Verdict from 6 experts and 11 user reviews
8 reasons to buy
- Cushioning: The Nimbus Lite 2 is "gentle on impact," "protective," and "softer than usual for Asics trainers". Runners gladly recommend it for longer runs (10K+) as it leaves the feet fresh.
- Ride: The shoe feels smooth on slower paces but gets lively on speed. The ride overall is described as "consistent" and having enough firmness for a solid toe-off.
- Weight: As a "Lite" model, it is among the lightest daily trainers. It also weighs 1.8 oz (51 g) less than the Nimbus 23.
- Stability: The shoe's wide and stable platform amazed all runners. Flared in all directions (similarly to Asics Kayano Lite), it leaves no chance to ankle rolling.
- Fit: The soft mesh upper with a gusseted tongue hugs the foot securely without any hot sports or irritation. It has "just enough" padding around the collar, tongue, and heel counter for extra comfort.
- Heel hold: None of the reviewers reported heel lifting or slipping out of the shoe.
- Toebox: There is a surprisingly generous amount of room in the toe box for people with medium and wide feet.
- Sustainability: Recycled materials make up 80% of the shoe's upper and 15-20% of the midsole.
4 reasons not to buy
- Bounce: While avid runners don't call the ride dull, they agree that it's not the most exciting and bouncy daily trainer. If that's what you look for in a shoe, then Asics Novablast would be a better option.
- Outsole durability: Those who reached 80+ miles in the shoe see some significant rubber wear and don't expect it to last over 300 miles.
- Grip: A few athletes tried the shoe in wet conditions and don't find it reliable on turns.
- Breathability: It's not the most breathable daily trainer and may not be a good option for warmer temperatures.
Bottom line
The Gel Nimbus Lite restored many runners' faith in Asics daily running shoes with some even calling it "the best Asics daily trainer in … forever." It will be a pleasant transition for those coming from the Cumulus or Nimbus models looking for something lighter, softer, and smoother.
Although it feels most at home with slower, longer runs, it can still pick up the pace for some intervals and tempo runs.
Tip: see the best running shoes.
Expert reviews:
- 98/100 by JackRabbit
- 90/100 by Fleet Feet
- 90/100 by Doctors of Running
Video reviews
Asics Gel Nimbus Lite 2: Your softer, lighter Nimbus
The Lite edition offers a max-cushioned feel of the Nimbus series in a much lighter, plusher, and bouncier package. It is still a neutral daily trainer but the word 'Lite' speaks for itself. For comparison, The Nimbus Lite 2 weighs 1.8 oz (51 g) less than the Nimbus 23.
Best for: daily training, easy and moderate paces with occasional speed work, distances up to a marathon.
Don't get this shoe if you need pronation control (consider Asics Kayano Lite).
Asics Gel Nimbus Lite 2 vs. Nimbus Lite: what's improved?
- Lighter: weighs 0.6 oz (17 g) less than the predecessor
- Smoother ride: more tuned-in midsole and less outsole rubber help the shoe feel more like one unit
- Slightly more stable: the base is a little wider, adding a touch of inherent stability
Sustainability mission
As part of the brand's sustainability plan, the Gel Nimbus Lite 2 features the following eco-friendly components:
- nearly the entire upper is formed with recycled materials
- the FlyteFoam midsole uses cellulose nanofiber made of plant biomass which shows stronger properties than steel
Notable features
- Removable insole can be replaced with orthotics
- Gusseted tongue means no tongue sliding, more locked-down fit
- Gender-specific design: women's drop is 3 mm higher than men's to support female's more sensitive Achilles and calves
- Pull tab on the tongue
How Gel Nimbus Lite 2 compares
