ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 vs HOKA Clifton 11
Both made our Best Cushioned Running Shoes shortlist, at #1 and #3. 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 Clifton 11 if you'd rather have soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight. Overall we rank the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 higher: #1 versus #3 in our Best Cushioned Running Shoes list.
Winner overall: ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 vs HOKA Clifton 11 compared
Every difference that matters, in one table.
| Attribute | ||
|---|---|---|
| Our ranking | #1 of 5 in Best Cushioned Running Shoes | #3 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; MetaRocker geometry |
| Biggest strength | Very soft, maximum cushioning | Soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight |
| Main trade-off | Heavier than lighter cushioned shoes | Compressed EVA midsoles lose bounce sooner than premium foams |
| Best for | long runs and recovery days | everyday easy miles |
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 Clifton 11 section.
#3 pick
Choose the HOKA Clifton 11 if…
- Soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight
- MetaRocker geometry makes easy miles feel smooth
- Neutral design suits most runners who don't overpronate
Best for: everyday easy miles
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 Clifton 11
Pros
- Soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight
- MetaRocker geometry makes easy miles feel smooth
- Neutral design suits most runners who don't overpronate
- Available in wide widths
Cons
- Compressed EVA midsoles lose bounce sooner than premium foams
- Not designed for fast speedwork
- Tall stack can feel less stable on tight corners
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 vs HOKA Clifton 11: common questions
Which is better, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 or the HOKA Clifton 11?
Choose the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 if you want very soft, maximum cushioning. Choose the HOKA Clifton 11 if you'd rather have soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight. Overall we rank the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 higher: #1 versus #3 in our Best Cushioned Running Shoes list.
What is the difference between the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 and the HOKA Clifton 11?
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 stands out because very soft, maximum cushioning, while the HOKA Clifton 11 stands out because soft, high-stack cushioning without much weight. The trade-offs differ too: the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27's main caveat is that heavier than lighter cushioned shoes, and the HOKA Clifton 11's is that compressed EVA midsoles lose bounce sooner than premium foams.
Is the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 worth it over the HOKA Clifton 11?
For most buyers, yes: it's our #1 pick. Consider the HOKA Clifton 11 instead if heavier than lighter cushioned shoes is a deal-breaker for you.
Who should buy the HOKA Clifton 11 instead of the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27?
The HOKA Clifton 11 suits everyday easy miles, while the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 is best for long runs and recovery days.