A ‘flying ’ running machine

The lesser-known stability shoe from Asics delivers form and cushioning for runners, writes Amir Zaki

WHEN it comes to stability shoes from this Japanese brand, the Gel-Nimbus (in its 19th reincarnation) is the lesser-known brother of the Gel-Kayano which has enjoyed tremendous success.

Having worn a Gel-Kayano 22 before trying on the Gel-Nimbus 19, I can safely say that as a runner with a slight foot arch, this one gives me a more comfortable ride.

During my initial 7km run in it, it felt quite hard on the foot initially but after some running, the outer sole material not only provided cushioning and stability, it also helped propel me forward. Running became seamless and economical without having to push myself forward too much.

According to the brand, the Gel-Nimbus 19 “has received improvements in multiple functions to deliver a lightweight and comfortable shoe for neutral runners and underpronators without compromising on responsive cushioning.”

CUSHIONING AND SUPPORT

As a runner who is on the heavier side, I find the support and cushioning adequate to support both my weight and the constant pounding on the road. Some shoes are too hard on the knees and others come with cushioning that borders on spongy, but this one is perfect.

“Every season, we strive for continuous improvement in our footwear so runners can experience a more comfortable ride,” says Asics Asia managing director Yogesh Gandhi.

“With the upgrades to the shoe, we are providing improved lightweight and cushioning, and upgraded technologies for loyal customers.”

The second time I wore it for a run, it felt even better (after adjusting the shoelaces to loosen the grip slightly).

The responsiveness of the shoe is possible thanks to Asics’ FlyteFoam midsole technology which gives runners better protection and responsiveness from a light material. As someone who lands on his midsole, this makes running comfortable, especially after a few kilometres. The shoe starts moulding to my feet, steps become more stable and my run becomes much more comfortable.

Some reviewers say the shoe is so comfortable it doesn’t even need a breakin period.

TOEBOX ISSUE

The downside of this shoe is its super-tight toebox. On its website, the company has indicated that customers should go half a size up, but I feel that doesn’t solve the problem.

I read reviews that this edition’s toebox is even smaller than its predecessor’s so those with wide feet need to heavily adjust their laces so feet fit snugly, not tightly into the shoes.

There are different widths available in different markets but, my shoe box does not state the width of my Gel-Nimbus 19. My previous Gel-Kayano 22, however, is a 2E (wide) although it feels very narrow compared to my New Balance 1260V6, which has the same width. So if this is also a 2E, then Asics running shoes are really meant for those with narrow feet.

As someone who lands on his midsole, this makes running comfortable, especially after a few kilometres. The shoe starts moulding to my feet, steps become more stable and my run becomes much more

comfortable.