Verdict from 16 experts and +100 user reviews
8 reasons to buy
- Many users mention that it’s easy to move and run when wearing the Asics Gel Cumulus 22.
- Numerous runners said that it is softer and more comfortable than its predecessors.
- A few users praise the outsole’s durability.
- This shoe is flexible, according to some consumers.
- Several commenters testify that this running partner is lightweight.
- It is supportive, based on reviews.
- The Gel® cushioning allows for soft and easy landings, said some buyers.
- A couple of purchasers mention that this shoe is well-ventilated.
2 reasons not to buy
- One tester noticed that the Asics Gel Cumulus 22 is a bit narrow.
- A user found the heel construction a little irritating and impeding.
Bottom line
Tip: see the best running shoes.
Expert reviews:
- 96/100 by JackRabbit
- 92/100 by Running Northwest
- 91/100 by Fueled by LOLz
- 91/100 by Fleet Feet
- 96/100 by Sportitude
- 93/100 by Road Runner Sports
- 88/100 by Road Trail Run
- 80/100 by Running Shoes Guru
- 90/100 by Believe in the Run
- 88/100 by Canadian Running Magazine
- 90/100 by Running Warehouse
- 83/100 by RunningXpert
User reviews:
- 4.6/5 by Amazon (+500)
- 4.6/5 by Amazon UK (+500)
- 4.4/5 by Zappos (+200)
- 4.5/5 by REI (+100)
- 4.7/5 by Asics (3)
- 3.7/5 by Very (3)
- 4.5/5 by Jack Rabbit (2)
- 5/5 by Holabird Sports (2)
- 5/5 by SportsShoes (2)
Video reviews
Our reviews
I’ve tested Asics shoes before, however, not the Cumulus. I wanted to see what the ride would be like in one of the most popular Asics shoes. Together with the Nimbus and the Kayano, it is probably the most popular and well-known shoe in the Asics collection. And just like the Nimbus, it is on its 22nd edition.
The Cumulus 22 is a neutral running shoe and has a 31 mm heel stack and a 21 mm forefoot stacking giving it a 10 mm drop.
It weighs 215 grams and thus a bit lighter than the previous version, which weighs 241 grams. I’m pretty surprised by the low weight of this shoe given the amount of rubber on the outsole and the gel in the midsole.
Upper
Quite a few things have changed about this shoe compared to the Cumulus 21, including the upper. The upper has been updated in the 22nd version, and it looks sleeker. It’s a seamless Jacquard mesh upper with 3D printed overlays.
There is medium padding in the tongue and plush padding in the heel. There is a regular lacing system with an extra eyelet if you need it.
Midsole
Asics has worked on a smoother heel to toe transition in this version. The midsole is 2 mm thicker than in the previous version, which makes for a bit of a softer ride.
The midsole is made up out of two midsole materials, FlyteFoam, which is a softer foam and FlyteFoam Propel which gives more energy return.
Something that hasn’t changed in this edition is the well known Asics Gel in the heel, which is good for all the heel strikers out there. There is also some Gel in the forefoot embedded in the midsole.
Outsole
There are more flex grooves in the forefoot on the 22 than on the 21, which makes this version more flexible. The Guidance Line in the middle of the outsole on the 22 is smaller than in the 21, which also helps with the smoother heel to toe transition.
On the outsole of the Cumulus 22 Asics has used AHAR+ (Asics High Abrasion Rubber +) which is 50% more durable than the AHAR found in the previous version.
Comparison
Asics Cumulus 22 vs. Asics Nimbus 22
The Nimbus is heavier 255 versus 215 grams of the Cumulus and has a higher drop, 13 mm versus 10 mm. The Cumulus is more flexible in the midsole, outsole and upper.
The Cumulus also has a smoother heel to toe transition, and the weight distribution is more evenly distributed than in the Nimbus. The Nimbus is quite heavy in the heel due to the large amount of Gel and therefore needs to be higher drop.
Asics Cumulus 22 vs. Saucony Ride 13
The Ride 13 is a bit less flexible than the Cumulus, and it has a lower drop, 8 mm instead of 10 mm. The midsole of the Cumulus is a bit more plush, while the forefoot of the Ride 13 has a bit more ground feel.
The uppers are pretty comparable to one another, although that of the Cumulus is a bit more stretchy.
Asics Cumulus 22 vs. Reebok Forever Floatride Energy 2
The upper of the Reebok is a bit unstable, but the midsole material really helps you pick up the pace and gives you more ground feel compared to the ride of the Cumulus 22.
