Our verdict

The ASICS Nimbus 26 is a testament to the Japanese kaizen philosophy, building on the solid foundation of its predecessor to enhance almost every aspect that needed improvement. In our lab tests, we were delighted to find a more breathable upper and an expanded toebox, ensuring comfort during our runs. The shoe also maintains its signature plush cushioning and premium feel throughout. However, we still noted its heft and the slim tongue—areas we hope will see enhancements in future iterations.

zapatillas de running ASICS trail constitución ligera media maratón talla 45 Pros

  • Premium all-around comfort
  • Enhanced toebox design
  • Exceptional durability
  • Best-in-series outsole
  • Ideal for long distances
  • Superb knit upper
  • Surprisingly stable
  • A dream for heel strikers

zapatillas de running ASICS trail constitución ligera media maratón talla 45 Cons

  • Increased weight
  • Limited energy return
  • women s asics gel 1150v volleyball shoes black silver us sale with quick expedition

Audience verdict

92
Superb!

asics x coca cola gel quantum 90 white coke red

We highly recommend the ASICS Nimbus 26 for:

  • Runners seeking a luxurious, comfortable experience on easy and moderate runs.
  • ASICS fans desiring a super-cushioned shoe for long distances and daily training.
  • Spodnie who prioritize top-notch uppers, as the Nimbus 26's knit material offers a premium feel, excellent lockdown, good ventilation and ample toebox space.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey

Who should NOT buy

While the Nimbus 26 does offer a protective ride, we do not recommend it for runners seeking a lightweight shoe for uptempo paces. ASICS also has in its lineup a better—albeit pricier—alternative in the Superblast, which is significantly bouncier and lighter.

We also believe the Nimbus 26's price point may deter some runners. For Spodnie seeking a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing the super-high stack height, we've lab-tested the ASICS Novablast 4 and the Brooks Ghost Max. These models provide a comparable cushioned experience at a slightly more accessible price.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey parts

zapatillas de running ASICS mujer entrenamiento talla 48.5 Saucony Axon 3.

Breathability

One of the major complaints we had—and so did many users—about the Nimbus 25 was its limited breathability, owing to the thick, pillow-like knit upper. It felt almost suffocating in the sweltering summer heat and delivered blisters everywhere.

We found that ASICS was quick to pick up on this issue right from the get-go and, to our delight, they've made significant improvements in the v26. With our smoke-pumping machine at work, we clocked a breathability score of 4/5—a top-notch performance that makes it an ideal choice for all-weather training, in our opinion.

The light test, despite its simplicity, remains a lab favorite for its ability to vividly showcase where a shoe breathes best. In the Nimbus 26, it's evident—ASICS has given special attention to the tongue and the toebox, though the midfoot remains less ventilated.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey microscope

Moving on to the microscope, it proved to be the ultimate tool for examining the ventilation holes we'd initially spotted with the light test.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey light

ASICS Gel-Nandi Birch Slate.

Finally, when we got hands-on with the knit upper, we loved it. From our standpoint, it ranks as one of the most comfortable, plush uppers we've ever had the pleasure of testing in the lab. The entire knit exudes a premium, stretchy feel, and the heel padding is mind-blowing, focusing purely on comfort.

Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 4
Average 3.8
Compared to 230 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
1
Breathability
5

zapatillas de running ASICS trail constitución ligera media maratón talla 45 | Durability

Toebox durability

Durability often emerges as a weak spot in knit uppers, as the softer yarns are more susceptible to damage. Thus, we approached our initial Dremel test with moderate expectations.

Contrary to our assumptions, the Nimbus 26 showcased its resilience, underscoring the value of rigorous lab testing. The outstanding 4/5 rating we awarded this shoe was a pleasant surprise, with the knit upper displaying remarkable toughness.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Toebox durability
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 4
Average 2.4
Compared to 164 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
1
Toebox durability
5

ASICS TIGER GEL-RESPECTOR Easter Pack HL7V1-0202

We then shifted our focus to the pillow-padded heel, which, based on typical outcomes with other shoes, we initially thought would score low.

