Shoe Review: ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite 2

The ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite 2 takes lightweight cushioning to the next level.

Building on the success of the original Nimbus Lite, the latest model has a sleeker look and feel atop the same cushy ride. The Nimbus Lite 2 is loaded with a full bed of ASICS’ FlyteFoam and GEL technology for a super soft underfoot feel that doesn’t weigh you down.

Fleet Feet reviewers love the breathable mesh upper and secure fit, as well as ASICS’ commitment to using recycled and sustainable materials.

If you’re in the market for a lightweight, max-cushioned shoe, the ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite 2 fits the bill. Here’s what Fleet Feet runners thought.

Comfort comes first when you wear a shoe for most of your miles, and the ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite 2 is as comfortable as they come.

It provides an easy fit that should work for a lot of runners. Designers created a roomy forefoot that’s fairly straight, which keeps your big toe in a comfortable, neutral position, and the midfoot is snug and secure.

The upper is made from a single layer of mesh that’s lightweight and well-ventilated. It alternates between a tighter and more open pattern, which lets air in and adds durability to high-wear areas, like over the big toe.

“It breathes really well but doesn’t feel flimsy,” says one tester.

The tongue adds midfoot snugness. It’s sewn onto two elastic straps—one on each side—to create a semi-bootie fit.

An internal heel counter creates a locked-in fit that’s topped with cushy padding and soft fabric. And, a standard lacing system with five eyelets up each side top it off (an empty sixth eyelet gives you the ability to customize your lacing for a better fit).

Fleet Feet runners say the best parts of the Nimbus Lite 2 is that it fits well and feels good. It doesn’t require much thought to get a comfortable fit.

“It’s comfortable, it does its job and you don’t have to think too much about it,” says one reviewer. And that, we think, is a sign of a good fit.

ASICS packed the GEL-Nimbus Lite with a lot of foam.

Like the original ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite, the new model uses FlyteFoam midsole technology engineered with cellulose nanofibers, which is a byproduct of sugar cane processing. ASICS says the elastic nanofibers help make the midsole foam more durable while also being more sustainable than traditional components.

While testers love the sustainability story, it wouldn’t mean much if it didn’t feel good. The good news is that testers also love how it rides.

“The Nimbus Lite 2 is super soft,” one tester says. “It feels really comfortable underfoot, and it’s not heavy or bulky. It’s everything I want for my everyday miles and even some faster runs.”

It’s also a neutral running shoe, so there’s no extra hardware or different foam to mitigate the effects of overpronation. (Runners looking for a stability shoe with a similar feel should check out the ASICS GEL-Kayano Lite.)

Keeping a neutral ride means the Nimbus Lite 2 has consistent cushioning from heel to toe. The midsole shape offers full ground contact. That, coupled with a flexible midfoot, creates a smooth transition from heel to toe.

One reviewer says most runners will find a comfortable stride in the Nimbus Lite 2.

“I think this will be a great shoe for a wide range of runners,” he says. “It’s light and soft, and it should be comfortable whether you land heel or midfoot first.”

It’s built to last, too, with durable rubber beneath the shoe.

Still, you’ll see and feel a few differences when you compare the original ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite and the GEL-Nimbus Lite 2, but the cushy experience remains the same.

If you compare the two shoes side by side, you’ll see a clear change in the look.

ASICS updated the Nimbus Lite 2 with a more forward-leaning stance. Designers extended the cushioning behind the heel and just tweaked the shape of the forefoot.

The look of the new version doesn’t change the shoe’s everyday feel, though. It’s still an easy-wearing trainer, just with a sleeker, more modern aesthetic.

Underneath, ASICS updated the rubber outsole. The new outsole uses less rubber than the old version for a lower profile look and feel.

Runners who want maximum cushioning with minimum weight will like the ASICS GEL-Nimbus Lite 2.

The Nimbus Lite 2 has a big FlyteFoam midsole that boasts full ground contact for a buttery transition, while a lightweight mesh upper breathes easily and doesn’t add any unnecessary weight.

Fleet Feet reviewers say it’s soft, comfortable and versatile.

“This shoe is the perfect blend of performance and comfort,” says one reviewer. “They’re light and bouncy enough to go fast, but plush and secure enough to put in the brunt of your maintenance miles.”

Still not convinced? Don’t sweat it. Fleet Feet's return policy means you can test drive your shoes and gear without risk. If you’re not happy with the way your gear performs, looks or fits, we’ll take it back within 60 days. Plus, you’ll get free shipping on orders over $99 and free return shipping on all fleetfeet.com orders. That's our Happy Fit Guarantee.