Article by Dominique Winebaum, Sam Winebaum, Sally Reiley, and Jeff Beck
ASICS GEl-Nimbus 24 ($160)
Introduction
Sam: The Nimbus is ASICS stalwart heavy duty neutral road trainer with a classic 10mm drop geometry for men and 13mm for women. My last Nimbus was the 19 and while a great shoe for dealing with Plantar’s at the time other options from ASICS (Nimbus Lite, Cumulus, Novablast, and even Fuji Lite 2 and Trabuco Max trail shoes taken to road) were lighter, more agile, more fun, and equally if not more cushioned than the lumbering Nimbus. And not to speak of other “modernized” classic daily trainers.
With the 24 ASICS maintains the model’s classic 26mm heel / 16 forefoot men’s midsole stack height, 10mm drop and yet bigger drop women’s 28mm heel /15mm forefoot 13mm drop geometry. Both are for sure high drop with a full heel stack cushion that I measure at a max cushion grade 34mm total for the men’s.
Yet identical geometry to prior Nimbus aside, the 24 is a significant update as the Nimbus gets a new dual density Flytefoam Blast + midsole with its softer layer even softer and lighter by 15% and bouncier by 12% than the Novablast’s, a narrower platform higher stack speedy trainer. It is thrilling that Blast and Blast + no less comes to a more accessible daily trainer.
Everything is intended to stay stable and in control, for a neutral shoe, as the Blast + is firmer on the medial side.
We also now get a more centrally embedded and gender specific design plastic Trusstic plate. And the gender specific features continue with softer Blast + in the women’s and front and back 3D Space Construction of gait adapting midsole pillars while the men’s only has the technology at the heel.
Significantly the Nimbus 24 drops a very solid 0.6 oz / 17g to a very respectable 10.3 oz / in a US men’s 9 for what is a lot of shoe. It is now weight competitive with shoes such as the identical stack and drop Nike Zoom Vomero 16 and almost the same weight as its Cumulus 23 stablemate with 3mm less stack front and back of older Flytefoam. Cumulus will get the weight reducing Blast + treatment later in 2022.
Needless to say, all of these updates, plus a clearly superb engineered mesh upper with some knit-like stretch had me intrigued to see how they would run and if the Nimbus cloud naming was now related to the actual ride of the shoe!
Dominique: This is my first version of the Nimbus and I am excited to be testing this model from ASICS, especially as this latest edition (24) comes with many upgrades – the new Flytefoam Blast+ midsole is 15% lighter and softer with 12% more bounce than the Flightfoam Blast in the Novoblast. I briefly ran in the Novablast 2 (size was too small) and was quite taken by its bouncy underfoot feel, so I look forward to experiencing an enhanced bouncy feel in a much more stable shoe.
Sally: I was excited to test this newest version of the ASICS Gel-Nimbus, known to be a very popular shoe in the ASICS lineup thanks to its reputation as a solid neutral trainer that provides outstanding comfort and cushion. I have run in both the Nimbus 22 and 23 and had pleasant experiences, and heard rumors that there were to be some significant changes (billed as “improvements”) in the Nimbus 24. All in all, I am a huge fan of this year’s ASICS shoes, especially their amazing marathon racer the Metaspeed Sky. This is a different animal, same barn. Let’s see what the Nimbus 24 runs like!
Jeff: I’ve been a Nimbus fan long before I was a runner, rocking the Nimbus 9/10/11 years ago as a caddie in Hawaii - so I always have a bit of a soft spot for ASICS biggest cushioned traditional neutral shoe. The Nimbus had stagnated for a while, especially as the other brand’s take on big cushioning continued to get better, but the last few years the Nimbus has gotten a little more refined and definitely impressed - can it continue? Spoiler alert…yes. Yes it can.
Pros:
Comfortable stretch engineered mesh upper is very secure but not overwhelmingly so Sam/Sally/Jeff/Peter
Blast + foam: adds soft and lively spring to the ride and lightens to a commendable 10.3 oz / 289g US9 for a well cushioned full stack of 34/24 Sam/Jeff
Very stable neutral. Suitable for those needing light support Sam/Sally/Jeff/Peter
Engineered mesh upper is very comfortable and quite roomy in the toebox. Dominique/Sally/Jeff
Gusseted stretch knit tongue is phenomenal: enhancing comfort, support, and breathability. Dominique/Sally/Jeff/Peter
Protective cushioning that is light and responsive. Dominique
Stable but not boring. Dominique/Jeff
Quiet rubber outsole with excellent traction, even on slick roads. Sally
Great classic and classy looking shoe without a fussy upper. Sally
Cons:
Trusstic plate mid foot support, while moderate, could be toned down and might be moved forward for some propulsion effect Sam/Sally/Peter
Blast + is dual density and the top firmer layer extending down the medial side is slightly overdone for a neutral shoe Sam/Jeff/Peter
Could use some rocker effect, more midfoot decoupling Sam/Sally/Jeff/Peter
Lacks a bit of the smooth forward roll to propulsive toe-off, ride is somewhat flat-footed Sally
High drop (13mm in women’s) - preferably for heel strikers. Dominique
Tester Profiles
Dominique has run for over 40 years, consistently about 25 miles per week at paces between 10 and 11 minute miles. She races rarely, but always surprises more hard core runners in her age group when she does. She has a 1985 marathon PR of 3:16 in her second marathon which at the time put her on the top 10 Swiss women’s lists. She is the mother of two grown children, both runners post college, and enjoys nordic and alpine skiing, hiking and trekking, and gardening.
