The Asics Gel Nimbus 23 is an excellent addition to the Gel-Nimbus line-up. It offers premium cushioning in a reasonably light package, and it has been met with positive reviews from long-distance runners from all over the globe.
Thankfully, the Gel Nimbus 24 draws a lot of inspiration from the Nimbus 23, while introducing a few key product tweaks that ultimately make a lighter and more responsive ride.
The biggest improvements are rooted in the reduced weight of the shoe, together with the FF Blast foam, which makes the shoe bouncier and more responsive. Most runners should find that this makes the Gel-Nimbus 24 faster and more lively than the Gel-Nimbus 23.
Specs Comparison - Asics Gel Nimbus 23 vs 24
| Product Name | Gel-Nimbus 23 | Gel-Nimbus 24 |
|---|---|---|
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Heel to Toe Drop (Men) | 10 mm | 10 mm |
| Heel to Toe Drop (Women) | 13 mm | 13 mm |
| Pronation | Neutral | Neutral |
| Weight (Men) | 310 grams | 290 grams |
| Weight (Women) | 255 grams | 247 grams |
| Width Options | Standard, Wide, Extra Wide | Standard, Wide, Extra Wide |
| Distance | Long Distance | Long Distance |
| Speed | Medium | Medium |
| Recommended Use | Daily Training | Daily Training |
| Cushioning | Maximum Cushioning | Maximum Cushioning |
Key Differences - Asics Gel Nimbus 23 vs 24
1. FF Blast+ Foam Technology
The biggest difference between the Gel-Nimbus 23 vs 24 is the introduction of FF Blast+ foam technology. According to Asics, FF Blast Plus foam technology is 19% lighter than the original FF Blast foam technology.
However, it isn’t simply the reduced weight that makes FF Blast+ foam such a big improvement. The new foam also gives the shoe more bounce and energy every time you push off the ground. The net result is more efficient strides that feel less sluggish than the Nimbus 23.
Instead, you should find the Nimbus 24 gives you more pace, and better energy return, without sacrificing in the cushioning department.This is what makes the Gel-Nimbus 24 such a desirable shoe.
2. Reduced Shoe Weight
Asics call the Nimbus 24 the lightest Gel-Nimbus ever made. For all intents and purposes, this is a good thing. The underlying goal is to provide long-distance runners with premium cushioning and stability without weighing them down too much. With the Nimbus 24, Asics have stepped closer toward this ideal.
To be more specific, Asics have shaved off 23 grams of weight between the two models, which is a highly respectable reduction.
- Men’s Gel-Nimbus 23 Weight: 312 grams (11 oz.)
- Men’s Gel-Nimbus 24 Weight: 290 grams (10.2 oz.)
The 22-gram weight reduction makes the Nimbus 24 7.4% lighter than the previous model. Over the course of a marathon, this can make quite a big difference.
On this point it is worth noting that the weight reduction with the women’s version of the Gel-Nimbus 24 is far less impressive, only dropping from 255 grams to 247 grams (ie 8 grams in total).
3. More Breathable Upper
Another key improvement between models is the new upper found in the Gel-Nimbus 24. While the Gel-Nimbus 23 is an extremely comfortable shoe, it does have a tendency to run a bit hot over long distances.
To combat this relatively minor issue, Asics has made the tongue slightly thinner, which allows more air into the vamp of the shoe. Asics has also introduced a multi-directional mesh material which further improves ventilation.
4. Slight Reduction In Stability
If there is one department where the Gel-Nimbus 23 outperforms the Gel-Nimbus 24, it’s stability.
Numerous testers have noted that the Nimbus 24 isn’t quite as sturdy as its older counterpart.
This is partially because the Nimbus 23 is actually one of the most stable neutral trainers that you can buy.
Product Technology Gel-Nimbus 23
The GEL-NIMBUS® 23 running shoe continues to offer excellent comfort and long-run impact absorption. Its improved stability provides a more balanced stride that’s followed by smoother transitions. Constructed with comfort and breathability in mind, this shoe features a softer engineered mesh design for long runs.
Engineered eyelet shaping helps the upper move more naturally with the foot, while a stretchy midfoot panel appropriately hugs the foot to generate better flexibility. Additionally, the shoe’s upper is made with recycled materials to reduce waste and carbon emissions.
Providing the runner with excellent shock absorption and softness, the GEL-NIMBUS® 23 delivers more compression in the heel thanks to its softer GEL® technology cushioning unit and contoured design lines.
Also, a gender-specific TRUSSTIC™ device provides an articulated amount of support in the right direction for men and women to help generate a smooth transition. Under the toe, the inclusion of gender-specific pillars help cushion the body and help runners experience a softer feel. Simultaneously, the OrthoLite™ X-55 sockliner equips runners with a forgiving, yet responsive stride.
The components of the GEL-NIMBUS® 23 shoe help increase the softness without forgoing the integrity of the shoe’s ride. Our 23rd version of the GEL-NIMBUS® continues to make advancements within the lineage by offering improved support and comfort for distance runners.
Product Info sourced directly from Asics Gel Nimbus 23 Product Page
Product Technology Gel-Nimbus 24
The GEL-NIMBUS® 24 shoe offers advanced impact protection for your distance training. Creating a softer landing in every step, this shoe is also approx. 20g lighter than the previous version.
The upper’s soft engineered mesh and flexible midfoot panel make these shoes more comfortable during long runs. By moving seamlessly with your foot, they help your stride feel smoother in every step.
FF BLAST PLUS™ cushioning keeps the shoe lightweight while providing a softer feeling underfoot. This material also helps increase the shoe’s rebound properties at the toe-off stage.
Product Info sourced directly from Asics Gel Nimbus 24 Product Page
Final Thoughts
In the end, it’s fair to say that Asics have made some solid improvements to the Gel-Nimbus product offering. The Gel-Nimbus 23 offers maximum cushioning and comfort, but it is also reasonably heavy and a bit squishy, which can make it feel sluggish at times.
The Gel-Nimbus 24 offers the same quality of deluxe cushioning, but in a lighter package with better rebound properties every time you push off the ground.
In essence, the Nimbus 24 is a lighter and more responsive version of the Nimbus 23. It should satisfy the needs of almost all runners that need a max cushioned trainer, but still want a lively and reasonably fast ride. Ultimately Asics has delivered a very desirable, high performing neutral running shoe with the Nimbus 24.
With that being said, if you can find the Gel-Nimbus 23 on special, you should find it extremely comfortable and very well suited to long distance running.