Recently I decided to try the Asics Nimbus 19. I’m no stranger to the Nimbus and have run in the Asics Nimbus 17 as well as the lower cushion Asics Cumulus 18 too. I’ve even run in the Asics FuzeX as well as the max-cushioned Asics Quantum. Come to think of it, I’ve run in most Asics neutral shoes.
Recently, the Nimbus has been extremely inconsistent. Both the sizing and feel of the shoe is completely different from one model to the next. Neither “feel” is bad, but it’s hard because if you like a soft feel and the next version is firm, it’s not a shoe you will love.
The Nimbus 19 is a shoe you need to try on before purchasing. A few years ago the Nimbus ran big with plenty of room. However, this year it’s tight.
Sizing is not a concern, and it’s just a matter of finding what works for you. You also have to keep in mind there have been 19 models of the Nimbus, so Asics must be doing something right.
Fit:
Oh, where to start with the fit. To start off, it fits tight and narrow. I normally wear a women’s size 10 in running shoes, and in the Asics Nimbus 19, I wear a size 11 wide. Sizing is not a big deal, but it’s a shoe you need to try on. Don’t expect to be in the same size “you’ve always worn”.
Compared to the previous versions, the upper of the shoe is screen printed and the weave is tighter. It doesn’t use the “traditional” mesh of other Asics shoes and is seamless. Once I found the appropriate size, it’s a comfortable shoe. The seamless upper allows no rubbing at the top, and for me personally nothing rubs.
Feel:
The new Nimbus 19 now combines both gel and the latest Asics cushioning system: Flytefoam (similar to the FuzeX).
Why does this matter? Flytefoam makes the shoe significantly lighter and makes the Nimbus a lot firmer. It no longer feels like a giant soft sponge under your foot. With the addition of the Flytefoam, it is a drastic difference. The cushion is still there but it’s a different type and feels softer and lighter.
In summary, I like the shoe. I’ll run through this version and use them on easy days or recovery days. I will also say they are a great workout shoe and I tend to do most of my cross training in them too. This is a shoe that will probably migrate towards my easy running days and cross training shoe because of all of the cushion.
Pros:
- Lots of cushion
- Lighter than previous years
- More durable than many running shoes
Cons:
- Expensive ($160)
- Inconsistent sizing and feel of shoe
My Current Running Shoe Rotation:
Brooks Glycerin 14 (easy runs, long runs)
Hoka Bondi 5 (easy runs, long runs)
Saucony Freedom (daily runs)
Saucony Type A (workouts)
Questions for you:
Which shoes are you currently running in?
Do you prefer light weight or heavy shoes?
Great review. I like this shoe as well as the 18’s! Not a shoe I expected to love so much. Tons of cushion but they don’t feel “clunky” like other high-cushioned shoes I’ve tried… still feel light on my feet, which is surprising considering my previous go-to was the lightweight Kinvaras…