Asics Gel-Nimbus 22 review: A running shoe that leaves little to be desired

The shoe ticks all the boxes: exciting design, responsive midsole, and a robust build ideal for not only running, but also the gym

Asics Gel-Nimbus 22 Tata Mumbai Marathon Limited Edition (Rs 13,999)

It’s been a good few days for Asics. The possibility of World Athletics banning athletes from wearing the groundbreaking Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% running shoes sent the Japanese footwear company’s shares soaring earlier this week, up by as much as 8 per cent. Globally, the decision holds significance for Asics, particularly after it was revealed that the majority of runners at this year’s Hakone Ekiden, one of Japan’s most-watched races, opted for Nike over the popular homegrown brand.

In India — where the Vaporflys are yet to debut — Asics finds itself in a more comfortable position, still ruling the long-distance running shoe market with offerings that are usually reliable, and durable. The Gel-Nimbus 21 from last season was a stunning success, a terrific all-rounder that, it seemed, needed no improvement. Yet, Asics has been able to include notable add-ons to its successor, the Gel-Nimbus 22. 

Design (4/5)

Asics had somewhat disappointed me with its predominantly black colourways — practical but boring — last season. So, the Gel-Nimbus 22 comes as a breath of fresh air. I tested the Tata Mumbai Marathon Limited Edition – the marathon’s slated for January 19 —available in a dazzling blue-and-yellow colour scheme. The latest version comes with a reconfigured midsole. Asics has added an extra 2mm layer of cushioning — its FlyteFoam Propel technology — to ensure more softness underfoot. The grooves around the midsole give the shoe a bold look, and the monofilament mesh upper has a nice velvety feel to it. Another improvement over the Gel-Nimbus 21 is a wider toe-box, which makes for a better, snugger fit. 

Performance (4.5/5)

My recent go-to running shoes have been the Under Armour Hovr Infinite, and I had almost forgotten how wonderful a brand new Asics pair can feel. The Gel-Nimbus 22 screams comfort right from the outset and keeps your foot locked in throughout your workout. The midsole seems a little stiff in the beginning, but gets softer with every run. The outer is essentially made up of rubber, but performs solidly. Unlike the Asics MetaRide, traction isn’t an issue here — the Gel-Nimbus 22 is a winner across surfaces. And in terms of springiness, this might just be Asics’ bounciest shoe yet. The only slight complaint I have is the weight. At around 300 grams each, the shoe isn’t very light, making acceleration in some situations difficult.

Verdict (4/5)

There is little to not like about the Gel-Nimbus 22. It ticks all the boxes: exciting design, responsive midsole, and a robust build ideal for not only running, but also the gym. What’s more, its stylish makeover means that you can even pass them off as casual sneakers once in a while. And for those running the Mumbai Marathon in them, let's just say that your chances look good.