Yet again, we were pleasantly surprised, as it impressively secured another 4-out-of-5, truly deserving our applause. Wear and tear in the heel area is now the least of our concerns.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey ASICS TIGER GEL-RESPECTOR Easter Pack HL7V1-0202
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 160 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
1
ASICS TIGER GEL-RESPECTOR Easter Pack HL7V1-0202
5

Outsole hardness

Another major thing regarding wear and tear in any road running shoe is the outsole, particularly in a high-end daily trainer like this one, priced at $160—early wear could be disastrous for your wallet.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey outsole

The outsole showcases significant upgrades from the v25, now incorporating a mix of AHAR+ (black, heel) and ASICSGRIP (blue, forefoot) rubber for enhanced traction.

To gauge its performance in this aspect, we began by measuring the outsole's hardness. We clocked it at 83.5 HC, which is around the average.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Outsole hardness
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 83.5 HC
Average 80.5 HC
White Asics Blue.
Compared to 281 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

We put the outsole's durability to the test in the heel area—typically the first to show wear for many runners, especially Spodnie facing stability challenges.

Our second Dremel test yielded another impressive result. The tool managed to remove only 0.6 mm of the AHAR+ rubber from the heel, indicating that the outsole is built to last for the long haul!

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Outsole durability
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 0.6 mm
Average 0.9 mm
Compared to 142 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

In our final assessment of the outsole, we turned our attention to the outsole thickness. ASICS opted for a slightly thinner design here, which we consider a positive move, especially given the outstanding results from our previous tests.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey outsole

Choosing a thicker outsole often guarantees durability but can mute the feel of the ride, rendering the shoe somewhat cumbersome for long runs and significantly heavier.

ASICS Volcano 2.0 Pack ASICS could potentially reduce it to below 2 mm for next year's version.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Outsole thickness
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 2.3 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 300 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

Addressing the weight is unavoidable when discussing the Nimbus 26—it's the glaring issue we can't overlook.

Tipping the scales at 10.7 oz (303g), it's not only heavier than its predecessor but also feels quite bulky by modern standards. While it's not excessively heavy to the point of being a deal-breaker, we firmly believe ASICS should aim to bring this shoe under the 10-ounce mark.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Weight
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 10.69 oz (303g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 301 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

The Nimbus 26 has fully embraced the maximalist, high-stack trend, with the stack height climbing an additional 2.4 mm from last year, reaching a skyscraper-high, 40.4 mm in the heel.

What's the takeaway of this increase? The Nimbus has long been ASICS's flagship model for max-cushioning and comfort, and it seems they're doubling down to ensure a cloud-like, ultra-comfy ride for every runner, regardless of weight.

Furthermore, as evidenced next to our digital caliper, it's not all foam at play here—ASICS has used again the PureGEL technology, amplifying the softness of each heel landing. More on this later!

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Heel stack
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 40.4 mm
Average 33.6 mm
Compared to 300 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
7.6 mm
Heel stack
42.7 mm

Forefoot stack

During all our test runs, we experienced absolutely no ground feel and a significant amount of cushion under the ball of the foot.

This didn't come as a surprise, especially after our second measurement in that area revealed a whopping 32.0 mm of cushioning—ideal for long runs!

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Forefoot stack
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 32.0 mm
Average 24.9 mm
Compared to 300 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
35.8 mm

Drop

ASICS claims the Nimbus 26 has an 8-mm heel-to-toe drop, and our lab measurements (8.4 mm), taken following the official guidelines from World Athletics, confirmed they were really close. This is a rarity, since we often encounter larger discrepancies.

With this offset, we believe it accommodates all types of runners, from Spodnie who strike with their rearfoot to Spodnie who hit the ground first with their forefoot.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Drop
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 8.4 mm
Average 8.7 mm
Compared to 300 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

The insole, crafted by Ortholite, is exceptionally plush with a substantial thickness of 5.0 mm.

