Asics Cumulus 20 Running Shoe Review

The Asics GEL-Cumulus is now in its 20th version, and it features several updates in its upper, midsole, and outer part of the sole. The brand promises to deliver a more responsive ride and a softer in-shoe feel as the model celebrates its 20th anniversary. This running shoe also aims to give increased comfort and a more accommodating fit.

Summary

Score: 86/100

Pros:

● Breathable and comfortable

● Seamless design offers an irritation-free environment

● Responsive and flexible ride

● Roomy toe box

● It feels light and fast

Cons:

● The outsole is not durable

● Tight-fitting heel

Updates of the Asics GEL-Cumulus 20

The upper of the Asics GEL-Cumulus 20 has been modified for enhanced breathability, comfort, and fit. This running shoe now uses a jacquard mesh fabric with enough perforations to allow efficient airflow, thus keeping the foot cool and dry. Moreover, the toe box is much broader in this updated version to accommodate several foot shapes.

In the midsole is the innovative FlyteFoam Propel technology, which aims to deliver a more responsive and bouncier ride. This foam also gives added comfort throughout the gait cycle.

Asics also reconfigured the outsole of the GEL-Cumulus 20; this road companion now has a fresh new tread pattern while the Guidance Trusstic System has been removed to promote a smoother heel-to-toe transition.

Upper

The Asics GEL-Cumulus 20 employs a jacquard mesh material in the upper to deliver maximum breathability and comfort. It has a seamless construction to reduce possible friction and irritation caused by seams and stitches.

The facade now has a wider forefoot and toe box to accommodate those with medium and slightly wide foot measurements.

The overlays on the side offer additional midfoot support while the heel counter steadies the back of the foot and keeps it in place.

Midsole

The GEL-Cumulus 20 continues to deliver a responsive ride by using the well-known FlyteFoam midsole technology. This compound is made up of organic fibers that aim to provide responsive cushioning and bounce-back throughout the run.

The performance of the FlyteFoam is further enhanced by the FlyteFoam Propel, an additional layer that offers softer and bouncier cushioning without adding too much weight. This innovative midsole technology also improves underfoot comfort.

For a more natural foot movement, this update employs the Impact Guidance System (I.G.S) Technology. It efficiently aids the foot as it moves, promoting a more satisfying performance through the gait cycle.

Lastly, the platform of the Asics GEL-Cumulus 20 strategically uses the Rearfoot Gel cushioning system for better shock absorption. This silicon-based gel helps attenuate shock during impact while also doling out some springiness to make each step more alive.

Outsole

The outer sole of the Asics GEL-Cumulus 20 is made up of two rubber materials – AHAR and DuraSponge. The heel portion is the one that houses the Asics High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR) material which is made from durable carbon rubber. This material offers longevity to the high-abrasion area while giving additional grip on paved surfaces.

On the other hand, DuraSponge - a blown rubber material which offers additional cushioning and flexibility - covers the most of the outsole’s surface. It has non-prominent tread patterns for dependable traction on the road.

Performance of the Asics GEL-Cumulus 20

Faithful to what Asics has promised, the performance of the Asics GEL-Cumulus 20 is remarkable. This road shoe delivered a smooth and responsive ride, even during long-distance runs. The FlyteFoam and FlyteFoam Propel midsole technologies suitably provided lively, reactive and protective underfoot cushioning.

The outer sole of the shoe offered reliable traction on both dry and slightly wet running surfaces and has been configured to provide added elasticity. Lastly, the removal of the Guidance Trusstic System allowed smoother transitions while giving additional midfoot flexibility.

Comfort and Breathability

The seamless design and cloth-like mesh permitted the shoe to give runners maximum breathability and comfort. Impressively, the mesh had enough perforations to efficiently allow air to flow, keeping the foot cool and dry, especially in warm running conditions. The external facade and the internal linings did not give warm sensations at all.

The underfoot cushioning also delivered all-day comfort, while the generously padded tongue and heel collar supplemented in-shoe coziness.

Fit

The Asics GEL-Cumulus 20 is true to size (when wearing thin socks). The front section accommodated the foot comfortably while the toe box allowed the toes to splay. The heel area felt a bit tight and wearing thick socks created a slight pressure on the heel. Runners who are used to wearing thick socks should get a-half-size larger to achieve the perfect and agreeable fit.

Durability

The Cumulus 20 is not as durable as the previous version, especially the outer sole which is mostly made up of a blown rubber material. After several miles of running, the outsole—specifically the forefoot area— started to rip. Remnants of the adhesive used to attach the components to one another are also visible, not just on the outsole but also on the upper.

Asics GEL-Cumulus 20 Compared to Other Neutral Road Running Shoes

Asics Gel Nimbus 20

The Nimbus 20 is one of the trendy neutral road running shoes from Asics. This neutral shoe offers breathability, comfort, and impressive performance. Compared to the Cumulus 20, the Nimbus 20 is more expensive. The two models have the same level of responsiveness and flexibility though, but the latter is markedly sturdier.

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34

Tagged as the longest-running shoe model from Nike, the Air Zoom Pegasus 34 is a good option for neutral runners who are looking for an affordable, street-ready, and well-performing athletic footwear. It features the notable Zoom Air units placed in the heel and forefoot for a well-cushioned and responsive ride. The Pegasus 34 is as breathable as the Cumulus 20, and both deliver an equal level of traction and flexibility.

Brooks Ghost 10

Its performance-driven design has made the Brooks Ghost 10 as one of the famous road shoes for neutral runners to date. Similar to the Asics GEL-Cumulus 20, the Ghost 10 also delivers exceptional comfort, responsiveness, and flexibility. It uses the notable BioMoGo DNA technology in its midsole for a bouncier feel and the HPR Plus and blown rubber materials in the outer sole for traction and durability. Lastly, this running shoe is available in medium and wide widths for both men and women.

Conclusion

Delivering the true Cumulus legacy, the Asics GEL-Cumulus 20 has never stopped making its fans happy and satisfied. Though there are issues with the durability and fit, the shoe is still a must-try. This model, with its modern design, flexibility, and lively performance, won’t disappoint when used for both long-distance and short-distance runs.