by Nina DeSilva
The twenty-sixth edition of the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS, ASICS’ crowd-pleasing max-cushioned daily trainer, is finally here.
For those who love the NIMBUS 25, chances are you will not be disappointed with the most recent NIMBUS iteration. The feel underfoot is similar in the 26, using the same cushioning as its predecessor.
PureGel and FFBlast Plus Eco cushioning technology combine in the NIMBUS, offering the runner a faster turnover for longer runs, while simultaneously treating the planet with kindness. The FFBlast Plus Eco boasts an impressive 20% recycled content makeup.
The stack height remains the same from the NIMBUS 25 to the NIMBUS 26. The 8mm heel drop and ASICS’ signature smooth roll into the forefoot are still present.
But what makes the NIMBUS 26 different than the 25?
The most significant updates include: more traction with a Hybrid ASICSGrip and AHARPlus added rubber outsole feature, a softer knit upper, and a more streamlined silhouette (the heel cushioning juts out less).
I took the NIMBUS 26 on a five-mile, moderately paced test run with a couple strides in forty-degree, damp conditions. I have run in the NIMBUS 25 before and, while I have never run in ASICS consistently, I have always been a fan of the NIMBUS model specifically.
The NIMBUS 26, on first impression, allowed me to pick up the pace with what felt like minimal effort. I could see myself easily zoning out during a tempo pace, forgetting about my feet and just enjoying the run.
The FFBlast Plus Eco in the 26 is noticeably firmer and more responsive than my memory of the softer 25, while still offering a comfort that lasted the duration of the run.
The NIMBUS 26 provides the plushness of a max-cushion shoe with a firm toe-off I find appropriate for tempo runs, intervals, and longer, speed-focused workouts.
As someone with a narrow foot that tends to slide around in a shoe, I appreciated how locked down my feet felt with the knit upper. I felt faster, like there was no restraint to how much and how quickly I could pick up the pace.
On my test run, the pavement was still slick from rain the night before, but I had no concerns with rounding corners or slipping as much as I might, and have experienced in other running shoes. The shoe has a nice snap to it, even in poor conditions.
Thankfully, an ASICS icon has been changed minimally, but all updates are for the better. Grippier traction, longer lasting comfort during speed sessions, a more visually appealing package, and a conscientious effort to show I care about our collective carbon footprint are all great aspects of a running shoe in my book.
But don’t just take my word for it. Come in to your local Philadelphia Runner and feel the difference for yourself.
PR Center City: 1711 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
PR University City: 3621 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
PR Manayunk: 4358 Main Street, Philadelphia, PA
PR Glen Mills: 505 Glen Eagle Square, Glen Mills, PA