ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 Review
To celebrate its 25th birthday, the iconic ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 has undergone one of its biggest transformations ever with a high-tech redesign that will satisfy both veteran and new runners alike.
Loyal fans of the Gel-Nimbus can rest easy knowing that the qualities they've come to count on from this shoe remain intact: plush cushioning, doctor-approved support, and a firm, reliable midsole. But after a few iterations that fell a little flat among the running community, the new Gel-Nimbus 25 is making an exciting comeback that places it squarely back in the running with top shoes on the market.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 Specs & New Tech
Construction: Neutral daily trainer
Stack & Drop: 41.5 mm / 33.5 mm (8 mm drop)
Upper: Engineered knit upper wraps around the foot providing breathable and flexible support.
Notable Tech Features: Combined PureGEL & FF BLAST ECO PLUS technology with 20% more foam underfoot provides ample cushioning and soft-as-clouds landings.
Tester Reviews: Everything You Need To Know
In an independent study at The Biomechanics Lab in Australia, the Gel-Nimbus 25 was named "The Most Comfortable Running Shoe" by 100 active runners when compared against five other popular shoes in the study.
Still, we decided to have a few of our BlackToe Running Shoe Experts take the new Gel-Nimbus 25 through a series of training runs to generate our own feedback. Take a look at their honest reviews!
Fit, Feel, and Comfort
Jenn: "Historically I have struggled with models that fit on the narrow side, like many ASICS shoes of past, but these are not tight and have such a great fit. The upper of the shoe is very accommodating and there are NO pressure points for me: they weren’t squeezing or rubbing my 'Flintstones feet' at all. I think the new upper will have a good amount of flexibility for people who are prone to foot swelling with extra mileage.
Andrew: "I’ve been running in the ASICS Gel-Nimbus series for the past 6 years and this is by far the best iteration of the shoe that I’ve run in. The Gel-Nimbus 25 feels light years ahead of what they did with the 24! The shoe has even more support under the foot (despite being so much lighter: how did they do it?!), and it really feels like the perfect maximum cushion, every day training shoe. I’m a big fan of the additional width in the sole, which provides even more overall support."
Tania: "Wow, I've always liked the softness of the Gel-Nimbus, but the new model really offers amazing impact absorption. I think they would be very helpful for heel strikers, due to the high stack under the heel."
Sarah: "These are incredibly soft but still provide just enough rebound to make me feel like I've got some energy underfoot. I absolutely love the new upper, it's like putting your favourite sweater on: cozy, flexible, and feels like a hug. The heel has a sock-like design to it that I enjoyed. I was worried it wouldn't offer enough ankle support on long runs, but I was definitely proven wrong. It can go the distance!"
Performance Impressions
Jenn: "Even with all of the cushion and support, these shoes still felt light and springy. There are previous versions of the Gel-Nimbus that became pretty heavy, but ASICS has really rectified that with this new model."
Andrew: "The new foam blend has a nice solid feel throughout, even though there is a lot of cushioning. It's an interesting sensation between being both soft and solid, and there is a surprising amount of responsiveness to this shoe."
Tania: "These shoes are really nice for both running and walking. It's energetic enough to be a great training buddy, but I keep reaching for them when I need to walk as well. ASICS has really leaned into the 'rocker' technology across the lineup, and even though these aren't a 'performance shoe,' they still help get you onto your toes for a really smooth transition."
Sarah: "I find myself really enjoying the performance of the new Gel-Nimbus 25! It's very comfortable during easier efforts but is certainly capable of 'activating' when I add some pickups to my run, likely due to the rocker technology and new foam blend."
Who Is This Shoe Best Suited For?
Jenn: "I’m pumped to get them out for longer runs this spring and summer. As an ultra-marathoner, I take my distance shoes very seriously. These fit the bill. I also suspect they will become my go-to option for run-commuting."
Tania: "I think the Gel-Nimbus 25 will make a great addition to anyone's shoe collection as a mid-to-long distance trainer. You can use it for just about any type of casual run, and the comfort, cushion, and support makes them suitable for all neutral runners."
Andrew: "It’s the perfect shoe for city sidewalks and pavement since it takes away the rough feeling of the ground but doesn’t take away all the pop in your step. I could see these shoes being great for everything from easy recovery runs to long runs and even some quicker uptempo work."
Sarah: "It's very easy to recommend these shoes to customers because they are so versatile and comfortable. Whether you're a walker, new runner, or veteran marathoner, you could probably use these shoes in your collection. It helps that they are really stylish too!"
Find the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 At BlackToe Running This Spring
We're excited to announce that the new ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 has joined the rest of the popular ASICS running shoe lineup at BlackToe Running! We recommend shopping early to get this legendary running shoe in time for spring training.
If you have more questions about the new Gel-Nimbus 25 or any other shoes in the ASICS lineup, please come visit us at either of our Toronto retail locations where one of our Shoe Experts will be happy to help you find the perfect pair of shoes for your fitness goals.