Asics Gel Nimbus 24 Vs 25: Which Should You Buy In 2026

Both cushioned trainers: Nimbus 24 is lighter and snappier; 25 is softer, plusher.

Your legs are tired, your calendar is busy, and you need a shoe that just works. That’s where the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25 comes in. I’ve run easy days, long miles, and some light uptempo work in both. In short, both are excellent, but one leans lively while the other leans luxurious. I’ll share what stood out in real runs so you can pick the right pair.

Is Asics Gel-Nimbus 24 Good?

The short answer: yes, for many runners. The Nimbus 24 is a reliable daily trainer with a more traditional feel. It’s a touch lighter and a bit snappier than the 25. If you like a cushioned ride that still feels quick underfoot, this is your wheelhouse. It suits daily miles, steady runs, and even light tempo work.

On a midweek 10K, the Nimbus 24 felt nimble when I picked up the pace. The midsole had a gentle bounce, not marshmallow-soft, so I kept good ground feel. On a humid morning loop, the upper locked my heel well without hot spots. It’s the “do-everything” vibe that makes the Nimbus 24 a safe bet.

What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features

• Responsive, balanced cushioning with a lively feel for daily miles
• Traditional geometry that transitions smoothly without feeling bulky
• Secure heel hold with a breathable engineered mesh upper
• Durable AHAR rubber outsole for everyday training surfaces
• Versatile ride that handles easy days and light uptempo runs

What I Like

• Easy to pick up the pace without feeling unstable
• Locks down well in the heel and midfoot
• Breathes well on warm days
• Reliable outsole grip for roads and packed paths
• Often discounted now, so strong value

What Could Be Better

• Firmer underfoot on very long, slow recovery runs
• Toe box can feel a bit snug for wide feet
• Ride isn’t as plush as the newer model

My Recommendation

If you want a lively daily trainer with cushion but some snap, pick the Nimbus 24—especially if you prefer a traditional feel and a better price.

Best For	Why
Daily training with some pace changes	Balanced cushioning and smooth transitions
Runners who like a traditional ride	More classic geometry and underfoot feel
Value seekers	Often more affordable than the newest model

Is Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 Good?

Yes—if you prioritize comfort. The Nimbus 25 is a plush, modern update with more foam and a softer landings feel. It’s built for easy miles, long runs, and days when your legs beg for forgiveness. The cushioning feels deeper and more protective, and the ride is smooth and consistent.

On a Sunday long run, the Nimbus 25 made the last few miles kinder on my calves. The upper wraps the foot like a soft sleeve, and the heel cushioning is whisper-quiet. On a recovery jog after hill repeats, I noticed how the shoe muted harsh pavement. It’s the pair I reach for when comfort comes first in the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25 debate.

What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features

• Plusher cushioning with a softer, more protective underfoot feel
• Modern geometry with a smooth, easy roll through stride
• Comfort-first upper with a soft, sock-like wrap
• Refined heel cushioning that lands quietly and evenly
• Wider base for a planted, stable feel at easy paces

What I Like

• Exceptional comfort on long and recovery runs
• Stable, confidence-boosting platform on tired-leg days
• Upper feels premium and disappears on-foot
• Smoother landings with quieter impact
• Great pick for big weekly mileage

What Could Be Better

• Heavier feel when trying to run fast
• Less “pop” compared to the 24
• Price is usually higher than the older model

My Recommendation

If you want max comfort and cushioning for easy miles and long runs, get the Nimbus 25.

Best For	Why
Recovery and long runs	Deep, plush cushioning and smooth transitions
High-mileage weeks	Protects legs from day-to-day pounding
Comfort-first runners	Soft upper and stable platform

Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25: Side-by-Side Test

I wore both on back-to-back days and alternated them across easy runs, steady efforts, and long runs. Here is how the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25 compare in the areas that matter most.

Cushioning & Ride: Which Feels Better Over Miles?

Both are cushioned, but they feel different. One is balanced; the other is plush.

Aspect	Nimbus 24	Nimbus 25
Ride feel	Balanced and slightly firm	Soft and plush
Transition	Quick, traditional roll	Smoother, more rocker-like
Impact protection	Good	Excellent
Noise on landing	Slightly louder	Very quiet

Ratings: Nimbus 24 – 8.5/10 | Nimbus 25 – 9/10

Edge: Nimbus 25 for plush comfort and protection on long, easy runs.

