I’ve been lacing up running shoes for years, pounding pavements and trails, chasing that perfect blend of comfort and performance. When it comes to max-cushion daily trainers, two names consistently rise to the top: Brooks Glycerin and ASICS Gel-Nimbus.
In this article, I’ll break down my experience with the latest models—Brooks Glycerin 22 and ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27—comparing their fit, cushioning, stability, and more. My goal?
To help you decide which shoe suits your running style, whether you’re logging long miles or recovering from a tough session.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Brooks Glycerin 22 | ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 |
| Weight | Men: 10.1 oz, Women: 9.0 oz | Men: 10.8 oz, Women: 9.4 oz |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 6 mm | 8 mm |
| Cushioning | DNA Tuned (nitrogen-infused foam, dual-size cells) | FF Blast Plus Eco + PureGel |
| Stack Height | Heel: 39 mm, Forefoot: 33 mm | Heel: 43.5 mm, Forefoot: 35.5 mm |
| Upper | Engineered mesh with 3D Fit Print | Jacquard Mesh with Dynawall fit system |
| Outsole | Durable rubber with flex grooves | AHAR rubber with flex groove design |
| Fit | Roomy toe box, medium to wide fit | Snug midfoot, spacious toe box |
| Price | $165 | $165 |
| Best For | Long runs, comfort-focused runners | Long runs, stability seekers |
| Sustainability | 18% bio-based materials | 20% bio-based foam |
My Journey With These Shoes
As a runner who’s tackled everything from 5Ks to marathons, I’ve always leaned on cushioned daily trainers to keep my legs fresh. The Brooks Glycerin and ASICS Gel-Nimbus have been on my radar for years, and I’ve spent months testing the Glycerin 22 and Gel-Nimbus 27.
I ran over 100 miles in each, mixing easy recovery jogs, long runs, and even some light trail paths. My feet are neutral, slightly wide, and I’m prone to occasional plantar fasciitis flare-ups, so I’m picky about cushioning and support.
Here’s how these shoes stacked up.
Key Features of Brooks Glycerin 22
- DNA Tuned Foam: The star of the Glycerin 22 is its nitrogen-infused DNA Tuned foam. Brooks has engineered this midsole with dual-size cell technology, which sounds fancy but feels even better. Larger cells in the heel absorb impact, while smaller cells in the forefoot give a responsive push-off. I noticed this most during a 10-mile run at an 8:30 pace—the heel cushioned my landings like a pillow, while the forefoot kept me springing forward without feeling sluggish.
- Glideroll Rocker: The Glycerin’s Glideroll rocker geometry is a game-changer for smooth transitions. It’s like the shoe rolls you from heel to toe, reducing the effort needed to keep your stride fluid. On a 14-mile long run, this rocker made my tired legs feel less taxed, especially toward the end when my form started to falter.
- Engineered Mesh Upper: The upper is a soft, breathable engineered mesh with 3D Fit Print overlays for structure. It’s like wrapping your foot in a cloud that still holds you securely. The toe box is notably wide, which I loved for my slightly broad feet, and the padded tongue and collar add a touch of luxury without adding weight.
- Wide Platform: Brooks uses a broad base to enhance stability, which is critical in a high-stack shoe (39 mm heel, 33 mm forefoot). I felt confident on uneven city sidewalks, and even when I veered onto a light gravel path, the platform kept me grounded.
- Sustainable Materials: With 18% bio-based materials in the midsole, Brooks is making strides toward eco-friendliness. It’s not a fully green shoe, but as someone who loves running in nature, I appreciate the effort to reduce the carbon footprint.
Pros of Brooks Glycerin 22
- Versatile Ride: The Glycerin 22 is a jack-of-all-trades. Whether I was jogging an easy 5 miles or pushing a 12-mile tempo run, the shoe adapted. The DNA Tuned foam strikes a balance between soft and responsive, making it ideal for runners who mix up their paces. During a 7-mile run with 2 miles at a 7:15 pace, the shoe didn’t feel sluggish, which is rare for a max-cushion trainer.