Sam is the Editor and Founder of Road Trail Run. He is 64 with a 2018 3:40 Boston qualifier. Sam has been running for over 48 years and has a 2:28 marathon PR. These days he runs halves in the just sub 1:40 range training 30-40 miles per week mostly at moderate paces on the roads and trails of New Hampshire and Utah. He is 5’9” tall and weighs about 164 lbs if he is not enjoying too many fine New England IPA's.
Sally, 62 (Marblehead, MA), is a lifelong runner and mother of five who ran her first marathon at age 54 and has now run the past eight Boston Marathons, all with finish times between 3:29 and 3:42 (that last one thanks to the nor’easter in 2018). Along the way she has raised close to $250,000 for Massachusetts Eye and Ear Hospital as a member of Team Eye and Ear. She has also run one Chicago (2017) and two NYC Marathons (2019 and 2021) with an all time PR of 3:26:54 in NYC just this past November (both times NYC podium 2nd place in AG). A relative newbie to road racing, she has achieved All-American status in not only the marathon but the Half, 10K, 15K, 5 Mile, and 5K. She plans to compete in the marathon at the WMM Age Group World Championships in London on 10/2/22. An all around outdoor enthusiast, she wants to do more trail running. Sally is a compact (petite) runner at 5’2’’ and 105 pounds.
Jeff is the token slow runner of the RTR lineup, and as such his viewpoints on shoe and gear can differ from those who routinely finish marathons in three hours or less. Jeff runs 30 miles per week on roads and trails around Denver, CO (and sometimes on the treadmill when the weather gets too much for a Phoenix native). Jeff only got into running in his 30s, as a result his career PR's are 4:07 for the marathon and 5K at 23:39. Jeff has finished several ultra marathons, from 50K up to 50 miles, and is still debating if he wants to go down that road again.
Peter lives in Austin, Texas and has been a sub 3 hour marathoner as well as a 1:25 half marathoner in recent years
Stats
Weight: men's 10.3 oz / 289g (US9) / women's 8.9 oz / 253 g (US8)
Samples: men’s 10.1 oz / 286g US8.5, 10.89 oz / 309g US10.5
women’s: 8.9 oz / 253 g US W8
Nimbus 23 weighed approx. 10.9 oz / 309 g US men’s 9, 9.7 oz / 274 g US women’s 8
Official Midsole Stack Height: men’s 26mm heel /16mm forefoot, 10mm drop :: women’s 28mm heel / 15mm forefoot, 13mm drop
Measured Full Heel Stack Height (men’s): 34mm
$160. Available now including at our partner in US Running Warehouse HERE
First Impressions and Fit
Dominique
My prior ASICS test shoe was an all pink GT- 2000 10, a light stability shoe (RTR Review). The Gel-Nimbus 24, in blue with pink accents, is a much better running shoe for me. The fit is true to size with a roomy toe box, giving me the option to wear midweight socks – always a plus in wintertime. This is a high drop neutral shoe (13mm) with plenty of mid foot support features and great flexibility. As a heel striker with a recent case of plantar fasciitis, now under control, a high drop might help keep plantar fasciitis flare-ups at bay, along with other features in the shoe, including the plastic mid foot Trusstic plate. Sam swears by ASICS with its Trusstic plate and the support it provides the arch when he has Plantar issues – his go to brand in such circumstances. He wrote about getting a grip on Plantar early in an outbreak here and part of his kit was the Nimbus 19. Like Sam, I have learned to be proactive in terms of preventing flare-ups. Meanwhile, I am getting a kick out of running in the Gel-Nimbus which is motivating me to increase the pace a bit on my 5 mile runs – nothing shattering for sure, but feeling good about it.
