Excitement is building among us runners as the release date of the Asics Nimbus 26 is around the corner.
The Nimbus series is renowned for its comfort, support, and advanced technology, making it a favorite among avid runners.
To cut the chase, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 will be available from January 15th, 2024. – mark your calendars!
Now, let me take you on a quick trip down memory lane through the Gel Nimbus series. We’ve gone from the OG Nimbus to the current cool kid on the block, the Nimbus 25.
And while we’re at it, let’s do a little side-by-side of the Gel Nimbus 25 and its predecessor, the 24. Stick with me – it’s like a mini time travel through running shoe history!
Related:
Asics Gel Nimbus 26 Release Date / History / Nimbus 25 vs. 24
Keep yourself in the loop by regularly consulting our running shoe release date calendar for the latest updates on upcoming releases.
Again, the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 is out and hit the shelves on January 1st, 2024!
Oh, the anticipation for the Asics Gel Nimbus 26 had me on the edge, but wow, it seems we’ve taken a detour back to the ‘dad-shoe’ world. The 25 had me hopeful for a design evolution, but the 26 has us squarely in that familiar territory.
Sure, the colorways try to inject some life, but that silhouette screams ‘dad shoe’ in all the wrong ways. It’s the contouring on the midsole and that more prominent Asics logo that’s not quite hitting the mark. The 25 had that smooth, clean look that seems to be missing on the Nimbus 26.
What caught my eye was the choice to go back to FF Blast+ Eco instead of EcoBlast. It looks intriguing, and despite my reservations about the design, I’m still curious to lace these up when they drop in 2024.
I’ve been singing praises for the current Nimbus and Cumulus, advising folks to stock up while they can. The redesign on those was a game-changer, and it seems like the 26 might have missed the mark in the design department.
For those seeking a Nimbus vibe pre-26, the Brooks Glycerin could be a solid alternative. It brings the cushion without relying on a maximal stack height or flashy features. And hey, the newly released Nike Vomero 17 might be worth a look too. Choices, choices!
Anyway, just keep those eyes peeled for Asics updates, check out reviews from the pros, and dive into early user feedback once the Nimbus 26 hits the scene.
Related:
Now, let’s delve into the rich history of the Asics Nimbus line…
History of the Asics Gel Nimbus Line
That’s the best thing about the Nimbus series and other shoes is these become part of our stories, capturing moments in time.
The emotional connection we build with them goes beyond the miles; it’s about the experiences, the runs, and where we were in life at that exact moment. Sometimes, it’s the colors, the feel, or just the vibes of a particular shoe that resonate with us.
Asics Gel Nimbus 1
Ah, the ’90s – the era of Gel Kayano making waves. Asics was totally owning the structured cushion game back then, leading the charge in the running industry.
Here’s my comparison of the Asics Gel Nimbus vs Asics Kayano.
Fast forward to the late ’90s, and the focus shifted. The neutral runner was getting some serious attention on how to rock a premium cushioned shoe, a concept that was pretty groundbreaking at the time.
Now, picture this: Asics designers, gazing up at the cumulonimbus clouds, got inspired. They went all out, creating this wild-looking midsole, drawing inspiration from the clouds themselves.
They actually increased the stack height from what most of the shoes were at that point and were able to create this crazy heel and forefoot gel that was exposed to give it the ultimate premium in neutral shoes.
The OG Nimbus hit the scene, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. Plush, cushioned and designed to go long the – it turned heads.
Flashback to fall 2002, and I roll up to college for cross-country with my team. What do I see? The whole team rocking these radical-looking Asics shoes. Turns out, it’s the Gel Nimbus 4. That was my introduction to the Nimbus world, and let me tell you, it was a run like no other.
Asics Gel Nimbus 4
Oh, the Nimbus 4 – it was a real game-changer, wasn’t it? Asics took those iconic tiger stripes and that signature side badge logo and just went to town with them. I mean, they really got creative, warping and playing around with the design. But that was just the start of it.
Underneath, where the rubber meets the road, they introduced the Impact Guidance System (IGS). And guess what? It was the first time they ever dropped that tech into a shoe.
