It’s not every day (or even every year) that iconic running shoes like the Asics GEL-NIMBUS undergo significant changes. That’s often attributed to the age-old saying, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” The GEL-NIMBUS has been a favorite long-distance running shoe for many athletes for years, so many thought it’d remain unchanged for years to come.
They thought wrong. The Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 received massive upgrades this year, making it hardly recognizable compared to the GEL-NIMBUS 24 and prior GEL-NIMBUS Models.
The Marathon Sports team tested the new-and-improved Nimbus on numerous long-distance runs, putting its durability, comfort, support, and cushioning to the test. This Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 Review is a summary of what we found. We hope our research will help you determine if the new Nimbus 25 is the best running shoe for you.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 for those who want “just the facts.”
Die-hard fans of the Asics GEL-NIMBUS 24 may be disappointed that the 25 doesn’t resemble their trusted favorite. However, GEL-NIMBUS fans will be pleased when they accept that this model is different and, according to our reviewers, even better.
The most apparent improvements featured for the Nimbus 25 are the new PureGEL™ technology, FF Blast ECO PLUS cushioning, and OrthoLite X-55 sock liner. Here, we’ve outlined how you can benefit from these improvements as a runner.
Asics’ new PureGEL™ technology is one of the most evident and beneficial improvements for the GEL-NIMBUS 25. The gel is located in the shoe’s heel, providing superior shock absorption for smoother transitions and softer landings on strides.
A significant upgrade our reviewers enjoyed is that the gel is not visible from the outside of the shoe. It’s discreetly hidden inside, but the comfort and shock absorption was evident while running or walking.
Asics’ new FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO cushioning puts 20 percent more foam under the runner’s foot than the Nimbus 24 and previous versions. Asics increased the foam in the Nimbus 25 by 6mm in the toe and 4mm in the heel.
Our reviewers stated that the shoe appeared larger in the box and on the foot than the Nimbus 24 but still felt remarkably lightweight thanks to this bio-based cushioning.
The feeling of running in the Nimbus 25 was described as “cloud-like,” thanks to this new lightweight, environmentally-friendly cushioning. However, our reviewers did express that fans of the Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 may be less pleased with the shoe’s bulkier appearance.
The third most significant innovation from Asics is the OrthoLite X-55 Sockliner. The shoe is easy to put on and feels comfortable the moment your foot’s inside. Our team never complained of blisters or discomfort (in fact, quite the opposite), even on their first long-distance runs in the shoe.
Alongside the new OrthoLite X-55 Sockliner is an engineered knit upper that offers durability, softness, and a fit that feels customized to your foot.
Other improvements on previous models include Asics’ AHAR™ outsole rubber for longer-lasting durability. It’s a long-distance running shoe made for daily training.
The GEL-NIMBUS 25 also features new reflective elements to keep runners safe while logging miles in the early morning, evening, and other low-light conditions.
The GEL-NIMBUS 25 doesn’t look much like the Nimbus 24 or previous models, but some favorite elements of those shoes are present in this model.
Runners praised the comfortable tongue in the Nimbus 24 and thought it is slightly lower in the Nimbus 25; it’s still there and just as soft.
Some innovations featured in the Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 are equally as important for the environment as the runner. The new sock liner is made with a unique dyeing process that uses roughly 33 percent less water than traditional dyeing. The process also reduces carbon emissions by about 45 percent compared to standard methods.
Additionally, over 75 percent of the shoes’ most dominant upper material is made from recycled content. This further reduces carbon emissions and cuts down on waste created during the shoe-making process.
Our reviewers had a lot of praise to give the Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 despite being skeptical of the significant changes made to an old classic. However, there are some elements runners may not enjoy as much as our team. We’ve outlined the pros and cons of the Nimbus 25 to help you make the best decision for your preferences and running style.
Many runners wish they could test out a pair of running shoes before purchasing, especially for a higher-priced shoe like the Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25.
Our reviewers hope their first-hand experiences can help you make an educated decision on whether the new Nimbus is right for you. Our team consisted of short-distance runners, extreme long-distance runners, and those who do a mixture of each (as well as other training methods).
All described the GEL-NIMBUS 25 as one of the most comfortable running shoes they’ve ever worn, whether they ran 5 miles or 20. It was also described as energetic and soft on the foot and landings.
There were no complaints of blisters, toe pain, or rubbing on the ankle. That’s likely due to the new and improved sock liner, as well as the Nimbus’ soft tongue.
The avid racers on our team described the shoe as an ideal and extremely comfortable trainer. However, they stated they’d use a springier, more stable, and more responsive model when it came to intense races in which they’re seeking personal bests.
Non-professional racers and runners will likely find the Nimbus 25 suitable for running and racing.
Our reviewers didn’t have much negative to say about the Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25. They were overwhelmingly pleased with the changes made to the Nimbus 24 model. A long-distance running shoe that began to feel stale over its decades of existence has been revived and is likely to become a favorite for 2023.
While the cushioning, eco-friendly construction, stability, and unrivaled comfort are major attractions, the price tag may cause some runners to look elsewhere. However, our reviewers found the shoe worthwhile for those willing to shell out $160.
They described it as a running shoe they would wear as a casual shoe as well, giving runners more bang for their buck and providing unrivaled comfort throughout the day. The GEL-NIMBUS 25 has become an immediate favorite for teachers, doctors, nurses, and countless others who spend all day on their feet. The cushioning is just that impressive.
Overall, we believe purchasing the Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 is a no-brainer for athletes who train often and prefer an ultra-cushiony, comfortable shoe mile after mile.
Our verdict is that the GEL-NIMBUS 25 is, in fact, one of the most comfortable running shoes on the market. It is also a significant upgrade from the Nimbus 24 (an upgrade we believe was long overdue).
It’s an ideal daily trainer for short and long-distance runs, but avid racers may want to choose a more responsive model for picking up the tempo.
The price is a significant downfall our reviewers found, as it could hold some runners back from making a purchase. For what it lacks in affordability, we believe the GEL-NIMBUS 25 makes up for through durability and comfort.
Think the Asics GEL-NIMBUS 25 might be the right fit for you? Get your next pair at Marathon Sports today!
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