Sam: On the “surface” (and inside) we have a complex construction with the various well coordinated colors highlighting features: teal midsole color firmer Flightfoam Blast + on the medial side and around the heel for some stability, white softer more “cloud like” Blast + saying softness, a blue Trusstic plate peeking out calling out light stability at mid foot.
The upper in my blue with hints of lime is classy, sophisticated and not boring. If one didn’t know one could assume the upper, as it has some stretch and is soft is a knit but it is not. A very fine engineered mesh with notable ventilation holes at forefoot and especially a thin stretch knit tongue which is genius. Plenty of effective padding at lace up, thinner below and the genius part very stretchy so no matter where it lands when you lace up a quick tug up will place it perfectly and it will stay there helped by its quite stout close to full length gusset. I have found that even if I lace looser than ideal the upper support stays consistent and comfortable.
The fit is true to size with the front stretch and light compression locking down the forefoot with no sloppiness (as is somewhat noticed in the sibling Nimbus Lite 3 with its thinner less stretchy upper) or any pressures anywhere. This regular fit should accommodate from narrow feet to medium width with a wide also available.
Sally: My initial impression of a shoe when I first open the box is always influenced by the appearance of the shoe. Is it an attractive colorway? Does it “look fast” or look clunky? Does it look traditional or funky? The Nimbus 24 right out of the box is an attractive classy looking shoe. The denim/navy blue upper of my women’s model with its pink accents is gorgeous. And the fit? Typical Nimbus: very well padded and cushioned, very comfortable on the foot. Also typical of most ASICS, the fit is true to size.
The toe box is generous, but not sloppily so, and even my narrow foot felt secure. The reduced weight of this new version is immediately noticeable.
Jeff: Yes! ASICS took a very solid, if a little chunky, Nimbus 23 and refined it in almost every single way. The stretchy upper is fantastic, and this might be my favorite tongue on any running shoe - but more on that later. The midsole change wasn’t massively noticeable right away with an A/B jog around the neighborhood with the Nimbus 23/24 on each foot, but no complaints. True-to-size fit, and while the toebox is adequately wide, the upper has enough stretch to make it effectively wider. Right out of the box this was my favorite Nimbus in more than a decade.
Peter: Out of the box the Nimbus 24 is a good looking daily trainer. The tongue is particularly stretchy and feels good on the top of the foot. The foot hold is great and they look like a sleeker cousin of the traditional older Nimbus. Step in is comfortable and fit is true-to-size.
Upper
Dominique
The engineered mesh upper is extremely comfortable and provides plenty of support for a trainer. The mesh upper in the toe box has been designed with improved breathability – the ventilation slots on the upper are larger than the ones on the GT-2000 10.
The gusseted knit tongue is perforated with holes enhancing the overall breathability of the shoe. The knit tongue is stretchy beyond anything I have experienced in a running shoe, and quite thin, maximizing comfort and support without adding any bulk.
The collar is well padded for a comfortable and secure fit.
Sam: A superb upper here combining some light stretch with impeccable hold.
While an engineered mesh the upper material reminds of a thin “well behaved” knit in its smooth very light compressive fit over the entire foot, Two features stand out.
The stretch knit tongue with its gusset in combination with what are obviously carefully chosen plat laces is genius. Just easily tug the tongue up towards your leg and will stay there the entire run. The stretch is in the direction towards the leg with the padded top portion providing the lace protection and wrap there while down lower the stretch knit portion ties into the gusset of the same material to wrap the foot and as Dominique says above should be highly breathable,
The stretch motif continues at the toe box where there is some very light compressive effect but never overly so, something I can’t stand in many knit uppers. Just a secure all over hold up front. Credit here upfront also I think to the fact the midfoot with the stretch knit tongue does a great job securing the midfoot and if the mid foot isn’t locked down the toe box rarely follows or has to over compensate with low volume or overlays. Not so here. And if need be one can go to wide sizing
Beyond the Tiger logos there are no overlays whatsoever so the entire fit is smooth, consistent in feel, easy on the foot and super secure.
Sally: I agree that this is a super comfortable upper made with a soft, pliable engineered mesh that is breathable and flexible.
There is plenty of plush cushioning around the ankle, and an even more padded achilles cushion than the Nimbus 23.
And I was thrilled to see several other major changes from last year’s Nimbus 23: an entirely new and functionally brilliant stretchy tongue (no more of the overly thick “stung-by-a-bee” padded tongue of the 23) and much improved flat laces (no more of the miserable box tape like hard plastic laces of the 23).
The stretch knit tongue is amazing, and makes one wonder why running shoes haven’t had stretchy tongues in the past? Insert your foot into the shoe and pull that tongue up high toward your ankle, and the fit is custom made and your foot secure and comfortable beneath the laces. Genius. Everything about this upper works well, from its simplicity to its highly functional components.