Talk about a groundbreaking move! The Nimbus 4 wasn’t just about looks; it was about redefining the way your feet hit the ground and move through every stride. Asics wasn’t holding back – they were all in for innovation.
Impact Guidance System
Absolutely, the Impact Guidance System (IGS) was a total shift in the game. It wasn’t just about one part doing the cushioning and another handling stability – it was this whole system working in harmony.
The goal? To take you from that first contact to toe strike in the smoothest, most efficient, and cushioned way possible. Asics wasn’t playing around; they were all about that holistic, seamless ride.
Now, the Nimbus 4 set the bar high, especially with IGS paving the way for tech awesomeness in the years that followed. But you know how it goes – innovation doesn’t hit the brakes. Just a blink later, the Gel Nimbus 6 came strutting in with some seriously wild innovations. Asics was keeping us on our toes, and the running world was loving every step of it!
Related:
Asics Gel Nimbus 6
The Trusstic system had been a heavyweight player in the Nimbus lineup since the very first edition, but Asics decided it was time to shed some weight with the Nimbus 6. They found ways to lighten up the Trusstic system, making the shoe not just tech-savvy but sleeker too.
But that wasn’t all – they brought in this nifty new upper tech called Biomorphic Fit. Imagine panels in the forefoot that stretched exactly where you needed that flex and support where you didn’t. It was like the missing piece of the puzzle, tying the whole shoe together in terms of fit and feel, from the sole to the top.
Related:
Asics Gel Nimbus 9
Oh, the Nimbus 9 – a classic among classics! It’s like the rockstar of the Asics lineup. That Biomorphic Fit in the forefoot was a game-changer, and man, did it make waves. The Nimbus 9 wasn’t just a shoe; it was an icon. A bestseller for Asics and a fan-favorite among runners, and for good reason.
It was super-soft underfoot, it had the signature gel giving you that just-right cushion, and it had an upper that wrapped around your foot like it was tailor-mad
It wasn’t just a high-cushion shoe; it was the high-cushion shoe. And get this – it’s making a comeback, not just on the track but through a sports style lens. Asics is teaming up with boutiques, bringing the Nimbus 9 back in style on the lifestyle scene. Because, let’s be real, a great style never really goes out of fashion, right?
So, from the Nimbus 9, Asics took that winning vibe and rolled right into the Nimbus 11. Can’t wait to see what they cooked up next!
Related:
Asics Gel Nimbus 11
The Nimbus 11 marked a fascinating turn in the Asics saga for me. Biomechanics took center stage, and guess what? Asics wasn’t just making shoes; they were customizing the game based on the differences in male and female gaits. It was a real eye-opener because they introduced different builds for each.
The Trusstic system, the tuned foams, even the stacks on those midsoles – all tailored to the distinct needs of male and female runners. Props to the Institute of Sports Science in Kobe, Japan, for cooking up that research.
Asics gets that every runner’s journey is unique. It’s not a one-size-fits-all deal. Whether you’re hitting the track or the trail, Asics wants to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need out of those shoes. So, the Nimbus 11 was like a custom-made experience, and that’s pretty special.
Now, let’s fast forward to the Nimbus 14….
Related:
Asics Gel Nimbus 14
This one wasn’t just about running; it was a pillar in Asics’ eco-conscious journey. Sustainability took a front seat over a decade ago with the Nimbus 14. Asics was pushing forward, making conscious choices, and that eco-focus has only grown stronger since.
Now, zooming ahead to the Nimbus 24 – they’ve gone and stamped it with a sunflower, a callback to their founders’ deep respect for the environment. It’s not just a badge; it’s a symbol of their ongoing commitment to reducing waste in their products.
Asics is making strides, and that sunflower is a reminder that every step they take is a step towards a greener, more sustainable world.
And let’s take a quick detour down memory lane to the Nimbus 15…
Related:
Asics Gel Nimbus 15
The Nimbs 15 looked like a rocket ship! Asics wasn’t holding back; they were launching runners into the future with a shoe that seemed like it could defy gravity. Innovation at its finest!
