The ASICS Gel Nimbus 28 and ASICS Gel Cumulus 27 are two of ASICS’ most popular premium neutral shoes—but despite looking similar, they feel very different on the foot.
If you’re choosing between a max-cushion comfort shoe and a more balanced everyday trainer, this comparison will help you decide which works best for walking, standing all day, and running.
Cushioning & Underfoot Feel
Both shoes use FF Blast cushioning, but the experience underfoot is completely different due to stack height, stiffness, and geometry.
Nimbus 28
- 43.5 mm heel / 35.5 mm forefoot
- 8 mm drop
- Much more cushioning under the heel and forefoot
- Noticeably stiffer and more rigid, especially through the forefoot
The extra cushioning provides excellent shock absorption and protection, particularly if you have sensitivity around the ball of the foot or spend long periods on hard surfaces.
Cumulus 27
- 37.5 mm heel / 29.5 mm forefoot
- 8 mm drop
- Significantly less cushioning overall
- Much more flexible through the forefoot
With around 6 mm less cushioning, the Cumulus offers better ground contact and a more controlled feel. It also feels more stable underfoot thanks to a slightly wider base, generous sole flare, and supportive sidewalls around the heel.
Bottom line:
Nimbus = softer, more protective
Cumulus = firmer, more stable neutral ride
Stability & Geometry
Although both shoes are classified as neutral, they behave differently.
- The Cumulus 27 feels like a stable neutral shoe. The wider platform, sole flare, and flexibility help keep you centred without feeling restrictive.
- The Nimbus 28 is a more traditional neutral shoe, but it benefits hugely from its rockered geometry.
The Nimbus 28 has a clearly defined forefoot rocker, meaning the shoe curves upward toward the toes. This helps you roll forward more easily and transition quicker from heel to toe. The Cumulus 27, by contrast, has a flatter profile that prioritises stability over momentum.
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Fit & Upper Comfort
- Both shoes fit true to size in length
- Cumulus 27 has a slightly wider toe box, which many people will appreciate for walking and all-day wear
- Nimbus 28 feels more padded and premium, with extra cushioning around the collar and tongue
- Wide versions are available in both models
The Nimbus leans more toward plush comfort, while the Cumulus feels a bit more stripped back and practical.
Walking & Standing All Day
Both shoes perform very well for walking and standing, but with different strengths.
- Nimbus 28
- Softer feel under the heel
- More cushioning for hard floors
- Slightly less stable due to the extra foam
- Cumulus 27
- More stable platform
- Better for people who don’t want excessive softness
- Wider base helps during long periods on your feet
If comfort and softness are your priority, the Nimbus 28 is the more luxurious option. If you want a steadier, more controlled feel, the Cumulus 27 is often the better choice.
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Running Performance
This is where the differences become more pronounced.
Cumulus 27 for Running
The Cumulus 27 is one of the shoes I most often recommend to beginner and entry-level runners. It’s stable, predictable, and does exactly what it promises without feeling overwhelming.
It works well for:
- Easy runs
- Building mileage gradually
- Runners who want comfort without excessive cushioning
Nimbus 28 for Running
The Nimbus 28 is excellent for:
- Easy runs
- Long runs
- Marathon training
- Runners who want maximum protection
Compared to earlier versions, it’s slightly less responsive, but you can still manage early-stage uptempo efforts. It shines most when comfort and protection matter more than speed.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Choose the ASICS Gel Nimbus 28 if you want:
- Maximum cushioning and comfort
- A softer feel underfoot
- A premium shoe for walking, standing, and long runs
Choose the ASICS Gel Cumulus 27 if you want:
- A more stable neutral shoe
- Better ground feel and flexibility
- A reliable everyday trainer for walking and beginner running
Both are excellent shoes—it really comes down to whether you prefer plush protection or balanced stability.
If you’re deciding between the two, think about how much time you spend walking or standing versus running, and how soft you want the shoe to feel underfoot. We cover all of Asics line-up in our 2026 review.