Jeff: I won’t retread everything that’s been said, but will agree, it’s a great upper that has enough stretch to be supremely comfortable, but not so much to compromise hold. Sally’s description of the N23 tongue - “stung by a bee” is 100% spot on, and yes, this tongue is incredible. The stretchy nature, along with a pull tab, makes it one of those shoes that you just smile a little bit when you put on. If I could make any suggestion, it’d be to add a pull tab to the heel collar, it’d make slipping the shoe on even better.
Peter: Yep, Asics knows how to make an upper! Foot hold is excellent and tongue is great.
Midsole
Dominique
For my first introduction to the Nimbus, I feel there is a lot going on in the midsole. Two layers of Flytefoam™ Blast+ with different densities, with bottom layer much softer, and sandwiched in between, Gel™technology in the rearfoot and forefoot (the latter is invisible). The Space Trusstic under the arch section of the shoe, which is sandwiched between the two layers of foam, provides stability without compromising flexibility in the forefoot. Having briefly ran in the Novblast 2 (shoe size too small), I appreciate the bouncy feel of the Nimbus (12% more bounce) without having to sacrifice stability. In addition to the cushioned platform of the midsole, I like the Gel in the rearfoot and forefoot or maybe it is the 3D Space Construction of pillars in the midsole front and back of the women’s (men has 3D only the heel) , as it does create a softer landing. As a newbie to the Nimbus, there is much to like about this lighter, softer, and bouncier edition.
Sam
The midsole of the Nimbus 24 is Flytefoam Blast+ which is said to be 15% lighter, 15% softer and has 12% more bounce than the Blast midsole in The Novablast 2.
There is a catch as the Blast + foam is dual density with the teal top layer deeper on the medial side wrapping around the heel on the lateral side This teal foam is noticeably firmer to pressing than the white Blast + below. The teal color on the lateral side is paint ahead of midfoot.
From ASICS: “The Trusstic pieces themselves are of the same density with the shapes and placements different. The durometer of the midsole foam is slightly different between genders – with the women’s being a little softer. The Nimbus 24 also includes ASICS’ 3D Space Construction – the men’s shoe has it in the heel and the women’s is in the heel and forefoot.”
In combination with the Trusstic plate this firmer foam provides a clear stability element to this neutral shoe in some ways blurring the difference between the Nimbus 24 and more stability oriented Kayano 28. There is no doubt in my mind that those seeking a “touch” less stability feel but still requiring some pronation control will enjoy the Nimbus 24.
The Trusstic plate now higher and more centered in the mid foot is for sure noticed in similar fashion to some of the adidas Torsion plates but here it is more centered right under the arch and does not extend forward for some propulsion effect as many of the adidas. I wish it did to give the flexible forefoot a bit more kick.
The midsole feel even with all the complexities is soft, has noticeable bounce yet is stable and well mannered. The heel with its 34mm stack of Blast + and GEL unit is very well cushioned. The forefoot is yet more notable for its more forgiving and more energetic feel than usual in an ASICS high drop trainer where while flexible the forefoot areas can feel thin and firm, for example GT 2000 and Kayano. Clearly the Blast + makes for a more fun and energetic ride but personally I would prefer the firmer rear teal foam was somewhat softer to give the shoe a more consistent and more neutral feel at midfoot
Sally: Folks find it humorous that I used to run in the Gel-Kayano. I picked that running shoe for its cool colorways, haha. I now know that I am a neutral runner, and had no business running in that heavier stability shoe (not to mention that I am also a lightweight, weighing no more than 106 pounds soaking wet). The Nimbus 24 is a neutral shoe, but with stability elements such as that Trusstic plate that don’t get in the way for the truly neutral runner. There are some striking differences in the midsole of the new 24 from that of its predecessor, the 23: the switch to the new foam known as Flyte Foam Blast +, reputedly lighter, softer, and bouncier. You can easily see the two layers of foam, with the firmer pink upper layer above the softer white lower layer.
Both heel and forefoot feel soft underfoot, and there is definitely more of a bouncy feel to this midsole, but not bouncy to the point of feeling unstable.
Jeff: The midsole change wasn’t immediately apparent for me when I took the 23/24 on a little run around the neighborhood the afternoon the Nimbus 24 showed up - but in time I started to appreciate the softer ride and little extra bounce. The white FF Blast+ midsole material is easily the best trainer-focused material ASICS has had, while the much firmer top layer gives the shoe gobs of stability - but hampers some of the fun the shoe could bring. It’s definitely a Neutral Plus or Stability Minus shoe, and while the TRUSSTIC elements are reduced from last year they’re still very much in the shoe and keep it from being a true neutral shoe.
