Discover the comfort and innovation of the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26, a running shoe that brings together advanced technology and sustainable design to enhance your running experience.
Designed for road running, this shoe offers a plush feel underfoot with maximum cushioning and an 8 mm heel drop that ensures a smooth transition from heel to toe.
Whether you’re training for a marathon or enjoying a casual jog, the GEL-Nimbus 26 is engineered to support every step you take.
Crafted with an engineered knit upper, the GEL-Nimbus 26 provides a breathable and comfortable fit that adapts to your foot’s natural movements.
The upper is made from at least 75% recycled materials, reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability in every run.
With features like the FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO and PureGEL® technologies, the midsole offers responsive cushioning that absorbs shock and reduces the strain on your feet, making every run feel lighter and more enjoyable.
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 is also built with a durable ASICS®GRIP™ outsole that improves traction and stability on various surfaces, ensuring reliable performance in different running conditions.
This shoe is perfect for runners who have neutral to underpronation pronation types and is especially suitable for those looking for a combination of comfort, support, and environmental consciousness.
Embrace the road ahead with the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26, where comfort meets performance in every stride.
Spec: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26
| Spec | ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 |
|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | PureGEL and FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO |
| Midsole Drop | 8 mm |
| Heel Height | 42.0 mm |
| Forefoot Height | 34.0 mm |
| Support System | Neutral |
| Weight (Men’s) | 10.8 oz / 305 g |
| Weight (Women’s) | 9.2 oz / 262 g |
| Waterproofing | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES |
| Price | $160 |
| Customer Rating | 4.6 out of 5 |
Pros and Cons: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26
Pros
- Offers top-level comfort all day: The shoe provides a plush feel that keeps your feet comfortable, even during long runs or extended wear. It’s designed to minimize fatigue.
- Improved toe box for a better fit: The updated toe box gives your toes extra space to move naturally, reducing any pinching or tightness.
- Built to last with excellent durability: Made with high-quality materials, the shoe is tough enough to handle daily runs or intense workouts without wearing out quickly.
- Features the best outsole in its series: The outsole is designed for superior grip and traction, making it reliable on different surfaces like roads or light trails.
- Perfect for running long distances: Whether training for a marathon or going for a casual long run, this shoe supports your feet mile after mile.
- Soft and breathable knit upper: The knit upper feels lightweight and airy, keeping your feet cool and sweat-free even on hot days.
- Provides great stability: With a well-balanced design, the shoe helps prevent unnecessary wobbling, keeping you steady with every step.
- Ideal choice for heel strikers: The cushioning is focused in the heel area, making it an excellent option for runners who land on their heels first.
Cons
- Slightly heavier than expected: While the comfort is great, the shoe’s weight might feel a bit much for runners who prefer something lighter.
- Energy return could be better: It lacks the springy responsiveness found in some other shoes, which might make it feel less energetic during runs.
- Tongue feels a bit thin with less padding: The tongue design could use more cushioning to enhance comfort and prevent pressure points on the top of the foot.
Upper: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 is crafted with an engineered knit upper that envelops the foot with a soft and snug feel, enhancing comfort for the wearer.
This design focuses heavily on ventilation, ensuring that the feet remain cool and dry, especially during prolonged activities.
The upper is constructed using at least 75% recycled materials, which highlights ASICS’ commitment to environmental sustainability by significantly reducing waste and carbon emissions.
Moreover, the soft engineered knit extends to the tongue and collar, which are specifically designed to offer a supportive and gentle feel around the ankle and instep.
This feature is essential for maintaining comfort without sacrificing the breathability essential for long runs.
While the upper’s design generally enhances comfort, some users have noted that the tongue, despite being part of the soft-knit construction, could benefit from additional padding.
This extra cushioning could prevent potential discomfort or pressure points during extensive runs, addressing the slight oversight in its current thinner design.
Midsole: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26
The midsole of the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 is carefully crafted to make your running experience better by giving you a super soft and smooth feel under your feet.
This amazing softness comes mainly from the FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO technology, which provides responsive and gentle cushioning.
This helps reduce the impact you feel when you run. Also, the use of PureGEL® technology adds even more cushioning, making each step feel lighter and more comfy.
This midsole design focuses a lot on comfort and performance but also cares a lot about the environment.
The FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO part of the midsole follows sustainable practices that help reduce the shoe’s impact on nature, which is great for shoppers who care about the environment.
Although the GEL-Nimbus 26 midsole is great for a lot of different running activities, like easy jogs or tougher long-distance runs, it’s not made for racing.
It offers steady performance and keeps you comfortable without sacrificing the shoe’s quality, making it perfect for regular training and exercise rather than fast-paced racing.
Outsole: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26
The outsole of the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 is built to provide robust performance on various surfaces, ensuring durability and stability during runs.
It utilizes ASICS®GRIP™ technology, which significantly enhances the traction of the shoe, allowing for safer and more stable runs on roads and light trails alike.
The outsole’s improved softness also contributes to a smoother running experience, helping to absorb shock and reduce strain on the feet during long distances.
This design incorporates AHAR®PLUS™ outsole rubber, a high-quality material known for its exceptional durability.
This material choice means that the GEL-Nimbus 26 can withstand daily runs and intense workouts without showing quick signs of wear.
The integration of these materials and technologies makes the shoe a reliable choice for both casual joggers and serious marathon trainers.
While the GEL-Nimbus 26 excels in providing a durable and stable base for all kinds of running activities, its design focuses on enhancing comfort and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for regular training sessions rather than competitive racing.
This focus ensures that each run is supported by a solid foundation that prioritizes both performance and longevity.
Support: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 offers excellent support tailored for runners with neutral to underpronation tendencies. Its design focuses on providing a balanced distribution of cushioning across the shoe to support natural foot movement.
The engineered design of the midsole and the strategic placement of cushioning materials help ensure that each step is supported, from the outside of the heel through to the toes, which promotes a natural rolling motion during the gait cycle.
This shoe incorporates technologies such as the FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO and PureGEL® which work together to provide not only maximum cushion but also excellent shock absorption.
This reduces the risk of injuries commonly associated with running, such as plantar fasciitis or shin splints, particularly in runners who might tend to underpronate.
The cushioning is especially supportive in the heel area, making it a great option for heel strikers by easing the impact during heel strike and supporting a smooth transition to toe-off.
Overall, the support system in the GEL-Nimbus 26 is designed to cater to the needs of a wide range of runners, ensuring comfort and protection mile after mile.
This makes it a reliable choice for daily training sessions, long-distance runs, and everything in between, focusing on keeping the runner’s performance steady and support without compromising on comfort or durability.
Fit & Sizing: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 is designed to offer a comfortable and accommodating fit, suitable for a variety of foot types, particularly those with normal-size arches and runners who experience neutral pronation to underpronation.
The engineered knit upper adapts well to the shape of the foot, providing a snug wrap without being overly tight, which enhances overall comfort and support during runs.
This model features an updated toe box that is roomier than previous versions, giving your toes extra space to spread out naturally. This adjustment helps in reducing any tightness or pinching, ensuring that each step feels natural and comfortable.
The fit is further optimized by the OrthoLite™ X-55 sock liner, which not only improves the step-in feel but also contributes to the shoe’s overall stability and cushioning.
The shoe is crafted to accommodate a range of movements and foot strikes, supporting the foot as it rolls inward from the outside of the heel to absorb shock effectively.
This gentle pronation support makes the GEL-Nimbus 26 ideal for long-distance running, where consistent comfort and fit are paramount.
Overall, the GEL-Nimbus 26 provides a fit that is true to size, offering adequate room in the midfoot and forefoot while securely holding the heel, which is essential for preventing in-shoe slippage during runs.
This balance of fit and sizing makes it an excellent choice for runners looking for a reliable and comfortable shoe that supports a variety of running styles and distances.
Customer Reviews: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26
Positive Reviews
“Great Cushioning and Comfort”
These shoes are so comfortable! I feel like I’m walking on clouds with every step. I added inserts for more arch support, and they feel even better. They’re perfect for daily walks or runs and didn’t disappoint at all. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a soft and cushioned shoe.
–Leario
“Perfect for Recovery and PT”
I’ve had knee surgery, and these shoes were amazing during my recovery and physical therapy. They fit perfectly, and the cushioning provided great comfort for daily walking. The fit is so good that I barely noticed any discomfort. ASICS nailed it with this design!
