ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 vs HOKA Bondi 9
Both made our Best Cushioned Running Shoes shortlist, at #1 and #2. Here's how they differ and who each one suits.
- BuyOnceRight Research Desk
- Updated
- 4 min read
Quick verdict
Choose the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 if you want very soft, maximum cushioning. Choose the HOKA Bondi 9 if you'd rather have maximum cushioning in HOKA's line. Overall we rank the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Cushioned Running Shoes list.
Winner overall: ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 vs HOKA Bondi 9 compared
Every difference that matters, in one table.
| Attribute | ||
|---|---|---|
| Our ranking | #1 of 5 in Best Cushioned Running Shoes | #2 of 5 in Best Cushioned Running Shoes |
| Pick label | Most cushioned | |
| Brand | ASICS | HOKA |
| Key features | Neutral; Maximum cushioning; FF BLAST PLUS ECO + PureGEL | Neutral; Maximum cushioning; Supercritical EVA midsole |
| Biggest strength | Very soft, maximum cushioning | Maximum cushioning in HOKA's line |
| Main trade-off | Heavier than lighter cushioned shoes | Heavy and bulky for faster running |
| Best for | long runs and recovery days | recovery runs, long walks and all-day standing |
Which should you buy?
#1 pick · Most cushioned
Choose the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 if…
- Very soft, maximum cushioning
- PureGEL softens heel landings
- Comfortable knit upper for long runs
Best for: long runs and recovery days
Prefer the alternative? See the HOKA Bondi 9 section.
#2 pick
Choose the HOKA Bondi 9 if…
- Maximum cushioning in HOKA's line
- Low 5mm drop (HOKA spec)
- Stable wide base for a tall shoe
Best for: recovery runs, long walks and all-day standing
Prefer the alternative? See the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 section.
Pros and cons of each
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
Pros
- Very soft, maximum cushioning
- PureGEL softens heel landings
- Comfortable knit upper for long runs
- Made with recycled upper content (ASICS)
Cons
- Heavier than lighter cushioned shoes
- Premium price
- Too soft for runners who like ground feel
HOKA Bondi 9
Pros
- Maximum cushioning in HOKA's line
- Low 5mm drop (HOKA spec)
- Stable wide base for a tall shoe
- Wide widths available
Cons
- Heavy and bulky for faster running
- Tall stack feels disconnected from the ground
- Firmer than some expect for its size
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 vs HOKA Bondi 9: common questions
Which is better, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 or the HOKA Bondi 9?
Choose the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 if you want very soft, maximum cushioning. Choose the HOKA Bondi 9 if you'd rather have maximum cushioning in HOKA's line. Overall we rank the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 higher: #1 versus #2 in our Best Cushioned Running Shoes list.
What is the difference between the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 and the HOKA Bondi 9?
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 stands out because very soft, maximum cushioning, while the HOKA Bondi 9 stands out because maximum cushioning in HOKA's line. The trade-offs differ too: the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27's main caveat is that heavier than lighter cushioned shoes, and the HOKA Bondi 9's is that heavy and bulky for faster running.
Is the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 worth it over the HOKA Bondi 9?
For most buyers, yes: it's our #1 pick. Consider the HOKA Bondi 9 instead if heavier than lighter cushioned shoes is a deal-breaker for you.
Who should buy the HOKA Bondi 9 instead of the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27?
The HOKA Bondi 9 suits recovery runs, long walks and all-day standing, while the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is best for long runs and recovery days.