Peter: I just don’t feel the “extra bounce” of the midsole foam. I can’t tell if it’s the layer of firmer foam closer to the foot or the Trusstic plate, but I don’t get a particularly soft or bouncy vibe from the Nimbus 24. They feel efficient and relatively protective, but not bouncy–certainly not when compared to something like Fuel Cell foam. I know there are new foams here and I’m sure if I compared them directly to older Nimbi I’d find them softer and bouncier, but considering the foam and the gel, I’d expect a bit more of a plush landing.
Outsole
Dominique: The outsole is ASICS LITE™ rubber which is said to be light and durable. Large areas under the midfoot where the midsole is exposed, yet stabilized by the Trusstic plate, creating a lighter and more flexible platform.
The outsole is gender specific as shown with women’s left above with no bars connecting segments up front for the women’s and it appears smaller lateral pads. I imagine this provides some extra flex and softness to the women’s version.
Sam: The outsole has 2 thick patches of ASICS super durable AHAR rubber at the heel with the rest of the outsole a somewhat softer blown rubber. The front waves of rubber lead to a smooth quite easy long flex. There is plenty of durable rubber for many miles of running carefully arranged in wear areas.
My only other comment about the outsole relates to what might be.. I wonder if a touch firmer rubber up front and through the mid foot might do in combination with making the teal Blast + softer or alternatively removing the Trusstic plate or moving it forward would do to make the Nimbus somewhat more neutral and up front to give the toe off more snap given the soft white Blast + there.
Sally: The rubber of this outsole is soft and thereby quiet, always a positive feature for me. There is rubber in all the right places, and no deep grooves for gravel trapping. It appears very durable, though time will tell. And it passed my rainy day/sleety snow day with flying colors, getting top points for good traction and grip on wet surfaces. I agree with Sam about the potential for some modifications that might make this shoe more fun, but more to come on that later.
Jeff: The segmented rubber does a great job, both in giving grip and added durability, but also not factoring into the shoe’s flexibility at all. It’s virtually identical to last year’s shoe (minus the external plastic TRUSSTIC bit on the 23), and is still super grippy.
Peter: Plenty of rubber and a good hold on the road. I’d love for it to flex more.
Ride
Dominique
I am really enjoying the ride although the Nimbus 24 are not as light as my prior running shoe, the Diadora Atomo (by almost an ounce). This is a super cushioned shoe made with a soft and bouncy midsole for a supportive ride that is enjoyable and fun. Somewhat motivated to get the most of my Nimbus and its energetic ride, I am more engaged in my running — often a new pair of shoes will do that! I am enjoying the soft landing and propelling feel, which is enhanced by the high drop, bouncy and soft midsole, and flexible platform.
Sam: The Nimbus 24 has an all around daily training ride focused on cushion and neutral support. Steady with a touch (or more than a touch) of fun is the way I would describe the ride. The incorporation of Blast + foam wakes the ride up from the doldrums of a heavy duty, and heavy firmer plodding, over secure, over protective ride while not compromising on either security or protection. Not a speedster but now a reliable day in day out ride for most daily training rides that isn’t boring. I wish the ride was a bit more fluid and flowing with more forefoot snap which I think could be achieved by softening the firmer Blast + some and re arranging the Trusstic plate so it becomes both supportive and propulsive.
Sally: The Nimbus 24 is a racehorse compared to the steady old mare of the Nimbus 23! It is much lighter, and runs even lighter than that reduced weight. It is definitely bouncier. But the bounce is fun, but not necessarily forward-rolling fast fun. The emphasis still seems to be on well-cushioned and plush comfort over speed. Granted, much of my running and testing of running shoes of late has been in carbon-plated marathon shoes, and I have not succeeded at learning how to run moderately paced slow and easy recovery runs as part of my training, so my expectations need to be tempered. This is a soft and comfortable shoe that will absorb the impact of long miles on concrete for many a runner.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Sam: ASICS energized the venerable Nimbus in this edition without changing its essence as a highly cushioned, stable neutral trainer. Weight is reduced, the upper is magnificent in its knit-like fit without the weight and sloppiness of knits, and Blast + provides an energetic fun ride while reducing weight.
At 10.3 oz it is now in the mid range of weights for its class of shoe instead of as in prior editions being on the heavy side of the class so extending its utility to somewhat faster training paces and uses.
As stated several times and while all works well together well I do wish for a toning down of the firmer Blast + and Trusstic plate, for a more truly neutral feel here. Not to worry though ASICS provides those alternatives in the lighter single density foam no Trusstic plate (but not Blast or Blast +) now softer Nimbus Lite 3 (RTR Review soon) and upcoming somewhat lower drop (8mm) and Blast powered Cumulus 24 which will get 2mm of additional stack height and which is coming in June.