-Ryan Johnson
“Soft and Supportive”
After trying both the Nimbus 25 and Nimbus 26, I found the Nimbus 26 to be softer and more supportive. It feels like walking on a super soft pad, and the design is just a little better for me. Both shoes are great, but I’d pick the Nimbus 26 for its extra comfort.
-MR Pickles
Neutral Reviews
“Good Shoe, But Upper Could Be Better”
The cushioning on these shoes is perfect, and they provide a comfortable ride. However, the stretchy upper caused my foot to slide around, even when I locked my heel down. This eventually led to a rip in the toe box after 350+ miles. They’re similar to the NB 1080v12 but less supportive.
-Ok
“Comfortable But Color Misleading”
The shoes fit great and are comfortable enough, but the color isn’t what I expected. They are bright orange, not red like the picture shows. If the color doesn’t bother you, they’re a solid choice.
-Ryan Johnson
“Mixed Feelings About the Fit”
The fit is shallow, and my foot didn’t feel like it had enough room, though the size was correct. I previously used the Novablast 4 and preferred that model for its better overall fit and comfort.
-Comfyqueen
Negative Reviews
“Upper Material Tears Too Fast”
I loved the comfort and fit of these shoes, but the material didn’t hold up. The toe box tore after just a month and a half of light use. ASICS replaced them, but the new pair is tearing in the same spot. It’s frustrating because the design is otherwise perfect.
–Ryan Johnson
“Too Bulky for Gym Use”
The new design of the sole is wider and blockier than older models. It’s great for impact absorption, but I can’t fit my feet into certain gym equipment like rowing machines. The softer toe fabric is comfortable but might wear out quickly.
–Wiconsumer
“Not Durable Enough”
I’ve only had these shoes for a month, and the toe box already has holes. I use them mostly for walking and light running, so I’m disappointed they wore out so fast. Other brands I’ve used lasted much longer with the same amount of use.
-Maverick
Who Is This Shoe Best For?
Best for Daily Training and Long-Distance Runs
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 excels as a daily trainer and is also ideal for long-distance running. Its durable design and maximum cushioning provide the support and comfort needed for regular use on roads, handling both high mileage and the repetitive impact of daily jogs.
Best for Neutral to Underpronators
Designed to cater to runners with neutral to slight underpronation, the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 helps promote natural foot motion and even pressure distribution, making it a safe and comfortable choice for those with normal to high arches.
Best for Environmentally Conscious Runners
Runners looking to make environmentally responsible choices will find the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 particularly appealing.
With its use of at least 75% recycled materials in the upper and eco-friendly technologies in the midsole, this shoe aligns well with sustainable practices.
Best for Comfort Seekers
For those who prioritize comfort, the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 offers a plush, cloud-like feel with its advanced cushioning technologies.
Whether on a casual jog or a marathon, this shoe ensures a comfortable experience with every step.
Best for Heel Strikers
The GEL-Nimbus 26 is an excellent option for heel strikers, providing focused cushioning in the heel area to ease the impact during heel strike and support a smooth transition to toe-off, enhancing both comfort and performance.
Who Is This Shoe Best For?
Not Ideal for Minimalist Runners
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26, with its plush cushioning and slightly heavier build, may not suit runners who prefer a minimalist or “barefoot” style shoe. Its design focuses on comfort and support rather than mimicking the natural, unshod experience.
Not Ideal for Competitive Racers
This shoe is not tailored for competitive racing or speed training. Runners looking for a shoe to help achieve personal bests might find the GEL-Nimbus 26 too cushioned and not responsive enough for fast-paced racing.
Not Ideal for Budget-Conscious Shoppers
Given its advanced technology and quality materials, the GEL-Nimbus 26 comes at a higher price point. Budget-conscious runners looking for an affordable running shoe might need to consider other options.
Are There Any Common Issues Runners Face with the Gel-Nimbus 26?
Weight and Responsiveness
One of the more notable concerns with the Gel-Nimbus 26 is its weight. Some runners find the shoe slightly heavier than they prefer, especially those who are accustomed to using ultra-lightweight shoes for faster paces or races.
The added weight is partly due to the increased amount of rubber in the outsole, which, while improving durability and grip, does contribute to the overall heft of the shoe.
Firmness for Some Runners
Although the Nimbus 26 has been designed with a firmer midsole than its predecessor, the Nimbus 25, to enhance responsiveness, this change has not been universally appreciated.
