The Asics Cumulus 23 is one of the longer-lasting shoes in the running industry. It’s a great option if you prefer a lighter version of the Nimbus or a more versatile shoe. This year it’s more flexible as well as softer. For a while, it felt like the Cumulus was getting too firm!
Asics Cumulus 23 Quick Facts:
Weight: 9.9 oz
Heel to Toe Drop: 10 mm
Price: $120
Asics Cumulus 23 Introduction:
The Asics Cumulus is an excellent option if you are looking for a traditional running shoe that doesn’t change much from year to year. The Cumulus is the definition of a workhorse trainer designed to be comfortable and get the miles in. It’s not flashy, but it does the work. Asics has come out with plenty of new “flashy” shoes, including Asics Metaspeed Sky and Metaspeed Edge, but this remains a true traditional workhorse.
The updates to the Gel-Cumulus 23 include a softer upper, a 3D construction zone in the midsole, and a new full-length Flytefoam.
Asics Cumulus 23 Fit:
When you first look at the Gel Cumulus 23, you might think it looks nearly identical to the Nimbus. The mesh upper is much softer and much more premium. It’s interesting because many brands are going towards a softer mesh, but Asics is one of the few that didn’t bump up the price.
My personal belief is that the best running shoes disappear off your feet. You don’t notice them, and there are no hot spots or irritation. The Asics Cumulus 23 does just that. The collar and heel tab are padded and premium. The tongue of the Gel Cumulus 23 is noticeably thicker than previous versions.
The one downside of the Asics Cumulus 23 upper is the thick and plush material holds moisture more. While it’s breathable, it does hold sweat in more.
As far as fit goes, the Gel Cumulus 23 fits slightly more narrow. Asics as a brand is a longer and more narrow shoe last. Typically in running shoes, I wear between a 10-11 wide. I’ve worn between 10.5-11 wide in the Asics Cumulus 23 over the last few years. This year the size 11 fits well.
Asics Cumulus 23 Ride:
This year, the Gel Cumulus 23 introduces a full-length Flytefoam. Since its creation, the material Flytefoam has come a long way. It used to be firm and slightly uncomfortable, but now it’s comfortable enough to add to some of their traditional trainers.
The bottom layer of the Flytefoam is now made from a single density piece of foam which makes the Asics Cumulus 23 transition from heel to toe much more comfortable. It also makes it a lot softer than previous versions. For a while, it felt like the Cumulus was getting too firm and almost like a brick on your foot. Now it’s back to being much softer.
The Asics Cumulus 23 also uses 3D Space Construction. What is that? There are small hexagonal shapes etched on the top layer of the midsole. The women’s version has it on the heel and forefoot, whereas the men’s version only has it on the heel.
Another update to the Cumulus 23 includes the flex grooves are wider and deeper. This means it’s become slightly more flexible.
Durability and Traction: If there is one thing Asics does well, it’s durability and traction. The Asics Cumulus 23 uses both AHAR+ rubber on the heel and forefoot. I’ve run on sandy trails with no significant issues. I’ve never really had an Asics shoe that doesn’t last 400 miles, and I don’t foresee the Gel Cumulus 23 lasting under 400 miles.
I’ve taken the Gel Cumulus 23 out for several runs, including long runs, easy runs, and faster runs. Like most years, it’s an excellent easy-run shoe. I don’t want to run fast in it, but it’s there for me if I need a good easy run shoe. I do feel as though I can pick up the pace better than previous versions.
Asics Cumulus 23 Conclusion:
While the Asics Cumulus 23 is not the most exciting or flashy shoe out there, it’s a great workhorse trainer. As many traditional trainers are increasing in price, the Gel Cumulus 23 stays at $120 and is one of the more durable options. If you are looking for something lightweight that can do it all, the Asics Cumulus 23 is a great option.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Asics Cumulus 23, Brooks Aurora, Diadora Mythos Blushield Volo, New Balance 1080 v11, Hoka Bondi 7, Brooks Levitate 5
Speed Work: 361 Flame, Nike Tempo Next%, New Balance Fuelcell TC Shoe Review, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro,
Long Runs: Hoka Clifton Edge, Under Armour Sonic HOVR 3
Trail Running/Hiking: Hoka Torrent 2, Saucony Peregrine 11, North Face Flight VECTIV
Races: Asics Metaspeed Sky, Hoka One One Rocket X, adidas Adizero Pro, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Saucony Endorphin Pro, New Balance fuelcell TC, Reebok Run fast Pro
You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.
Looking to learn more about running shoes? In my ebook, I talk about why you need a good running shoe, a shoe’s anatomy, neutral vs. stable, and even myths of running shoes.
Questions for you:
Have you tried the Asics Cumulus 23?
What is your favorite running shoe?