ASICS Nimbus Lite 2 Shoe Review

The ASICS Nimbus Lite 2 is the updated version of the Nimbus Lite. Over the last couple of years, ASICS has included “lite” versions of some of their staple shoes. The Lite version uses FlyteFoam versus gel. It makes it softer and lighter than their favorites. ASICS doesn’t necessarily want to get rid of their staples like the Gel Nimbus, but they do want to give options to those who want a lighter shoe. Cue the ASICS Nimbus Lite 2.

ASICS Nimbus Lite 2 Quick Facts:

Weight: 7.8 oz

Heel to Toe Drop: 13 mm

ASICS Nimbus Lite 2 Fit:

The upper of the Nimbus Lite 2 is made from a single layer of engineered mesh. It’s lightweight and breathable. It’s durable in “high wear areas” but also breathable well.

The tongue of the ASICS Nimbus Lite 2 is plush. For many years ASICS has been a more narrow brand. This remains true, although, in 2020 and 2021, I’m able to wear once again women’s sized shoes (for a while, my feet weren’t even comfortable in a women’s wide).

In the Nimbus Lite 2, I wear a women’s size 11. It fits well. If it was offered, I might get a size 11 wide just for more room in the toebox, but the size 11 fits fine.

ASICS Nimbus Lite 2 Ride:

According to ASICS, the Nimbus Lite 2 provides cushion but on a much lighter platform than the ASICS Nimbus 23. Just like the original Nimbus Lite, the Lite 2 uses Flyefoam in the midsole. According to ASICS, it’s engineered with cellulose nanofibers which is a “byproduct of sugarcane processing.”What the heck does that mean? It’s more durable but also more sustainable. I’ve appreciated that many brands are taking steps to make their shoes and gear more sustainable.

I appreciate how much softer the ASICS Nimbus Lite 2 is. It doesn’t feel clunky or bulky. ASICS has worked hard to improve many of its traditional shoes. A few years ago, I would say ASICS is operating a flip phone, and the rest of the shoes are in smartphone territory. If you like a flip phone, that’s great, but there are newer and more modern technologies out there. ASICS has finally begun to catch up to that, and their shoes are less bulky and more responsive.

I’ve run several different runs in the ASICS Nimbus Lite 2, and I find it’s best for easy days. I don’t necessarily want to run fast in it, but it’s nice for days my body wants extra cushion but doesn’t want as much bulk as the Nimbus 23.

Finally, one thing ASICS does well is traction, and that is still fairly true with the Nimbus Lite 2. The outsole has less rubber and a lower profile but there is more traction than many shoes. It doesn’t have as much traction as the Nimbus 23 but there is enough for inclement weather days.

ASICS Nimbus Lite 2 Conclusion:

The Nimbus Lite is a great option if you are looking for a highly cushioned trainer with durability and substance. I appreciate that while the Nimbus 23 is good, there is a lite and more soft version. Like I’ve discussed, I definitely appreciate the ASICS initiative to be more environmentally friendly and sustainable. That alone makes me want to run more in the shoe. ASICS is definitely coming a long way in their running shoes over the last couple of years. Two years ago, if you asked me: are ASICS running shoes good? I would have laughed and said no. Now, if you ask me: are ASICS running shoes good? I would say yes, they are a lot better. The Nimbus Lite 2 is one of their best neutral trainers in a while.

My Current Shoe Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Asics Nimbus Lite 2, Saloman Sonic 3 Balance, Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, Brooks Ricochet 3, Nike Pegasus 37,  Hoka Bondi 7, Asics GlideRide

Speed Work: Nike Tempo Next%, New Balance Fuelcell TC Shoe Review, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro,

Long Runs: Hoka Clifton Edge,  Under Armour Sonic HOVR 3

Trail Running/Hiking: Hoka Torrent 2, Saucony Peregrine 11, North Face Flight VECTIV

Races: adidas Adizero Pro, Asics MetaRacer, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%,  Saucony Endorphin Pro, New Balance fuelcell TC, Reebok Run fast Pro 

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.

Questions for you:

Have you tried the ASICS Nimbus lite 2?

What is your current favorite trainer?