Asics GEL-Nimbus 27 Review

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 represents the pinnacle of maximum cushion running technology, delivering cloud-like comfort that has earned passionate loyalty from recovery runners and long-distance enthusiasts. While this premium trainer excels in its specialized role of providing exceptional cushioning for easy runs and marathon distances, its limited versatility and occasional fit issues prevent it from being a universal solution for all runners.

Quick Take

Overall Rating: 4.2/5 based on 112 customer reviews
Best For: Recovery runs, long-distance training, marathon preparation, walking, beginner runners seeking maximum comfort
Key Strengths: Exceptional cushioning, superior comfort for intended use, premium build quality, sustainable materials
Notable Limitations: Heavy feel, limited versatility, occasional fit issues in forefoot, premium pricing

What Makes Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 Stand Out?

The Gel-Nimbus 27 continues Asics' legacy of excellence in maximum cushion running shoes, representing nearly three decades of innovation in comfort-focused footwear. This latest iteration showcases the brand's commitment to both performance and sustainability, featuring FF Blast Plus Eco cushioning made with approximately 24% bio-based content and an upper constructed from at least 75% recycled materials.

At the heart of this shoe lies the revolutionary combination of FF Blast Plus Eco foam and PureGEL technology, creating what Asics describes as a "landing on clouds" experience. The 44mm stack height provides substantial cushioning that appeals to runners seeking maximum impact absorption, while the engineered jacquard mesh upper represents a significant upgrade from previous knit constructions, offering enhanced breathability and a more refined feel.

The Gel-Nimbus 27 positions itself firmly in the premium maximum cushion category, competing directly with shoes like the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 and Brooks Glycerin series. However, its focus on recovery and easy-pace running sets it apart from more versatile competitors, making it a specialized tool rather than an all-purpose trainer.

What truly distinguishes this shoe is its unwavering commitment to comfort above all else. Every design element, from the improved tongue construction to the roomy toe box and heel collar padding, prioritizes the comfort experience that has made the Nimbus line a favorite among runners who value protection and cushioning over speed and responsiveness.

Real Customer Experiences

Customer feedback reveals a distinctly polarized response to the Gel-Nimbus 27, with 76% of users awarding five-star ratings while 12% gave just one star. This dramatic split reflects the shoe's highly specialized nature – it delivers exceptional results for its intended purpose but disappoints those seeking versatility.

Enthusiastic users consistently praise the transformative comfort experience. One beginner runner shared: "Before I purchased these shoes, running 1 mile was unbearable pain for my feet... These shoes helped me run over 2 miles (with steep hills added!) with no major pain and I walked about an additional 4 miles too!" Another longtime user described them as "the most comfortable pair of shoes I have ever worn! Literally feels like you're walking on a cloud."

However, critical feedback often centers on specific design changes that have created problems for some users. A disappointed customer who had previously owned multiple Nimbus models explained: "They put a huge amount of padding just under the ball of the foot that throws your toes into the upper and end of the shoe which causes unreal pain." This recurring complaint about forefoot padding placement suggests that while the shoe works brilliantly for many, the cushioning distribution doesn't suit all foot shapes and preferences.

Design and Build Quality

The Gel-Nimbus 27 showcases Asics' commitment to premium construction and sustainable innovation. The engineered jacquard mesh upper represents a notable improvement over previous models, with users consistently praising its breathability and refined feel. As one reviewer noted: "Loving the new jacquard mesh upper. It feels more breathable than the knit on previous models."

The shoe's construction reflects meticulous attention to comfort details. The redesigned tongue system has earned particular praise for its stretchy, comfortable feel and secure foot hold without restriction. The roomy toe box accommodates a wide range of foot shapes, while the heel collar padding provides additional comfort for extended wear.

Material quality meets the expectations set by the premium price point. The FF Blast Plus Eco foam feels substantial and well-engineered, while the PureGEL technology integration appears seamless. The sustainable materials don't compromise performance – the recycled content in the upper maintains durability while the bio-based foam components deliver the expected cushioning properties.

However, some quality control issues have emerged in customer feedback. Several users reported problems with tongue loop durability, with one long-time Asics customer expressing disappointment: "I took them out the box and to try them on and the tongue loop broke while putting them on foot." Additionally, some units have exhibited unusual sounds during use, with one customer noting "shoes make popping noise when walking."

