ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 vs ASICS Gel Pulse 16
On paper, compared with the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27, the ASICS Gel Pulse 16 is 60 g lighter, 2.2 mm more drop, 6.5 mm less heel stack, ₹4,400 cheaper, Ride +1.
My take
Nimbus 27 is the best max-cushion shoe but heavier. Pulse 16 is the budget pick.
 ASICSGel-Nimbus 27 |  ASICSGel Pulse 16 | |
|---|---|---|
| Scores | ||
| Overall | 7.83 | 9.00 |
| Ride | 7.5 | 8.5 |
| Design & Comfort | 8.0 | 9.0 |
| Value | 8.0 | 9.5 |
| Price | ||
| Price | ₹8,159 | ₹3,779 |
| Specs | ||
| Category | Max cushion | Budget |
| Weight | 300 g | 240 g |
| Heel stack | 43 mm | 36.5 mm |
| Forefoot stack | 35 mm | 26.3 mm |
| Drop | 8 mm | 10.2 mm |
| Foam | FF Blast Plus Eco | – |
| Plate | – | – |
| Fit | ||
| Support | neutral | mild support |
| Fit | standard | narrow |
| Sizing | – | true to size |
| Recommended runner weight | Suitable for heavy runners | 60–90 kg |
| Best for | ||
| Best for | Long runsBeginnersWalkingRunners 90 kg+ | Easy runsBeginnersWalkingRunners 90 kg+ |
| Pros | Huge impact protection for any body weight · Slightly bouncier foam, no sinking feeling · Taller toe box and more breathable jacquard upper than the 26 · Forgiving, premium comfort from the first step · Good for long runs up to the full marathon | Soft, max-cushion midsole · Very comfortable |
| Cons | Heavy at 300 g (UK 8) · Expensive at the ₹16,000 launch price · Less sock-like plushness than the 26's knit upper · Not for fast running · Not a stability shoe | Narrow forefoot · Little energy return |
| Avoid if | Avoid it if you want a light shoe for fast running or need a stability shoe. | You have a wide forefoot or want a bouncy, energetic ride. |
My verdicts
ASICS
Gel-Nimbus 27
A premium, highly protective max-cushion shoe for beginners, heavy runners and long distances, and one of my top three max-cushion daily trainers. ₹16,000 is too expensive, but at around ₹11,000 I'd pick it over the 26 without a second thought.
Avoid if: Avoid it if you want a light shoe for fast running or need a stability shoe.
Read reviewASICS
Gel Pulse 16
The best budget max-cushion shoe for beginners: soft and very comfortable.
Avoid if: You have a wide forefoot or want a bouncy, energetic ride.
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