The Asics Gel Nimbus 27 and the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 embody two distinct visions of comfort and performance on the road.
If you are hesitating between these two models, here is a detailed comparison to help you make the right choice.
The Asics Gel Nimbus 27 stands out for its soft cushioning, thanks to the FF Blast+ Eco foam and Asics’ iconic gel in the heel. The underfoot feel is soft, which is ideal for long runs and for runners looking for maximum shock absorption.
On the other hand, the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 offers more responsive cushioning with its Wave plate and Enerzy NXT foam. It remains comfortable, but with a firmer, more responsive underfoot feel, promoting efficient energy return.
If responsiveness is your priority, the Mizuno Wave Rider 28 has the edge thanks to its better propulsion and lighter design (about 0.7 oz/20 g less than the Nimbus).
Both shoes are stable, but the Mizuno offers a little more structure thanks to its Wave plate.
The foot lockdown is excellent and very comfortable on both models.
Nimbus or Wave Rider: What to Choose?
The Asics Gel Nimbus 27 is aimed primarily at runners who want an ultra-comfortable model with soft cushioning, maximum protection and great stability, perfect for long distances.
The Mizuno Wave Rider offers a better compromise between bounce and cushioning. It’s more responsive, but its firmer cushioning may not appeal to everyone.
Therefore, your choice will depend on your priorities in terms of protection and bounce.
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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 Mizuno Wave Rider 28 is a daily training staple that offers great comfort and impressive versatility. |
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| Facts | ||
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Support | Neutral | Neutral |
| Heel stack height | 41.5 mm | 38.5 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 35.5 mm | 26.5 mm |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 8 mm | 12 mm |
| Weight (men) | 305 g | 270 g |
| Weight (women) | 265 g | 235 g |
| Features | Vegan, Recycled materials, Rocker | Vegan, Heavy runner, Recycled materials |
| Athletes | ||
| Release year | 2025 | 2024 |
| Technologies | ||
| Outsole | HYBRID ASICSGRIP | Carbon rubber X10 |
| Midsole | FF Blast Plus Eco, PureGel, OrthoLite X-55 | MIZUNO ENERZY, MIZUNO ENERZY NXT, MIZUNO WAVE |
| Upper | Jacquard mesh | Jacquard Air Mesh |
| Cushioning | ||
| Cushioning | Balanced | Balanced |
| Responsiveness | Medium | Medium |
| Use | ||
| Distance | Short, 5K, Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon | Short, 5K, Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon |
| Speed | Slow, Moderate | Slow, Moderate |
| Workouts | Daily running, Recovery | Daily running |
