Review of Asics Nimbus 20 sneakers

Among all Asics models, Nimbus is the most popular shoe in the history of world sports in terms of the number of finish lines crossed in long-distance races.

The choice of marathon runners is easy to explain, because “Nimbuses" provide maximum flexibility, incredible convenience, and amazing reliability.

General information about Asics Nimbus 20 sneakers

The Asics GEL Nimbus 20 is the top option in the Cushioning range from the Japanese sports shoe maker. In Latin, the name means "storm" or "thunderstorm" and is a cognate of the term "Nubes", meaning "cloud". Such an unusual name with a double meaning was not chosen by chance, because despite its extraordinary lightness, the “twenty” is distinguished by its high dynamics and “explosive” character.

In 2018, Nimbuses celebrated their twentieth birthday, in honor of which they received a serial number - 20. Typically, the Japanese manufacturer updates the line every two years, so the public did not expect big changes in the Nimbus 20.However, in honor of the round anniversary, Asics decided to introduce a number of interesting innovations.

Structural and design features

Let's review the main characteristics of the model.

Chassis or midsole

It can be called a rarity for a Japanese manufacturer that the 20th model of “Nimbuses” retained the composition of the sole of the previous series. The lower part of the products is 2.9 cm thick at the back and 1.9 cm at the front. The total height difference is 1 cm in men's models and 1.3 cm in women's models.

The midsole consists of three layers:

1. Super SpEVA. It is a foam material traditional for all Asics, which in the “twenties” was mixed with natural rubber. The resulting composition provides better shock absorption with a high rate of impact energy absorption.
2. GEL. Visually, the layer is visible through small “windows” located in the back of the sports products. Asics GEL is a patented technology of the Japanese manufacturer. It is she who is responsible for the famous flexibility and weightlessness of shoes.
3. Flyte Foam. One of the innovative developments of Asics. Essentially, it is an updated version of the traditional EVA compound, which is mixed with Kevlar fibers. Thanks to the unusual composition, the manufacturer managed to achieve incredible “responsiveness” and shock absorption, as well as reduce the weight of sports shoes by 55%.

Reference. This combination of several layers made of different materials helps to fully appreciate all the beauty and advantages of multi-level cushioning.

Sole

The manufacturer left the platform in the anniversary series without innovations. In the nose area there is AHAR+ rubber with a hardness rating of 80 units.In the central part, covered with a relief material with rounded edges Dura Sponge, there is an option with a hardness of 60 units.

The use of raw materials with a softer structure could play a cruel joke on the manufacturer, because in this case the service life of the products is significantly reduced. However, the Japanese brand solved the problem by compensating for the soft rubber with a denser AHAR+ version, which was placed around the entire perimeter of the sole. The material protects shoes from rapid wear and gives a “second life” to Dura Sponge. There is an opinion that the manufacturer deliberately used a softer option, because with its help he was able to achieve the best grip and dynamics.

To strengthen the middle part of the platform, a pair of plastic plates - TPU - are built into the sole. The details do not interfere with wearing, do not squeeze the feet, and do not interfere with comfort.

Next to the arch there is a groove that plays a major role in the process of bending the sole. Also crossing the middle part of the platform is a shallow line that distributes the energy generated while running or walking.

Reference. Nimbus have always been considered a fairly stiff sports shoe, best suited for people weighing over 85 kg.

Top

Externally, the “twenty” remained virtually unchanged, remaining faithful to the classic version. However, this does not mean that products that are conservative on the outside are left without innovations and changes on the inside.

The upper of the shoe is exactly the innovation that immediately attracts attention. The “twenty” uses a special material - Gradient Jacquard Mesh. It is a seamless mesh fabric with honeycombs of different diameters, which can take on various shapes.It is thanks to the unusual fabric that the products have a unique and recognizable stylish design, which changes the pattern depending on the angle of the sneakers.

The mesh also makes the Nimbus 20 cooler than the previous model. In addition, the material prevents the formation of folds where the shoe is folded.

The original material is complemented by Fluid Fit thermal mesh. It makes the sneaker more dense without using a solid frame. Thanks to the innovative solution, the shoes have become significantly lighter and more comfortable.

Landing on the leg

The interior of the Nimbus can be described in one word - luxury. The soft coating made of high-quality material fully corresponds to premium-level shoes. Even small elements such as the tongue feel pleasant to the touch and are of the highest quality.

In the “twenty” the lacing system has been completely redesigned - now the ropes work in pairs and do not create unnecessary pressure on the foot area. This characteristic is very important when buying premium sneakers. The lacing has become more flexible, the slits have become deeper. This provides maximum freedom to bend the foot. The collar, like the tongue, is soft and lined with high-quality material. The element is made taking into account anatomical features and does not cause pressure during wear.

Depreciation

Despite the new serial number, the Nimbuses remained true to their character. They retain excellent cushioning at all levels, which is particularly soft. Damping has a good amplitude, the parameter is not excessive, but clearly above the average value. The toe-to-heel lift is the best of the line, and the midsole feel is pronounced.

“Twenty” is the best option for long runs, because the main purpose of the sole is to smooth out and absorb the energy generated by the impact of the foot.

The Asics Nimbus 20 is the perfect solution for people looking for soft cushioning, comfort, reliability, improved air circulation and quality performance.