Often “complex” construction shoes are heavy and pricey with many features conveying a “sense” of technical sophistication and big protection. There is no question the Nimbus meets the complex, sophisticated, and protective parts but at $150 given its now lighter weight, energetic ride, superb fit and expected durability in fact makes it a solid value for me. If you like your trainers plush and stable but are ready for a touch of fun too they are worth a try and if you moved on from the lumbering Nimbus of old the 24 is for sure a new, lighter and more energetic take on the classic.
Sam’s Score: 9.20 /10
Ride: 9.1 (50%) Fit: 9.5 (30%) Value: 9 (15%) Style: 9 (5%)
Dominique
Runners who have run in prior editions of the Nimbus can look forward to this new version which incorporates significant updates. It was kind of exciting for me to have tested a model in its 24th edition, for the first time, especially with all the upgrades. I really appreciate the energetic Blast+ foam on a more stable platform than the Novablast, especially as the rest of the midsole is so well designed for support and comfort. The fit is perfect in my usual size and the upper is extremely comfortable with plenty of support. I am a bit intrigued by the high drop of the shoe combined with the softer midsole and support elements; more mileage will tell. My plan is to run in them for the upcoming months, alternating them with my Diodara, Atomo, which has a much lower drop (5mm). I like them both though the fit is roomier in the toebox in the Nimbus and the ride more energetic.
Dominique’s score: 9.5 /10
Sally: My worry is that fans of the Nimbus 23 might find this Nimbus 24 to be so drastically different and want the OG! All the changes are improvements for the better. The Nimbus 24 is a lighter, softer, bouncier, even more comfortable iteration in a long line of well-cushioned stable neutral daily trainers. The soft new upper and its stretchy tongue wrap your foot in secure comfort, but the magic is in the new Flyte Foam Blast + midsole. It enables the shoe to be lighter and yet softer and bouncier, making for a fun daily ride. My narrow foot fits comfortably TTS in an upper that can accommodate most any average foot (wide sizes also available), and is held securely on flats, corners, and hills. I only wish the geometry of the shoe had more rocker or forward roll to it so as to lend to a stronger more pronounced toe-off. I am sure that the Nimbus 24 will be a very well received shoe by many runners and will continue to dominate its niche as a solid neutral daily trainer, now lighter, softer, and bouncier with an improved upper.
Sally’s score: 9.3 / 10
Jeff: I’ve spent a lot of time the last year with massively cushioned shoes, so much so that my bar for ultra cushy shoes has definitely shifted north compared to my colleagues. As a result I see the N24 as a really well cushioned daily trainer, but not nearly in the same massively cushioned category - but that means it's an ideal shoe to eat up most of a runner’s easy miles. While it’s easy to focus on the new midsole material, the subtle, but completely redesigned upper, is what makes me want to keep running in this shoe. I’ve never thought this much about how good a shoe’s tongue is, but in this case, it deserves all the praise, and hopefully we see other shoes emulate it.
Jeff’s Score: 9.4/10
Ride: 9 (50%) Fit: 10 (30%) Value: 10 (15%) Style: 8 (5%)
Peter: There are other shoes I’d get into before the Nimbus 24. I think if you’re a bit heavier, love a stable shoe and want to have a solid meat and potatoes trainer that is lighter and more fun than previous versions you could do worse than the Nimbus 24. The upper is superb and the ride is good. They’re good for easy miles for most folks. They wouldn’t be my choice for a daily trainer, but I’m not “mad'' about running in them either.
Score 8/10 Perfectly good shoe that doesn’t quite live up to some of the more exciting things out there. Admittedly a bit out of my usual wheelhouse.
11 Comparisons
Index to all RTR reviews: HERE
ASICS GEL-Nimbus 23 (RTR Review)
Sam: The most apparent changes are the 0.6 oz /17g drop in weight, the new dual density Blast + midsole instead of Propel, moving the Trusstic plate from the outsole level to the center of the shoe and of course the new upper.
Sally: (TTS W8 for both). The Nimbus 24 is lighter, softer, and bouncier with a softer, stretchier upper with a superb stretchy knit tongue and overall a more secure fit. The 23 had so much cushioning around the ankle and in the tongue that I referred to its tongue as “swollen as if it had been stung by a bee.” One could get a paper cut on the laces of the 23, they were that thin and flat and plastic like. The 24 is MUCH improved in many aspects and much more to my liking! It is still not a firm toe-popping race shoe, but it is a great neutral daily trainer. No question, ASICS has a winner with the Nimbus 24! Good riddance to the 23.
Jeff: I agree with Sally across the boards, the 24 is so much better than the 23 in every aspect.
ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite 2 (RTR Review) & Nimbus Lite 3 (Initial Video Review compared to Nimbus 24)
Sam: The Nimbus Lite 3 weighs 8.92 oz / 252g in my US8.5 vs 10.1 oz / 286g for the Nimbus 24, a significant difference given the Lite only has 1mm less stack height on a broader platform. It gets there with a single density midsole of a different foam with organically derived materials in the process that is softer than Lite 2’s was (along with the uppers the main differences). The foam is not as energetic as Blast + in the Nimbus 24, and is a bit mushier in feel. No Trusstic, no dual density medial foam as in Nimbus 24 so while stable not quite the support of the 24. It was clearly softer than the Nimbus Lite 2 in my A/B Test run and is slightly lighter.
Also with an engineered mesh upper and one with 50% recycled content and the same neat stretch tongue as the 24, the lighter Lite 3 upper (and lighter less secure in hold than Lite 2’s) is no match for the smooth security of the Nimbus 24 with a fit (no wide at launch) favoring wider higher volume feet than narrower ones while Nimbus 24 is also available in wide.
The Lite 3 is more all of a piece in ride with not quite the energetic feel of the Blast + and while lighter does not have the upper polish of the Nimbus.
I prefer the Nimbus 24, This said if you are looking for a lighter version of Nimbus and one with a strong sustainability focus go Lite 3.
Sally: (TTS W8 in all) Last year I really liked the Nimbus Lite 2, and much preferred it to the Nimbus 23. But a lot of good stuff has happened in the shoe world of late, and now even the Nimbus Lite 2 just sits on the shelf. And it will still sit there now that I have the option of the Nimbus 24, a more energetic and secure ride.
The Nimbus Lite 3, being tested right now, still has the wonderful sustainability features, but is not getting rave reviews from me so far. It is relatively soft and mushy with an unstructured upper that my narrow feet swim in. More to come in the next few runs in them, but today I would choose the Nimbus 24 over the Lite 3 for its better upper and hold, and more controlled energy.
Sam: Checking in at about the same weight as the Nimbus 24 but with 2mm less stack height and an older (not Blast+) soft flavor of Flytefoam this is a close match up. The Cumulus 23 is more neutral as it has no Trusstic plastic plate and is single density. It has a similar soft ride and at $120 is $30 less. I can’t wait for the Cumulus 24 coming June 2022 which will get a Blast midsole and 2mm more stack height.
ASICS GT-2000 10 (RTR Review)
Sam: The GT 2000 10 is a light stability shoe that weighs a few tenths of an ounce less than Nimbus 24 with a 22mm heel / 14mm forefoot stack height so lower drop and slightly lower stack. It has a dual density midsole with the top layer of softer Flytefoam Propel extending all the way to the forefoot and a rear firmer regular Flytefoam. Its outsole and midsole sidewall geometry along with firmer Flytefoam provide the stability elements. The forefoot is thinner, less cushioned, and more flexible than the Nimbus 24. The Nimbus 24 is more versatile as a more protective daily trainer (and even if you need a touch of stability help) while the GT is more nimble and a bit quicker feeling even if its foam is not as energetic overall.
ASICS Novablast 2 (RTR Review)
Sam: Lighter at 9.85 oz / 280g so about 0.5 oz lighter than Nimbus 24 it has 4mm more full heel stack and 6mm more forefoot stack of regular Blast foam of a single density. The Nova sits on a narrower, more speed focused platform. Its sense of bounce and energy return is more pronounced than in the Nimbus 24 despite that shoe’s softer and bouncier Blast + as the Novalast has no Trusstic plate or denser medial foam and has a more pronounced central decoupling cavity . While improved over v1 in stability as it sits on a slightly wider platform with stabilizing elements at the rear of upper, it is still a shoe that is best for faster runners with well aligned form with the Nimbus 24, now no slouch a “safer” choice.
ASICS Novablast 2 (RTR Review)
Sam: Lighter at 9.85 oz / 280g so about 0.5 oz lighter than Nimbus 24 it has 4mm more full heel stack and 6mm more forefoot stack of regular Blast foam of a single density. The Nova sits on a narrower, more speed focused platform. Its sense of bounce and energy return is more pronounced than in the Nimbus 24 despite that shoe’s softer and bouncier Blast + as the Novalast has no Trusstic plate or denser medial foam and has a more pronounced central decoupling cavity. While improved over v1 in stability as it sits on a slightly wider platform with stabilizing elements at the rear of upper, t is still a shoe that is best for faster runners with well aligned form with the Nimbus 24, now no slouch, a “safer” choice.
Peter: Ditto what Sam says!
