When you’re looking for a daily trainer that can handle everything from recovery walks to long weekend runs, two names inevitably surface: the ASICS GEL-Nimbus and the Hoka Clifton.
The Nimbus 27 is ASICS’ latest pinnacle of “cloud-like” comfort, while the Hoka Clifton 9 has solidified its place as a versatile, reliable classic. If you’re standing in a running store trying to choose between these two, here is how they stack up.
1. The Cushioning: Deep Plush vs. Snappy Soft
This is the heart of the comparison.
The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27 is a true maximalist. It features an increased stack height (43.5mm in the heel) packed with FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam and the signature PureGEL™ in the rearfoot. The sensation is one of deep, premium vibration dampening. It’s slightly firmer and “snappier” than previous versions, making it feel stable even with all that foam.
The Hoka Clifton 9 uses a compression-molded EVA foam that is famously lightweight and bouncy. While it has less stack height than the Nimbus 27 (32mm vs 43mm), it feels more “nimble.” It’s a softer, more traditional plushness that doesn’t feel quite as “tall” as the ASICS.
2. The Ride: Natural vs. Rocker
The Hoka Clifton 9 features the iconic Early Stage Meta-Rocker. This design is meant to roll you forward, making the transition from landing to toe-off feel effortless. If you find your legs feeling heavy toward the end of a run, this “rolling” sensation is a lifesaver.
The Nimbus 27 offers a more traditional, stable ride. While it does have a subtle rocker, it prioritizes a “natural” foot strike. With its wider base, the Nimbus 27 feels incredibly secure, making it a better choice if you occasionally find yourself on slightly uneven roads or park paths.
3. Fit and Upper
- ASICS Nimbus 27: Features a premium engineered jacquard mesh. The standout feature is the stretchy knit tongue, which provides a luxury, sock-like lockdown that is hard to beat. It fits true to size and is very accommodating.
- Hoka Clifton 9: Known for its “bucket seat” fit where your foot sits slightly inside the midsole for stability. It’s breathable and light, though some runners with wider midfoots find Hoka’s standard fit a bit snug (luckily, it comes in Wide).
4. Durability and Value
The ASICS Nimbus 27 utilizes the Hybrid ASICSGRIP™ outsole, a blend of high-grip and high-abrasion rubber. Historically, the Nimbus is a “tank” that can easily last 700-900 kilometers.
The Hoka Clifton 9 has improved its rubber coverage on the outsole to prevent the foam from shredding, but it generally has a slightly shorter lifespan than the ASICS, especially if you are a heavy heel striker.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Go with the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27 if:
- You want the absolute maximum amount of premium cushion underfoot.
- You prefer a more traditional, stable “running shoe” feel.
- You value a high-quality knit upper and a plush, stretchy tongue.
Go with the Hoka Clifton 9 if:
- You want a lighter shoe that feels faster on your feet.
- You love a rocker sole that helps “roll” you through your gait.
- You want a versatile trainer that works just as well for walking as it does for running.
👉 Check price on amazon – ASICS GEL-Nimbus and the Hoka Clifton
Both shoes are world-class cruisers. The choice ultimately comes down to whether you want to sink into your miles or bounce through them.
