Brooks Ghost 15 vs ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25: A Runner's Honest Review

A Little About Me First

Before I dive in, here's some context: I'm a mid-pack runner logging about 40–50 km per week, mostly on roads and bike paths. I weigh around 75 kg and typically run everything from easy 5Ks to half-marathon training. I'm not chasing podiums, but I care about feeling good out there and avoiding injury. These shoes have been my main rotation for the past few months.

Introduction

If you've been running for a while, you've probably heard about two shoes that always seem to come up in conversations: the Brooks Ghost 15 and the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25. They're both wildly popular, but once you actually put them on and log some real miles, you start to realize how different they really are.

I've been alternating between both for a while now. Some days I lace up the Ghost, while on other days it's the Nimbus, depending on the type of run I'm planning. Over time, I've figured out exactly when each one feels right — and honestly, where they let me down, too. So this isn't a technical breakdown whenlab measurements. It's just me sharing what it's actually like to run in them.

Brooks Ghost 15 – The Reliable Workhorse

The first time I slipped on the Ghost 15, my thought was basically, "Okay, nothing crazy… but solid." And that feeling hasn't changed. The shoe doesn't try to wow you with extreme softness or some futuristic vibe — it just works, and that's why I keep coming back to it.

The cushioning hits that sweet spot: soft enough to absorb impact, but responsive enough that you don't feel like you're sinking with every step. I've used it for easy runs, mid-distance outings, and even a few faster tempo sessions. It never feels out of place. In fact, I've had days where I went out planning an easy jog, felt good, and picked up the pace — and the Ghost rolled with me smoothly.

Around the 10 km mark, it still feels balanced underfoot. I never get that energy-draining feeling where your stride gets bogged down. Plus, the fit is dialed in — no hot spots, no weird pressure. Just comfortable, mile after mile.

What really impressed me, though, is how tough they are. I've put serious mileage on these, and the outsole barely shows wear. The cushioning feels nearly identical to day one, which isn't something you can say about every shoe. For me, that makes it a pair I can trust on any given day.

Pros:

• Balanced cushioning that works at different paces
• Versatile enough for short runs, tempo work, and mid-distance
• Exceptional durability — built to last
• Consistent, comfortable fit

Cons:

• Lacks that "wow" factor some runners crave
• Slightly heavier than it looks
• Not the softest option if maximum plushness is your thing

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 – The Plush Cruiser

Switching from the Ghost into the Nimbus 25 is like switching from a reliable sedan to a luxury SUV. The second I put them on, the difference was obvious: the Nimbus just engulfs your foot in softness. The midsole is tall, generous, and forgiving — it honestly feels like the ground disappears a little.

On recovery days, these are my go-to. There was one morning when my legs felt completely dead from a hard workout the day before, and I almost skipped the run. But I slipped on the Nimbus and thought, "Alright, maybe just a slow jog." Ended up cruising for over an hour, and instead of feeling worse, I actually felt refreshed afterward. That's the kind of shoe the Nimbus is — it makes the tough, slow days feel manageable.

The upper is heavily padded, almost slipper-like, which adds to that "comfort first" vibe. But here's the catch: the softness that feels amazing when you're tired isn't ideal when you want speed. I've tried picking up the pace in the Nimbus, and it just feels like the foam is swallowing my energy. Around the 8–10 km mark, if I'm cruising at an easy pace, it's perfect. But if I try to push, it feels like I'm fighting against the cushioning instead of working with it.

That said, for long, slow runs or when my legs are sore, nothing beats the Nimbus. It just makes running feel easier, even when I'm not at my best.

Pros:

• Exceptionally soft and cushioned — ideal for recovery
• Heavily padded upper that feels great on tired feet
• Surprisingly stable despite the high foam stack

Cons:

• Not built for speed — feels sluggish when pushing harder
• Bulkier and heavier than the Ghost
• The upper can get warm on hot days

Head-to-Head: Where They Differ Most

Cushioning Philosophy: The Ghost gives you protection without isolation — you still feel the road. The Nimbus wraps you in foam and insulates you from almost everything.

Versatility: The Ghost handles anything from easy miles to tempo runs. The Nimbus excels at one thing: making slow, easy running feel effortless.

Durability: The Ghost is a tank. I've logged serious mileage, and it still feels nearly new. The Nimbus shows its age faster — the foam starts to compress after a while, and while it's still comfortable, it doesn't maintain that "fresh shoe" feeling as long.

Weight: On a scale, they're not drastically different, but the Ghost feels lighter and more nimble on foot. The Nimbus feels substantial, which is great for cushioning, but you notice it.

Which One Should You Pick?

Here's my honest take: it depends on what kind of runs you do most.

Go for the Brooks Ghost 15 if: you want one shoe that can handle almost anything. It's dependable, versatile, and tough. It might not give you that luxury feel, but it'll earn your trust over hundreds of kilometers.

Go for the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25 if comfort is your top priority. If you're logging long distances at easy paces, recovering from hard workouts, or you just want your feet to feel pampered, this is the one. It won't help with speed, but it'll make those slow days feel like a breeze.

Personally, I like having both. The Ghost is my all-rounder — the pair I grab when I want a solid, predictable run that can handle a little speed if I feel good. The Nimbus is my recovery shoe — the one I save for when my legs are beat up and I just want to cruise without overthinking.

Final Word

If you only have room in your rotation for one, ask yourself this: Do you value versatility or maximum comfort? The Ghost gives you the first, the Nimbus delivers the second. But if you can swing it, having both means you're covered no matter what kind of run is on the schedule.

Choose wisely. Your legs will thank you either way.