Asics Mens Running Shoes
14th iteration of one of Asics flagship models.
Overview: The
latest version in the lineage remains true to its predecessors. If you
liked the Nimbus in the past, you will like this one too. While Asics
claims to have made a significant number of changes to the new model,
most are superficial. The primary differences are:
Asics Mens Running Shoes
(1) a slightly narrower profile (meaning the soul does not flair out as
much), though the toe box retains about the same interior width for your
toes;
(2) weight has been reduced by about 4 ounces per pair, while cushioning remains as good as ever; and
(3) flashier colors have been added to suggest a more premium line.
Asics Mens Running Shoes
In addition to the more subtle blue/black version, the original
release includes two jazzier color combinations: a neon yellow / blue
and a black / "digital neon." (If past models are any indication, more
color combinations through the year.)
Asics Mens Running Shoes
Brief Background: I am 6'1", 175, and run three to seven miles several
days a week - primarily on city streets and paved running trails,
sometimes on the treadmill. Once or twice a year I will train up to the
half-marathon to full-marathon level for a short window, but running is
generally part of my cross training program. The Nimbus 14s are
probably my 7th or 8th version to run in of the Nimbus line. (I also
periodically buy a set of Kayanos, but prefer the Nimbus for their
slightly higher level of cushioning.)
Asics Mens Running Shoes
About Asics: For years Asics has had two popular models: the Kayano
(now on its 18th iteration) and the Nimbus. These were the models that
first regularly broke the $100 per pair mark. Now, so many iterations
later, they are retailing for $140 - $150 per pair. To up the ante
Asics has added additional designs such as the super premium Kinsei line
that is $180+ and the Cirrus, a line aimed at people moving towards a
flatter soul (read: natural running a la the 5 Fingers crowd).
(Beginning with the last iteration, 13, the Nimbus was already beginning
to lower its heal, so the line is keeping pace with evolving trends,
but at a more subdued rate.) While I can't speak to the Cirrus line, I
have looked at the Kensei line. Though others may disagree, the Kensei
strikes me as a Kayano rapped in techno lizard skin. Not that I don't
like techno lizard skin, it just appears they are more flash than
"superior engineering," regardless of price differential. For most
runners, the Kayano and Nimbus will likely retain their place as the
real workhorses in the stable for training or exercise.
Asics Mens Running Shoes
The Nimbus: For anyone new to Asics or the Nimbus line in particular,
the shoe is particularly well-suited for those with a "neutral" gate and
slightly higher arches - there is greater cushioning for the arches.
If you are a high-mileage runner (running 25 miles or more a week)
optimizing for comfort over absolute speed, this is an excellent shoe to
train in to avoid injuries. Running on a treadmill or anything short
of hard cement and you will feel like you are running on soft earth.
Asics Mens Running Shoes
Number 14: With respect to the specific changes for 20xx:
(1)
The weight loss is noticeable. The new shoes feel slightly lighter.
It is more evident in the hand than on the foot, but the slight
reduction in weight will certainly feel better in those last miles.
They also seem slightly airier. This may not be good in the cold, but
for running in warm weather it is a plus.
Asics Mens Running Shoes
