ASICS Gel Nimbus 25 Review: The Marathon Running Shoe

Last Updated: April 09, 2024 | Author: Jake Thompson


In the ASICS Gel Nimbus 25 Review, the running shoe world sees a standout addition with offering runners 20% more bounce. My experiences across varied paths and distances with these shoes reveal they are not only superior for running. They also boast a friendlier footprint on our planet. This aspect is particularly exciting for environmentally conscious individuals.

However, the pressing question remains: do these shoes truly excel in performance during runs? Continue reading to uncover insights from my hands-on testing. This evaluation may assist you in determining the worthiness of investing in these shoes.

Asics Gel Nimbus 25

Table of Content:

  1. Key Takeaways
  2. Table: ASICS Gel Nimbus 25
  3. Pros & Cons
  4. First Impressions: A Ridiculously Comfortable Shoe
  5. Performance: A Soft Landing and Responsive Ride
  6. Upper: Soft Knit with Extended Collar and Heel Tab
  7. Outsole: A Softer Feel with Asics Lite Rubber and AHAR+
  8. Comparison with Previous Model Nimbus 24: A Complete Overhaul
  9. Comparative Analysis With Other Shoe Models
  10. Final Verdict
  11. Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

  • - The Gel-Nimbus 25 offers exceptional comfort with its FF Blast + Eco midsole and internal Gel pad.
  • - Designed for daily training, long runs, and recovery, it's ideal for runners seeking a plush ride.
  • - Features a durable carbon rubber outsole and a luxurious, soft knit upper for a secure fit.
  • - While praised for its comfort, some runners may find the shoe too soft, suggesting it's not for those who prefer a firmer feel.

Table: ASICS Gel Nimbus 25

Feature Detail
Usage Daily running
Arch Support Neutral
Weight 299g
Drop 8 mm
Strike Pattern Forefoot
Midsole Softness Average
Difference in Midsole Softness in Cold Average
Breathability Decent
Toebox Width at the Widest Part Average
Stiffness Average
Difference in Stiffness in Cold Average
Torsional Rigidity Rigid
Heel Counter Stiffness Average
Rocker ✓
Heel 41.5 mm
Forefoot 33.5 mm
Widths Available Normal, Wide, X-Wide
Orthotic Friendly ✓
Season Winter
Removable Insole ✓


Pros & Cons

Pros:
  • - Comfortable
  • - Supports various foot types
  • - Orthotic-friendly
  • - Suitable for winter
Cons:
  • - Heavy
  • - Average stiffness

First Impressions: A Ridiculously Comfortable Shoe

Asics Gel Nimbus 25

The first time I tried on the Gel-Nimbus 25, it felt like walking on clouds. They were super comfy right from the start. The top part of the shoe wraps around my foot perfectly, making it snug but not too tight.

It's definitely one of the softest shoes I've ever worn. When I run, I can really feel the difference, especially in the front part of my foot. It's like my feet are getting a nice, soft landing with every step.

I've run a lot of marathons and tried tons of shoes. When I'm helping people pick out gear at my store, I always think about what feels great to wear for a long time. What helps keep your feet feeling good, mile after mile. The Gel-Nimbus 25 are a top pick for me because they feel great and they help make running smoother.

I remember one time during a really long run, my feet usually start to ache, but with the Gel-Nimbus 25, I barely felt tired. It's like they gave my feet an extra boost. That's why I often recommend them to people who are looking for something that will make their runs more comfortable. They're not just good for marathons; they're great for any time you want your feet to feel extra good while being active

Performance: A Soft Landing and Responsive Ride

Asics Gel Nimbus 25

I've run in many shoes, but the Nimbus 25, stands out for its comfort and how it helps me run better. The middle part of the Nimbus 25 uses a special kind of foam that makes landing soft while keeping my steps quick and energetic. This foam makes each step feel light and helps me run without feeling tired or slow.

I remember using the Nimbus 25 in a long marathon. The course was tough, with lots of hills and hard roads. But with the Nimbus 25, my feet felt protected.

The soft landing helped me keep going, even when the race got hard. And the quick response of the shoes feel like I could speed up any time I needed to.

The top part of the ASICS Nimbus 25 fits really well, too. It's like the shoe was made just for my foot. This made my runs comfortable, letting me focus on my pace and the path ahead.

Using the Nimbus 25 has changed how I run. I feel more confident and ready for any challenge. They've proved to be a great choice for long runs and tough races. Made them a top recommendation for anyone looking for a reliable running shoe.

Upper: Soft Knit with Extended Collar and Heel Tab

Asics Gel Nimbus 25

Exploring the top part of the ASICS Nimbus 25, I noticed the soft material makes it really cozy and fancy by adding a taller collar and a tab on the back. This part is my favorite because the material feels super comfy and fits nicely without needing to fix it all the time.

The taller collar and back tab aren't just for looks. They make it super easy to put the ASICS Nimbus 25 on and take them off. In my running days and running the biggest sports gear shop, I've learned that features like these make a big difference. They show that a lot of thought went into making running shoes that aren't only comfy but also easy to use.

This attention to detail is something I always look out for when recommending gear to others.

Outsole: A Softer Feel with Asics Lite Rubber and AHAR+

Asics Gel Nimbus 25

After checking out the top part of the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25, I was really impressed with the bottom part too. It's got this soft rubber that makes every step feel super comfy. Plus, there's this tough rubber at the back that doesn't wear out fast, even with all the running I do. This mix makes the shoes both comfy and long-lasting.

In my big sports gear shop, I've seen a lot of shoes, but the Nimbus Gel 25 stands out. I remember running a marathon where the ground was really rough and thought my shoes would give out. But, thanks to the tough rubber at the back, they held up great. It's like they've got the perfect balance between feeling soft when you run and being able to handle a lot of wear and tear.

