ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3
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Overview
The ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 is a high-performance running shoe designed to offer a blend of comfort and sustainability. This model is part of the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite family, known for its lightweight and eco-friendly design. The Gel Nimbus Lite 3 continues this tradition with a focus on using recycled materials and innovative cushioning technologies to provide a smooth and responsive ride.
Key Features:
- Updated Upper: Features a streamlined design with a semi-gusseted tongue for improved fit and breathability.
- Eco-Friendly Midsole: Incorporates FlyteFoam technology enhanced with organically derived materials, offering a soft, cushioned ride.
- Gender-Specific Outsole: Tailored outsole designs for men and women to enhance durability and stability.
The ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and environmental sustainability in their gear. Its eco-friendly design and responsive cushioning make it suitable for a wide range of running activities.
With an average review score of 80%, it's rated just below the median rating of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3
The ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 has been well-received for its lightweight design and comfortable fit. This shoe is praised for its plush cushioning and smooth ride, making it ideal for daily running and long-distance runs. However, some users have noted that it lacks responsiveness and may not be the best choice for speed work. The use of sustainable materials and the focus on eco-friendly production have been highlighted as significant positives.
The shoe's updated upper design provides a better fit and improved breathability, which has been appreciated by many runners. The gender-specific outsole design also adds to the shoe's appeal by enhancing its durability and stability. Despite these strengths, the high price point and the underwhelming updates compared to previous models have been pointed out as drawbacks.
Overall, the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 is recommended for runners seeking a comfortable and environmentally conscious shoe for slower, recovery runs and daily training.
Updates to ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3
The ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 features several updates from its predecessor, the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 2. These include a lighter weight, an updated upper for better breathability and fit, and a softer midsole foam for enhanced comfort. These changes aim to improve the overall performance and comfort of the shoe, making it a more attractive option for runners.
Comparable Shoes
The New Balance 1080 v11 is often compared to the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 due to its similar focus on cushioning and comfort. While both shoes offer a plush ride, the New Balance 1080 v11 provides a slightly firmer feel, which may be preferred by runners looking for more responsiveness.
6 ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 features an upper made from 70% recycled materials, contributing to its eco-friendly profile. The engineered mesh provides excellent breathability and a comfortable fit, while the semi-gusseted tongue ensures the shoe stays securely in place during runs. This design choice not only supports sustainability but also enhances the overall comfort and performance of the shoe.
Midsole
The midsole of the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 uses FlyteFoam technology, which includes organically derived materials for a softer, more cushioned ride. This technology allows the shoe to maintain a lightweight feel while providing ample cushioning, making it ideal for long-distance comfort. The midsole's design is focused on providing a plush feel, which is particularly appreciated during recovery runs.
Outsole
The gender-specific outsole design of the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 offers tailored durability and stability for both men and women. This design approach ensures that each runner experiences optimal performance based on their specific needs. The use of AHAR+ rubber in strategic areas enhances the shoe's durability and grip, making it suitable for various running surfaces.
Size/fit
The ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 is known for its roomy fit, particularly in the toe box, making it a good option for runners with wider feet. The updated upper design provides a snug fit around the midfoot while still allowing ample room in the forefoot, ensuring comfort without constriction.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3, with its plush collar and foam-packed heel tab providing luxurious support around the rear of the shoe. This design ensures a secure and comfortable fit, reducing the risk of heel slippage during runs.
Cushioning
The shoe's FlyteFoam midsole delivers exceptional cushioning, absorbing impact and providing a soft landing during runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners looking for a shoe that can handle long distances and provide sustained comfort.
Breathability
The engineered mesh upper of the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 offers excellent breathability, keeping the feet cool and dry during runs. This feature is crucial for maintaining comfort and preventing moisture buildup inside the shoe.
Stability
While the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 is designed as a neutral running shoe, it offers inherent stability thanks to its broad platform and well-designed outsole. This stability is beneficial for runners who do not require additional support but appreciate a stable ride.
Durability
The use of high-quality materials and the gender-specific outsole design contribute to the overall durability of the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3. The strategic placement of AHAR+ rubber helps resist wear and tear, making the shoe a reliable choice for regular runners.
Grip
The outsole of the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 provides effective grip and traction on various surfaces, ensuring safety and confidence during runs. This feature is particularly important for runners who encounter diverse terrain in their training routines.
Who should buy the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3?
The ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 is best suited for runners who value comfort, sustainability, and a plush ride in their running shoes. It is particularly well-suited for those who engage in daily running and require a shoe that offers long-lasting comfort and durability. The roomy fit and gender-specific design make it a good choice for a wide range of foot shapes and sizes.
Who should not buy the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3?
Runners looking for a highly responsive or performance-oriented shoe might not find the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 to be the best fit. Those who prefer a firmer, more propulsive ride for speed work or racing should consider other models, such as the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 2 or the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite, which offer different performance characteristics.
ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3: What's it good for?
The ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 is excellent for road running and is particularly well-suited for long-distance runs and recovery days. Its plush cushioning and durable design make it a reliable choice for daily training sessions. The shoe's breathability and comfort also make it suitable for warm weather conditions, ensuring a pleasant running experience.
3 ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 FAQs
What makes the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 environmentally friendly?
The ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 is considered environmentally friendly due to its use of recycled materials in the upper and the organically derived components in the midsole. These sustainable practices help reduce the environmental impact of the shoe’s production.
Is the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 suitable for marathon running?
Yes, the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 is suitable for marathon running, thanks to its substantial cushioning and durable design. It provides the necessary comfort and support needed for long-distance events.
How does the gender-specific design of the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 affect performance?
The gender-specific design of the ASICS Gel Nimbus Lite 3 tailors the fit and performance of the shoe to better meet the anatomical needs of men and women. This customization enhances comfort and stability, contributing to a better running experience.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| released | ReleasedFeb 2022 | Feb 2025 | Nov 2023 | |||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 258 g W: 235 g | M: 261 g W: 244 g | M: 261 g W: 207 g | M: 269 g W: 241 g | M: 281 g W: 235 g | M: 252 g W: 218 g |
| Forefoot | ForefootM: 15 mm W: 14 mm | 31 mm | 33 mm | 33 mm | 35 mm | 41 mm |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe dropM: 10 mm W: 13 mm | 10 mm | 6 mm | 6 mm | 6 mm | 5 mm |
| Heel | HeelM: 25 mm W: 27 mm | 41 mm | 39 mm | 39 mm | 41 mm | 46 mm |
| Brand | BrandASICS | Salomon | New Balance | Skechers | New Balance | Hoka |
| Shoe Type | Shoe Type | ComfortableMaximalist | ComfortableLightweightMaximalist | Maximalist | ComfortableLow dropMaximalist | ComfortableLightweightMaximalist |
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Techs | TechsASICS Gel | OrthoLite | New Balance Fresh Foam | New Balance Fresh Foam | ||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental CharacteristicsSustainable | Vegan Ⓥ | ||||
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningNeutralNeutral pronationFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHigh archRocker |
- Feb 2022
- Jan 2021
- Feb 2020
