ASICS Sonicblast 2 vs Gel-Nimbus 28

Sonicblast 2 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 max cushion and protection for lots of miles? Get the Sonicblast 2.

Want plush, protective cushion for long runs? Get the Gel-Nimbus 28.

Get the Sonicblast 2 if

• You want more bounce and energy back
• You want more foam underfoot (2.5mm more at the heel)
• You like a less rigid forefoot
• You want the lighter shoe, by about 1.4 oz

Get the Gel-Nimbus 28 if

• You’re on your feet all day or walk a lot
• You like a stiffer, rocker-style forefoot that rolls you forward
• You need an extra-wide width
• You’d rather spend $20 less

On the run

Sonicblast 2: Huge cushion for high mileage. Soft and protective, with exceptional shock absorption and plenty of foam for long, easy miles. Less lively than you might expect, and not as stable as some max-stack trainers.

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.

Specs side by side

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

Sonicblast 2. True to size with an improved, breathable upper, but the toebox is tapered.

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 Sonicblast 2 · Shop the Gel-Nimbus 28 · Compare other running shoes