ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 vs Nike Vomero 18, battle of maximum cushioning: Which one and why choose it?

We are sure that this "battle" between these two top of the range shoes will be of great interest to you. We are pitting the latest versions of the ASICS Gel NImbus and Nike Vomero against each other, some of the most classic and long-lived models in the cushioning running shoes segment. They hardly need a business card, because their main hallmarks are: comfort, durability and support. At RUNNEA we try to provide all the information you need about the ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 and Nike Vomero 18 so you can decide which one best suits your daily training needs and your quest for maximum running protection.

These ASICS Nimbus 27 and Nike Vomero 18 running shoes have something in common: they are options that offer comfort on long runs, reduce muscle fatigue and protect joints. Of course, each has its own design philosophy and use of technologies, which makes them slightly different in feel and performance. Take notes!

Brief history of the ASICS Nimbus and Nike Vomero lines

ASICS Gel Nimbus: more than two decades of comfort

The Gel Nimbus saga appeared in the 1990s with the intention of offering maximum comfort and protection to runners of all weights. Throughout its various editions, the Nimbus has refined its approach to cushioning and stability to ensure that every stride feels smooth and controlled. Its name, "Nimbus," is associated with the idea of "running on clouds," a concept that has been ASICS' great promise: improving shock absorption every year without sacrificing reactivity.

In the Gel Nimbus 27 version, the Japanese brand has introduced its most cutting-edge technologies, such as FF BLAST+ ECO foam and PureGEL layer, reconfiguring the midsole for an ultra-soft yet more efficient ride .

Nike Vomero: the other side of comfort

For its part, the Nike Vomero line was born with a similar mission: to compete in the segment of daily training shoes with great cushioning, placing itself among the most comfortable of the American brand. Historically, Nike has played with different foams (Air Zoom, Lunarlon, React) for the Vomero family, always looking for that balance between softness and responsiveness.

For the Vomero 18, Nike has incorporated new compounds (ReactX in the lower midsole and ZoomX in the upper), increasing the height of the sole and aiming for a very marked "cloud" tread, but with a touch of reactivity that makes it versatile in different running rhythms.

Context and positioning in the running market of these two titans.

We don't need to emphasize too much that the current running shoes market is crowded with models that promise the ideal combination of cushioning, lightness and stability. Both ASICS and Nike have managed to stay at the top of the mind of many runners who need reliable and durable options for their daily runs, long runs or simply to run comfortably.

• ASICS Gel Nimbus 27: This is the brand's top cushioning shoe for neutral runners, designed for people who train several days a week, from short distances to marathons. The new foam and higher sole make it one of the most comfortable models in the ASICS line.
• Nike Vomero 18: Nike has positioned the Vomero as the great "maximum cushion" alternative in its catalog, above the Pegasus (more versatile) and complementing the InfinityRN line (more focused on stability and injury prevention). The goal here is to convince those who are looking for a very cushioned feel, with a plus of responsiveness, if you decide to push the pace.

Application of advanced technologies in the ASICS Nimbus 27 and Nike Vomero 18

We have the idea of helping you clear up doubts, and for this reason, we analyze the configuration of their midsole, the key to these examples of the best shoes with maximum cushioning:

Cushioning System

ASICS Gel Nimbus 27

• FF BLAST+ ECO: The latest version of ASICS foam, which increases softness and rebound over previous editions. Being "ECO", it includes a component derived from more sustainable materials, without sacrificing comfort.
• PureGEL: Partially replacing the classic visible "Gel", PureGEL is integrated into the rearfoot area for more direct shock absorption. It provides an ultra-smooth heel-to-midfoot transition, helping to reduce muscle fatigue on long runs.

Resulting Sensations: According to ASICS themselves, the Nimbus 27 is more responsive than the previous version of the ASICS Gel Nimbus 26, while maintaining that signature soft underfoot feel. With each stride, the runner feels very solid underfoot protection.

Nike Vomero 18

• ZoomX foam (upper part of the midsole): ZoomX is Nike's star compound in its competition models (Alphafly, Vaporfly), and now they "hybridize" it with the Vomero to provide that springy, lightweight feel.
• ReactX (lower midsole): An improvement on the traditional React, offering durability and some control without sacrificing softness. Nike claims it is 13% more responsive than its previous React version.

Result: A shoe that combines the best of ZoomX (great rebound and lightness) with the robustness of ReactX. This forms a midsole with a stack 4 mm higher than the Vomero 17, focused on long-distance cushioning.

Midsole geometry

The geometry of the ASICS Nimbus 27 is 2 mm higher than its predecessors, moving firmly into "max cushioning" territory. The 8 mm drop, a classic ASICS drop, facilitates a stride where the heel continues to receive special reinforcement.

Here we see an even higher profile than in the Nimbus. The Vomero 18 are very close to the maximalist category, with 46 mm in the heel. The 10 mm drop may come in handy for runners who land on the heel and are looking for extra protection in that area.

