Welcome to Flawless Shoe Reviews! Today, we’re comparing two of the most popular max cushioned neutral shoes on the market: the New Balance 1080 v14 and the Asics Gel Nimbus 27.
While both are designed for comfort and long mileage, they feel quite different underfoot, and understanding those differences can help you choose the best one for your needs.
Cushioning & Ride: Soft vs Responsive
Starting with the New Balance 1080 v14, this update marks a clear departure from the ultra-soft v13, one of the softest shoes we’ve ever tested. The v14 still uses Fresh Foam X cushioning, but it’s noticeably firmer and more responsive. You’ll feel 38mm of stack in the heel and 32mm in the forefoot, with a 6mm heel drop—ideal for a stable and balanced ride during longer efforts or daily wear.
In contrast, the Asics Gel Nimbus 27 uses FF Blast+ Eco cushioning, which has also been tweaked from the previous Nimbus 26. It’s firmer and more responsive than before, yet still soft underfoot. You get 43.5mm in the heel, 35.5mm in the forefoot, and an 8mm drop, making it one of the most cushioned shoes Asics has produced.
Both shoes have a prominent forefoot rocker, but the one in the Nimbus 27 is more aggressive—helping with a smoother and quicker toe-off.
Performance for Running
The Gel Nimbus 27 is now more versatile than ever. It’s traditionally been a go-to for easy and long runs, but this version has enough responsiveness for early-stage uptempo workouts or strides at the end of a run. Despite its higher weight (307g vs. the 1080’s 297g in a US Men’s 9), it transitions quickly thanks to its dynamic geometry.
The 1080 v14, on the other hand, remains a reliable workhorse. It’s best for easy, long, and recovery runs. It doesn’t have the uptempo capability of the Nimbus 27, but its slightly firmer midsole makes it more stable for all-day wear or long walks.
If you’re considering other versatile daily trainers, you may also want to check out the Asics Cumulus 27 or the Brooks Ghost 16—both excellent options for runners and walkers alike.
Check the latest prices on Amazon below:
Lifestyle Use: Which Is More Comfortable All Day?
Both shoes can double as lifestyle options for people who stand or walk all day. However, the 1080 v14 probably edges it here. It has a broader base, more noticeable sole flare, and an upper that prioritises comfort over performance. That extra room in the toe box makes a big difference too—especially for people with wider feet.
While the Nimbus 27 can certainly be worn for daily use, its fit is a bit narrower, and the more aggressive rocker might not suit everyone during slow-paced walking or prolonged standing.
Fit, Upper, and Features
The 1080 v14 features a more padded, comfort-focused upper with a wider toe box—typical of New Balance shoes. It comes in standard, wide, and extra-wide options and fits true to size.
The Gel Nimbus 27 also fits true to length, but the toe box is slightly narrower. It includes a thin, gusseted tongue, an external heel pull tab, and plush heel padding—similar to what we’ve seen in the Asics Gel Kayano 32, though without the built-in arch support.
Check the latest prices on Amazon below:
Final Verdict
- Choose the New Balance 1080 v14 if you want a stable, cushioned workhorse that performs just as well for walking and daily use as it does for running.
- Choose the Asics Gel Nimbus 27 if you want a softer, more responsive shoe with enough versatility for both long runs and occasional tempo efforts.
If you’ve tried either shoe, or have questions, feel free to drop a comment. You can also check the latest prices on Amazon via the links in the description.
And if you’re still exploring, take a look at our recent reviews of the New Balance More v5 and the Brooks Glycerin Max—two other max-cushioned options worth considering.
