The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 arrives as a clearer, lighter take on a long-running classic. I put in the miles, tested it across different conditions, and came away with a simple conclusion: this is still one of Asics’s best options for comfort-led running. The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 keeps the Nimbus DNA intact while trimming weight and refining the fit, but it also raises familiar questions about foam technology and price. Below I break down what changed, who will love it, and whether it deserves a spot in your rotation.
What the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 aims to be
The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is built as a max-stack, comfort-first daily trainer. Its role is simple: provide reliable cushioning for easy runs, recovery days, and long miles on your feet. If you prioritize comfort over snappy responsiveness or racing speed, the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is designed with you in mind.
ASICS Mens Gel-Nimbus 28
Key specifications at a glance
- Purpose: Easy runs, recovery runs, long runs, and everyday comfort
- Price: About £180 in the UK (pricing can vary by region)
- Stack height: 43.5 mm (heel) with an 8 mm drop
- Weight: 335 g on my scale (men’s size sample)
- Midsole: FF Blast Plus with Asics PureGel in the rear
- Upper: Engineered knit (replaced the previous jacquard mesh)
- Outsole: Hybrid grip elements up front with AHAR Plus at the heel
- Widths: Standard and wide (extra wide available in some markets)
What changed versus the previous generation
The jump from version 27 to the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is conservative but meaningful. The headline change is weight. On my scale the new model comes in at 335 grams, roughly 49 grams lighter than the 27. That reduction transforms the shoe’s feel on run, making it more agile and less cumbersome on easy days.
The upper material swapped from jacquard mesh back to an engineered knit. That contributes to a slightly narrower toe box and a more streamlined look. The outsole coverage has been pared down too. You still get durable rubber in key wear zones, but it is applied more sparingly, which likely helps save weight.
Ride and fit: What it feels like on the run
The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 keeps comfort at the forefront. Step into one and you immediately notice the cushioned, secure fit. Asics preserved the excellent gusseted tongue and a plush heel collar. Those two elements combine to give a secure, locked-in sensation that works equally well on easy miles or while standing around during travel.
The midsole is noticeably firmer than some of the ultra-squishy rivals on the market. FF Blast Plus with PureGel in the back absorbs impacts reliably without feeling marshmallowy. The trade-off is less bounciness and energetic return than shoes aimed at tempo or race-pace training.
Because the platform is firmer and slightly narrower, the Nimbus 28 feels more stable than many other max-stack options. You do not get that floppy side-to-side sensation some very soft shoes produce. For runners who like a secure, straightforward ride, the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 hits a solid midline between plush and planted.
Comfort features that stand out
- Gusseted tongue — stretchy, hugs the top of the foot, and prevents lace pressure
- Padded heel collar — locks the heel comfortably in place
- PureGel rear unit — reduces impact on longer runs without muddying stability
- Streamlined upper — engineered knit feels secure and less bulky than the previous jacquard
Durability and grip
The outsole uses targeted rubber placements rather than full-coverage rubber. That minimal approach saves weight and still provides dependable traction. From my testing, the grip has been reassuring on road surfaces and the limited rubber zones show no alarming wear early on. Historically, this line has had strong durability, and the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 looks set to continue that trend.
Who the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is best for
The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 will suit a broad group of runners, but it is especially good for:
- Runners prioritizing comfort on easy and long runs
- Heavier runners who appreciate a stable, high-stack daily shoe
- Commuters and travellers who want a shoe that performs well off the run while being comfortable all day
- Runners who liked the previous Nimbus 27 but wanted a slightly leaner, lighter experience
ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus 27 Running Shoes
Who should look elsewhere
If you are chasing a daily trainer with lively energy return and a springy ride for faster intervals, the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is not the most obvious pick. Also, if budget is a major concern and you want the softest possible cushion for a lower price, there are alternatives that will feel plusher for less money.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Comfort: Still one of the most comfortable Asics daily shoes
- Weight reduction: Feels significantly lighter and more nimble than the previous model
- Stability: Firmer foam and a narrower platform give confidence on longer runs
- Day-to-day versatility: Works well for travel, commuting, and standing around
- Durability: Minimal but well-placed outsole rubber should last
Cons
- Price: At around £180 it sits at the top of the price spectrum for comfort trainers
- Less energetic: The midsole does not have the lively bounce of newer foams from some competitors
- Potential heat: The engineered knit upper could feel warm in hot summer months
How the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 compares to alternatives
Choosing between the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 and other high-stack daily trainers comes down to the ride you prefer.