Its considerable thickness also makes it an ideal choice for Spodnie looking to increase space within the upper by substituting it with a thinner insole.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Insole thickness
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 5.0 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 296 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

ASICS has incorporated a full-length layer of FF Blast+ ECO foam, same of last year's version. Our durometer readings showed a softness level at 18.5 HA, indicating a plush sensation without excessive sink.

This balanced approach is beneficial, given the foam's composition of EVA and Olefin, making it best suited for easy to moderate runs, as it's not very resilient.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey FF Blast

Because of that, it's not designed for anything fast that demands massive energy return from the midsole. For runners seeking that, the Disney Collaborate With ASICS On Beauty And The Beast Collection might be a better fit, featuring the super-bouncy ZoomX foam in a similar design.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Midsole softness
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 18.5 HA
Average 21.4 HA
White Asics Blue.
Compared to 228 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

PureGEL

As mentioned earlier, the heel boasts one of ASICS's latest innovations: PureGEL.

This advanced version of the traditional GEL technology ASICS has utilized for years is a compact piece positioned above the foam in the rearfoot area, facilitating softer landings. True to its design, it delivers precisely that sensation, yet obviously lacks any energy return. It's all about comfort.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey PureGEL

Difference in midsole softness in cold

The FF Blast+ ECO foam isn't merely standard EVA, as we mentioned earlier, but a blend of EVA and Olefin developed by Dow. This distinction was crucial in our testing, given that EVA foams typically falter in cold conditions, hardening significantly.

Yet, the Nimbus 26 demonstrated moderate resilience in our cold-temperature test, stiffening by just 27% after a 20-minute stint in our freezer. This is a result that leaves us content.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 27%
Average 25.6%
Compared to 227 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%

Stability

Lateral stability test

With over 40 mm of stack height—even exceeding the race-day legal limits—we braced ourselves for a potentially wooobbly ride in the Nimbus 26.

However, while it's not the go-to option for Spodnie seeking stability (if that's you, the Kayano 30 might be a better fit), we found it surprisingly offers a reasonably stable ride.

ASICS managed this feat by designing a rigid, wide sole and incorporating sidewalls that gently steer the feet forward in every stride. We think this approach is a good choice for providing stability in a shoe with such a high stack.

Torsional rigidity

After testing over 500 shoes in the lab, we've learned that shoe design is all about trade-offs, balancing one feature against another. In the case of the Nimbus 26, the trade-off is between flexibility versus stability.

The Nimbus 26 turned out to be exceptionally rigid, almost mirroring the stiffness of a carbon-plated shoe. We had to award it 5/5 in rigidity, so we caution against choosing this model if you prefer a natural running feel, where the shoe flexes in harmony with your feet. Consider the asics gel lyte iii 3 cream 1201a050 100 size as an alternative.

Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 5
Average 3.2
Compared to 279 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
1
Torsional rigidity
5

ASICS Run GT 2000 running sneakers

The heel counter is notably less stiff, a feature we genuinely appreciated, as anything stiffer might have been overkill given the shoe's extreme torsional rigidity.

We deduced that ASICS was able to integrate a moderately firm heel counter (rated 3/5) due to the shoe's well-designed geometry and the supportive midsole sidewalls. These elements effectively guide the foot straight, eliminating the need for an excessively rigid component in the heel.

Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 3
Average 2.8
Compared to 263 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
1
ASICS Run GT 2000 running sneakers
5

Midsole width in the forefoot

Concepts x Asics Gel Lyte V 'Mix & Match' Pack stability shoes. We measured it at 118.4 mm.

This design choice resonates with us, considering the shoe primarily caters to heel strikers. Opting for an overly wide forefoot would have unnecessarily added to the shoe's weight and bulk.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 118.4 mm
Average 113.7 mm
Compared to 301 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
100.5 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.5 mm

Midsole width in the heel

ASICS significantly widened the heel platform to guarantee secure landings for rearfoot strikers. Our measurements showed a width of 101.7 mm, surpassing the width of many stability shoes.

