ASICS is on a really crazy trajectory this year with a lot of different models coming out. While they are on track to introduce some new and innovative models, they are also sticking to what they have always been good at. In this case, we look at the Cumulus 22 which is designed to deliver a soft ride and a highly flexible experience for everyday runners. They have some nice tweaks to the upper and then bolted on their new midsole tech, so let’s see how it runs.
Quick Details, Specs, and Availability
- Sports a fully updated upper and their all-new FlyteFoam midsole.
- Weighs in at 10.1oz or 286g for a US Men’s 9.
- Has 23mm of cushion and a 10mm heel/toe drop.
- Billed as a Neutral Road shoe that is both soft and flexible.
- Retails at $120.00 USD and comes in 8 colors for Men and Women.
Run Test
So first off, can I just say this definitely feels like a full revamp of the Cumulus platform even if it might not be. The shoe out of the box feels noticeably lighter than the prior version, so this huge plus. It sports the standard 10mm drop that ASICS seems to have adopted as a standard and 23mm of cushion. The nicest part of the shoe, at least at first, is that these things don’t necessarily feel like an ASICS of old… there is something new here.
The upper is fantastic on here, so much more breathable and functional than before and the styling is also really well done. Honestly, lots of solid looks to choose from here. The tongue is lightly padded and the same feeling continues around the heel collar and then beefs up a bit at the back. It is super comfy. The subtle overlays do provide a bit of midfoot stability, so all in all… really solid upper.
The midsole uses their new FlyteFoam which is lighter and softer than prior iterations, but is also responsive with a nice bounce. The 23mm of cushion is good, we would of course love a bit more, but there is plenty here. They have also added their GEL into the heel so recreational heel strikers will rejoice. One thing we would love to see changed is the offset, this 10mm drop thing is just too aggressive in our mind so would love it if ASICS started consider 6 or 8mm on some of their shoes.
The outsole has plenty of their specially designed rubber with flexible grooves under the forefoot. This makes it easier for the foot to flex during run and follow natural movement. A separate firmer heel helps with both durability and transition. It tracks well on the road and rain does nothing to stop you.
Construction: Upper
The new upper on the Cumulus 22 is an updated engineered mesh which is 3D printed and is designed to increase support at the front of the foot while also remaining highly comfortable. The toebox has a decent amount of width, but wider feet should expect some rubbing on the lateral side (aka your pinky toe).
close up on the engineered mesh, white version GETS dirty quick. 
The padded tongue and heel collar. Plush. 
Asics Cumulus 22 from the front 
Asics Cumulus 22 from the back
Construction: Midsole
The midsole uses their new FlyteFoam Propel technology which is designed to provide more energy return and a nice amount of bounce. Like many other models it also includes an additional layer of GEL in the forefoot and rear foot. There is 23mm of cushion in the heel here so expect decent cushion, but with an aggressive 10mm drop this means the forefoot only has 13mm of cushion. We’d love to see these get a reduced drop, but 10mm is standard for all ASICS so the solution here would be a few additional mm of cushion.
Midsole – lateral front 
Midsole – lateral rear 
Midsole – medial rear 
Midsole – medial front
Construction: Outsole
The outsole follows ASICS standard model and uses their high abrasion rubber (AHAR) material placed at key spots along the sole for maximum traction and durability. The grip on here is very solid and it takes quite a while to breakdown, so we can attest to these materials. This extra rubber does contribute to the weight a bit, hence these landing over 10oz.
Asics Cumulus 22 1
Style & Aesthetics
The Cumulus 22 has a very ASICS looks to it, most of their shoes you could see without the logo and you would still know what brand it was right away. It also comes in 8 color options which are amazing and overall this thing is a really nice looking mix of colors and materials visually.
Overall Conclusion
We really have very few complaints when it comes to the ASICS Cumulus 22. If you are a historical Cumulus fan, then all the updates here make it an easy upgrade and you’ve got color options galore. If you want to check out the ASICS brand and you like a relatively simple soft and flexible shoe, then it is definitely a good gateway shoe. It can be used at most distance levels, but a bit more cushion would be appreciated for marathon level running. Also, we would love to see the 10mm drop reduced a bit, but this might just be part of ASICS recipe.
Learn more on the ASICS website
Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
