ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28 vs Brooks Ghost 18.
Compare a maximum-cushion road option with a traditional everyday trainer, with qualitative buyer-fit recommendations.
Choose the GEL-NIMBUS 28 for a maximum-cushion shortlist. Put the Ghost 18 beside it when a balanced everyday brief and width choice are your priorities. The better purchase is the one whose fit and platform suit your regular miles.
ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 28
A maximum-cushion road option for runners who put an easygoing training brief ahead of chasing a race-day feel.
- Use
- Cushioned road running
- Cushioning
- FF BLAST PLUS + PureGEL
- Heel-to-toe drop
- 8 mm
- Listed weight
- 281 g / 9.9 oz
- Reference
- Men’s model · manufacturer-listed weight
- Upper
- Engineered knit
Brooks Ghost 18
A considered starting point for everyday road miles, with a familiar cushioned design and a generous choice of widths.
- Use
- Daily road running
- Cushioning
- DNA LOFT v3
- Heel-to-toe drop
- 10 mm
- Listed weight
- 289.2 g / 10.2 oz
- Reference
- Men’s model · manufacturer-listed weight
- Upper
- Engineered air mesh
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The decision that matters.
The Nimbus gives you a comfort-led alternative to the Ghost’s everyday brief. ASICS lists an 8 mm drop for the Nimbus, while Brooks lists 10 mm for the Ghost. Those specifications explain part of the design difference without predicting how either shoe will feel on your foot. Compare the pair with your usual socks and insoles, and use current store totals rather than assuming one model is always the better value.
Fit is the deciding test.
Try both with your usual running socks and insoles. Look for toe room, secure heel hold, and an upper that supports the foot comfortably while you move. There is no need to force a fit because one brand has a feature you like on paper.
Use our fitting checklist ↗Your questions, answered.
Which one should I choose?
Choose the GEL-NIMBUS 28 for a maximum-cushion shortlist. Put the Ghost 18 beside it when a balanced everyday brief and width choice are your priorities. The better purchase is the one whose fit and platform suit your regular miles.
Should I choose by the listed weight alone?
No. Manufacturer-listed weights use reference sizes and can vary. Compare purpose, fit, geometry, and your preferred feel before using weight as a deciding detail.