Whether you believe it or not, the Asics Gel Nimbus has amassed a dedicated following within the amateur long-distance running community. Since its debut in 1999, this shoe has consistently been in high demand due to its exceptional comfort and cushioning.
The current decade marks a promising beginning for Asics, as they’ve made strides in the market, captivating both amateur athletes and elite runners alike. They introduced the performance-oriented Ride series and the responsive daily trainer Blast series.
Amidst these developments, however, the Nimbus series began to lose some of its appeal. It was only a matter of time before the Nimbus underwent a transformation, and that moment has finally arrived.
Can we declare the Nimbus 25 as the best-looking Nimbus ever? Absolutely!
With its revamped modern design and eye-catching color options, the Nimbus 25 now seamlessly fits into the contemporary running world. In India, it is priced at ₹15,999, putting it on par with its competitors. Now, let’s dive deeper into the review to explore our thoughts on this latest iteration.
What Comprises the Asics Gel Nimbus 25?
The Nimbus 25 is an out-of-the-box premium max-cushioned shoe that immediately captures your attention with its refreshed design. This alteration in the Nimbus is unquestionably the most significant improvement it has ever undergone. However, loyal Nimbus fans might initially be dismayed by the apparent absence of the gel. Fear not, for the gel is still present; it has simply been discreetly relocated within the heel.
The Nimbus 25 weighs slightly over 290 grams for a UK size 8, which is a bit heavier than its predecessor. It boasts a significant increase in stack height, measuring 41.5mm in the heel and 33.5mm in the forefoot, compared to 26mm and 16mm, respectively, in the previous version.
It’s worth noting that despite the increased stack height, the weight remains consistent with past editions. Nevertheless, it is heavier than competing models such as the Nike Zoomx Invincible 3, Brooks Glycerine 20, and Saucony Triumph 20, among others.
Midsole
The Nimbus 25 incorporates a midsole made of FF Blast+ foam, designed for high-performance daily trainers. This foam is also used in other Asics daily trainers like the Novablast 3 and Cumulus 25, as well as in the performance series including the Glideride 3 and the Magic Speed 2/3.
According to Asics, the FF Blast+ foam makes the shoes lighter, softer, and more responsive while providing greater energy return. In the Nimbus 25, the midsole utilizes the Eco version of FF Blast+ foam, which incorporates at least 20% of its composition from renewable, bio-based sources, with the aim of reducing its environmental impact.
Additionally, a piece of gel is cleverly embedded between the upper and midsole for added shock absorption. The forefoot of the shoe claims to have a moderately designed rocker, offering some performance benefits when needed, though there may be some reservations about this feature. In the rear, the midsole features an extended bevel.
Upper
The upper boasts an engineered soft knit material that envelops the foot, providing a stretchable and adaptable sensation. The overall fit of the upper falls somewhere between narrow and wide, offering a comfortable middle ground. The tongue also utilizes a stretchy material and includes a convenient pull tag, ensuring ease of use and adjustability.
Furthermore, the semi-gusseted tongue, partially attached to the upper, guarantees a secure fit. The laces are long and stretchy as well. However, it’s worth noting that while the upper includes ventilation holes for breathability, it may lag slightly in this aspect, which could be significant for some runners.
Outsole
Asics employs its proprietary AHAR+ outsole rubber in the Nimbus 25. According to Asics, this rubber material boasts impressive abrasion resistance, approximately three times higher than conventional rubber, thanks to its composition that’s akin to what’s used in car tires. The outsole is strategically placed at the forefoot and underneath the heel, likely done to manage weight effectively. This combination of hard rubber and its placement suggests that the Nimbus 25 is a durable trainer.
Heel
The heel counter, much like the upper, prioritizes comfort. The padded ankle collar offers plush support, ensuring a comfortable fit around the ankle. Additionally, the heel counter is sturdy and rigid, delivering excellent stability during movement.
What are your views about Asics Gel Nimbus, do leave your opinion in the comment box below.
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