The ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 is a maximum-cushion neutral road running shoe for runners who put comfort first on easy days, recovery outings and longer training runs. ASICS combines FF BLAST PLUS midsole cushioning with PureGEL technology to soften landings, while an engineered knit upper wraps the foot without relying on a heavily structured overlay. The manufacturer says this generation is approximately 20 grams lighter than its predecessor, although the actual feel will vary by size and running style.
The men's reference specification lists an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop and a weight of 281 g. That makes it a substantial, protective daily trainer rather than a stripped-back racing flat. Its generous cushioning is a strength for runners seeking a smooth, comfortable ride, but those who prefer close ground contact, minimal bulk or a very firm platform may want something leaner.
Try the fit with your usual running socks and check width availability before ordering. The USD 170 guide is the official US listed price checked on 23 October 2026, not a promise of local pricing or stock.
What do people say about the ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28?
The strongest customer consensus is comfort: the GEL-NIMBUS 28 earns praise for its generous cushioning, steady road-running feel and long hours on foot. Runners at REI and Road Runner Sports describe a protective everyday shoe, while French i-Run customers highlight a dependable upgrade and comfortable easy mileage. Some runners also enjoy the smoother, lighter feel compared with older Nimbus models.
There are meaningful disagreements. One returning Nimbus owner prefers the feel of version 25, while another finds the 28 similarly comfortable. A REI customer reports that the lace-loop design makes even midfoot tension difficult; another likes the fit but says the cushioning compressed too soon. Wider-footed runners report both success and sizing adjustments, so trying the intended width matters. Independent reviewers generally praise the impact protection but are divided on softness, ventilation and wet-road traction. The high-stack ride is better suited to easy or steady training than fast workouts, and the premium price makes fit and durability worth checking carefully.
Selected reviews: 4.53/5 (15 reviews) · Wider customer sample: approximately 4.76/5 (92 ratings).
Research checked 24 October 2026. Selected: 15 customer reviews across i-Run (4, French), REI (4, English), Zappos (4, English, originally posted at ASICS) and Road Runner Sports (3, English). Review texts are paraphrased in English and translated where indicated; ARC did not wear-test the shoe. Selected average: 68 ÷ 15 = 4.53/5. The wider customer sample is separate: REI men's 10 ratings (46 points), REI women's 8 (37), Road Runner Sports 19 (92), and Netshoes Brazil 55 at its rounded 4.78/5 average. Weighted estimate: (46 + 37 + 92 + 55 × 4.78) ÷ 92 ≈ 4.76/5. These are ratings reported by retailers, not 92 texts read. Selected REI/Road Runner Sports entries are already within those totals, not added again. Zappos syndication and i-Run's pooled variant ratings were excluded. Cross-store identity overlap cannot be fully excluded. Independent expert reviews informed the discussion but do not enter either customer score; imported reviews are not ARC-collected feedback.
Main sources include: i-Run France, REI customer reviews, Road Runner Sports and RunRepeat laboratory review.
Reviews
“The Nimbus 28 delivers the same high level of comfort I liked in the Nimbus 27. Rotating two pairs seems a sensible way to spread the wear.”
“My second Nimbus pair is comfortable for roughly ten miles of daily walk-run training. My previous pair lasted a little over 300 miles, and I plan to race in this model.”
“With roughly 30 miles of walking and running each week, I appreciate the generous cushioning and colour, and consider this one of the stronger Nimbus versions.”
“Compared with the older Nimbus pair I owned several years ago, this feels like a substantial improvement.”
“The cushioning combines a softer sensation with more firmness than expected.”
“The Nimbus 28 feels much like my favourite Nimbus 25 and fits true to size, making this a very satisfying purchase.”
“The wide Nimbus 28 is less comfortable for me than the Nimbus 25; trying the 26, 27 and 28 has not produced a replacement I like as much.”
“The cushioning, heel-to-toe geometry and ankle-side stiffness work well for my mid-distance running and forefoot landing style.”
“The shoes are extremely comfortable after moving from my usual size 8.5 to a size 9, so trying a half size larger made the difference.”
“The underfoot comfort is excellent, but the small lace loops do not hold even tension through the midfoot. The fit tightened at the toes and ankle, so the shoes were returned.”
“The width and toe box fit well and the shoes feel comfortable, but cushioning in an earlier pair compressed noticeably after a few months, which is disappointing at this price.”
“A reliable model that offers very good value for its quality.”
“The cushioning feels comfortable for both relaxed endurance running and interval sessions.”
“The shoes are comfortable and pleasant to use.”
“The changes from the Nimbus 27 feel like worthwhile improvements, and this remains a dependable running shoe.”
