Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 Performance Review

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 gets quite possibly the biggest upgrade a Nimbus model ever received. It improves so much that there’s no real need to compare it to the Gel-Nimbus 23. It’s most comparable to the newly released Asics Gel-Nimbus Lite 3. But the Gel-Nimbus 24 takes the cushion to an impressive level with the new FFBlast+ midsole. If you love plush cushion on your daily running shoes, the Gel-Nimbus 24 will catch your eye, and they actually made our best overall running shoes list, our list of the best running shoes for high arches, as well as our list of the best running shoes for men. The Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 is also a good option for wide-footers, beginners, women, road runners, those who prefer neutral cushion, long distance runners, and Asics fans.

Pros

Plush Cushion

The midsole of the Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 primarily uses FFBlast+ foam with some traditional Asics Gel included underneath the ball of the foot and in the heel. Personally, I couldn’t feel the forefoot Gel but some reviewers did (some liked the feel, some didn’t). The heel Gel increases durability for heel strikers and helps the heel to toe transition be a bit more smooth. You don’t sink into the heel as much as the forefoot and that feels great during runs, making it one of the best neutral running shoes out there. And though it looks like there’s also a Gel window at the midfoot, it’s actually a plastic shank for stability.

I can’t say enough good things about FFBlast+. It’s soft and doesn’t deaden over longer runs. It’s also got a nice bounce. Fans of Nike’s React will enjoy the feel. It’s the kind of plush cushion that’s currently expected in high end neutral running shoes. And with only 16mm in the forefoot and 26mm in the heel, Asics has plenty of room to add more foam in the future.

Comfortable Upper

The upper on the Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 is made of engineered mesh but feels more like knit. It’s super stretchy, accommodating and feels smooth on your foot. There were no hot spots and I felt surrounded by plush materials and padding. The gusseted tongue, which it shares with the Nimbus Lite 3, is made of a stretchy knit and is one of the most comfortable tongues on a running shoe period. It’s a great fitting tongue that’s not too tight, doesn’t move around and feels soft and protective on the top of your foot.

Asics did a great job on the upper. If the cushion weren’t so spectacular, it would be the best part of the shoe. Oh, and it’s also available in a wide version for our often overlooked wide-footed friends.

Outsole Durability

I’ve put in a ton of miles on my pair of the Nimbus 24, and other than some dirt/grass, you can’t really tell. It doesn’t even look like I’ve worn the rubber down. How is that possible considering I’ve done two long runs and a bunch of other shorter runs?

99% of my shoes have significant wear by this point. I do the majority of my runs on asphalt or pavement. I also land heavy and that takes a toll. Whatever rubber compound Asics is using is almost impervious to wear. It’s the kind of surprise you love to get in a shoe. Anyone who quickly burns through the outsoles of their running shoes should try the Nimbus 24.

Cons

Winter Traction

The incredibly durable outsole does have a flaw, traction in wintry conditions. In dry conditions, it grips well. In wet conditions, only a ridiculously mildew covered boardwalk caused slippage. But, add the smallest bit of frost and this outsole is in trouble. I mean slight slippage with every step. When you get frost, ice or snow, do yourself a favor and keep the Nimbus 24 at home. The AHAR outsole rubber compound just doesn’t fare well with frozen moisture.

High Drop

This isn’t a traditional Con, just something to be aware of. The Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 features a 10mm drop, which is higher than the industry average of 8mm. And the drop will increase proportionally with a shoe’s size.

My larger than average shoes have a larger drop. My knees didn’t appreciate it at the end of longer runs. But, people with achilles issues will appreciate the extra height to protect that tendon. If high drop shoes have bothered you in the past, you may want to pass. But if you prefer higher drops, this shoe is close to the total package.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 Summary

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 is a fantastic shoe. It’s got a plushly cushioned midsole, accommodating upper that’s available in a wide version, extremely durable outsole and all around comfort. Just be aware of the subpar winter traction and high drop. I think the majority of runners will really enjoy the Nimbus 24 for daily runs and casual wear.