Runners who loved the ultra-soft cushioning of the Nimbus 25 might find the Nimbus 26’s midsole too firm, feeling that it lacks the “cloud-like” softness they enjoyed before.
Fit and Comfort Issues
Some runners have reported issues with the fit of the Nimbus 26, particularly around the toe box and heel area.
A few runners noted that the toe box felt too snug, which could be problematic for those with extremwider feet or who prefer a roomier fit.
Additionally, the design of the tongue and collar, while aiming for improved comfort, has caused irritation for some, especially when the shoe is worn for long distances.
Design Aesthetics
While this is more of a subjective issue, the design of the Gel-Nimbus 26 has been described by some as lackluster compared to other models in the ASICS line or competing brands.
Runners who value the aesthetic appeal of their footwear as much as the technical features might find the design a bit too plain or outdated.
Price Considerations
The price point of the Gel-Nimbus 26 is another factor that might deter some runners.
At $160, it is positioned at the higher end of the market for running shoes, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious athletes or those who are new to running and hesitant to invest heavily in their first pair of shoes.
Overall, while the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 offers several enhancements and is praised for its improved traction, durability, and stability, these issues are worth considering if you are thinking about making this shoe a part of your running regimen.
It’s always a good idea to try on the shoe in a store, if possible, to see how it feels on your feet and to run around the store to gauge comfort and fit before making a purchase decision.
Compared With Oher Shoes
ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 VS 25
| Spec | Asics GEL-Nimbus 26 | Asics GEL-Nimbus 25 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | PureGEL and FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO | PureGEL and FF BLAST ECO PLUS |
| Midsole Drop | 8 mm | 10 mm |
| Heel | 42.0 mm | 41.5 mm |
| Forefoot | 34.0 mm | 33.5 mm |
| Support System | Neutral | Neutral |
| Outsole | AHAR®PLUS™ | AHAR®PLUS™ |
| Removable insole | YES | YES |
| Weight (Men’s) | 10.8 oz / 305 g | 10.3 oz / 292 g |
| Weight (Women’s) | 9.2 oz / 262 g | 9.17 oz / 260 g |
| Waterproofing | NO | NO |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide | Normal, Wide, X-Wide |
| Price | $160 | $160 |
| Customer Reviews | 4.6 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 |
READ THE FULL COMPARISON: ASICS GEL-Nimbus 26 VS 25: Running Shoe Comparison
ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 VS NOVABLAST 4
| Feature | ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 | ASICS Novablast 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | PureGEL and FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO | FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO |
| Midsole Drop | 8 mm | 8 mm |
| Heel Height | 42.0 mm | 41.5 mm |
| Forefoot Height | 34.0 mm | 33.5 mm |
| Support System | Neutral | Neutral |
| Weight (Men’s) | 10.8 oz / 305 g | 9.2 oz / 260 g |
| Weight (Women’s) | 9.2 oz / 262 g | 7.9 oz / 225 g |
| Waterproofing | No | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide | Normal, Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES | YES |
| Price | $160 | $140 |
| Customer Rating | 4.6 out of 5 | 4.55 out of 5 |
READ THE FULL COMPARISON: ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 VS NOVABLAST 4: Shoe Comparison Review
ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 VS GEL-NIMBUS 26
| Feature | Asics Gel Kayano 31 | ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 26 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Technology | PureGEL and FF BLAST Plus ECCO | PureGEL and FF BLAST Plus |
| Midsole Drop | 10 mm | 8 mm |
| Heel Height | 40.0 mm | 42.0 mm |
| Forefoot Height | 30.0 mm | 34.0 mm |
| Support System | Neutral, Stability | Neutral |
| Weight (Men’s) size 9 | 10.7 oz / 305 g | 10.8 oz / 305 g |
| Weight (Women’s) size 9 | 9.3 oz / 266 g | 9.2 oz / 262 g |
| Waterproofing | No | No |
| Widths Available | Normal, Wide, X-Wide | Normal, Wide, X-Wide |
| Removable Insole | YES | YES |
| Price | $165 | $160 |
| Customer Rating | 4.6 out of 5 | 4.6 out of 5 |
READ THE FULL COMPARISON: ASICS GEL-KAYANO 31 VS GEL-NIMBUS 26: Shoe Comparison Review