- Roomy, Comfortable Fit: The wide toe box and medium-to-wide fit were a blessing for my feet. I have slight bunions, and the Glycerin 22 gave my toes room to splay without feeling loose elsewhere. Even after 15 miles, I had no hot spots or blisters, which speaks to the upper’s forgiving design.
- Smooth Transitions: That Glideroll rocker is no gimmick. It made every step feel effortless, especially on long runs when fatigue sets in. I ran a half-marathon distance on a whim, and the rocker kept my stride smooth even as my legs screamed for a break.
- Breathability: The engineered mesh kept my feet cool during sweaty summer runs. On a humid 8-mile loop, my socks stayed relatively dry, and I didn’t get that swampy feeling some thicker uppers cause.
- Lightweight for Its Class: At 10.1 oz (men’s) and 9.0 oz (women’s), the Glycerin 22 feels lighter than its plush cushioning suggests. Compared to other max-cushion shoes like the Hoka Carbon X 3 (10.9 oz), it’s nimble, which I appreciated on slightly faster days.
Cons of Brooks Glycerin 22
- Outsole Wear: The outsole, while grippy, started showing wear after about 90 miles, especially under the heel. I’m a heel striker, so this isn’t surprising, but it’s less durable than I’d hoped for a $165 shoe. If you’re a high-mileage runner, you might need to replace these sooner than expected.
- No Heel Pull Tab: A small gripe, but the lack of a heel pull tab annoyed me when slipping the shoes on after a long day. I found myself using a finger to tug the collar, which isn’t ideal for quick changes.
- Less Plush Than Competitors: While the DNA Tuned foam is soft, it’s not as pillowy as the Gel-Nimbus 27 or some Hoka models. For recovery runs where I wanted maximum softness, the Glycerin felt a tad firmer than I’d prefer.
- Limited Stability for Overpronators: The standard Glycerin 22 is great for neutral runners, but if you overpronate, you’ll want the GTS version with GuideRails. I’m neutral, but on longer runs (15+ miles), I noticed slight wobbling when my form got sloppy, suggesting it’s not the most stable for heavy fatigue.
Key Features of ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
- FF Blast Plus Eco Foam: The Gel-Nimbus 27’s midsole uses FF Blast Plus Eco foam, a lightweight, bio-based material that’s 20% sustainable. It’s paired with a PureGel insert in the heel for extra shock absorption. At 43.5 mm heel stack, it’s one of the tallest daily trainers I’ve tested, and it feels like running on clouds during slow recovery runs.
- Dynawall Fit System: ASICS’ Dynawall technology integrates with the upper and midsole to provide stability. It’s like an invisible hand guiding your foot, especially helpful for heavier runners or those with mild overpronation. I felt locked in during a 16-mile run, even on uneven terrain.
- Jacquard Mesh Upper: The Jacquard Mesh upper is breathable yet structured, with a plush ankle collar and gusseted tongue for a premium fit. It’s slightly snugger than the Glycerin’s, but the heel counter ensures a secure lockdown, which I noticed most during late-mile fatigue.
- AHAR Outsole: The ASICS High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR) outsole is built to last. With deep flex grooves, it provides excellent traction and flexibility. I ran on wet pavement and light trails, and the grip never faltered, even after 100 miles.
- Rockered Geometry: The Nimbus 27’s rockered design aids transitions, though it’s less pronounced than the Glycerin’s Glideroll. The 8 mm drop suits heel strikers, and I found it smooth for my mid-to-heel strike pattern, especially on long runs.
Pros of ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
- Unmatched Cushioning: The FF Blast Plus Eco foam and PureGel insert make the Nimbus 27 a cushioning beast. On a 16-mile run at a 9-minute pace, my knees and feet felt protected, even on concrete. It’s a dream for recovery runs or runners with joint issues.
- Superior Durability: The AHAR outsole is a tank. After 100 miles, it showed minimal wear, and the midsole retained its bounce. For runners logging 30+ miles a week, this shoe will go the distance, likely hitting 500+ miles.
- Excellent Stability: The Dynawall system and wide base make the Nimbus 27 rock-solid. I ran a 12-mile loop with some gravel sections, and the shoe kept me stable even when I landed awkwardly. It’s ideal for heavier runners or those needing extra support.
