Brooks Ghost Max 4 vs ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28

Ghost Max 4 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 big, smooth cushion that’s easy to run in? Get the Ghost Max 4.

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

Get the Ghost Max 4 if

• You like a firmer, more stable feel
• You have slimmer feet and like a snug fit
• You prefer a lower drop (6mm vs 8mm)

Get the Gel-Nimbus 28 if

• You want the softer, more cushioned ride
• You want more foam underfoot (3.5mm more at the heel)
• You need a roomier fit
• You like a higher heel-to-toe drop (8mm vs 6mm)

On the run

Ghost Max 4: Big, smooth, beginner-friendly cushion. Smooth and predictable, with a rocker that rolls you through each stride. The ride is on the firm side with little bounce, but it’s stable and protective.

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

Ghost Max 4. True to size with a plush upper and a thick, padded tongue. It’s lower over the toes and snugger than the Ghost Max 3. Wide available.

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 Ghost Max 4 · Shop the Gel-Nimbus 28 · Compare other running shoes