Different kinds of running shoes can look incredibly similar, even down to the cost of the shoes. What do you do if the shoes have the same drop, design, or support?
Often times, purchasing a brand new pair of running shoes can be overwhelming and intimidating as it is, so how do you choose between two pairs that may seem extremely similar in specs and design?
In general, the Brooks Glycerin features a wider toe box with a roomier, more cushioned fit, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus offers a snug fit from the heel through the midfoot
The Brooks Glycerin features the unique Brooks’ DNA Loft foam cushioning, while the ASICS includes a gel material in its midsole foam.
The ASICS shoe also includes a gender-specific TRUSSTIC support device, which provides extra support and creates a smooth transition from heel to toe.
Brooks Glycerin vs. Asics Gel Nimbus
Asics and Brooks has been a consistent battle between runners of all skill levels. We will share a little about the differences of the two brands here. I share actual photos of the shoes I have owned, so I speak from experience.
Brooks Glycerin Overview:
The Brooks Glycerin running shoe line are a great pair running shoes for runners with a medium or high arch and a neutral gait cycle.
These shoes are designed with the innovative DNA Loft midsole cushioning for a plush fit and a responsive and durable design.
The DNA Loft Cushioning also provides neutral support and soft heel to toe transitions. In addition to the structural support of the shoes, paired with Omega Flex Grooves for enhanced shoe flexibility, the Brooks Glycerin provides a soft yet natural running motion.
There is also a special OrthoLite Sockliner and a plush interior lining to maximize comfort in each step. Brooks also implements an internal stretch bootie that surrounds the foot and moves and expands with your next stride.
Not only are there features on the inside of the shoes that help to provide comfort, support, and stability, there are also technologies along the outer structure of the shoe.
Brooks has engineered the shoe to have 3D fit print technology to provide a secure fit inside the shoe.
There is a Double Jacquard Mesh That has been engineered for strategic breathability as well as flexibility and structure. This mesh is known to be more durable than the standard engineered mesh upper designs that come with most other shoes.
In addition to the 3D fit print technology, there is also an HPR Plus blown rubber outsole that is a high abrasion-resistant rubber located in the heel for durable traction.
The Brooks Glycerin running shoes have a heel to toe drop of 10 millimeters and a weight of 9 ounces (W8) or 10.2 ounces (M9).
- THIS WOMEN'S SHOE IS FOR: The Glycerin 19 is perfect for runners who think there is no such thing as too much cushioning. The plush internal fit and soft transitions keep runners surrounded by softness. This Brooks Women's Glycerin 19 is a certified PDAC A5500 Diabetic shoe and has been granted the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
- NEUTRAL SUPPORT: Provides neutral support while offering the maximum amount of cushioning. Ideal for road running, cross training, the gym or wherever you might want to take them! Predecessor: Glycerin 18. Look for the Brooks Glycerin GTS 19 for the same style with added Support.
- SUPER-SOFT CUSHIONING: The ultimate in softness and supreme comfort, designed for runners who want pillowy soft cushioning. The Glycerin 19 with DNA LOFT offers our most plush underfoot experience yet — so runners enjoy comfort that goes the distance.
- PLUSH FIT: The plush feel of an internal stretch bootie surrounds your foot and moves and expands with your stride. The engineered mesh upper enhances the fit.
- SMOOTH TRANSITIONS: The plush transition zone makes every move from heel to toe feel incredibly soft and smooth.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Overview
The GEL-NIMBUS 22 running shoes for women by ASICS are packed full of plush cushioning and unique technologies to respond to your natural stride.
Featuring ASICS's bounciest midsole foam and plenty of flex grooves, the Nimbus 22 offers premium cushioning and smooth ride.
The GEL-NIMBUS 22 shoe is fitted with an Impact Guidance System (IGS) technology, which employs linked componentry to enhance the foot's natural gait from heel-strike to toe-off.
This is a construction technique that allows the shoe to respond well to your natural gait while the TRUSSTIC SYSTEM technology reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe.
Most ASICS running shoes employ an ENGINEERED MONOFILAMENT upper made up of a multi-directional mesh material that improves ventilation and stability.
The famous GEL technology in the front and heel sole provides cushioning in the form of shock-absorbing silicone for heavy-impact activity.
Meanwhile, FLYTEFOAM Propel technology in the midsole offers excellent in-step bounce and forefoot energy. The SpevaFoam 45 employs 45-degree full-length SpevaFoam 45 lasting material for a soft platform feel and improved comfort.
Guidance Line Midsole Technology Vertical flex groove decouples the tooling along the line of progression for enhanced gait efficiency.
This lightweight foam formulation has a special high-energy return elastomer which helps to put a spring in your step.
To ensure a great fit, there's an external heel counter that holds your heel in place, keeping you comfortable throughout every mile of your run. In addition, LIGHTWEIGHT AHAR OUTSOLE heel plug on the outsole to help you be able to run as long as you want.
This ASICS High Abrasion Resistance Rubber is a tough rubber compound used to reduce excessive wear.
The women’s Gel Nimbus shoe has a heel height of 27 millimeters and a forefoot height of 14 millimeters making for a heel to toe drop of 13 millimeters and weighs 9 ounces.
The men’s version of this shoe has a heel height of 25 millimeters and a forefoot height of 15 millimeters making for a heel to toe drop of 10 millimeters and a weight of 10.9 ounces. This great training shoe costs around $150.
- FlyteFoam Propel Technology - ASICS energetic foam formulation that provides supreme bounce thanks to a unique elastomer compound.
- Trusstic System technology - Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe.
- AHAR Outsole - Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. Placed in critical areas of the outsole for exceptional durability.
- Guidance Line Midsole Technology - Vertical flex groove decouples the tooling along the line of progression for enhanced gait efficiency.
- FlyteFoam Lyte Technology - ASICS lightest weight midsole formulation that provides continuous cushion thanks to organic nano fibers.
As a runner with narrower feet and a neutral gait cycle, I personally love running in Brooks running shoes. Brooks is a shoe company that simply focuses on running shoes... nothing else.
However, I do know that for flatter feet, ASICS running shoes models of training shoes are generally more supportive. However, flatter feet or overpronators would probably fair better in a pair of ASICS GT-2000s instead.
Whichever way your body and feet are built, these shoes are great choices for your next training shoes!
Brooks Glycerin vs. Asics Gel Nimbus - Best Uses
While these Brooks Runnings shoes & Asics running shoes might have the same or close price tag and general features, each shoe is designed slightly differently. These varying features can make a world of difference for your training.
Other Running Shoe Comparisons
Hi, Jeremy Here,
I am the the guy behind Train for a 5K. On this site, I share everything that learned along my running journey. The content I create is the running training I wish I had before we started this journey. About Me.
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API