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Asics Gel Cumulus 23 Review (2024)

Asics Gel Cumulus 23

Published on: 02/02/2022

The Asics Gel Cumulus 23 is a traditional road running shoe, comfortable for daily runs.

The Consensus

Discover the latest release: Asics Cumulus 25!

8.9Overall score
A sturdy and effective running shoe for daily runs
The Asics Gel Cumulus 23 is a traditional running shoe for everyday training. With this new model, the Japanese brand makes significant changes while preserving the shoe’s DNA.

The sole still has a moderate stack height with 23 mm under the heel (22 mm for women) and a heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm (compared to 9 mm previously). The testers noted that cushioning provides ideal shock absorption with the FlyteFoam and GEL unit. This new Cumulus introduces the 3D Space Construction gender-specific design (inherited from the Lite line) to give a smoother ride that’s also softer on the women’s version. The result is convincing, according to the testers. Overall, the Cumulus offers a nice ride, not really springy, but not dull either. The midsole density is moderate, so it’s a good option for runners who like cushioning that’s not too firm or too soft (or for beginners who aren’t yet sure what their preference is).

The upper is simple and effective with a relatively thick engineered mesh that gives a precise and comfortable foot lockdown. Finally, as on most Asics models, the outsole features a lot of rubber for good durability.

To summarize, the Asics Gel Nimbus 23 should continue to delight the collection’s fans. It’s a good option for daily training at slow to moderate paces. Its weight is the main disadvantage with 10.2 oz/289 g (M), limiting its responsiveness and speed potential.
Comfort
9
Durability
9.5
Value for money
9
Design
7.5
PROS
  • Great comfort
  • Simple yet effective mesh upper
  • Sturdy shoe
  • Good shock absorption
  • Smooth ride
CONS
  • Heavyweight
  • The forefoot is a little too soft, according to some runners

Technologies

Outsole

  • The resistant rubber ensures impressive traction on urban terrains. It’s firmer under the heel and softer under the forefoot.
Asics Gel Cumulus 23 rubber outsole

Midsole

  • The midsole uses FlyteFoam: a lightweight and energetic foam compound that protects from shocks on the road and enhances the energy return for a more comfortable and snappier run. It’s made with a unique elastomer and super organic nanofibers to make it more robust.
  • 3D Space Construction is a structure that increases stability while running. It consists of geometric patterns in the midsole. Also, it’s a gender-specific feature that translates into softer cushioning for women
  • GEL: this Asics signature technology is a silicon-based unit that disperses shocks for plush landings.

Upper

  • The upper of the Asics Gel Cumulus 23 features an engineered mesh that offers a comfortable and secure foot lockdown while letting the foot breathe when you pick up the pace.

Facts

Technical Specs

TerrainRoad
Pronation typeNeutral
Drop10 mm
Heel stack height23 mm
Forefoot stack height13 mm
Weight (men)289 g/10.2 oz
Weight (women)258 g/9.1 oz
Release year2021

Cushioning

Softness (1-5)3 – Moderate
Bounce (1-5)2 – Low

Technologies

OutsoleResistant rubber
MidsoleFlyteFoam, 3D Space Construction, GEL
UpperEngineered mesh

Use

SpeedSlow, moderate
DistanceShort, mid, 5k, 10k, half marathon
WorkoutDaily runs

Reference: Asics’ US website

Comparisons – Asics Gel Cumulus 23 vs.:

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37

The Pegasus has a thicker sole, although the ride is firmer, according to the testers. It’s lighter than the Nimbus with 0.7 oz/20 g less weight. However, the outsole of the Nimbus has more rubber, which can make it more durable. For the rest, it’s a matter of personal preference.

Asics Gel Nimbus 23/24

See the side-by-side comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does this road running model fit true to size?

Yes, this shoe fits regularly. Indeed, for now, users who tested it confirmed that the Asics Gel Cumulus 23 fits true to size. Therefore, you can buy your usual size for running shoes. However, if this your very first pair of Asics shoes, it’s recommended to test them in a shop to be sure.

I have overpronation. Are these shoes adapted for me?

Yes, this shoe should be suitable for all people. Indeed, it’s a neutral running shoe. As such, it aims to suit all runners regardless of their pronation type. It’s not equipped with stability aids to correct the movement and reduce overpronation. At any rate, it’s important to note that running shoes for overpronation are not a better choice than neutral shoes to prevent injury. Accordingly, we recommend choosing your running shoes according to their comfort, the most critical criterion. TLDR: you can use these shoes even if you overpronate, provided they are comfortable.

Is this a shoe for heavyweight athletes?

Yes, this shoe is suitable independently of your weight. Indeed, The Asics Gel Cumulus 23 has a 23 mm heel stack height, which is enough to support most people, so you can run with it even if you’re heavyweight.

Is this model a good choice to run a marathon?

This Asics road shoe is quite versatile and is very suitable for daily workouts. As for the marathon, it mainly depends on your preferences. It’s best to integrate it into your training to ensure no discomfort or pain during your long runs.

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin is the founder and editor of Runner's Lab. He started running in 2015 and completed his first marathon in Rotterdam in 2016. He's also worked for Under Armour from 2016 to 2018 and helped launch their running collection in Europe (in particular the HOVR shoes). In addition, Kevin is a 300-hour certified yoga teacher (Sivananda) and uses this experience to run more mindfully with a focus on well-being over performance.

1 thought on “Asics Gel Cumulus 23”

  1. Reviewer: supinator, high arches, but low instep and narrow feet. Supremely comfortable upper suited for narrow feet. Fits half size small. Very soft full-length and uniformly even cushioning which is very comfortable but combined with extensively segmented rubber outsole and hollowed out foam midsole for exceptional flexibility significantly compromises overall stability, and especially in the heel area, which is even more exaggerated if you are a heel striker; you can feel the lumpy segmented outsole. This shoe is best suited for completely neutral gait and lower to average body weight. Good for standing, okay for running, but terrible for any extended walking as foot tends to slide forward because of the rather linear 10 mm heel-toe drop and forefoot cushioning is also very soft, forcing the toes to do most of the work lifting off rather than the ball of the foot. Attractive jacquard mesh pattern tends to get dirty easily and is not very abrasion resistant.

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