Asics Nimbus Mirai 2 Preview: In Circular Motion

Asics is launching the Nimbus Mirai 2 in its ongoing mission of achieving circularity in production. Built with a focus on reducing the carbon output of shoe production, the Mirai 2 is made with eco-friendly and other recovered materials. Originally, each Nimbus Mirai aimed to emit 57% less CO₂e across its lifecycle.

Originally introduced in 2024, the Nimbus Mirai was a significant step in Asics’ journey towards sustainability. It is a goal Asics is looking forward to achieving, and it is reflected in the name “Mirai”, which is a Japanese word for “future”. It is also a goal of Asics to make a positive impact on future generations of runners.

The upper of the original Mirai was built with a single material, so material recovery is less labor-intensive. It also introduced an adhesive Asics developed that bonded the shoe’s materials for use, but was easily undone with the application of heat during the recovery process.

In combination with the FF Blast Mirai midsole made from 24% recycled materials.

The second version seeks to build on its introductory model and continue to navigate the circular journey from production, to enjoyment, to recycling, and back to the beginning of the cycle. Slight changes and updates have been made, so let’s take a look at what to expect from the Asics Nimbus Mirai 2.

Asics Nimbus Mirai 2 Specs

• Heel Drop: 8 mm
• Usage: Daily Training, Long Runs, Recovery Runs
• Weight: 9.3 ounces (Size 9)
• Previous model: Asics Nimbus Mirai
• Midsole: FF Blast Mirai Cushioning
• Outsole: ASICSGRIP and AHARPLUS Hybrid Rubber Outsole
• Available in 1 color
• Available on October 1, 2026, for $180 at asics.com

Coming in 23 grams lighter this year, the Nimbus Mirai 2 will feature the FF Blast ECO midsole, operating under the new moniker: FF Blast Mirai, created with 75% sugarcane-based material to give runners the cloud-like feel they’ve come to expect from the Nimbus.

A soft engineered mesh upper wraps the foot securely to the midsole and provides airflow to keep them cool during long runs. At least 1% of the fibers that make up the stripe embroidery on the upper will be made from recycled polyester yarn from 2024’s first release.

A generously padded tongue and heel collar complete the plush setup of the upper.

The outsole will combine the stickier performance of their signature ASISCGRIP rubber with the more durable AHARPLUS material for a blend of traction and durability.

You, the runner, are absolutely central in this experiment in circularity. Many of us already participate in our own versions. Whether we turn our old flat trainers into yardwork shoes, turn them in to the recycling boxes at your neighborhood running specialty store, or give them to those in need, we’re doing something to extend the life of our shoes beyond their intended use.

Through Asics’ return program, runners are encouraged to return their Asics Nimbus Mirai 2 when they’re eligible for retirement, allowing those materials to re-enter the production cycle and support future sustainably-produced shoes.

Each pair will have a QR code on the tongue, providing access to the return program along with instructions on how to return your used shoes. As of now, this program is only available in the U.S., U.K., the Netherlands, France, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and China.

Who is the Asics Nimbus Mirai 2 For?

With continued growth and success in Asics’ mission, it may be possible to achieve true circularity and its goal to eliminate its carbon footprint in the production of more than just running shoes by 2050. The first steps begin now, as Asics looks to replace the use of polyester materials with 100% recycled polyester by 2030, along with the expansion of the program into 3 worldwide regions.