It’s been a little while since I’ve thought Asics has done great things with their running shoes. It’s not that Asics is bad, but they are using outdated and heavier material. It’s almost as if Asics is still in the flip phone stage and everyone else is using smartphones.
That being said, Asics has started to redo many of their options, including the Asics Gel Cumulus 22 as well as the Asics Gel Nimbus 22.
The Asics Cumulus 22 has been updated in several ways. The ride is similar to previous versions but it fits a lot better. If you are familiar with the Asics line, both the Asics Gel Cumulus 22 and Asics Gel Nimbus 22 fit similar.
Asics Cumulus 22 Quick Facts:
Asics Cumulus 22 Weight: 9.2 oz
Asics Cumulus 22 Heel to Toe Drop: 10 mm
A Few New Features of the Asics Cumulus 22:
- Lighter
- The Flytefoam makes for a softer and more flexible shoe.
- Seamless one-piece mesh upper
Asics Gel Cumulus 22 Fit:
The Asics Cumulus 22 has been updated with a 3D printed upper. What does this mean? All of the logos are now printed directly onto the upper material and the Asics Cumulus 22 has no seams. Most every brand has gone to a seamless upper because sometimes seams will rub against bunions or wider feet. The 3D printed upper in the Asics Cumulus 22 allows for more breathability and durable.
Asics also has a higher heel than most brands. The upper comes up higher. Sometimes people feel more secure with a higher back. It also alleviates hitting your ankle. Like all Asics shoes, the Asics Cumulus 22 comes up higher in the back.
Asics has always fit more narrow than most brands. The Asics Cumulus 22 is no different. Typically I wear between a women’s size 10-11 wide in running shoes and found the 11 to fit the best. I will say over the last year, Asics has started to fit better. They aren’t perfect but better.
Asics Cumulus 22 Ride:
As the name of the Asics Gel Cumulus 22 suggests, Asics uses “Gel” in the Asics Cumulus 22. Until recently, all Asics shoes used gel. That forefoot gel technology cushioning is now also met with FlyteFoam Midsole Technology. What is FlyteFoam Midsole Technology?
According to Asics, Flytefoam is an energetic foam formulation that provides bounce thanks to a new elastomer compound. What does this really mean? In simpler terms is a responsible yet light foam. The Asics Cumulus 22 is now lighter but still has the same amount of cushion. A common complaint with Asics in both the Asics Nimbus and the Asics Cumulus are they are heavier than similar models such as the Brooks Ghost or Saucony Ride.
Asics uses high abrasion-resistant rubber on the outsole. This high abrasion rubber is durable and there is a lot of traction in inclement weather. In fact, I think the Asics Gel Cumulus 22 is one of my favorite shoes for the inclement weather.
While the Asics Cumulus 22 is still heavier than it’s competitors, it’s lighter than what’s been. I’ve taken the Asics Cumulus 22 out for several runs, including easy runs and long runs. I think it fits best as a daily run shoe. The Asics Cumulus 22 is a shoe I can count on to give me cushion but not a shoe I’m going to PR or do hard workouts in. It’s a workhorse training shoe.
It should be noted I find the Asics Cumulus 22 one of the most comfortable shoes for just walking around in. I think it’s comfortable for standing for long periods or just walking too. If you find yourself standing a lot, you might appreciate the gel in the Asics Gel Cumulus 22.
Asics Gel Cumulus 22 Conclusion:
I am pleasantly surprised with the Asics Cumulus 22. I think Asics has done a good job with their recent shoes including both the Asics Cumulus 22 and Asics Nimbus 22. They are lighter and just as durable. Neither shoe is flashy but they are both workhorse shoes that you’ll get 400+ miles out of. I’ll continue to keep the Asics Gel Cumulus 22 in the rotation for an easy run and daily runs.
It hasn’t been until recently I’ve thought Asics has started doing a good job with their running shoes again. They fit more true to size and the durability and quality are returning. If you’re looking for a lighter trainer, then look towards the Asics Cumulus 22. If you want a highly cushioned, heavier trainer, look towards the Asics Nimbus 22.
Current Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Brooks Glycerin 18, Mizuno Rider Waveknit 3, Nike Pegasus 37, New Balance 1080 v10, Diadora Mythos Blushield Blushield Hip 5, Asics Gel Cumulus 22
Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike Pegasus Turbo 2
Long Runs: Brooks Ricochet 2 Shoe Review, New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Hoka Cavu 2
Trail Running/Hiking: Saucony Peregrine 10, New Balance Hierro v5
Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro, Brooks Hyperion Elite, New Balance fuelcell TC, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
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Questions for you:
Have you tried the Asics Gel Cumulus 22?
What is your favorite shoe?
Your note about how comfortable this shoe is to walk in as absolutely true! I love working in the office in mine, 7 hours straight on my feet.