These two popular running shoes from the Japanese brand differ primarily in terms of support.
The Nimbus 27 is a neutral running shoe, while the Kayano 31 is designed to offer advanced support and stabilize the ride to avoid overpronation.
The weight is similar, but the Nimbus offers 3.5 mm more stack height. The cushioning is not so responsive on either shoe. However, they still offer a smooth ride with relatively easy transitions.
As a result, these two models are good picks for daily mileage and recovery runs.
Also, note that the Kayano 31 (and 30) provides softer cushioning than before, although both shoes use Asics’ latest foam technology, FlyteFoam Blast+.
Otherwise, both models use the same sole technologies for cushioning and grip on the road, such as AHAR+ rubber and GEL units.
Nimbus vs Kayano: the Verdict
While there was a clear difference between these two shoes in the past, their new editions make them very similar.
As a result, the most important difference is the support type. Runners who overpronate will go for the Nimbus, while athletes with a neutral gait will pick the Nimbus.
Side-By-Side Comparison Table
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| Overview | ||
| Description | The Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 is a running shoe for daily training with maximum cushioning and great versatility for everything. | The Asics Gel Kayano 31 are comfortable, premium road shoes for overpronators. |
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| Facts | ||
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Support | Neutral | Overpronation (stability) |
| Heel stack height | 41.5 mm | 40 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 35.5 mm | 30 mm |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8 mm | 10 mm |
| Weight (men) | 305 g | 300 g |
| Weight (women) | 265 g | 266 g |
| Features | Vegan, Recycled materials, Rocker | Vegan, Recycled materials, Rocker |
| Athletes | ||
| Release year | 2025 | 2024 |
| Technologies | ||
| Outsole | HYBRID ASICSGRIP | HYBRID ASICSGRIP |
| Midsole | FF Blast Plus Eco, PureGel, OrthoLite X-55 | PUREGEL, FF BLAST PLUS ECO, 4D Guidance System |
| Upper | Jacquard mesh | Engineered mesh |
| Cushioning | ||
| Cushioning | Balanced | Balanced |
| Responsiveness | Medium | Medium |
| Use | ||
| Distance | Short, 5K, Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon | Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon |
| Speed | Slow, Moderate | Slow, Moderate |
| Workouts | Daily running, Recovery | Daily running, Recovery |