That time in the industry was like the Wild West of shoe innovation – the more tech you could stick on a shoe, the better! Now, the Nimbus 15 was a showstopper in that regard. I mean, check it out: massive gel pads in the heel and forefoot that were practically the size of small planets.
But it wasn’t just about the visuals; it was a tech bonanza. I believe the Nimbus 15 was the debut of Fluid Fit and Fluid Ride technologies, turning it into the epitome of innovation and progressiveness. Asics was like the trendsetter of the running shoe world, always bringing something fresh and a little bit different to the table every season.
That’s what stamped Asics as a true innovator. They weren’t just following the trends; they were setting them. Season after season, it was like unwrapping a new gift of cutting-edge tech and futuristic design.
Ah, the Nimbus 16 – that was the go-to for me during those heavy mileage weeks, chasing that 80 miles-a-week goal.
Related:
Asics Gel Nimbus 16
I needed a shoe that could handle the distance and keep my body feeling good day in and day out. The Nimbus 16 stepped up to the plate, and man, it became a real ally through all those miles. There’s something special about a shoe that not only supports your run but becomes a reliable companion on the journey.
Now, the Gel Nimbus 19 – let’s dive into the cool factor of that one!
Related:
Asics Gel Nimbus 19
The Gel Nimbus 19 was a milestone for Asics – the first time they introduced FlyteFoam. Now, Asics had been through a few different foam technologies, including the premium Solite, but FlyteFoam brought a whole new vibe to the game. It’s this lighter-weight, super well-cushioned, and responsive foam that really shook things up.
The Nimbus 19 was able to blend that lightweight feel with top-notch cushioning. It still rocked those visible gel pieces in the heel and forefoot, keeping that signature Nimbus comfort intact.
It was like a breath of fresh air as the Nimbus approached its 20-year anniversary – a legacy continuing to evolve with the times. The Nimbus 19 was like a celebration of two decades of running innovation packed into one sleek, responsive package.
Related:
Asics Nimbus 24
Five years ago, FlyteFoam foam set the foundation all the way to where we are today. Since then, we’ve seen it level up with the introduction of FlyteFoam Propel, followed by the game-changer FlyteFoam Blast, and now, the latest innovation – FlyteFoam Blast+ in the Nimbus 24 and 25, which reset expectations from a cushioning and structure standpoint.
From version one to now, it’s been a journey of steady progress, each year bringing something new to the table. The Nimbus 25 is a whole new beast, but it’s still holding onto those key features that made its predecessors so beloved…
Related:
Asics Nimbus 25
With this 25th iteration, it’s like Asics took everything they’ve learned over the years, added a dash of innovation, and crafted a shoe that not only meets but exceeds expectations.
The Nimbus 25 is a testament to the relentless pursuit of better, more comfortable, and more responsive running experiences. It’s not just a shoe; it’s a representation of the progress and passion that defines the Nimbus legacy.
I think the Nimbus 25 is like a nod to the cloud-like design inspiration from the cumulonimbus, bringing that timeless touch into today’s model. Those undulations through the midsole are like a visual tribute to the essence of clouds, capturing that inspiration and translating it into a modern masterpiece.
In terms of stack, the Nimbus has always been about maximum cushioning, and with the 25, Asics is turning up the boldness.
Pushing that stack up by five millimeters from the 24, they’re making a statement. It’s like they’re reclaiming their position in the market and saying, “We’re here, and we’re going big!”
Now, Gel technology – a true superstar in the Nimbus series. The 25 takes us on a journey back to Pure Gel, but this time, they’ve brought it all internal, making it softer and more responsive.
It’s like they’re listening to the runners, creating a lighter and bouncier experience. The Nimbus 25 is all about tying it together, simplifying the package, but it’s still that space-age Nimbus that runners crave.
The Nimbus 25 is like a time-traveling, space-age legend for every runner out there.
Sustainability
It’s essential to highlight the sustainability aspect of the Nimbus 25. As the most sustainable Nimbus in the lineup, it reflects Asics’ commitment not just to performance but also to environmental responsibility.
They’re checking all the boxes for athletes who want top-notch performance while being mindful of their ecological footprint.
