The Kiprun Kipride Max is Decathlon’s new super shoe for training. The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 needs no introduction: a true icon, a cult series at Asics, and one of the most comfortable shoes in the world.
Two rivals in the same category, with a budget gap that starts to show: the Nimbus is a bit pricier, about $10 more.
The Kipride Max leans on the new Softech+, a mix of EVA, Peba and OBC with no plate. The feel on impact is well balanced, closer to plush, and the ride is genuinely enjoyable.
The Nimbus 28 pairs FF Blast+ with a PureGel unit in the heel: the feel sits right between plush and firm, with impressive shock absorption.
On the scale, the two are almost the same weight. Stack heights are close: the Nimbus is a bit taller in the heel, with a slightly higher, completely standard drop. The lower drop of the Kipride Max protects midfoot and forefoot strikers well, but it can take some getting used to.
Responsiveness is not the strong suit of either shoe. The Kipride Max is a bit more responsive: the Peba lets you pick up the pace and enjoy it, from easy runs to tempo paces. The Nimbus has enough responsiveness to handle a range of training sessions, with smooth transitions.
Both uppers are excellent. The engineered mesh upper on the Kipride Max is heavily padded and very breathable, with a more open toe box that some narrow-footed testers found too spacious. The engineered mesh on the Nimbus 28 gives a precise fit and a slipper-like feel, with an outstanding gusseted tongue: a masterclass from Asics.
In use, both cover the same program: daily training, long runs and comfort-first marathon prep, with no restriction on runner profile or weight. For pure speed or racing, other models do better in both cases.
Kipride Max or Gel Nimbus 28: Which Should You Choose?
At comparable comfort, the Kipride Max costs a bit less, which makes it the better value. It is the logical pick for most runners.
If budget is not an issue and you are attached to the Asics fit, the Gel Nimbus 28 is still a benchmark.