The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS® 28 Reimagines Comfortable Running

The last two years has seen ASICS explode in popularity thanks to its SportStyle division, a lineup that takes performance heritage and presents it for lifestyle purposes. In the same timeframe, the Japanese institution has made strides within the world of running, developing a range of training and racing models that've helped countless athletes set personal bests. The former category will soon boast the GEL-NIMBUS® 28, the brand's latest ultra-cushioned silhouette.

The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS® franchise began in 1999 and was founded on a simple principle: to deliver a cloud-like cushioning experience to runners. Over the last 26 years, the bulk of the brand's offerings have achieved this goal by presenting its signature GEL™ technology in a variety of layouts and heights. The last handful of years, however, have seen ASICS shift its focus onto the use of PureGEL™ cushioning alongside other proprietary foam compounds to create footwear that better encapsulates the image of nimbus clouds. Competitors' footwear have also encouraged a shift in plumper midsoles.

The GEL-NIMBUS® 25 from February 2023 ushered in a new design language for the storied series, which continues to be present on the GEL-NIMBUS® 28.

At quick glance, the impending model isn't too dissimilar from its direct predecessor, but closer inspection reveals a number of tweaks on the newer offering. The soft engineered mesh reprises its role, but in a new presentation, seemingly abandoning its jacquard finish across the upper. Eyelets have been reworked for better lockdown and to reduce the likelihood of tear, now coming out from underneath the top mesh layer. Tongues are reshaped and include more robust pull tabs.

The collar's overall shape has been slimmed down, likely as a move to reduce weight and allow for a more comfortable lockdown just below the ankle. The inner heel area still features ample cushioning to ensure heel slippage is minimal to non-existent.

The most obvious changes from the GEL-NIMBUS® 27 to the GEL-NIMBUS® 28 appear across the sole unit.

ASICS has yet to release specifics about stack height, but the midsole on the cushioned trainer seems to follow its predecessor's 43.5 millimeter heel height. Details on the drop also remain under wraps, but it's likely the newest member of the GEL-NIMBUS® family opts for an 8mm difference between heel and forefoot cushioning.

FF BLAST™ PLUS and PureGEL™ solutions come together on the plush silhouette, but their placements have seemingly been reorganized. The former foam now appears closer to the upper, while the latter is presumably bottom-loaded. The setup likely addresses athlete feedback regarding a lack of underfoot feel for the more responsive FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning. Visually, the midsole seems to be divided into two pieces, with a number of seams appearing across it. This suggests different density foams have come together while preserving their properties in a similar fashion as the Nike Pegasus Premium.

The GEL-NIMBUS® 28 features HYBRID ASICSGRIP™ rubber throughout the outsole. When placed side-by-side with the GEL-NIMBUS® 27, major differences in coverage become evident.

The presentation is different between both silhouettes, with the newer option opting for more segmented protection. It's likely this decision is rooted in weight reduction. A different bottom foam could also have called for an update to the rubber coverage.

Lastly, it seems that the GEL-NIMBUS® 28 employs a more aggressive rocker geometry than its predecessor. In comparison to the GEL-NIMBUS® 27, the latest GEL-NIMBUS® style begins to curve upwards at an earlier point, a feature likely informed by findings from both the ASICS METASPEED™ and SUPERBLAST™ lines.

Enjoy a first-look at the GEL-NIMBUS® 28 cushioned running shoe ahead. Pairs should begin to release via ASICS.com in Men's and Women's styles by the beginning of autumn. It's possible, however, that a proper launch takes place at the top of 2026.

Away from the world of running, both the Nike Basketball and Adidas Basketball divisions continue to expand with both compelling signature and budget-friendly offerings.