Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 Performance Review

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 and Gel-Nimbus 26 were so similar that I had a hard time writing the Nimbus 26 review. Luckily, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 brings enough changes that I’ll have more stuff to talk about in this review, but it’s still very similar to its predecessors.

That’s not a bad thing for a dependable, long-running shoe series like the Nimbus. The new geometry and styling introduced in the Nimbus 25 were bound to stick around for a while.

To provide a TLDR for those not inclined to read my musings: if you liked the Nimbus 25 and 26, you’ll like the Nimbus 27. It’s a chip off the old block, slightly improving on a couple things while keeping most of its substance in line with previous generations.

But for those of you that want more information, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dig into the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27…. 

What is the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27?

According to Running Warehouse, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 is “the brand’s flagship luxurious running shoe, perfect for runners seeking indulgent comfort on every stride. In version 27, the design is revamped with more plush foam underfoot, giving you a soft sink-in feel for blissful miles.”

How did the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 perform?

Well, even though the Running Warehouse team used some flowery marketing language there, I largely agree with them. The addition of 2mm of foam in the forefoot and heel make a difference for a daily cruiser like the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27. That extra foam softens the impact and makes longer easy days very comfortable. And the shoe didn’t gain any weight despite the extra foam. That’s a great trade-off.

The Nimbus 27 doesn’t pick up speed well (instead maximizing cushion), so if you want a daily training shoe from Asics that can pick up the pace, check out my review of the Novablast 5.

The outsole is still a HYBRID ASICSGRIP construction but in a more traditional, ribbed pattern that I think will last longer than the doorstop pattern on the Nimbus 26. It gripped well in various elements and was dependable as expected.

The upper is now an engineered jacquard mesh that feels slightly different from the engineered knit upper of the two previous Nimbus models. Though I typically prefer engineered knit over jacquard, the jacquard used in the Nimbus 27 is high quality and feels premium; so I can’t quibble with the change. 

Ventilation also increases with the new upper, so that will be helpful for those living in hot and humid climates. Oh, and I should mention that the gusseted knit tongue returns. It’s been a mainstay since the Nimbus 24 and continues to be one of the best tongues on the market.

So yeah, not much changed, but what did change feels slightly improved. The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 is still reliable and also a slight step forward for the line.

Pros

• Super-stretchy knit tongue (best on the market)
• Top-of-class stability both laterally and medially
• Improved breathability over the Nimbus 26
• Extra cushion underfoot vs the Nimbus 26
• All-around comfort and padding

Cons

• Singular purpose for longer, slower miles
• Can’t pick up the pace that well

Is the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 wide foot friendly?

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 fits true-to-size and is accommodating in the forefoot. If that’s not enough, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 will also be available in two more widths for men’s sizing: 2E Wide and 4E Extra-Wide. And women’s sizing will be offered in both Narrow (A) and Wide (D) options alongside the Standard (B) width.

Because of all that, wide-footers and narrow-footers alike are covered better than almost any other shoe on the market.

Is the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 worth $165?

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27’s $5 increase from the Nimbus 26 was expected due to inflation (sigh) and seems to be the new center point for highly cushioned, daily running shoes. The Nimbus 27 provides enough value to justify its price.

But, just like last year, given how close the Nimbus 27 and 26 are, I’d buy the Nimbus 26 on sale until they’re no longer available and then transition to the Nimbus 27. That’ll save you money, and you won’t be missing out on much.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 Summary

Just like the Nimbus 26, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 is a well-cushioned, super comfortable daily running shoe that can absorb hundreds of easy road miles. It also feels great on the treadmill. You won’t use it on speed days, but it’s a luxurious option for recovery runs, easy runs, and jogs.

How does the Author Run?

Drew Whitcomb (age 42, 6’6″ 195lbs): Runs daily with a once a week rest day. Runs a lot of miles due to testing needs and a growing affinity for long-distance races. Regularly competes in marathons, half-marathons, 10k, and 5k races.

Disclosure

While Asics did provide a pair of the Gel-Nimbus 27 to facilitate this review, the company had no involvement in this review, didn’t receive an advance look at it, and has not attempted to influence it.