Pulse8.8/10

Asics Gel Nimbus 26 Review

A new and improved neutral running shoe featuring premium materials to deliver a comfortable ride with excellent durability and breathability, making it the perfect choice for long distances and easy-paced runs.
Asics Gel Nimbus 26 Colors

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Asics Gel Nimbus 26 Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent cushioning for extreme comfort 
  • Improved fit 
  • Enhanced stability
  • Exceptional durability with hybrid outsole material 
  • Extremely breathable with excellent knit upper
  • Improved wide toe box design 
  • Great for long-distances

Cons

  • Weight is heavier 
  • Price point
  • Inconsistent sizing
  • Not a performance shoe 
  • Lacks speed 

Surface

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Surface(s) this shoe is designed for

Gym, Road, Track

Support

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Support philosophy of shoe

Neutral

Drop

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Heel-to-toe angle

8mm

Heel Height

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Surface(s) this shoe is designed for

42mm

Toe Height

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Surface(s) this shoe is designed for

34mm

Weight

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How much this shoe weighs (roughly)

10.7oz

Asics Gel Nimbus 26 Features

Comfort and Fit

The Gel Nimbus 26 is an upgrade from previous models delivering ultimate comfort with the addition of advanced PureGEL technology that enhances shock absorption, FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning, HYBRID ASICSGRIP, and an extremely soft and breathable upper. This shoe is well-balanced with improved cushioning that provides maximum comfort without compromising on firmness. While some runners find the sizes inconsistent, the soft and stretchy knitted tongue and newly designed collar allow for adaptive fitting.

Traction

The newly constructed outsole is perfect for various weather conditions and tough surfaces. The premium HYBRID ASICSGRIP and AHAR™ rubber outsole provides reliable traction and excellent grip on road surfaces, especially in wet and slick conditions and even light trails. 

Durability

The Gel Nimbus 26 is praised for its durability, logging many miles without significant wear and tear. The AHAR™ rubber outsole and HYBRID ASICSGRIP increase the shoe’s durability. Despite being lightweight and soft, the knit upper also shows excellent toughness and durability through various conditions without wear and tear.

Support

Constructed with a wider and more stable platform as well as a slightly firmer foam in the midsole, this shoe provides more stability and support for neutral runners with ample support underfoot. However, some runners suggest that support could be improved for those with mild overpronation.

Protection

With extensive cushioning and PureGEL technology in the forefoot and rearfoot, the Gel Nimbus 26 delivers excellent shock absorption, protecting runners from the impact of the road. The toe guard also offers protection against debris. This shoe delivers overall protection from internal strains and injury as well as preventing external debris from getting in.

Breathability

Runners claim that the upper construction is the best improvement from previous models due to its excellent breathability. The newly engineered mesh upper is well-ventilated, making it significantly more breathable. While some runners find it less breathable in hotter climates, many claim that the material keeps the feet cool and dry for extended periods in various types of weather conditions.

Style

With a more modern design and a wide range of color options for both men and women, the Gel Nimbus 26 perfectly blends functionality with fashionable aesthetics. Runners appreciate the sleek look of this new edition, which not only makes it suitable for running but doubles as a great casual and stylish option for a day out or a night on the town.

Flexibility and Responsiveness

The FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning delivers a responsive and somewhat flexible ride. However, some runners claim that this shoe is not as nimble or flexible with landing, and therefore, not a great choice for sprints or fast-paced movements. The Gel Nimbus 26 is a responsive shoe that’s great for walking or easy-paced runs but it’s certainly not a performance shoe.

Asics Gel Nimbus 26 Construction

Outsole

The Gel Nimbus 26 is constructed with a combination of HYBRID ASICSGRIP and AHAR™ rubber outsole to deliver better traction and excellent durability, making it a reliable shoe, especially on wet and slick surfaces. The flex grooves in the forefoot also enhance flexibility for a smoother transition. The combination of these specialized materials contributes to the shoe’s overall reliability and durability.

Midsole

Designed with PureGEL technology that enhances shock absorption and FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning, the midsole of the Gel Nimbus 26 provides maximum comfort and smoother transitions without compromising on firmness and stability. Runners claim this shoe perfectly balances soft and cushioned and a firmer, more responsive underfoot. It’s soft enough to be very comfortable but not so soft that it feels like the foot is sinking into the shoe.

Upper

This is one of the most notable upgrades of the Gel Nimbus 26. The newly engineered knit upper and plush padding provides a more secure and breathable fit throughout the midfoot while maintaining the same soft and comfortable feeling throughout the shoe. The soft and stretchy knitted tongue also allows for adjustments and an adaptive fit. Runners report that the knit material offers a premium feel with a soft cushioned heel collar that feels like clouds.

Lacing System

This shoe has a traditional lace-up closure that provides a customizable fit. The plush padding, stretchy tongue, and soft heel collar add extra comfort while allowing for adjustments and an adaptive fit.

Conclusion

The Gel Nimbus 26 is a huge upgrade from previous models with the combination of advanced materials like PureGEL technology, FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning, HYBRID ASICSGRIP, and newly refined upper construction that runners appreciate. While this shoe is praised for its extreme comfort, breathability, and durability, it is not quite a performance shoe and lacks the flexibility for quick movements and hard workouts. Yet, this highly cushioned daily trainer delivers a comfortable and responsive ride, making it an ideal choice for easy, daily runs and logging those extra miles.

Asics Gel Nimbus 26
Prices and Reviews

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Pulse Score

Asics Gel Nimbus 26

8.8/10
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