HOKA Clifton 10 vs ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27: Which Cushioned Running Shoe Should You Choose?

Quick answer

Neither shoe is a universal winner based on the sources reviewed here. HOKA Australia lists the Clifton 10 at a lower men’s reference weight than ASICS Australia lists for the GEL-NIMBUS 27, while independent lab results show different strengths for heel shock absorption and forefoot traction. Those are source-specific figures, not Olive Branch test results. Fit, comfort and suitability for a particular runner are not established by this comparison.

What the manufacturers list

HOKA’s Australia introduction to the Clifton 10 describes it as a road-running shoe and lists an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop and a men’s reference weight of 9.8 oz (about 277 g). These are manufacturer statements from HOKA Australia’s product-introduction page.

ASICS Australia’s men’s GEL-NIMBUS 27 listing, style 1011B958-002, lists 305 g, an 8 mm heel drop, neutral support and maximum cushioning. It identifies road running and everyday easy runs as intended uses.

Both listings are Australia-market sources. Their published weights are reference specifications; Olive Branch did not weigh a matched pair or verify a local retail variant.

Independent laboratory measurements

RunRepeat reports the following results for its tested samples: the Clifton 10 measured 275 g, 12.4 mm drop, 147 SA heel shock absorption and 0.49 forefoot traction; the GEL-NIMBUS 27 measured 299 g, 8.3 mm drop, 136 SA heel shock absorption and 0.84 forefoot traction.

The lab weights are not presented as a size-matched comparison. RunRepeat’s measured drop also differs from HOKA’s manufacturer-listed 8 mm figure for the Clifton 10; the sources use different reference and measurement procedures. Keep the listed specifications and sample measurements separate. The traction numbers are results of RunRepeat’s test, not a guarantee of grip on a particular road or in every condition.

How to use the comparison

• If lower published men’s reference weight is a priority, HOKA’s listing gives the Clifton 10 the lower figure; check that the exact size and width you want are available.
• If you are comparing the cited heel shock-absorption result, RunRepeat reports a higher value for its Clifton 10 sample.
• If you are comparing the cited forefoot-traction result, RunRepeat reports a higher value for its GEL-NIMBUS 27 sample.
• Try on the exact version when fit or comfort is decisive. These sources do not establish an individual fit, medical benefit or injury outcome.
• Check current local price, stock, warranty and return terms with the seller. This comparison does not verify them.

For how Olive Branch separates manufacturer statements, independent measurements and editorial conclusions, see the Review Methodology. Browse other model comparisons in the Comparisons archive.

Sources and verification

• HOKA Australia — Introducing the Clifton 10 (manufacturer-stated intended use and specifications).
• ASICS Australia — GEL-NIMBUS 27, men’s style 1011B958-002 (manufacturer-listed intended use and specifications).
• RunRepeat — HOKA Clifton 10 laboratory review (reported sample measurements).
• RunRepeat — ASICS GEL-NIMBUS 27 laboratory review (reported sample measurements).

Source pages checked September 30, 2026. This is a documentation-based comparison; Olive Branch did not conduct wear testing, laboratory testing, gait analysis or a medical assessment. Current retail availability, price and newer model comparisons were not established.