It also has a wider toe-box for a roomy environment. The upper of the Asics Gel Nimbus 21 makes use of a two-layer jacquard mesh material. But more so, the fit of the upper was terrible. I actually did feel like there was a relatively smooth transition while running in the Gel Nimbus 21. Instead, I felt supported and had a little bounce in my step. But because my feet can act a bit more naturally this actually adds support. The padded tongue and the presence of the Ortholite Collar Sponge deliver added comfort while improving the overall fit.
Aside from the Gel cushioning, the Nimbus 21 features new midsole technologies - FlyteFoam Propel and FlyteFoam Lyte. Another win for the Nimbus. I definitely could have done with a half a size or even a size bigger. Although I wear a size 13 shoe, I do not have particularly large feet for that size. And their Guidance Line — a flex groove that runs down the middle of the footbed to help naturally move your foot through its gait.
After a week of warm-weather runs, my feet had no issues with overheating or breathing inside the mesh upper—though they did feel squeezed a bit right at their widest point. More than 30 years after its creation, the Gel cushioning still aims to deliver reliable shock absorption and comfortable underfoot protection. Both the Guidance Line and the Trussic system, interestingly, are subtle, at least over previous versions. As mentioned previously, this might not be the best shoe for wide-footed runners due to a limit on in-shoe real estate at the forefoot. I hate shoes that feel stiff so this gets my approval.
The Asics Gel Nimbus 21 is not as affordable as other road running shoes but it is guaranteed to be as durable as the Nimbus. Tread The tread on these shoes is decent. Alas, the Nimbus 21 gained three-tenths of an ounce 11. For a more energetic and lighter run, Asics makes use of the innovative FlyteFoam Lyte and FlyteFoam Propel technologies. The sole technology is brilliant! I felt as if my foot was snug without it feeling constrained. The ride was smooth from landing to toe-off.
The heel also adds to the support value here. One tester says the full-contact sole made the transition from midfoot to toe noticeably smooth. Likewise, the external heel counter performed admirably. It can handle a little trail but nothing crazy. Latest versions, including Nimbus 20 and Nimbus 21, provide runners with superior cushioning without adding too much weight. Overpronators tend to have flat feet low arches and their ankles tend to roll inward with each footstrike.
A new, full-ground-contact midsole gives the shoe support from heel to toe, and the burly build hugs your foot all the way around. The upper mesh aims to provide breathability and added support. My feet are of the normal width and height for someone in that size. The upper is made from Jacquard mesh and will fit snugly, allowing air to flow and keep the foot fresh as you run and run. The outsole is indeed full-length, and visibly chunky. Unlike the 19s, the bottom of my feet never felt like they were falling asleep.
The Nimbus 21 Lite-Show has reflective panels on the back, front, and sides. The addition of a new midsole foam—called FlyteFoam Propel—absorbs shock and increases durability and rebound, and a new full-contact outsole makes for a smoother, more stable ride. The toe box is wide enough to accommodate an array of foot shapes, but one tester said she would have liked a bit more height to be able to lift her toes. There is so much cushioning, but just not enough energy return. I never got a blister, but I definitely noticed pressure during runs. Compared to the Nimbus 20, the 21st version is slightly more responsive, soft, and flexible. Thanks also to the heel clutching system that holds the foot securely without compromising the snug fit.
When these went through standing snow, or sludge, my feet got very very wet on the inside. It helps in reducing moisture while also providing additional underfoot cushioning. The Asics Gel Nimbus 21 is a comfortable running shoe, more comfortable than then old Nimbus 20. Collar What can I say about this thing? The new lateral full-contact outsole provides a smoother and more stable ride through your foot's heel-to-toe transition. If the light is dim you'll still be seen thanks to the reflective detail we've included.
I converted the run to a 12-miler, loped home, and confirmed these test impressions over a week of shorter runs. My toes touch at the end of the shoes. And by firming up the cushion under the forefoot a little, it took away the sinking-in feeling I had on the 19s. In this version they have used their signature Gel Cushioning System in the heel and along the outside of the forefoot to help absorb shock on your impact. It is no longer visible from outside but it still offers the right amount of forefoot flexibility.