Asics is definitely in the dramatic redesign phase this year. First, it was the Gel-Nimbus 25, and now it is the Gel-Cumulus 25. This shoe visually may seem totally different from the 24 but its purpose and performance level feel quite similar, so Cumulus fans… don’t freak out. Bottom line, the Cumulus 25 is here to give the Nimbus 25 a run for its money as one of our strongest daily trainer options so far this year. Who comes out on top it turns out, is going to be a very personal thing.
Quick Details, Specs, and Availability
- Weight – 9.4oz or 266g for a US Men’s 9, 8oz or 227g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 37.5mm of cushion and a 8mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $140 USD
- Colors – 9 colors
Performance Review
As we said, Asics is really flipping things on its head this year and in a really great way. We saw them trending in this direction with the Lite shoes before, but now they are leaning fully in. Our first look at this was the Nimbus 25 at the start of the year, but the Cumulus 25 delivers in very much the same way. It feels like a fully re-thought out shoe top to bottom and we are here for the updates. We just enjoyed wearing this shoe more than ever before, let alone running in it.
The midsole on here has a dual material construction. They are using their FlyteFoam Blast+ in the mid to forefoot, and then in the heel, they are using PureGel to soften that landing experience. This feels like a very common formula and the Asics lineup right now, but it works quite well here. The difference in the Cumulus 25 versus others is that the actual footprint of the midsole has been widened quite a bit. This increases lateral stability and ensures a surefooted run experience. Note, you also get 2mm of additional cushion on these as well giving you the plushiest thing Cumulus ever.
The upper also gets a bit of a makeover following suit from those Lite shoes before. The engineered mesh breathes really well, provides ample foot room in that toe box, and then finishes with a beautifully well padded heel and collar. The tongue also does a good job delivering enough padding to prevent lace bite, while still giving you enough room to get a proper lockdown, one of the problems with overly patted tongues, it is not a problem here.
Overall, we could go either way between the Cumulus 25 and the Nimbus 25. We actually like the Nimbus upper quite a bit more but realize that this will run cooler and that may be more pleasant in the long run. The wider footprint can also take a little getting used to, so some people are going to be put off by that a bit. It can dampen the run and make it feel a tad slower than you might expect, but for easy every day, keep it simple runs, the Cumulus 25 does deliver.
Construction and Materials
Upper
The Asics Cumulus 25 features an engineered jacquard mesh upper that enhances breathability and comfort. It also incorporates sustainable elements, such as a solution-dyed sockliner that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by approximately 45% compared to conventional dyeing methods. With added reflective details and a commitment to sustainability, this shoe is designed to enhance visibility in low-light conditions while minimizing waste and carbon emissions through its recycled content of at least 75% in the main upper material.
Midsole
The Asics Cumulus 25 incorporates the innovative FF BLAST™ PLUS technology, delivering lightweight impact absorption and a responsive rebound to enhance your running experience. Additionally, with the inclusion of PureGEL™ technology, it offers lightweight cushioning and ensures softer landings, providing the comfort and support needed for long-distance runs.
Outsole
The Asics Cumulus 25 incorporates an AHAR™ outsole rubber, specifically designed to enhance durability and provide long-lasting performance. With its robust construction, this shoe ensures reliable traction and resilience, making it a reliable companion for high-mileage runs.
Overall Conclusion
With an improved upper and a fully redesigned midsole that has a nice wide stance, the Asics Gel-Cumulus 25 is a beautiful update and we are glad they stepped away from their more traditional formula. We still prefer the Nimbus 25 a bit more, due primarily to the upper feel, but it is a close one, and the ride of the Cumulus 25 is a really easy one. If you’re looking for a little bit of comfort and a wider, more stable base, then definitely check out the Asics Gel-Cumulus 25.
Learn more on the Asics website
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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.