- Plush Upper: The Jacquard Mesh and padded collar feel luxurious. During a 10-mile run, the upper hugged my foot without rubbing, and the breathability kept things cool, even in warm weather.
- Heel Strike Comfort: The PureGel insert is a godsend for heel strikers. It absorbs impact like a sponge, which I noticed during an 8-mile recovery run when my plantar fasciitis was acting up. The relief was immediate.
Cons of ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
- Heavier Feel: At 10.8 oz (men’s) and 9.4 oz (women’s), the Nimbus 27 feels heavier than the Glycerin 22. During a 5K at a 7:30 pace, I noticed the extra weight dragging slightly, making it less ideal for faster runs.
- Snug Midfoot: The midfoot fit is snug, which was a challenge for my wider feet. I had to loosen the laces significantly, and even then, it felt less forgiving than the Glycerin’s roomy design.
- Less Responsive: The max cushioning prioritizes softness over bounce. On a 7-mile run with some fartlek intervals, the Nimbus felt a bit flat compared to the Glycerin’s lively toe-off, limiting its versatility.
- Premium Price: At $165, the Nimbus 27 is a premium investment. While the durability justifies the cost, cheaper alternatives like the Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 ($150) offer similar cushioning for less.
Key Differences Between Brooks Glycerin And ASICS Nimbus
After pounding the pavement in both the Brooks Glycerin 22 and ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27, I’ve noticed they’re not just two peas in a max-cushion pod.
Each shoe has its own personality, shaped by distinct design choices that cater to different runners. Here, I’ll break down the key differences that set them apart, from foam to fit, based on my 100+ miles in each. If you’re torn between these two, this section will help you see where they diverge.
- Cushioning Technology
The Glycerin 22’s DNA Tuned foam is a nitrogen-infused marvel with dual-size cell technology. Larger cells in the heel give a soft landing, while smaller forefoot cells add bounce.
On a 10-mile run, I felt a lively toe-off that made picking up the pace (say, 7:45 per mile) feel natural. The 39 mm heel stack is plush but not over-the-top, keeping the shoe versatile for various runs.
In contrast, the Gel-Nimbus 27 uses FF Blast Plus Eco foam paired with a PureGel heel insert. With a towering 43.5 mm heel stack, it’s one of the cushiest shoes I’ve tested.
During a 16-mile long run, the PureGel absorbed my heel strikes like a sponge, perfect for recovery days. However, the foam feels firmer and less responsive than the Glycerin’s, making faster runs a bit sluggish.
- Fit and Upper Design
Fit is where these shoes really part ways. The Glycerin 22’s engineered mesh upper is soft and forgiving, with a wide toe box that let my slightly broad feet splay comfortably. On a 12-mile run, the roomy fit prevented any pinching, even as my feet swelled.
The 3D Fit Print adds structure without stiffness, but I missed a heel pull tab for easy on-off.
The Gel-Nimbus 27’s Jacquard Mesh upper is more structured, with a snug midfoot and a plush, padded collar that feels like a luxury slipper. The Dynawall fit system locks your foot in, which I appreciated during a 15-mile run when fatigue hit.
However, the midfoot felt tight for my wider feet, requiring lace tweaks. The toe box is spacious but not as generous as the Glycerin’s, which might bother runners with bunions.
- Stability Features
Stability is a big differentiator. The Glycerin 22 relies on a wide platform and balanced DNA Tuned foam for stability.
On a 10-mile urban run with uneven sidewalks, I felt secure, but on longer runs (15+ miles), slight wobbling crept in when my form faltered.
The GTS version adds GuideRails for overpronators, but the standard model is best for neutral runners.
The Gel-Nimbus 27 steps up with its Dynawall system and wider base, making it a stability champ.
During a 12-mile mixed-terrain run, the shoe kept me grounded, even on gravel.
The PureGel insert and high stack height add extra support, ideal for heavier runners or those with mild overpronation. It’s noticeably more stable than the Glycerin, especially for long-distance efforts.