Running feel in the ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 and Nike Vomero 18

ASICS Gel Nimbus 27

• Smooth and stable ride: The FF BLAST+ ECO + PureGEL combo creates a soft contact feel, reducing shock at every landing. According to ASICS tests, it favors moderate training paces, although it responds slightly better than the old Nimbus if you decide to up the intensity occasionally.
• Efficiency on long runs: At paces of 5:00-5:30 min/km (or slower), its ability to maintain comfort without sinking in too much, which is key for medium to heavy runners, stands out.
• Less muscle fatigue: The aim of the Nimbus is that after 15 or 20 km your legs feel less punishment. The rearfoot is very protected, and the transition to the forefoot is smoother than in previous editions.

Nike Vomero 18: the best version in the history of the legendary Nike Running saga?

Nike Vomero 18

• Smoothness-responsiveness balance: Nike calls it the "smoothest and fastest Vomero" to date. The ZoomX part pushes you a bit, while ReactX cushions steadily.
• Recommended paces: According to testers, it moves well between 4:30 and 6:00 min/km, falling somewhere between versatility and maximum protection.
• "Firmer" touch in the forefoot: Despite being a high profile shoe, many runners comment that the forefoot has a slight "pop" when you try to accelerate, which makes it more versatile than other "max cushioning" shoes.

Performance and dynamics in action of the ASICS Nimbus 27 and Nike Vomero 18

ASICS Gel Nimbus 27

• Slower but more comfortable transition: having an 8 mm drop and a very soft midsole, the running experience is described as "rolling on clouds". However, as the pace increases, it can feel a bit sluggish at toe-off, which is normal for such a cushioned shoe.
• Ideal for paces of 5:30 min/km or slower: Those who run at easy paces will thoroughly enjoy it. Also a great option for recovery days, base runs and beginner runners who prioritize softness.
• Good for medium to heavy runners: Supports up to 100kg (according to ASICS), offering lateral stability with its wider midsole design.

Nike Vomero 18

• Balance between smoothness and responsiveness: Transition feels a bit more dynamic than the Nimbus, thanks to that ZoomX + ReactX combo. The toe cap, with a 10 mm drop, lifts a bit more and facilitates forward movement.
• Suitable for 4:30 to 6:00 min/km paces: Although you can use it at slower paces without problem, its best comfort zone is between 5:30 and 4:30, where you'll notice the extra bounce.
• Dose of versatility: Some runners use it even for tempo workouts or light fartleks, it doesn't stay so "flat" in those scenarios.

Recommended user profile of the ASICS Nimbus 27 and Nike Vomero 18

ASICS Gel Nimbus 27

• Neutral runners or runners with slight supination, up to 100 kg (or even more, depending on biomechanics).
• They are looking for long training sessions and easy runs: they want an ultra-soft stride that does little damage to the joints over distances of 10 km, 15 km, 20 km...
• They need a "restful" shoe: To alternate with another faster model or for daily use if protection is the main concern.

Nike Vomero 18

• High mileage runners with neutral or slight pronation.
• They value cushioning but also moderate responsiveness when going uptempo.
• Ideal for those who run between 4:30 and 6:00 min/km and want an option that will accompany them on both light runs and faster outings.

Comparison of technical characteristics of both models

Despite increasing the height of their geometry (41 mm in the heel and 33 mm in the forefoot), the ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 have managed to keep the weight down thanks to the lighter and more efficient FF BLAST+ ECO foam. Their drop is 8 millimeters, while their weights are 285 grams in men's running shoes, and 255 grams in the women's version.

The Nike Vomero 18 is slightly heavier in the men's version, surpassing the 300 grams, and 262 grams in women's running shoes. This is partly explained by the introduction of the dual-density ZoomX and ReactX. However, the difference is not as noticeable on the run for most runners. These Vomero 18 have a 10-millimeter drop with heel heights of 46 mm and forefoot heights of 36 mm.

Which one is the overall winner of this battle?

ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 vs Nike Vomero 18: two cushioning classics that, in their latest versions, opt for renewed foams and more generous midsole heights. So, which one to choose?

ASICS Gel Nimbus 27

If your running style is based on accumulating kilometers at easy paces (5:30-6:30 min/km), you are looking for maximum protection or you have a considerable weight and need a shoe that takes care of your joints. Soft, stable and perfect for unhurried running days.

Nike Vomero 18

If you like the "cloud-like" feel but also want a little more pop when you get close to 5:00 or 4:30 min/km. Ideal for varied training, with long runs and some sessions at moderate paces. In addition, the 10 mm drop will please those who suffer from calf overload with lower drops.

The truth is that the RUNNEA staff finds it difficult to point out an absolute winner: each of these models is oriented to cover a type of runner and specific needs. The good thing is that both lines have been polished over the years, and now in 2025 we have two very refined, durable products capable of accompanying you on your daily runs with total reliability, confidence and safety. The trick? Identify your profile, your rhythms and the sensation that makes you feel most at ease.

ASICS Nimbus 27: the silent running revolution that your body will thank you for every mile you run.

If you crave hyper-soft cushioning and prioritize comfort for long runs at a slow-moderate pace, the ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 shines. If, on the other hand, you want a "max cushioning" shoe but with a touch of reactivity and a higher drop, the Nike Vomero 18 is your bet. In both cases, you'll take home running shoes designed to rack up the miles with as little punishment to your legs as possible, and that, in the end, is what most of us casual runners are looking for in our daily workouts.