ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 vs Gel-Nimbus 27
Gel-Nimbus 28 or Gel-Nimbus 27? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
The Gel-Nimbus 28 replaced the Gel-Nimbus 27.
Lighter, with a new knit upper that locks down better. Same stack.
What changed
- Foam: Same foam.
- Shape: New midsole design with deep flex grooves.
- Upper: New knit upper that locks the foot down better.
- On the run: Stiffer up front and snugger. Cushion and bounce about the same.
- Measured: 0.7 oz lighter. Heel stack and drop about the same.
Still like the Gel-Nimbus 27? It’s $45 less than the Gel-Nimbus 28 while supplies last, with 2 colors in stock.
On the run
Gel-Nimbus 28: The protective long-run cruiser. Big, soft, plush cushioning with a smooth, steady ride and a stiff forefoot. Lovely for easy and long miles, but it feels blocky if you try to push the pace.
Gel-Nimbus 27: The protective high-cushion cruiser. Soft, plush and protective, with an ultra-thick midsole for easy miles. Stable for its size, but bottom-heavy, with very little bounce.
Specs side by side
| Gel-Nimbus 28 | Gel-Nimbus 27 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $169.99 | $124.95 (was $165) |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 43.5 / 35.5mm* | 44 / 36mm* |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm* |
| Weight, men’s | 9.9 oz | 10.8 oz* |
| Weight, women’s | 8.5 oz | 9.3 oz* |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Plate | None | None |
| Widths | Standard, Wide, Extra wide | Standard, Wide |
| Built for | Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs, Walking & all-day wear | Easy days, Long runs, Recovery 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.
Gel-Nimbus 27. True to size with excellent heel lockdown and more wiggle room than the Nimbus 26. Wide available.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
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