- Outsole Durability and Traction
The Glycerin 22’s rubber outsole with flex grooves offers solid traction on wet roads and light trails. I ran an 8-mile loop in drizzly conditions, and the grip held up. However, after 90 miles, I noticed wear under the heel, suggesting it might not last beyond 400 miles for heel strikers like me.
The Gel-Nimbus 27’s AHAR (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber) outsole is a durability beast. After 100 miles, including some gravel paths, it showed minimal wear.
The flex groove design ensures smooth transitions, and the grip was flawless on wet pavement. For runners logging high mileage, the Nimbus outsole outlasts the Glycerin’s by a significant margin.
- Weight and Ride Feel
Weight impacts how a shoe feels on the run. The Glycerin 22 is lighter at 10.1 oz (men’s) and 9.0 oz (women’s), giving it a nimble edge.
During a 7-mile run with fartlek intervals, the lighter weight and responsive foam made it feel agile, even for a max-cushion shoe. The 6 mm drop suits midfoot strikers like me, offering a balanced ride.
The Gel-Nimbus 27, at 10.8 oz (men’s) and 9.4 oz (women’s), feels heavier. On a 5K at a 7:30 pace, the extra weight was noticeable, and the 8 mm drop favors heel strikers. The ride is plush and protective, perfect for long, slow runs, but it lacks the Glycerin’s versatility for faster paces.
- Drop and Stack Height
The Glycerin 22’s 6 mm drop (39 mm heel, 33 mm forefoot) creates a lower, more neutral platform. I found this ideal for my midfoot strike, as it encouraged a natural stride without forcing a specific landing. The stack is high enough for comfort but not so tall it feels unstable.
The Gel-Nimbus 27’s 8 mm drop (43.5 mm heel, 35.5 mm forefoot) caters to heel strikers. The higher stack height absorbed impact on a 16-mile run, but it felt slightly less agile, especially on quick turns. If you land on your heels, the Nimbus offers more cushioning depth.
- Sustainability Efforts
Both shoes lean into sustainability, but their approaches differ. The Glycerin 22 uses 18% bio-based materials in its midsole, reducing its environmental impact. The Gel-Nimbus 27 goes a step further with 20% bio-based FF Blast Plus Eco foam and a focus on CO2 reduction across ASICS’ supply chain. As an eco-conscious runner, I give a slight edge to the Nimbus for its transparency, though neither is a sustainability leader.
- Price and Value
Both shoes retail at $165, but their value propositions vary. The Glycerin 22’s versatility and lighter weight make it a strong all-rounder, though its outsole wear could mean earlier replacement.
The Gel-Nimbus 27’s durability and max cushioning justify the price for high-mileage runners, offering potentially 500+ miles of use. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize longevity or flexibility.
Who Should Choose Which?
After months of testing, I lean toward the Glycerin 22 for its versatility. It’s my go-to for mixed runs—easy jogs, long runs, or even slightly faster efforts. The roomy fit and responsive foam make it feel like a trusty sidekick.
But if you’re a heavier runner, prioritize stability, or love max cushion for recovery, the Gel-Nimbus 27 is your match. Its durability and plush ride are hard to beat for long-distance runners.
Also Read: Is Brooks Revel Better Than Adrenaline Running Shoes?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Brooks Glycerin 22 is the closest equivalent to the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27, offering similar max cushioning and a neutral ride for daily training.
Both are great, but the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27’s PureGel heel insert and higher stack height provide slightly better cushioning for plantar fasciitis relief.
Podiatrists often recommend Brooks for their wide toe box, supportive designs, and GuideRails technology (in GTS models), which help with alignment and reduce injury risk.
Conclusion: Your Run, Your Choice
You’re out there chasing miles, and the right shoe can make or break your experience. I’ve put the Brooks Glycerin 22 and ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 through their paces, and both deliver exceptional comfort for daily runs.
The Glycerin 22 wins for versatility and a lively ride, perfect if you mix up paces or want a roomier fit. The Gel-Nimbus 27 shines for long runs and stability, ideal for heavier runners or those needing extra support.
Try them on, feel the difference, and pick the one that feels like home for your feet.
