ASICS Gel Nimbus vs Saucony Triumph: Max Cushion Showdown
When you want maximum cushion for long runs and easy days, two names keep coming up: the ASICS Gel Nimbus and the Saucony Triumph. Both are premium daily trainers designed to protect your legs over high mileage. Both cost around $160. Both have loyal followings.
But they approach cushioning differently. The Nimbus uses ASICSâs PureGEL technology and FF Blast Plus foam. The Triumph uses Sauconyâs PWRRUN+ foam with a different construction philosophy. Let me break down which one actually delivers better comfort for your specific running.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 | Saucony Triumph 22 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $160 | $160 |
| Weight | 10.1oz (menâs) / 8.8oz (womenâs) | 10.4oz (menâs) / 9.0oz (womenâs) |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Stack Height | 41mm heel / 33mm forefoot | 39mm heel / 31mm forefoot |
| Midsole | FF Blast Plus + PureGEL | PWRRUN+ |
| Outsole | AHAR Plus rubber | XT-900 rubber |
| Toe Box | Medium | Medium-wide |
| Best For | Long runs, recovery runs | High-mileage daily training |
Cushioning: Different Philosophies
The core difference between these shoes is how they deliver cushioning.
ASICS Gel Nimbus 27
The Nimbus uses FF Blast Plus foam with PureGEL technology embedded in the heel. The stack height is 41mm in the heel, which is substantial. The PureGEL absorbs impact at heel strike, while the FF Blast Plus foam provides a bouncy, responsive feel through the midfoot and forefoot.
The Nimbus feels soft and plush, especially on initial impact. The gel technology dampens the shock of landing, which is particularly noticeable on hard surfaces like concrete and asphalt. The shoe feels like itâs cradling your foot.
Saucony Triumph 22
The Triumph uses a full-length PWRRUN+ midsole thatâs denser and more stable than the Nimbusâs foam. The stack is slightly lower at 39mm, but the cushioning feels more uniform across the entire foot.
The Triumph doesnât have the same initial softness as the Nimbus. Instead, it delivers consistent, reliable cushioning that doesnât bottom out on long runs. The PWRRUN+ foam holds its shape better over distance, which means mile 20 feels similar to mile 1.
Which Cushioning Is Better?
For short to medium runs (under 10 miles), the Nimbus feels plusher and more comfortable. For long runs over 10 miles, the Triumphâs consistent cushioning is less fatiguing. The Nimbusâs softness can start to feel mushy on very long runs, while the Triumph maintains its character.
Stability: Triumph Wins
Neither shoe is a stability shoe, but the Triumph is notably more stable than the Nimbus.
The Nimbusâs tall stack (41mm) combined with soft foam creates a less stable platform. On uneven surfaces or when fatigued, the shoe can feel tippy. Runners who pronate slightly or who have weaker ankles might find the Nimbus less supportive.
The Triumphâs denser foam and slightly lower stack create a more stable base. It doesnât wobble or flex excessively, even on uneven terrain. For runners who value a secure, planted feel, the Triumph is the better choice.
Fit: Triumph for Wide Feet
Both shoes fit true to size for most runners, but the Triumph has a slightly wider toe box and more accommodating fit overall.
The Nimbus has a medium-width toe box that works for average feet. Runners with wider feet might find the Nimbus snug, especially in the midfoot. The upper is well-ventilated but can feel restrictive for some foot types.
The Triumphâs toe box is noticeably wider, and the overall fit is more generous. Runners with wider feet, bunions, or those who prefer more room will find the Triumph more comfortable out of the box.
Durability: Both Last Well
Both shoes use quality rubber outsoles that hold up to road running. The Nimbus uses AHAR Plus rubber, while the Triumph uses Sauconyâs XT-900 rubber. Both are durable and provide good traction on dry surfaces.
In terms of midsole longevity, the Triumphâs PWRRUN+ foam holds its shape better over time. The Nimbusâs FF Blast Plus foam, being softer, tends to compress and lose its cushioning character faster. Most runners report the Nimbus feeling âflatâ around 350 to 400 miles, while the Triumph maintains its feel closer to 450 to 500 miles.
For high-mileage runners who log 50+ miles per week, the Triumphâs durability advantage is meaningful.
Who Should Buy the ASICS Gel Nimbus 27?
The Nimbus is the right choice if:
- You want the plushest feel. The PureGEL technology delivers the softest initial impact of any daily trainer.
- Your runs are under 10 miles. The cushioning is best for shorter to medium distances.
- You have narrow to average feet. The Nimbus fits best on narrower foot types.
- You prioritize impact absorption. If youâre coming back from injury or have joint issues, the Nimbusâs shock absorption is excellent.
Who Should Buy the Saucony Triumph 22?
The Triumph is the better choice if:
- You run high mileage. The consistent cushioning holds up over long runs and high weekly mileage.
- You have wider feet. The Triumphâs generous fit accommodates wider foot types.
- Stability matters to you. The Triumphâs denser foam provides a more stable platform.
- You want durability. The Triumph lasts longer before the cushioning breaks down.
- You want one shoe for everything. The Triumph handles easy runs, long runs, and even some workouts.
The Verdict
The ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 is the plusher, more cushioned shoe for runs under 10 miles. The Saucony Triumph 22 is the more durable, stable, and versatile option for high-mileage runners.
For most recreational runners doing 20 to 40 miles per week, the Triumph 22 is the better investment. It lasts longer, fits more foot types, and maintains its cushioning character over distance. The Nimbus is excellent for specific use cases (recovery runs, impact-sensitive runners, shorter easy runs), but the Triumph does more things well. If youâre new to running, check our beginnerâs shoe guide for more context on choosing your first pair.
For more shoe comparisons, see our ASICS Novablast 5 vs Saucony Ride 18 comparison and our Redditâs Favorite Running Shoes 2026 roundup.
Related reading: HOKA vs Brooks vs ASICS | Best Daily Training Shoes 2026
FAQ
Is the Nimbus or Triumph better for marathon training?
For marathon training, the Triumph 22 is the better choice. Its consistent cushioning holds up over the long runs (16 to 20 miles) that are central to marathon training. Pair it with a reliable GPS watch to track your training paces and mileage. The Nimbus can feel mushy on runs over 10 to 12 miles, which limits its usefulness for the longest training runs.
Can I use the Nimbus or Triumph for tempo runs?
Neither is ideal for tempo runs. Both are max-cushion daily trainers that prioritize comfort over responsiveness. For tempo work, the ASICS Novablast 5 or Saucony Ride 18 are better choices, and for race day youâll want dedicated 5K racing shoes or carbon plate racers. That said, the Triumph handles moderate tempo efforts better than the Nimbus due to its denser foam.
Which shoe is heavier, the Nimbus or Triumph?
The Triumph 22 is slightly heavier (10.4oz vs 10.1oz for menâs). The difference is negligible on the road. Both are in the âstandard daily trainerâ weight range and you wonât notice the 0.3oz difference during runs.
Do I need to break in either shoe?
Neither shoe requires significant break-in. The Nimbus might feel slightly stiff for the first 5 to 10 miles before the foam opens up. The Triumph feels consistent from the first run. Both are comfortable enough for normal-distance runs right out of the box.
Are these shoes good for heavier runners?
The Triumph 22 is the better choice for heavier runners. Its denser PWRRUN+ foam provides more support and doesnât compress as quickly under higher loads. The Nimbusâs softer foam can bottom out for runners over 185 lbs (84 kg), especially on longer runs.