Comfort and Fit

Comfort represents the Gel-Nimbus 27's greatest strength, with the majority of users experiencing exceptional satisfaction in this area. The shoe's 44mm stack height provides substantial impact absorption that genuinely transforms the running experience for many users. The FF Blast Plus Eco foam delivers a soft, plush feel that effectively cushions each footstrike while maintaining enough structure to prevent instability.

The fit characteristics generally trend toward accommodating and roomy. Most users find the standard width provides ample space, with the toe box offering generous room for natural foot movement. One user appreciated that "even without ordering the Wide fit, they have a wider toe box than any of my other shoes." The sizing appears to run true to Asics standards, though some users benefit from considering wide options for optimal comfort.

However, the comfort story isn't universal. The increased forefoot padding that many users love creates problems for others, causing feet to roll forward into the toe box during movement. This issue seems particularly pronounced for users transitioning from previous Nimbus models, suggesting that the cushioning distribution represents a significant design change that doesn't suit all foot mechanics.

Temperature management receives positive marks thanks to the engineered mesh upper. Users consistently report good breathability and temperature control, with one noting that "the mesh allows your feet to breathe while still having some protection." This makes the shoe suitable for various weather conditions and extended wear periods.

Style and Versatility

The Gel-Nimbus 27's aesthetic reflects its maximum cushion positioning with a substantial, athletic appearance that some users describe as "chunky" or "goofy." The large sole profile is functional rather than fashion-forward, though the overall design maintains a clean, modern look that works well for athletic and casual wear.

Color options appear somewhat limited according to user feedback, with one customer noting: "I do wish they had a better color variety but I like what I got." This constraint might reflect Asics' focus on performance over fashion variety, though it could limit appeal for style-conscious buyers.

Versatility represents a significant limitation for this shoe. While it excels for walking, standing for extended periods, and slow-paced running, its design doesn't translate well to faster efforts or varied training. Users consistently report that the shoe feels best at easy paces, with attempts to increase speed feeling sluggish compared to more responsive alternatives.

The weight and bulk become more noticeable during faster efforts, leading some users to describe it as feeling "like a weight on your feet when running." This characteristic makes it an excellent specialized tool for recovery and easy runs but limits its utility as a sole running shoe for most athletes.

Quality and Durability

Build quality generally meets the premium price point expectations, with users noting solid construction and materials that inspire confidence in long-term durability. One user observed: "A premium price for a premium product, and it feels like it. The materials and finish are great, indicating it's built to last." The substantial foam stack and reinforced construction suggest potential for extended mileage, with some users expressing confidence in achieving 1000+ kilometers of use.

The sustainable materials integration appears to maintain durability standards while supporting environmental goals. The recycled upper materials show no signs of compromised performance, while the bio-based foam components deliver consistent cushioning properties throughout the break-in period.

However, some quality control issues have emerged in user reports. Beyond the tongue loop problems mentioned earlier, the outsole grip performance has received mixed reviews. While improved from previous models, some users still find traction adequate rather than excellent, noting that it's "improved but not good" compared to expectations for a premium road shoe.

Manufacturing consistency also shows some variation, with occasional reports of unusual sounds, fit irregularities, and component failures. These issues appear to affect a small percentage of units but represent concerning quality control gaps for a premium product.

Value for Money

At its premium price point, the Gel-Nimbus 27 delivers value specifically for runners who prioritize maximum cushioning and comfort above versatility. For users whose primary needs align with recovery running, long-distance comfort, or extended walking, the shoe provides excellent return on investment through superior comfort and expected durability.

However, the value proposition weakens for runners seeking a versatile trainer for varied workouts. The specialized nature means many users will need additional shoes for tempo runs, intervals, or faster-paced training, effectively increasing the total footwear investment. As one user noted: "For this price, I need more versatility. The Nova Blast or New Balance 1080 seem like better value if you need a shoe for more types of runs."

Compared to competitors in the maximum cushion category, the Gel-Nimbus 27 commands a premium price that reflects its advanced technologies and sustainable materials. While this pricing is justified by the construction quality and performance in its intended role, budget-conscious runners might find similar comfort levels in less expensive alternatives.

The durability prospects help justify the initial investment for appropriate users. The substantial construction and quality materials suggest extended lifespan potential, making the cost-per-mile calculation more favorable for high-mileage runners who will use the shoe frequently for its intended purposes.