The ASICS Mens Gel Nimbus 20 has been one of the best running shoes on the market for its overall support and performance characteristics. It’s fitted with the Flytefoam midsole technology to provide excellent responsiveness and bounce regardless of the distance. It weighs 303 grams and is made of a textile material for long-lasting durability.
The Nimbus 20 comes with a 10mm heel-to-toe drop, which is just above average and may take some pressure off your heels during landing.
Arch Support
The Nimbus line of shoes is considered the top of the line in the Asics neutral category. In fact, the Nimbus shoes are the neutral counterpart to ASIC’s premium stability line which is the Gel Kayano.
As a neutral shoe, the Gel Nimbus 20 works best for people who have medium or high arches. However, it can also be worn by slight overpronators. The insole is removable, allowing you to replace it if you prefer another insert. It’s worth noting that the built-in insole is a bit harder than competing brands and may be a bit uncomfortable depending on your preference. So if you need more cushion, you may want to look for inserts with arch support and cushioning.
While it’s not a running shoe for flat feet, it does come with enough support that will keep your feet stable and well-supported throughout your gait cycle. This support can be achieved via the shoe’s Guidance Trusstic System, which helps reduce torsion and supports proper motion.
Meanwhile, the Gel Nimbus 20’s midsole is made of ASICS’ own Flytefoam material to offer excellent responsiveness and a high level of bounce. This material is considered to be 55% lighter as opposed to the standard EVA foam. Also, it uses organic super fibers that will conform to the unique shape of your foot. It also has the Fluidride technology to help reduce weight while ensuring the midsole’s durability and enhanced cushioning.
Lastly, it comes with the Forefoot and Rearfoot Gel cushioning system which can absorb shock during foot strikes. This allows you to enjoy more comfortable steps by turning each step into a smoother transition.
Heel and Ankle Support
The Gel Nimbus 20 features a Heel Clutching system that uses external plastic for its heel. The material is capable of wrapping and securing your heel in place, thereby preventing the chances of shoe slippage while doing your daily activities, particularly running and hiking. The ankle support isn’t spectacular, and some may feel that it’s inadequate for strong stability.
Additionally, the Gel Nimbus 20 has an excellent heel grip. Apart from the heel tab locking your foot in place, it also has plush padding which makes the interior comfortable. If you’re a diehard fan of the Nimbus line or a heel striker, you’ll appreciate the stability that the Gel Nimbus 20 offers, despite it being a neutral shoe.
You will also appreciate the combination of Fluidride and Flytefoam in the shoe’s forefoot and heel areas. Such a combination provides the shoe with shock-absorption capability which is highly useful when trekking on paved surfaces.
In terms of the outsole, the Nimbus 20 has exactly the same outsole as its previous models – save for a few important tweaks to the upper. It’s designed to absorb shock which can greatly reduce pain, especially when walking or running a certain distance. It also offers flexibility through the vertical flex grooves at the bottom of the shoe.
The rearfoot outsole has an area of exposed foam which helps the midsole splay better during impact, thereby adding to its overall cushioning. On the forefoot is the DuraSponge compound for added durability and cushioning.
Overall Shoe Feel
At 303 grams, the Gel Nimbus 20 can be considered a lightweight shoe. Unfortunately, the toe box is a bit narrow which is a problem if you have wide feet. Fortunately, there are wide options to choose from – when available.
The Gel Nimbus 20’s upper is made of a multi-directional mesh which can stretch and move with your foot, thereby allowing airflow to easily enter and circulate. This helps to avoid the risks of blisters and hot spots.
For most people, the shoe doesn’t require any breaking in period, though there are a few users who stated that it took them days or even a week to fully break in.
Overall, this is a really comfortable pair of shoes for a variety of daily activities.
Use
As a running shoe, the Asics Gel Nimbus 20 is a solid option for those with medium-to-high arches. Not only is it ideal for several types of running activities, it also a great casual shoe due to its light frame and comfortability.
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Online User Reviews Overall Experience
- A Bit Small and Narrow
One of the common issues with the reviewers is that the Gel Nimbus 20 is a bit small in its sizing and has a narrow toe box. For those that need more room, they should consider ordering a half size up.
- Great Support and Comfort
Several users comment on the Nimbus’ excellent overall support and comfort. According to many, this is their go-to running shoe. For these people, the cushioning offered by the Nimbus 20 is near optimal.
- Excellent Heel Support
Lots of users like the shoe’s excellent arch support. Since wearing the Nimbus 20, they were able to minimize or get rid of heel pain during their daily activities. Asics Gel Nimbus 20 is one of the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Good Shock Absorption
While not all of the reviewers are satisfied with the Nimbus 20’s shock-absorption capability, they noted that it’s more than enough to reduce the brunt of impact brought on by walking or running.
Pros:
- Comes with removable insoles so you can fit in custom ones
- Good running shoe for heel pain
- Great for narrow feet
- Nice stability for a neutral running shoe
- Features very comfortable cushioning
Cons:
- The toe box may not be spacious enough for some
- Comes with a stiffer footbed compared to the previous models
- A little on the expensive side
- May not be best for overpronators
- Original inserts are insufficient for some