The ASICS Cumulus 26 represents the 26th iteration of one of Asics’ longest-tenured running shoes. (The Nimbus and Kayano are longer). To be honest, ASICS has been great in that not a ton changes from year to year. You can trust shoes are going to be similar. People know what they like in the ASICS Cumulus and ASICS would be silly to change it too much. This year, there are some of the bigger updates including in the midsole, heel flare, and a reduction in weight but it’s nothing crazy. Plus, the introduction of the new Fluidride technology in the outsole aimed at enhancing comfort and traction. Anyway, let’s dive into the ASICS Cumulus 26 shoe review.
ASICS Cumulus 26 Quick Facts
Weight: 8.9 oz
Cost: $140.00
Heel Drop: 8 mm
Asics Gel Cumulus 26 Upper:
The upper of the Gel-Cumulus 26 features a soft, stretchy engineered mesh that conforms to the foot, creating a plush overall feel. I found the engineered mesh to be breathable, which is essential with the Mojave Desert summer coming forward.
The best running shoe uppers disappear off your feet and for the most part, the Cumulus does. The only potential issue arises with the higher heel counter, which may cause rubbing for some. I haven’t had that issue, but I can see it bothering some people.
As far as fit, I typically wear between a size 10-11 wide in running shoes. I found the Cumulus to fit best in size 11. If you’ve never worn ASICS before, they fit fairly long and lean so you’ll likely need to either go up a half size or at least try them on. I haven’t had issues in the Cumulus 26 but in previous Cumulus, there were some years that the toe box in size 11 was still too narrow for me and I needed even bigger. But then bigger was too long and it was just a mess. Anyway, the long story short is some may find ASICS to be too long/narrow for their needs.
Asics Gel Cumulus 26 Ride:
Following the Gel-Nimbus, the Cumulus 26’s midsole comprises PureGel in the heel encased by FF Blast PLUS ECO foam, reducing the shoe’s carbon footprint by 25%. You know I love brands that are thinking environmentally friendly and sustainable so it’s nice to see ASICS making this move forward.
The 8mm heel drop, coupled with a noticeable rocker technology, supports smooth transitions. It rolls fairly easily from heel to toe (or at least more easily than previous versions).
Where does the ASICS Cumulus 26 fit into my rotation? I’ve found it great for a daily trainer. I prefer something lighter and faster (like the Metaspeed Edge Paris) for workouts and something with more shoe for easy runs (like the Superblast). ASICS claims this could be an uptempo workout shoe, but I’m not seeing it. It’s still fairly heavy/clunky to pick up the pace. To me, this is a daily trainer or easy run shoe.
Outsole:
As far as traction and durability, ASICS is known to be durable and last a while and the Cumulus 26 actually has me questioning that a bit. ASICS added “Fluidride” technology for more durability and traction. Truthfully, I’ve found myself sliding around a bit more on terrain. I’ve used them in the desert sand as well as on rainy days and they aren’t my first choice (they aren’t the worst choice but definitely not my first choice).
As far as durability, I think we will see a full 400ish miles from the Cumulus. There hasn’t been a version I haven’t gotten that mileage from, so I’m hoping the Cumulus 26 will last the same amount. I don’t see why not, I have about 100 miles on mine and they are looking strong.
Asics Gel Cumulus 26 Conclusion:
The Cumulus 26 excels as a daily trainer and can handle the rigors of high mileage and easy runs. Some may prefer the Cumulus for harder efforts, but I think it falls best as a daily trainer. Plus, you know you get consistency from year to year and don’t have to worry: Has ASICS changed my favorite shoe again?
Who Should Buy the Asics Gel Cumulus 26?
Runners looking for a shoe that can handle the rigors of daily training. Plus, those with more narrow feet will likely appreciate the ASICS last.
Who Should Not Buy the Asics Gel Cumulus 26?
If you have a wider foot, or are looking for a faster run shoe, the Cumulus 26 may not be your first choice. Plus, those who have issues with higher heel tabs might find it irritating.
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, Tracksmith Eliot Runner, New Balance 1080v12 , Newton Gravity 12, , ASICS Superblast
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future, Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly
Long Runs: ASICS Superblast
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future, Hoka Cielo X1, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro , Nike Vaporfly 3 , ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris
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:
What is your favorite running shoe?
What is the most consistent running shoe you’ve owned?