Brooks Ghost 17 vs ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
Both made our Best 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 Brooks Ghost 17 if you want balanced, predictable ride for most paces. Choose the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 if you'd rather have very soft, maximum cushioning. Overall we rank the Brooks Ghost 17 higher: #1 versus #3 in our Best Running Shoes list.
Winner overall: Brooks Ghost 17
Brooks Ghost 17 vs ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 compared
Every difference that matters, in one table.
| Attribute | ||
|---|---|---|
| Our ranking | #1 of 10 in Best Running Shoes | #3 of 10 in Best Running Shoes |
| Pick label | Best all-rounder | Most cushioned |
| Brand | Brooks | ASICS |
| Key features | Neutral; DNA Loft v3 midsole; 10mm drop (Brooks spec) | Neutral; Maximum cushioning; FF BLAST PLUS ECO + PureGEL |
| Biggest strength | Balanced, predictable ride for most paces | Very soft, maximum cushioning |
| Main trade-off | Not as soft as max-cushion shoes | Heavier than lighter cushioned shoes |
| Best for | beginners and all-round training | long runs and recovery days |
Which should you buy?
#1 pick · Best all-rounder
Choose the Brooks Ghost 17 if…
- Balanced, predictable ride for most paces
- Traditional 10mm drop suits heel strikers
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
Best for: beginners and all-round training
Prefer the alternative? See the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 section.
#3 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 Brooks Ghost 17 section.
Pros and cons of each
Brooks Ghost 17
Pros
- Balanced, predictable ride for most paces
- Traditional 10mm drop suits heel strikers
- APMA Seal of Acceptance
- Wide and extra-wide sizes
Cons
- Not as soft as max-cushion shoes
- Unexciting for tempo runs
- About 10 oz in men's sizes
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
Brooks Ghost 17 vs ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27: common questions
Which is better, the Brooks Ghost 17 or the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27?
Choose the Brooks Ghost 17 if you want balanced, predictable ride for most paces. Choose the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 if you'd rather have very soft, maximum cushioning. Overall we rank the Brooks Ghost 17 higher: #1 versus #3 in our Best Running Shoes list.
What is the difference between the Brooks Ghost 17 and the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27?
The Brooks Ghost 17 stands out because balanced, predictable ride for most paces, while the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 stands out because very soft, maximum cushioning. The trade-offs differ too: the Brooks Ghost 17's main caveat is that not as soft as max-cushion shoes, and the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27's is that heavier than lighter cushioned shoes.
Is the Brooks Ghost 17 worth it over the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27?
For most buyers, yes: it's our #1 pick. Consider the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 instead if not as soft as max-cushion shoes is a deal-breaker for you.
Who should buy the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 instead of the Brooks Ghost 17?
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 suits long runs and recovery days, while the Brooks Ghost 17 is best for beginners and all-round training.