)
- You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward
- You want the lighter shoe, by about 0.7 oz
Get the Glycerin 23 if
- You like a less rigid forefoot
On the run
Gel-Nimbus 28: The protective long-run cruiser. Max cushion that’s more supportive than plush, with a stiff, steady forefoot. It’s smooth but uneventful, and it feels blocky if you try to push the pace.
Glycerin 23: The plush luxury cruiser. Deep, plush cushioning with a soft heel. It’s built for comfort, not speed, and the forefoot needs a couple dozen miles to loosen up.
Specs side by side
| Gel-Nimbus 28 | Glycerin 23 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $169.99 | $174.95 |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 43.5 / 35.5mm* | 38 / 30mm* |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Weight, men’s | 9.9 oz | 10.6 oz |
| Weight, women’s | 8.5 oz | 9.5 oz |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Plate | None | None |
| Widths | Standard, Wide, Extra wide | Standard, Wide, Extra wide |
| Built for | Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs, Walking & all-day wear | Easy days, Recovery runs, Long runs, Walking & all-day wear |
| Expected life | 350–450 miles | 400–500 miles |
Stack, drop and weight come from each brand’s own website. Numbers marked * aren’t published by the brand and come from other published specs. Weights are for the size each brand quotes. Expected life is our estimate.
Fit
Gel-Nimbus 28. True to size, with a stretchy knit that feels like a slipper as you step in. The toebox is average in width but low over the toes. Wide and extra-wide available.
Glycerin 23. Runs slightly short, so if you’re between sizes, go up a half. Roomy forefoot with more toe height than the 22; the stretchy upper can feel loose on narrow feet. Wide available.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
Shop the Gel-Nimbus 28 · Shop the Glycerin 23 · Compare other running shoes