The Cumulus is the better option for heel strikers or medium to long runs, while the FFE2 is better for shorter to medium distances and picking up the pace.
Asics Cumulus 22 vs. Brooks Ghost 12
Both good everyday running shoes, but the Ghost had some issues with the transition from the DNA Loft foam to the BioMoGo foam. Meanwhile, the Cumulus provides a smooth ride by blending the two midsole material more.
The Ghost is also a bit heavier and has a 12 mm drop versus the 10 mm drop of the Cumulus.
Conclusion
The Cumulus 22 is a great everyday trainer that is soft enough for medium to longer distances, but you can also pick up the pace in them if you would like to.
Compared to the Nimbus 22 it is a bit more of a versatile shoe, since it’s a bit lighter and also has the FlyteFoam Propel midsole material besides the regular FlyteFoam. I would keep this shoe in my rotation for those medium runs with maybe some accelerations.
Good to know
- Asics Gel Cumulus 22 is the newest addition to one of the most popular Asics neutral running shoe line, which is known for providing a healthy blend of comfort, durability, and support. This road running shoe features a completely new design that aims to provide a softer, more flexible, and more comfortable ride.
- This Asics running shoe makes use of a 3D printed mesh top for enhanced forefoot support and long-lasting comfort. The mesh also provides breathability and keeps the foot dry and comfortable for an extended period.
- The designers incorporated the improved version of the FlyteFoam® midsole technology to deliver a soft and pillowy underfoot comfort. This midsole material also allows for an easier transition from midstance to toe-off.
- The Asics High Abrasion Rubber or AHAR® outsole is also used to provide durability. Compared to its previous version, the Asics Gel Cumulus 21, the outsole unit of the Gel Cumulus 22 now utilizes more flex grooves for enhanced flexibility and traction. The updated midsole and outsole sections are responsible for providing a lighter and more efficient running experience.
Several factors affect the fit of the Asics Gel Cumulus 22. This includes the traditional lacing system that offers a secure and adjustable in-shoe fit. Other elements are the Ortholite® sockliner, padded tongue, and cushioned collar. These components are used to provide a snug fit and a high level of comfort.
This running shoe is available in standard shoe length for both men and women versions. Consumers are welcome to get a pair in their usual sizing preferences. However, it is highly recommended to try on the shoe in-store or check the general feedback of users about sizing to ensure a pleasant wearing experience.
In the outsole of the Asics Gel Cumulus 22 is a highly durable material called AHAR® technology. These high-abrasion rubber materials are placed in the critical areas of the outsole for superior durability. It protects the foot and the rest of the platform against sharp objects and other abrasive elements. The AHAR® outsole is also incorporated in other popular Asics running shoes such as the Asics Gel Kayano 26 and Asics Gel DS Trainer 24.
The rubber outsole is coupled with deep flex grooves that help boost the shoe’s flexibility and traction. The flex grooves allow the shoe to bend and move naturally with the foot while providing an excellent grip on various surfaces.
A lightweight and responsive midsole foam called FlyteFoam® technology are integrated into the Gel Cumulus 22. The FlyteFoam® is an environmentally friendly material that utilizes organic super fibers, which help reduce packing out. This element is included for an exceptional bounce back and lasting comfort.
FlyteFoam® technology is paired with the Gel® cushioning system. This component is positioned under the heel to attenuate shock during impact and toe-off phases. It is made out of silicone-based gel that allows movement in multiple planes as the foot transitions through the gait cycle.
For additional cushioning, a removable Ortholite® sockliner is placed above the Flytefoam® midsole. This sockliner offers excellent underfoot support and comfort. It also has anti-microbial and anti-moisture capabilities that help provide a clean and healthy interior environment for the foot.
The Asics Gel Cumulus 22 is crafted with a seamless one-piece mesh upper for a smooth and comfortable in-shoe hug. The engineered mesh is a soft yet durable upper material that offers support and allows for continuous airflow. It keeps the foot dry and cool during the entire running session. A soft textile lining is also utilized for added softness and protection.
A frictionless 3D print is infused in the upper for improved forefoot support. This element delivers an excellent fit, helping the runner build mileage in comfort.
The traditional lace-up closure is featured in this lightweight running shoe. The shoelaces offer a secure and personalized fit by allowing the runner to adjust the looseness or tightness around the shoe. The shoelaces are partnered with discreet eyelets, which help disburse lace tension for optimal comfort.
The manufacturers included a padded tongue to provide added comfort. The tongue also protects the top of the foot against lace bite and prevents small rocks and debris from getting inside the shoe. A cushioned collar is also incorporated into the upper to provide maximum comfort around the heel.