ASICS GEL NIMBUS 26: ROAD RUNNING SHOES WITH MOUNTAIN GRIP

ASICS GEL NIMBUS 26: ROAD RUNNING SHOES WITH MOUNTAIN GRIP. Our RUNNING section brings you today the analysis of the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, set to be released in January 2024.

A light update from the 2024 version: With PureGEL to soften the impact on asphalt and FF BLAST PLUS ECO cushioning. We do not expect a change in the price of €200. Undoubtedly, the most interesting addition is the incorporation of Asics Grip rubber to the classic AHAR outsole. Let’s see the details.

Read it in spanish at CARRERASDEMONTANA.COM

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ASICS GEL NIMBUS 26:

MAXIMALIST RUNNING SHOES, 30MM CUSHIONING, AND MOUNTAIN GRIP

The new Asics Gel Nimbus for 2024 maintains the increase in price and stack height observed in 2023. The brand proudly highlighted its independent comfort test conducted at The Biomechanics Lab, emphasizing its original spirit as a neutral running shoe for long and comfortable runs.

On a personal note, however, Mayayo sees a significant technical advancement with the inclusion of ASICS GRIP rubber on the outsole, combined with the time-tested AHAR.

It has been about half a decade since the Asics Trail Running lineup made a substantial leap forward in the grip of its mountain shoes under challenging conditions. Since then, this development has been eagerly awaited to enhance stability even on asphalt—and it has finally arrived.

ASICS GEL NIMBUS 26

Tech Specs

ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 25: Tech Specs

• Price: €200 starting from January 5th. The EUR price might not translate directly, as in the USA, it remains at $160 for another year.
• Designed for neutral and supinator runners.
• Weight: 303 g for men | 261 g for women. Just 4g more than in 2023 for men.
• Drop: 8 mm
• Stack Height: 22-30mm Maintains the leap both in front and behind from the previous year, compared to the 16-26mm of Nimbus 24.
• FF BLAST Midsole: Asics promised that this FF BLAST provides a smoother landing and a more responsive toe-off.
• Pure GEL Technology: Introduced in 2023 for a softer landing and improved cushioning. A much-needed adjustment for the seasoned Japanese gel technology.
• Outsole: ASICS GRIP + AHAR The major change for 2024 to enhance grip, complementing the AHAR technology.
• Running shoes for both men and women, available in a variety of colors.

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ASICS GEL NIMBUS 26: HIGHLIGHTS

UPDATED UPPER

Featuring a new lightweight technical knit material, the brand aims for a balance of comfort, breathability, and fit. The design includes a highly functional and innovative tongue.

HYBRID ASICS GRIP + AHAR OUTSOLE IN HEEL

The standout feature of 2024. The brand has finally seized the significant opportunity to enhance grip on asphalt, working from its mountain expertise. It now aims for the outsole to deliver improved traction and durability, thanks to the hybrid ASICS Grip in the forefoot and AHAR+ in the heel. This is clearly visible in the two different dark rubber tones beneath the foam.

RETROFIT PUREGEL

A consolidated advancement from 2023: A softer and updated version of GEL, maintaining all the acclaimed properties that have made GEL famous. It is 65% softer compared to the previous visible GEL.

FF BLAST CUSHIONING + ECO MIDSOLE

Another consolidated advancement: The lighter, more energetic, and cushioned FF Blast+ ECO foam from ASICS, combined with the new internalized PureGEL, ensures better cushioning and comfort than ever before.

The FF Blast+ ECO midsole is the most sustainable ever created, with 24% biologically sourced content, making it 20-30% more sustainable than average industry foams. Premium soft mesh crafted from recycled polyester completes the eco-friendly features.

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ASICS TRABUCO 11: CONCLUSIONS.

MORE AND BETTER, FOR SURE. BUT… IS IT WORTH THE COST?

There are few technical drawbacks to point out in the ASICS GEL NIMBUS 26. Last year, we witnessed a version 25 that was much more comfortable than the Nimbus 24. It achieved this by being significantly higher off the ground and incorporating the PureGel and FF BLAST PLUS ECO combination. The test was a success; they proved to be exceptionally soft shoes with improved cushioning for long-distance running.

Now, the 2024 version consolidates these advancements and goes even further by enhancing the grip of the outsole with the extensive experience gained from mountain races. This is certainly commendable. Its only drawback is undoubtedly the high price compared to other competitors with the same goal of providing a comfortable and long-distance running experience, with similar levels of ground clearance.

However, this is not a lightweight shoe designed for fast-paced competition, and it never was. For those purposes, alternatives can be explored either within the Asics catalog or from other brands.

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