Vs New Balance More v6
The New Balance More v6 is one of the softest, most pillowy shoes available. It costs less than the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 and delivers an unmistakable cloud-like ride. However, it is heavier and softer, which can feel less stable underfoot. If you want the plushest cushion and love running on a foam mattress, go New Balance More v6. If you want a firmer, more stable daily with superior lockdown, the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is the better fit.
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X More V6 Running Shoes
Vs Nike Vomero Plus
The Nike Vomero Plus brings more responsiveness and a slightly bouncier feel. It disguises its weight well and will hold faster paces more comfortably than the Asics Gel Nimbus 28. The Vomero tends to be more versatile for mixed-pace training. If you need a high-stack shoe that can handle quicker workouts as well as easy miles, the Vomero Plus is worth considering. If supreme day-to-day comfort and a slightly firmer, stable ride are your priority, the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 wins the comfort debate.
Nike Vomero Plus (Black)
Fit and sizing notes
Sizing felt true to size for me. The toe box is slightly narrower compared with the previous generation, so if you run wide or prefer extra toe splay, consider trying the wide or extra-wide options where available. The gusseted tongue and secure heel cup mean you can dial in a snug fit without pressure points.
Price and value
The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 sits at a premium price point. I have mixed feelings about value. The shoe delivers excellent comfort, a refined feel, and a lighter build than before. But the midsole material is not the newest generation foam from competing brands, and at full retail price it can be hard to justify for some runners. If you find the previous model 27 on sale, it still represents strong value and a similar overall experience.
Practical tips if you buy them
- Try the standard width first; upgrade to wide if you have broader feet or like more toe room.
- Use the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 as a daily trainer for easy runs, recovery runs, and long steady efforts.
- Avoid choosing this shoe as your primary tempo or interval racer — it’s a comfort machine, not a performance rocket.
- If you plan to run in hot climates, test the upper in warmer weather to make sure the knit breathes comfortably for you.
Final verdict
The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is a welcome evolution. It keeps the core strengths of the Nimbus line — comfort, secure fit, and durability — while trimming weight and tightening the silhouette. I still recommend it for runners who prioritize comfort and stability, especially heavier runners or those who spend long hours on their feet. It is less suited to runners chasing bouncy responsiveness or maximum energy return.
If you loved version 27, you will probably appreciate what the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 brings. If price is a major concern, keep an eye out for discounts on the 27 because that model still offers terrific value. Personally, I will continue to rotate the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 into my easy and long run days because it delivers exactly what I want from a comfort-first daily trainer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 good for long runs?
Yes. The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is designed for long miles and easy runs. Its cushioning, stable platform, and secure fit make it comfortable for prolonged wear and sustained efforts at an easy pace.
How does the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 differ from the previous model?
The key differences are a lighter overall weight, a switch to an engineered knit upper from jacquard mesh, a slightly narrower toe box, and reduced outsole rubber coverage. These changes produce a more nimble feel and a sleeker look while preserving the line’s comfort.
Is the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 suitable for faster training or racing?
Not primarily. The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 performs best at easy and steady paces. It is firmer and more stable than ultra-plush alternatives but does not deliver the energetic pop of shoes designed for tempo runs or races.
What is the weight of the Asics Gel Nimbus 28?
On my scale the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 weighs about 335 grams for the sample tested, roughly 49 grams lighter than the previous model in my measurements.
Should I buy the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 or look at alternatives?
It depends on priorities. Buy the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 if you value stable, comfortable cushioning and everyday versatility. Choose alternatives like the New Balance More v6 for a softer cloud-like feel or the Nike Vomero Plus for a bouncier, more responsive daily trainer.