ASICS Gel Nimbus 24 Shoe Review

Published: March 25, 2022

New Age of the Nimbus

The new upper and midsole are welcome updates to this classic trainer

Likes

  • Soft, bouncy cushioning
  • Breathable upper
  • Energy return

Dislikes

  • Heavier than preferred
  • Required break-in period

What's New

The ASICS Gel Nimbus is a well-established staple in the brand's long line of quality training shoes. Designed as a premium, highly cushioned, neutral running shoe, the Gel Nimbus 24 can take on your high-mileage runs and shorter up-tempo jaunts alike.

The newest iteration is a top-to-bottom update that maintains the shoe's classic comfort while making it softer, smoother, and lighter than ever before. The most notable update is the inclusion of ASICS' newest Flytefoam Blast+ foam in the midsole. This soft and bouncy foam helps to make the shoe lighter and provides higher energy return while running. Meanwhile, the stylish new upper has a slight stretch to accommodate a variety of foot shapes while still providing the lockdown needed for faster paced running. The Nimbus 24 is an option that any runner can rely on to provide a soft and fun ride for any distance.

The Bottom Line

The ASICS Gel Nimbus 24 is a great update from the past models. This newest iteration includes a reworked upper with strategic stretch incorporated and an energized midsole that brings the Nimbus 24 up to speed with other modern running shoes.

The new Flytefoam Blast+ midsole provides plush cushioning but without the "marshmallow" softness that feels dead when you want to pick up the pace. Our reviewers thought the new midsole provided a bouncy and fun ride that they could see themselves using for a broader range of runs than previous models. Additionally, the new upper has a sleek updated look and feel, offering an almost sock-like wrap of the foot that our testers loved.

Despite these huge updates, longtime fans will be happy to hear that the shoe sticks to its roots as a reliable and comfortable daily trainer. But with its new softer, smoother, and more responsive ride, even fans of modern running shoes will enjoy the ASICS Gel Nimbus 24 if they can look past its slightly heavy weight.

Shoe Performance

Shoe Softnessi

FirmSoft

Ride/Energy Returni

Less SpringyMore Springy

Underfoot Protectioni

LowHigh

Flexibilityi

RigidElastic

Upper Supporti

StructuredAdaptable

Specifications & Fit

How It Fits

Toe BoxWidth: Medium | Height: Medium
Midfoot Volume Medium
Heel WidthMedium
Arch HeightMedium

Shoe Specs

WeightMen's: 289 g (size EU 42.5) | Women's: 255 g (size EU 39.5)
Stack Height36 mm (Heel), 26 mm (Forefoot)
TerrainRoad
StabilityNeutral
SizingTrue to Size

Individual Thoughts

BenOverall Score: 9/10

For the runner seeking a versatile trainer to put a lot of miles on, the ASICS Gel Nimbus 24 is an excellent option. From shorter outings to longer road runs, the midsole always provided enough cushioning to run comfortably with ease. Also, the midsole was responsive enough to accommodate anything from an uptempo daily run to a slow recovery jog. Runners might find the Nimbus a bit stiff at first, but after a short break-in period, it felt nice out on the roads.

Shoe Softness

FirmSoft

Ride/Energy Return

Less SpringyMore Springy

Underfoot Protection

LowHigh

Flexibility

RigidElastic

Upper Support

StructuredAdaptable
BrycenOverall Score: 8/10

I enjoyed running in the Gel Nimbus 24 overall. It felt comfortable, and the upper's wrap was very sock-like, which was a positive in my opinion. The Nimbus' engineered mesh upper was also very breathable.

In terms of the midsole, I got a fair amount of energy return from the Flytefoam Blast+ foam, and as I pushed faster paces, I began bouncing from one stride to the next.

My only complaint would be the shoe's level of protection. I experienced shin pain while out on my longer testing runs, and I would have appreciated more protection from jarring impacts. All that said, I would recommend the Nimbus 24 to my friends who are new to the running scene, as the shoe has everything to cover your daily training needs. As an added little benefit, the Nimbus is stylish for everyday wear.

Shoe Softness

FirmSoft

Ride/Energy Return

Less SpringyMore Springy

Underfoot Protection

LowHigh

Flexibility

RigidElastic

Upper Support

StructuredAdaptable
RisaOverall Score: 8/10

The ASICS Gel Nimbus 24 is a daily trainer that I would happily recommend to a lot of different people. There is plenty of cushioning for a variety of runs, including high-mileage efforts. Thanks to the Flytefoam Blast+ midsole, there is also some snappiness to the midsole to support your faster endeavors. This shoe can practically do it all. My only negative point (which is minor) would be the slightly heavier weight, but that said, runners can always try out the Nimbus Lite if they are concerned about that. Ultimately, I enjoyed running in the Nimbus 24 more than expected, and I'll be adding this daily trainer to my rotation moving forward.

Shoe Softness

FirmSoft

Ride/Energy Return

Less SpringyMore Springy

Underfoot Protection

LowHigh

Flexibility

RigidElastic

Upper Support

StructuredAdaptable