Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Running Shoes for High Arches

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 vs Brooks Ghost 18

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 and Brooks Ghost 18 score essentially the same (4.7 vs 4.7). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
Ranked #1 in Best Running Shoes for High Arches
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27
$160

The Gel-Nimbus 27 is the best-overall pick — ASICS's flagship plush trainer for high arches.

Strengths
  • Plush FF Blast Plus cushioning
  • Accommodating toe box for high-arch foot shape
  • Engineered for neutral runners
Watch-outs
  • Heavier than racing-flat alternatives
  • Premium pricing
  • Some runners find it too soft
Brooks Ghost 18
Ranked #2 in Best Running Shoes for High Arches
Brooks Ghost 18
$140

The Ghost 18 is the Brooks high-arch pick — 10mm drop and DNA Loft v3 deliver heavenly cushion.

Strengths
  • 10mm heel-to-toe drop favors high arches
  • DNA Loft v3 midsole — heavenly cushion
  • Brooks' best-selling daily trainer
Watch-outs
  • Higher drop not for forefoot strikers
  • Heavier than racing shoes
  • Standard width less roomy than Nimbus

How they stack up

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27

Most plush. Accommodating toe box. Premium.

Brooks Ghost 18

10mm drop best for high arches. DNA Loft v3 cushion. Less roomy than Nimbus.

Specs side-by-side

SpecASICS Gel-Nimbus 27Brooks Ghost 18
Drop8mm10mm
UseNeutral daily trainerNeutral daily
CushionFF Blast Plus
BrandASICSBrooks
MidsoleDNA Loft v3
← See the full ranking of best running shoes for high arches