Asics Gel Nimbus 27 review: my new favourite running shoe for recovery sessions

Telegraph

23-05-2025

What is the Asics Gel Nimbus 27
The Asics Gel Nimbus 27 is a premium, highly cushioned running shoe designed for neutral runners seeking maximum comfort on their daily runs. As the name suggests, this is the 27th iteration of the Gel Nimbus, a running shoe range which began in the late 90s and became quickly known for its substantial stack height.
Compared to the previous iteration, the Nimbus 26 shoe, there's an extra 2mm of foam for soft cushioning, and a new engineered jacquard mesh upper for enhanced breathability and comfort. Gel technology in the heel is also lighter, for soft landings.
Priced at £180, the Nimbus 27 sits at the higher end of the daily running shoe market, reflecting its advanced features. These include eco-friendly, recycled or bio-based materials throughout and a gusseted stretch-knit tongue for a secure fit. These running shoes will best suit anyone who values comfort and durability over speed.
How we test running shoes
As well as running short and long distances in these trainers, on the pavement and on the track, I took them to the gym for HIIT and strength classes. Straight out of the box, I tested them on design and comfort, comparing them to their previous iterations of the range.
I also considered how my feet felt on different surfaces. I tested whether they gave my feet support and what type of runner they were suited to. I also looked at important things that runners need, like shock absorption, heel stack and durability in the trainer. As I've tested a lot of women's running trainers, I also compared them against other trainers from brands including Hoka and Brooks.
Comfort and design
Score: 9/10
The first thing I noticed about these trainers was how plush they felt. As I slipped my foot in, I appreciated how stretchy and breathable the tongue was, helping me to position my feet comfortably. The upper is made from an engineered jacquard mesh, which is a fabric with a design woven on. This means they're not as breathable as other competitors, such as Brooks' Glycerin Max trainer – but it gives the trainers a nice finish.
Comfortable to run in, the toe box is just the right size and the cushioned sole is responsive. The only complaint was that the shoes run large. My normal size six rubbed on the ankle (despite the extra cushioning around the ankle) and my foot felt quite small in them. I'd recommend going down half a size.
When it comes to design, they've come a long way over the last 27 years and now have a softer, more unisex design, with an array of colours to choose from, including the bright blue pair I tried.
Bounce and shock absorption
Score: 9/10
The huge heel stack is the first thing you'll notice on these trainers. At 44mm, they add height and cushion your feet well when you run, while the heel-to-toe drop is only 8mm. They also use the brand's FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning, which is an advanced midsole foam technology designed to deliver a softer landing and more responsive toe-off. I did find this helped on longer runs, although I'm not sure how much was placebo affect, having researched the shoes before testing them.
I found the trainers a little rigid when I needed speed. On the track, when doing faster intervals, they didn't give me much energy return. However, when I was doing my slower weekly 5k, I felt they came into their own, giving me a better bounce back as I ran. I'll leave these on the shoe rack for my next speed session and choose more responsive shoes, like Hoka's new Cielo range.
Durability
Score: 10/10
The trainers are well-made, which you'd only expect for the cost. They also held up well in all weather conditions, including when I was splashing through muddy puddles and running in the rain. This is thanks to their well-made upper, which shielded me from getting wet feet.
What makes this more gratifying is that the jacquard mesh upper is made from 50 per cent recycled PET bottles, meaning this trainer delivers on both sustainability and performance. The stretch-knit tongue and collar also provided a supportive fit.
Thankfully, with the update, they haven't gotten rid of the outsole's rubber hybrid ASICSGRIP, as this is one of my favourite parts of the Nimbus range. This is Asics' rubber outsole technology, which uses distinctive lug patterns to improve grip and reduce the risk of slipping. Some trainers can't withstand different terrains, but these fared well on grass, road, the track and even rougher off-road terrains.
Ground feel and responsiveness
Score: 8/10
With the heel and midsole being so high and cushioned to the max, I could barely feel the ground as I ran, which for me (as a heel striker and someone who over-pronates when they run), was spectacular. I practically felt as though I was running on springs, protecting my feet from any wear and tear – and ultimately injury. It's perfect for easy and recovery runs, although there isn't a lot of ground feel.
The responsiveness is moderate. The foam is firm enough, providing some resilience, but it lacks the bounce found in more performance-oriented trainers, like carbon-plate models. The shoe's stiffer design dampens any snappy toe-off, which is another reason these don't suit speedy runners. If you prefer to feel the ground more as you run and get a better energy return from your trainers, I'd invest in the Adidas Supernova Rise range or Asics' Novablast.
Stability
Score: 7/10
As I slightly over-pronate, some running shoes don't quite align with my feet, like Hoka's Bondi range. Similarly, as I found with the Nike Pegasus 41, it often takes a few shorter runs for my feet to adjust. The same happened here, as the soles are better suited to those with a neutral running gait or who under-pronate (where you roll the foot outwards as you land). However it was to a lesser extent, thanks to the wide base in both the forefoot and heel.
It took me a while to adjust my footing as I ran, while the midsole was firmer than I'm used to. Despite this, after a few short runs, my feet felt stable and the arch no longer ached. This is thanks to the PureGEL, which is located in the foam below the heel, which helps support heel strikers, and the generous padding.
Although not a dedicated stability shoe, I didn't experience any rolling of the ankle as I ran. This shoe would suit runners who want a stable, neutral ride without intrusive and stiff support elements.
Technical specifications
Another premium daily trainer with max-cushioned protection is New Balance's Fresh Foam 1080v14 running shoe. While Asics prioritises shock absorption and a stable, slightly firmer ride, the New Balance shoes have a snappier, rockered feel with its 6mm heel drop, balancing cushioning with responsiveness. The key similarity is that they both target comfort-focused runners. Here's how they stack up:
Should you buy the Asics Gel Nimbus 27s?
I loved running in these trainers. They suited my running gait style, but I can appreciate they wouldn't be for everyone – especially anyone who wants more responsive shoes. At £180, they are definitely an investment, but if your go-to is longer (or short), slower runs, they are a great shoe for comfort.
Yes if:
You like a padded, cushioned running shoe
You mostly do long, slow runs
Comfort is your main priority
No if:
You want a responsive shoe
You need a shoe for speed work
Asics Gel Nimbus 27 FAQs
Does the Asics Gel Nimbus 27 run true to size?
Yes, the Gel Nimbus 27 runs true to size, although it's generally recommended to go up by half a size if you're running a marathon in any running shoe, to accommodate foot swelling.
How does the cushioning feel compared to previous models?
The Nimbus 27 provides a thicker, softer midsole with FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning and PureGEL technology, which provides a cloud-like, cushioned ride that is softer and more responsive than earlier models.
Is the shoe good for long-distance running?
Yes, the Nimbus 27 is excellent for long-distance running thanks to its soft, cushioned sole that provides support to the knees and ankles.
Is the Nimbus 27 suitable for speed work or gym training?
The maximal cushioning means the Asics Gel Nimbus 27 isn't the best choice for speed work or gym training, as it provides less feel and response.