If you’re on your feet all day, comfort is key—and both the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 and the Brooks Glycerin 22 deliver in a big way. These two neutral running shoes are also standout options for walking, long work shifts, or just all-day wear. But they feel very different underfoot and suit different preferences.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences in cushioning, fit, stability, and performance, so you can choose the best option for your needs.
Underfoot Feel & Cushioning
Brooks Glycerin 22
The Glycerin 22 got a major upgrade with Brooks’ new DNA Loft v3 nitrogen-infused midsole. It combines two foam densities—larger, softer cells in the heel to absorb impact and firmer, more compact cells in the forefoot for added responsiveness.
This setup gives you a plush but balanced ride without that “sinking” sensation. With 38mm of cushioning in the heel and 28mm in the forefoot, the Glycerin has a 10mm drop and a stable platform for long days on your feet.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 27
The Nimbus 27 features FF Blast+ Eco cushioning, which is softer and bouncier than before. You get more sink-in softness than in the Glycerin, with 43.5mm in the heel and 35.5mm in the forefoot, creating an 8mm drop. Despite the plushness, the updated geometry means this shoe isn’t just for slow, easy runs anymore—it can handle some uptempo workouts and strides thanks to a more aggressive forefoot rocker and refined heel bevel.
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Stability and Support
While both shoes are technically neutral, they offer different types of subtle support.
Nimbus 27 includes:
- Sidewalls on both the medial and lateral sides
- A stiff heel counter to help control pronation
- Sole flare and a broad base for increased ground contact
Together, these features make it a stable neutral shoe—ideal if you need gentle guidance without traditional motion control.
Glycerin 22 is also more stable than past versions:
- Smaller sidewalls on the heel and forefoot
- A stiff heel counter for ankle support
- Balanced foam that’s not overly soft
These design elements help create a more grounded ride, making it a great choice if you want stability without a structured support system.
Fit and Upper Comfort
Both shoes offer a generous toe box in the standard width and also come in wide options, making them great for broader feet.
Glycerin 22 features:
- A more plush, padded upper
- A non-gusseted tongue
- A soft heel collar with a new pull-on tab for easy entry
Nimbus 27 includes:
- A thin, gusseted tongue to lock the foot in place
- A premium mesh upper that feels light but cushioned
- Excellent heel lockdown with plenty of internal padding
Running & Daily Use Performance
If you’re looking for a shoe for daily walking or standing, both are excellent. But if you need performance for running, there are a few extra points to consider.
- The Glycerin 22 is ideal for easy runs, long-distance recovery runs, and casual workouts. Its geometry is more classic, and it’s very consistent and smooth underfoot.
- The Nimbus 27 can handle easy runs too, but the extra bounce and rocker make it better suited for strides and light uptempo sessions. It’s a versatile option if you want to combine walking, running, and some faster work in one shoe.
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Final Thoughts
If you want a softer, more plush ride and like the idea of using one shoe for walking, running, and occasional speedwork, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 is a top pick.
If you prefer something a little more balanced and stable, with excellent cushioning for standing and easy runs, the Brooks Glycerin 22 might be the better fit.