Comparison with Previous Model Nimbus 24: A Complete Overhaul

Asics Gel Nimbus 25

The Nimbus Gel 25 is a huge change from what we've seen before with the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 24. It focuses a lot on being extremely comfortable and better for the planet. Having tried many versions over the years, this change from the Gel-Nimbus 24 to the Nimbus Gel 25 is really impressive. The makers have really thought about every part of this shoe, aiming to make it the best in comfort and eco-friendliness.

  • - Comfort: The Nimbus Gel 25 feels incredibly soft and comfy, more than any I've worn before, including the Gel-Nimbus 24.
  • - Sustainability: They've used materials in the Nimbus Gel 25 that are kinder to the earth.
  • - Technology Redesign: They've completely redone the middle part of the shoe and the top part in the Nimbus Gel 25, making it feel brand new compared to the Gel-Nimbus 24.
  • - User Experience: The Nimbus Gel 25 feels more luxurious now, making runs feel a bit more special than before.
  • - Comparison: It's really different from the earlier versions like the Nimbus Gel 24, in a good way.

This isn't just a small update. It's a big sign of the makers' dedication to making things better and caring for the environment. Marking a significant evolution from the Gel-Nimbus 24 to the Nimbus Gel 25.

From my experience running marathons and helping people find the right gear, I can say the Nimbus Gel 25 is really something special. On long runs, where my feet usually start to hurt, these shoes have made a big difference. They've felt softer and kept my feet feeling good, even after many miles.

For anyone looking for gear that's good for the planet and running, the Nimbus Gel 25 is definitely worth it. It's not just about the brand or the cost. It's about how these shoes can help make your run better and do a bit for the earth too. It showcases a significant improvement over the Nimbus Gel 24.


Comparative Analysis With Other Shoe Models

Comparatively, the ASICS Superblast and Metaspeed Sky cater to different running needs. The Superblast, known for its highly responsive bounce and light feel, contrasts with the Nimbus 25's. Nimbus 25 emphasis on plush cushioning and stability for longer, slower runs.

The Metaspeed Sky, on the other hand, is designed with speed and efficiency in mind. It features technologies aimed at optimizing performance over shorter distances or races.

The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v12 shares similarities with the Nimbus 25 in terms of providing a cushioned ride suitable for long distances. However, each model brings its unique blend of technology, fit, and design to cater to diverse runner preferences.

Overall, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 stands out for its significant updates aimed at enhancing comfort and stability daily trainers. Especially for those seeking a plush, cushioned experience. However, those looking for more versatility or responsiveness in their running shoes might explore the Superblast or Metaspeed Sky for speedier efforts. The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v12 for an alternative approach to cushioning and support is also good.

Related: ASICS Gel Kayano 29 Review


Final Verdict

In this ASICS Gel Nimbus 25 Review, it's clear that the Gel-Nimbus 25 is a maximalist and emerges as the top choice for runners. They seek unparalleled comfort and sustainability in their footwear. With firsthand testing, it's evident these shoes provide a plush, cushioned experience that stands out among competitors.

The significant updates focusing on eco-friendliness and enhanced comfort, such as the FF Blast+ Eco midsole and a soft knit mesh upper. It makes them ideal for long runs, daily training, and recovery days.

Compared to other models like the ASICS Superblast or the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 v12, the Gel-Nimbus 25 offers a unique blend of soft landing, responsive ride, and durability that suits a wide range of foot types and is especially beneficial for environmentally conscious runners. This comprehensive evaluation underscores why the Gel-Nimbus 25 is not just the best overall for a plush and supportive run but also for those looking to make a positive impact on the planet.



Frequently Asked Questions

1. What's new in the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 compared to previous Nimbus models?

The Gel-Nimbus 25 introduces a more comfortable fit with its maximalist design, meaning it has extra cushioning for your feet. It features an approximate of 40.5 mm of stack height in the forefoot for more foam under your feet, making it the softest Nimbus yet. The shoe also includes a knit tongue and a more roomy toe box, making it perfect for long-distance runs.

2. How does the Nimbus 25 running shoe fit?

The Nimbus 25 fits true to size, which means you can pick your usual shoe size and expect a good fit. Its toe box is designed to give your toes more space to move, and the knit tongue ensures a snug, comfortable fit around your foot. It's great for runners who liked the fit of the Nimbus 24.

3. Is the Nimbus 25 good for picking up the pace or just easy runs?

The Nimbus 25 is versatile. Although it's engineered with a plush stack of foam for extreme comfort, making it ideal for easy runs, it can also handle picking up the pace. This is thanks to its responsive foam and the transition design that allows for smooth movement from heel to toe.

4. How does the Nimbus 25 compare to the Novablast or Nimbus Lite 3?

The Nimbus 25 offers a more maximalist cushioning experience compared to the Novablast and Nimbus Lite 3. It's designed for those who love the traditional Nimbus comfort but want an updated, more comfortable version. The Nimbus 25 has a higher stack height and a softer feel, but it still provides a stable and supportive run.

5. Can I see the gel in the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25?

Yes, the Nimbus 25 continues the tradition of visible GEL technology, which is part of what makes the Nimbus series popular. The GEL is visible from the outside, adding to the shoe's aesthetic appeal while providing the shock absorption and comfort that long-distance runners have come to love from ASICS.



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Author Box
Jake Thompson

Jake Thompson

I am Jake, a sports enthusiast, love everything about sports, particularly basketball and volleyball. I've played both sports at a local level. Here to share my passion for sports and sports gear experiences with you.