ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28 vs ASICS Gel-Cumulus 28

Same family, different jobs. The Nimbus is ASICS' max-cushion cruiser, with a taller stack and a plusher feel for long easy miles. The Cumulus is lower and about 25 g lighter, and it's £45 cheaper, which makes it the better everyday all-rounder for most people.

By the RunShoeRotation team. Written October 2026; specs, scores and prices updated October 2026. How we compare shoes.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Gel-Nimbus 28 if comfort is your top priority and you want the most protection for long runs or heavy mileage.

Choose the Gel-Cumulus 28 if you want a soft, comfortable daily trainer that's lighter and better value.

The Gel-Nimbus 28 is 26 g heavier than the Gel-Cumulus 28. It has 5.5 mm more foam under the heel. It costs £45 more at full price.

Side by side

SpecGel-Nimbus 28ASICSGel-Cumulus 28ASICS
Review score86/100 (2 reviews)88/100 (2 reviews)
TypeMax cushionDaily trainer
Weight (men's UK 8.5)278 g252 g
Heel stack43.5 mm38 mm
Drop8 mm8 mm
CushioningPlushSoft
BounceLivelyLively
PlateNo plateNo plate
SupportNeutralNeutral
FitTrue to sizeTrue to size
Widthsstandard, widestandard, wide
Waterproof versionNoNo
UK RRP£180£135

Weights are for a men's US 9 / UK 8.5. Prices are UK RRPs; shops often sell for less.

What the critics say

Gel-Nimbus 28

  • Noticeably lighter than the Nimbus 27
  • Softer, more comfortable upper
  • Smoother, quicker transitions
  • Less outsole rubber, so less durable
  • Not much energy return for the price

Scores from RunRepeat, Road Trail Run.

Gel-Cumulus 28

  • Softer, livelier ride from FF Blast Max foam
  • Better heel grip and durability
  • Slightly lighter at the same price
  • May feel too soft if you like a firm ride
  • A light update rather than a big change

Scores from RunRepeat, Road Trail Run.

Paraphrased from published reviews.

What's new in each

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 28: Around 7% lighter than the Nimbus 27, with a slightly softer, more sculpted FF Blast+ midsole, a softer engineered-mesh upper and less outsole rubber.

ASICS Gel-Cumulus 28: Moves up to the softer FF Blast Max foam used in pricier ASICS shoes, adds AHAR LO heel rubber and gets a more breathable upper. A few grams lighter than the Cumulus 27.

Prices for the Gel-Nimbus 28 Prices for the Gel-Cumulus 28

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