ASICS Novablast 6 vs Gel-Nimbus 28
Novablast 6 or Gel-Nimbus 28? Here’s how they compare on feel, fit, brand specs and price, from the fitting team at The Run House.
The short answer
Want springy, versatile miles? Get the Novablast 6.
Want steady, protective cushion for long runs? Get the Gel-Nimbus 28.
Get the Novablast 6 if
- You want more bounce and energy back
- You’ll use it for tempo runs and workouts
- You have slimmer feet and like a snug fit
- You like a less rigid forefoot
Get the Gel-Nimbus 28 if
- You want a dedicated recovery-day shoe
- You’re on your feet all day or walk a lot
- You need a roomier fit
- You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward
On the run
Novablast 6: The springy do-it-all. Light and springy, with a forefoot pod that snaps more the faster you go. It handles everything from easy days to workouts.
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.
Specs side by side
| Novablast 6 | Gel-Nimbus 28 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $155 | $169.99 |
| Stack height (heel / forefoot) | 41.5 / 33.5mm* | 43.5 / 35.5mm* |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Weight, men’s | 8.9 oz | 9.9 oz |
| Weight, women’s | 7.6 oz | 8.5 oz |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Plate | None | None |
| Widths | Standard, Wide | Standard, Wide, Extra wide |
| Built for | Easy days, Tempo & workouts, Long runs | Easy days, Long runs, Recovery runs, Walking & all-day wear |
| Expected life | 400–500 miles | 350–450 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
Novablast 6. True to size with a tapered but splay-friendly toebox and a locked-in heel. It’s low over the toes, so high insteps should go wide rather than longer.
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.
Try them on
Come try on both at The Run House in Walpole, Needham or Falmouth. Gait analysis is always free.
Shop the Novablast 6 · Shop the Gel-Nimbus 28 · Compare other running shoes