Speed & Versatility: Which Handles Pace Better?

When I push the pace, one shoe responds more.

Aspect	Nimbus 24	Nimbus 25
Uptempo feel	Responsive and lively	Comfortable but muted
Stride turnover	Faster	More relaxed
Ground feedback	More	Less
Best use	Daily + light tempo	Easy + long

Ratings: Nimbus 24 – 9/10 | Nimbus 25 – 8/10

Edge: Nimbus 24 for mixed training and modest speed work.

Upper & Fit: Which Is More Comfortable?

Both fit well; comfort is their calling card.

Aspect	Nimbus 24	Nimbus 25
Upper feel	Breathable mesh	Soft, sock-like wrap
Toe box	Slightly snug	More forgiving
Heel hold	Secure	Plush and secure
All-day comfort	Very good	Excellent

Ratings: Nimbus 24 – 8.5/10 | Nimbus 25 – 9/10

Edge: Nimbus 25 for its soft wrap and roomy feel.

Stability & Support: Which Keeps You Aligned?

Neither is a stability shoe, but midsole shape matters.

Aspect	Nimbus 24	Nimbus 25
Platform width	Standard	Wider, more planted
Midfoot guidance	Traditional	Smoother rocker guidance
Cornering feel	Agile	Stable
Support for tired legs	Good	Great

Ratings: Nimbus 24 – 8/10 | Nimbus 25 – 8.7/10

Edge: Nimbus 25 for a wider, more stable base during easy runs.

Outsole & Durability: Which Lasts Longer?

Rubber coverage and wear resistance are close, but ride feel differs as they age.

Aspect	Nimbus 24	Nimbus 25
Rubber type	Durable road rubber	Durable road rubber
Grip (dry)	Strong	Strong
Grip (wet)	Decent	Decent to good
Wear pattern	Even	Even

Ratings: Nimbus 24 – 8.5/10 | Nimbus 25 – 8.5/10

Edge: Tie—both hold up well to daily training.

Weight & Feel on Foot: Which Feels Lighter?

Perceived weight matters more than numbers on a scale when running.

Aspect	Nimbus 24	Nimbus 25
Perceived weight	Lighter, more agile	Heavier, cushier
Energy return	More responsive	More dampened
Turnover	Quick	Relaxed
All-day wear	Comfortable	Very comfortable

Ratings: Nimbus 24 – 8.8/10 | Nimbus 25 – 8/10

Edge: Nimbus 24 for lighter, quicker feel when you want to move.

Value for Money: Which Is the Smarter Buy?

Street prices shift, but older models often win on price.

Aspect	Nimbus 24	Nimbus 25
Typical price	Often discounted	Usually higher
Versatility	High	High for easy/long runs
Cost-per-mile	Excellent	Very good
Who benefits most	Budget-minded runners	Comfort-first runners

Ratings: Nimbus 24 – 9/10 | Nimbus 25 – 8.5/10

Edge: Nimbus 24 for savings without big trade-offs.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

For the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25, choose based on feel. Pick the Nimbus 24 if you want a balanced, slightly snappier daily trainer that can handle light speed work and save you money.

Choose the Nimbus 25 if you want plush comfort, a smoother roll, and more protection for recovery and long runs. Comfort-first? Nimbus 25. All-rounder on a budget? Nimbus 24.

FAQs Of Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25

What is the biggest difference in the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25?

The Nimbus 24 feels balanced and a bit snappier. The Nimbus 25 feels softer, plusher, and smoother underfoot.

Which is better for long runs in the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25?

Nimbus 25. It offers deeper cushioning and a more relaxing ride over long distances.

Which is better for speed or tempo work in the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25?

Nimbus 24. It’s lighter on foot with more response when you pick up the pace.

How do they fit in the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25?

Nimbus 24 runs a bit snug in the toe box. Nimbus 25 feels roomier with a softer, more forgiving upper.

Which offers better value in the Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs 25?

Nimbus 24 often costs less and remains versatile. Nimbus 25 is worth it if you prioritize premium comfort.