Asics Is Releasing the Newest Version of Its Everyday Running Shoe That’s ‘More Comfortable Than Ever’

The next evolution of Asics’ enduring Gel-Nimbus running franchise is just around the corner.

The Japanese sportswear company has announced a Jan. 9 launch date for its Gel-Nimbus 28 running sneaker. According to Asics, the shoe is “more comfortable than ever,” which is credit to the brand’s philosophy of kaizen, which loosely translates to “continuous improvement,” a hallmark of the long-running Gel-Nimbus line.

Asics touts the Gel-Nimbus 28 as being 20 grams lighter than its predecessor, the Gel-Nimbus 27. This is achieved through material updates including a new Hybrid Asicsgrip outsole, a new engineered knit upper and a new tongue loop intended to make the shoe easier to slip on. The heel and pull tabs have also been updated to keep weight as light as possible.

Underfoot, the sneaker’s combination of FF Blast Plus foam and PureGel technology remain largely unchanged, delivering comparable levels of comfort runners are accustomed to from the Gel-Nimbus franchise.

Asics says the Gel-Nimbus 28 is intended as a daily trainer for both long-distance and recovery runs and is ideal for runners seeking neutral support as well as those who underpronate. While not quite as advanced as some of its running shoes such as the Metaspeed and Megablast, the Gel-Nimbus 28 will offer a reliable middle ground for between-race runs.

The Gel-Nimbus line was introduced in 1999 and has been a torchbearer for Asics’ most comfortable cushioning and technologies. Only the brand’s Gel-Kayano franchise, which is currently on its 32nd iteration, has more models.

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 28 will be released Jan. 6 from asics.com and select Asics retailers in men’s and women’s styles for $170. Readers can also expect a trail version with an upgraded outsole to be released for $180. The model is available now for preorder.