The comfort flagships of two brands, functionally identical in weight (295g vs 294g) and near-identical in score (89 vs 88). The split is geometry: the Nimbus 26 is the traditional plush trainer — 10mm drop, 40mm heel, 22 HC foam, with a classic flexing ride and marginally better energy return (58% both measured, comfort tuning differs). The Bondi 8 is the rockered low-drop take — 4mm drop, 39mm stack, and the softest midsole in the catalogue at 18 HC. The Bondi's 99mm toebox out-rooms the Nimbus's 95mm; the Nimbus typically runs $148–$160 vs $148–$165.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 | Hoka Bondi 8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $148 | $148 |
| Weight | 295g | 294g |
| Heel drop | 10mm | 4mm |
| Heel stack | 40mm | 39mm |
| Midsole feel | 22 HC | 18 HC |
| CoreScore | 89 | 88 |
| Arch support | neutral | neutral |
| Best for | Long runs, Recovery, Heavy runners | All-day standing, Recovery walking, Nurses and healthcare workers |
| Not ideal for | Speed work, Racing | Speed work, Ground feel |
Who should buy which
Choose the Gel-Nimbus 26 if you're a heel striker or you're used to traditional 10–12mm shoes — its geometry asks nothing new of your calves and delivers premium plush the conventional way.
Choose the Bondi 8 for maximum softness and a roomier toebox — and it's the better pick if your shoe doubles for standing and walking, which the rockered 4mm platform handles beautifully.
Not sure which fits yourfeet? Answer 7 quick questions and we'll rank every shoe in our catalogue for your exact profile.
Take the 2-minute finder quiz