r/runningshoes

I have always wanted more soft foam under my feet but FML...is this too much??? 🤯 🤣

Asics Nimbus Gel : 27 (yellow) Pebble Vacuum collar. 28 (green) : stiff lacing loop that digs into the skin

1. 2025: Major issue with the design of the 2025 Asics Gel-Nimbus 27 Models : Pebble Vacuum

For the past few weeks, I've been wondering why I keep getting small pebbles or sand in my socks while running. It's gotten to the point where I've had to stop several times to empty them. I've been buying Asics Nimbus Gel shoes since 2009, about three pairs a year on average. Now, I've noticed that something has changed in the design of the 27 (2025) models. There's a kind of collar around the ankle (photo 1). As a result, while pebbles flying around the foot while running were previously deflected to the sides, they're now "attracted" as if by a well towards the inside of the shoe. I'm curious to know if I'm the only one who's noticed this. 

2. 2026: Foot pain due to the lacing system of the new Asics Gel-Nimbus 28:

I bought the new Asics Nimbus Gel 28 (released in January 2026) 10 days ago. The good news: the "pebble trap" collar issue on the Nimbus 27 has been fixed. There's a minor problem: the soles are squeakers (a bit of a squeak) when I walk around my house. But there's a major issue: the lacing system (see photos 2/3). There's a very stiff loop (for durability) that digs into the skin on the top of my foot and is very painful, both during runs and when I'm putting them on at home. I tried adding some foam to cushion and protect my skin, but it's uncomfortable, and I'm afraid it won't stay in place during the Paris Marathon this Sunday.

What's certain is that for the past two years, Asics has changed its testing methods for new shoes, and they no longer meet the standards necessary for genuine customer satisfaction. After 17 years with Asics and roughly 45 pairs of marathon running shoes, I've decided to switch brands permanently. One bad year is understandable. Two bad years is suicide.

One last thing: why am I the only one posting these comments? In 2025, they were censored by Reddit for some unknown reason. But I'm surprised I'm the only one who noticed, given that these problems have existed across the entire Nimbus Gel line for over a year. Either Reddit forums are reserved for positive publicity, or in 2026, people buy Asics to watch TV on their couch?

These are brand new out of the box. I expected wrinkles but it the part above the zoom x too wrinkled? Should I exchange for a new pair