Reflecting on the rich history of the Nimbus series, each of us may have personal favorites, but from a performance and tech standpoint, the Nimbus 25 stands out as the best to date. Yet, the anticipation for the Nimbus 26 is palpable, and it’s exciting to think about what Asics might bring to the table.
Now, diving into the comparison of the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 and the Nimbus 25, there are likely areas where improvements could be made.
Whether it’s refining cushioning, adjusting the fit, or enhancing durability, I’m eager to see how Asics addresses these aspects in the upcoming Nimbus 26. It’s like waiting for the next chapter in a favorite book – the anticipation is real, and the possibilities are endless!
Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs. 25 vs. 26
I’m going into detail here. I’m just going to zero in on the key changes Asics implemented from the Gel Nimbus 24 to the Gel Nimbus 25.
Midsole, Outsole, Upper
The midsole is where the big changes are.
The 20% increase in foam, the transition from Gel to Pure Gel for a softer and lighter feel, and the introduction of FFBlast+ foam are substantial upgrades in the midsole.
It’s particularly noteworthy that Asics is using an eco version of FFBlast+, incorporating at least 20% bio-based materials, aligning with their commitment to sustainability.
The new knitted upper with a stretchy tongue and collar, along with ample padding and a plastic heel counter for stability, reflects a thoughtful approach to comfort and support.
The outsole, with its solid rubber coverage and differentiated feel between the heel and forefoot, hints at a balanced combination of durability and performance.
As runners, these details make a significant impact on the overall running experience, and it’s exciting to see how Asics continues to innovate with each new iteration.
Fit
The fit was true to size for me with a good amount of room there. I was held nice and comfortably around the midfoot and heel so no concerns there. I think it’s been the same for me pretty much every Asics shoe that I’ve actually tested over the last couple of years.
The Nimbus 25 is a comfortable shoe and it stayed pretty consistent throughout the entire run. I think it’s definitely more comfortable than the Gel Nimbus 24.
Related:
Stability & Comfort
Stability-wise, I gotta say, the Nimbus 25 really had my back. My foot felt like it was getting a full-on hug from all sides with that massive stack of foam.
Now, when it comes to comfort, the Nimbus 25 is top-notch. Seriously, it’s like running on clouds. But, if I’m being honest, when it comes to pure fun, the New Balance More v4 edges it out just a tad in my book.
As for the ride, it’s decent with the Nimbus 25. Not a bumpy road by any means, but it’s not that silky smooth ride I crave for my easy runs.
For the upcoming Nimbus 26, I’m crossing my fingers for some rockered geometry. It could make navigating that chunk of foam feel like a breeze, you know? So, Asics, if you’re listening, a little extra smoothness in the Nimbus 26 would be sweet!
Versatility
Comparing the Nimbus 25 to its predecessor, the Gel Nimbus 24, I noticed a shift. The 25 is a bit less versatile. The 24 could handle a track day, not super speedy but doable. Now, the Nimbus 25 firmly plants itself in the max-cushion shoe category. It’s the go-to for those easy, comfortable runs.
Looking ahead to the Nimbus 26, here’s my wish: I’m hoping Asics adds a dash of nimbleness underfoot. It would be awesome to pick up the pace a bit toward the end of my runs without feeling like I’m lugging around too much cushion. Fingers crossed for that extra zing in the next edition!
Alright, wrapping it up:
Again, the Nimbus 25 didn’t quite hit the excitement levels I was expecting in terms of heel-to-toe smoothness, given all the hype around it. It’s an okay shoe, especially compared to other similar shoes like the New Balance More v4.
In the grand scheme, the Nimbus 25 is an interesting update from the Nimbus 24. It definitely stepped up the cushioning game, feels more comfortable, and there’s a noticeable softness underfoot.
So for those in the market for a max-cushioned cruiser, the Nimbus 25 is holding its own. It’s like a reliable workhorse, solid and dependable.
But, here’s the kicker – I’m crossing my fingers for the Nimbus 26 to bring in a bit more nimbleness and versatility.
Alright, fellow runners, spill the beans! What’s your all-time favorite Asics Nimbus? Let’s hear your go-to!
