An absorbent core for use in an absorbent article, the absorbent core extending in a transversal direction and a longitudinal direction. The absorbent core includes a fluid-permeable top layer, a bottom layer, and a central layer between the top layer and the bottom layer. The central layer may be a high loft fibrous nonwoven layer, in particular having a density of less than about 0.200 g/cc, measured at a pressure of 4.14 kPa. Superabsorbent polymer particles may be blended with the fibers of the central layer, except for one or more longitudinally-extending channels substantially free of superabsorbent polymer particles.