Asics has been one of the top manufacturers of running shoes for many years. The well-known Asics Gel-Nimbus series has released its 12th edition. What are the new features of this running shoe and does it deliver as well as the previous models? Asics Gel-Kayano is the shoe that is considered the Cadillac for over-pronators. Gel-Nimbus is in many ways a neutral runners version of this shoe.
Cushioning
Asics Gel Nimbus 12 is a shoe where the construction is focused on reducing the absorption of the impact as much as possible. We have to admit that the Gel-Nimbus does an amazing job at this. The gel cushioning system might be the best on the market, reducing the risk of injuries on both short and long distances. On the other hand, some runners actually prefer a harder more responsive shoe. The cushioning in the 12th model has actually been increased from the previous models.
Comfort
All of our testers are very improved with the comfort this shoe provide. There are several new features with this edition of the shoe that may be responsible for this. Maybe the most interesting one is the introduction of the guidance lines. These are vertical grooves extending from the heel and goes all the way to the fore foot. The gait cycle is noticeably improved and running feels more comfortable and smoother.
The second most important improvement from previous models is that the heel has gained a more streamline heel construction. This reduces weight for a more performance-oriented ride.
The upper has been has been improved with what known as asymmetrical lasing. This is an innovative lasing design consisting of individual synthetic reinforcements that give a more uniform pull from the topline of the midsole and allow the upper to adapt to the shape of the foot. If you have high arches you can loosen and tighten it at different places to make it fit and feel comfortable.
Durability
The shoe’s outer is made of durable rubber that will keep your shoe lasting for a long time and still looking relatively new. The upper part of the shoe has a breathable mesh fabric to reduce shoe odor. For the month we tested this shoe, some running every day, there is very little signs of wearing out the shoe. As a rule of thumb, a normal running shoe is said to last for about 600 miles. Maybe Gel-Kayano 12 will last even longer?
Value
The retail price is set at $125, but if you are lucky you can get them at Amazon for less than $80. The cheap price goes hand in hand with good durability and gives you excellent value for your money.
Overall
To summarize, the 12th edition of the Asics Gel-Nimbus series is a great purchase. Runner’s world has this spring awarded the shoe to the best update of the year, meaning a good model has been replaced with an even better. The shoe offers excellent comfort, smoother transition from heel to toe, and features that are actually worth looking into if you are a performance-oriented athlete. If you are an over pronator you should look into Asics Gel-Kayano 17 instead.
