ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28

The Gel-Nimbus 28 is a reliable, comfortable max-cushion shoe that benefits from weight reduction over the previous version, but lacks the excitement or performance edge of competitors. Megan rated it a B overall while Thomas gave it a C, both agreeing it is solid but uninspiring.

Best for: Runners wanting a reliable max-cushion shoe for easy days, walking, and all-day comfort. Also suited for non-runners who need comfortable shoes for standing or walking all day.

A lighter, firmer, snappier shoe that feels closer to a Nimbus Lite hybrid; more versatile but loses the plush premium feel.

Best for: Versatile daily training and uptempo miles for runners who want a snappier, firmer Nimbus

The reviewer calls this the best Nimbus in years — a huge weight reduction makes it more nimble, versatile, and fun while keeping the comfort and stability Nimbus fans expect. The only real knock is the high price.

Best for: Club runners wanting a do-it-all daily trainer — easy runs, long runs, aerobic efforts, and even marathons for lighter runners.

A good incremental update that shaves meaningful weight and feels lighter and more responsive than version 27, but the platform is starting to lag behind competitors using newer foams and needs a bigger innovation leap next cycle.

Best for: Runners who liked recent Nimbus versions (25, 26, 27) and want a lighter, faster-feeling max-stack daily trainer.

Kofuzi finds the Nimbus 28 a leaner, more enjoyable max-cushion daily trainer than the 27, with welcome midsole geometry and weight updates, though he thinks the $170 price is too high.

Best for: Max-cushion easy daily training, recovery runs, treadmill miles, and all-day comfort.

The most runnable Nimbus in many years — lighter, lower-drop, and roomier than recent versions, and reviewer rates it at the top of the max-cushion neutral category.

Best for: Runners who want a max-cushion neutral trainer that is actually runnable for long distance, not just a walk-around shoe

The reviewers consider the Nimbus 28 the best version of the Gel-Nimbus line yet, praising its improved transition and lighter feel compared to previous versions. They prefer it over the Kayano 32 for its greater versatility and softer ride, though note it remains too heavy and bulky for faster-paced work.

Best for: Easy runs, recovery runs, and longer runs at easy pace for neutral runners who want plush cushioning with moderate stability.