Nike Zoom Vomero 16 (RTR Review)
Sam: In my A/B test runs (see video) the differences were clear. The Vomero has a firmer outer carrier of EVA with a Zoom X core that is not that noticed. Both are quite soft and forgiving at the heel with the Vomero having a lower full heel stack of 30mm vs 34mm for the Nimbus. Both are 10mm drop in the men’s with the Vomero forefoot being lower 20mm vs 24mm clearly thinner but.. more agile and snappier in feel with its more extensive fuller coverage outsole with lugs (light trail worthy) contributing. If your uses are for faster paces go with the Vomero. If for more general training and for more overall cushion Nimbus 24
Mizuno Wave Sky 5 (RTR Review)
Jeff: Mizuno’s big daily trainer made massive strides with the 5, making it the best of the line so far. It has a softer landing than the Nimbus, and a wider platform, though the toebox is much more limited than the ASICS. Between the upper improvement in the Nimbus, the better tongue, and less dense feel, I favor the Nimbus.
Saucony Triumph 19 (RTR Review)
Jeff: The Ride’s big brother, the Triumph uses the softer PWRRUN+ midsole, and on an A/B test with the Nimbus, the feel is very comparable. The T19 upper got a similar treatment to the N24, getting thinner and lighter, while the Saucony doesn’t have any kind of stability elements, it also is the cushier shoe of the two by the slimmest of margins. I really like the T19, and ultimately would call this one a coin flip - and would recommend fans of either shoe to check out the other.
Brooks Glycerin 19 (RTR Review)
Jeff: I raved about the Glycerin 19 when it released, and it’s subtle shift in the recipe of DNA Loft midsole - though we now know it is the last model to have that, and the 20 will get the same DNA Loft v3 in my shoe of the year, Brooks Aurora-BL. That said, the fit of the Glycerin is a little more generous, and the heel is softer than the Nimbus, but the Nimbus upper is more comfortable, and the forefoot cushioning is vastly superior. The G19 is a great shoe, but I’d favor the N24.
Hoka Kawana (RTR Review)
Sam: a new model coming January from Hoka the Kawana weighs about the same and relies on a single density midsole with a more rubbery bounce (vs more springy for Nimbus) and a wider on the ground platform than the Nimbus. Dense and firmer in ride and with a pronounced lever off the heel it has a 5mm drop on a 30/25 platform so has less cushion at the heel and more at the forefoot (clearly noticed in A/B test). The pronounced swallowtail of the Hoka make it a somewhat better choice for heavy heel strikers despite the lower drop Stiffer yet with some flex it relies on a rocker vs flex in the Nimbus 24. I prefer the more energetic ride of the Nimbus 24 although I wish its support elements of Trusstic and firmer medial foam were toned down.
Jeff: The Kawana feels like a big step forward for Hoka, as it is a true daily trainer, but the softer ride and massively improved upper of the Nimbus take the win for me. I could see heel strikers appreciating the Kawana’s asymmetrical heel, but for this midfoot striker, make mine ASICS.
Saucony Ride (RTR Review)
Sam: Somewhat firmer and snappier (especially up front) if you want a more speed focused daily trainer the Ride is a solid choice. It’s simpler construction makes it not quite as stable and its upper while fine is not quite as polished. The Nimbus 24 is more plush, stable, and a better choice for more moderate pace running.
Sally: (TTS W8 in both) I agree with Sam that the Saucony Ride would be my choice for a snappier daily trainer. The Ride is a bare bones firmer shoe, whereas the Nimbus 24 is all about plush cushioned comfort. And the fact that Molly Seidel used to profess a love for the Ride, back when she was on Team Saucony… My bias is toward a faster tempo shoe, so the Ride for sure.
Jeff: Sam and Sally describe it well, but I prefer the softer and higher stacked Nimbus. The Ride 14 is an excellent shoe, but for my heavier frame I’ll take the added squish - not to mention the massively better upper.
The GEL-Nimbus 24 is available now including from our partners below
Tested samples were provided at no charge for review purposes. RoadTrail Run has affiliate partnerships and may earn commission on products purchased through affiliate links in this article. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content. The opinions herein are entirely the authors'
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4 comments:
Thank you for the review! Nimbus 24 vs Velocity Nitro / Magnify? :)
Hey Sam,
I am curious on an overall sizing question. You say guys list as a plus "Engineered mesh upper is very comfortable and quite roomy in the toebox," but when I tried this shoe on in the store, it was about the narrowest forefoot of any recent shoe I've tried on. Does "roomy" just refer to the stretch of the fabric? I wish it were truly roomy (as in a wide platform) up front, as it was otherwise incredibly comfortable. Always enjoy the reviews!
Thanks,
David
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