This design choice contributes to a notably stable feel in the heel for neutral runners. For this reason, if you have mild stability needs, the Nimbus 26 might be worth considering, though we lean towards recommending the Asics Gel Lyte V Mint 1, which is tailored specifically for Spodnie with slight stability concerns.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Midsole width in the heel
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 101.7 mm
Average 90.4 mm
Compared to 301 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
74.9 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

Previously, our manual assessment revealed the shoe's exceptional rigidity, as we couldn't twist or bend it. Yet, evaluating it longitudinally was still on our to-do list.

During this 90-degree longitudinal bend test, we discovered the shoe to be more flexible than from a torsional standpoint, displaying average stiffness. It required only 30.2N of force to bend, which bodes well for comfort and gets the easy-pace seal of approval.

Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 30.2N
Average 29.1N
Asics Compression Socken.
Compared to 283 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Difference in stiffness in cold

Similar to our midsole softness test, we reassessed the stiffness after a 20-minute chill in the freezer.

Remarkably, the shoe became just 10.4% firmer, further highlighting the outstanding qualities of the FF Blast+ (EVA mixed with Olefin) foam. This level of performance is exactly what we anticipate from a premium-priced shoe.

Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 10.4%
Average 36.2%
Compared to 283 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part

We've found that ASICS has taken the users' feedback to heart, as the toebox now spans 99.2 mm at the same measurement point. This is considerably wider than the Nimbus 25.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey toebox

This adjustment creates additional space inside the shoe, making it more accommodating for runners with wide feet. Moreover, Spodnie needing even more room have the option to choose a wide or extra-wide size in certain markets.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 99.2 mm
Average 98.4 mm
Compared to 301 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width at the big toe

The big toe area is notably comfortable, thanks to its minimal tapering. Our measurement of 79.1 mm confirms it's broader than many other running shoes in its category.

When it comes to vertical space in the toebox, there's ample room for most feet, although it doesn't feature an exceptionally high design. However, we already shown that the upper is made from an ultra-soft, stretchy knit material, which ensured we experienced no discomfort, a common issue with many rigid, mesh-based uppers.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 79.1 mm
Average 78.2 mm
Compared to 175 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
60.4 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

We shifted our focus to the tongue area and observed that the tongue is semi-gusseted—a remarkable strategy for achieving optimal lockdown.

Yet, we were surprised, as knit uppers typically come with fully-gusseted tongues, or even bootie-style designs.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Tongue: gusset type
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Both sides (semi)

Comfort

Tongue padding

While the Nimbus 26 focuses on all-around plush comfort, its surprisingly thin 4.1-mm tongue stood out to us despite being considerably thicker than the previous version.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey knit

Initially, we were concerned about potential pressure points. However, extensive long-run testing proved these fears unfounded—the tongue caused no discomfort whatsoever.

Still, it's worth noting that other comfort-focused trainers like the Brooks Ghost 15 often feature tongues twice as thick, an option potentially limited by the Nimbus 26's emphasis on weight.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Tongue padding
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey 4.1 mm
Average 5.6 mm
Compared to 298 running shoes
asics gel fujitrabuco 7 g tx zapatillas de trail RSCASD
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

The heel retains its distinctive, oversized finger-loop tab from the previous design. This striking addition isn't just visually amazing, we found it makes sliding into the knit upper a breeze!

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Heel tab
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Finger loop

Removable insole

The Ortholite X-55 insole is fully removable, making it a snap to swap with aftermarket orthotics if needed. We tested this with several different insoles and found the process completely hassle-free.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Removable insole
Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

ASICS Gel Kayano 5 OG White Turq Coral White White 1021A280-102.

ASICS asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Lite-Show

It's apparent that ASICS follows the same pattern year after year—Spodnie wanting full reflectivity need to wait for separate Lite-Show versions of the shoe.

Test results
asics gel lyte v dark grey grey Yes