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Asics Cumulus 21 Shoe Review

January 17, 2020January 17, 2020 Hollie

Asics Cumulus 21 Shoe Review

Asics has been around the running world for years. The Asics Cumulus, the Asics Nimbus, and the Asics Kayano are all over 20 models old. A few years ago, Asics changed factories and their shoe quality went down. The shoes were narrow and tight and many people went wider and even a full size larger. Shoe size is just shoe size but when you order the same shoe year after year and suddenly you’re a size bigger, it doesn’t do the brand any favors.

My point with that is from about 2015-2019, Asics was not great. In late 2019, they came out with the Asics Nimbus 22 and it was the first shoe in years I was impressed with from Asics.

Asics does win the award of most consistent with their technology. The same Asics Gel from the 1990s is the same Asics gel now.

Now that we have that long introduction about Asics let’s get to the Asics Cumulus 21, also known as the Asics Gel Cumulus 21. Although there is no non-Asics Gel Cumulus 21 and there is no shoe called the “Asics Gel.”

The Gel Cumulus 21 is a lighter, less cushioned version of the Asics Nimbus 22.

Asics Cumulus 21 Quick Facts:

Weight: 9.9 ounces

Heel to Toe Drop: 10 mm

Asics Cumulus 21 Fit:

The fit of the Asics Cumulus 21 is what so many people are curious about! Now, the Asics Cumulus 21 uses a dual-layer mesh. The toe box is wider and the Asics Cumulus 21 fits more true to size than it has in years.

First, Asics Cumulus 21 now uses a dual-layer mesh. While more durable, the engineered jacquard mesh upper doesn’t breathe as well as I hoped.

One thing I wish Asics would remove (from all of their shoes) is the heavy Asics logo. It takes up a lot of space and just seems like unnecessary weight. Many brands have already gone towards screen printing their logos on shoes, so Asics should go that route too. Although the Asics logo doesn’t hinder anything with the fit of the Asics Cumulus 21, it just adds unnecessary weight.

I do appreciate is the higher heel collar in all Asics shoe. The higher internal heel counter and holds the foot in position. My foot feels secure when running in the Asics Cumulus 21.

In running shoes, I typically wear between a 10-11 wide and I find the Asics Cumulus 11 wide to be the best fit. For a while, I couldn’t comfortably fit into the Asics Cumulus, but I can once again.

Asics Cumulus 21 Ride:

Asics, in general, is one of the heavier brands out there. That’s because Asics uses gel in (most) of their shoes and gel is a heavier substance. While the Asics Cumulus 21 is one of their lighter offerings, it’s still heavier compared to the Saucony Ride, Brooks Ghost, or Hoka Clifton. The Cumulus 21 is no different. The following is some of the features for the midsole and outsole of the Cumulus 21.

The staple in most Asics shoes is the silicone-based gel, which absorbs shock. Gel is no better than other cushioning systems, but there is more cushion in the heel. The rear and forefoot gel technology is designed for shock absorption with a Flytefoam, low-density foam, in the midsole.

The midsole is made up of both Flytefoam and Flytefoam propel midsole technology. What is Flytefoam? It’s softer, low-density foams that provide bounciness and responsiveness. Asics introduced Flytefoam into many of their staples shoes to reduce weight but also provide a more responsive ride. With the mixture of foams, I’ve found the Asics Cumulus 21 to provide responsiveness no matter the type of run.

Finally, like many shoes, the Asics Cumulus 21 uses “AHAR,” also known as ASICS High Abrasion Rubber. The rubber makes it great on rainy, wet, or icy days. If it’s icy or snowy, I’m more likely to grab the Asics Cumulus 21.

The Flytefoam Propel Technology, together with the rearfoot and forefoot gel technology, makes the Asics Cumulus 21 the softest and most responsive ride in a long time.

I’ve run a few different types of runs in the Asics Cumulus 21 and I find the best use is as a daily trainer or a shoe I’m standing around or at the gym in. I prefer the durable gel for long days at work or to reduce shock on easy runs. Lately, I’ve used the Asics Gel Cumulus 21 a lot for warmups and cooldowns for workouts and races.

Asics Cumulus 21 Conclusion:

The updated Asics Cumulus 21 is better than it has been in years. It’s exciting to see Asics getting back in the game. The Asics Cumulus 21 fits more comfortably and is a great trainer for someone looking for an everyday shoe for easy runs. It’s one of my favorite shoes to stand around, go to the gym, or even work in (yes, a running shoe that I use a lot for nonrunning). If you’ve run in the Asics Cumulus before, the major changes are the upper and a better fit than previous versions.

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Mizuno Rider Waveknit 3, New Balance 1080 v10, Diadora Mythos Elite TRX, Hoka Bondi 6, Asics Cumulus 21

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, Altra Escalante 2.0, Hoka Cavu 2

Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Reebok Run fast Pro

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport.

Questions for you:

Have you run in the Asics Cumulus 21?

What is your current favorite running shoe?

Asics Nimbus 22

November 8, 2019November 8, 2019 Hollie

Asics Nimbus 22 Shoe Review:

Well…it’s been a long long time since I’ve run consistently in any Asics shoe. The Asics Nimbus 22 is the first shoe in several years that has worked for me from Asics. I used to run a lot of mileage in the Asics Nimbus but Asics got too narrow for my feet and they no longer felt comfortable. The Asics Nimbus 21 made significant improvement over previous versions, but the Asics Gel Nimbus 22 is even better.

The Asics Nimbus 22 is a high cushion, neutral shoe. The Asics Nimbus been around 22 running shoe generations and is known for the gel and soft cushioning, shock absorption, and gel technology. It’s been a staple of neutral runners for years.

Asics Nimbus 22 Fit:

The updated Asics Nimbus 22 finally has a more roomy toebox. It’s not a wide shoe by any means, but it runs more true to size. For several years of the Asics Nimbus, the shoe fit almost a size and width short. So most people not only went up a half size-full size, they also went wider to get an appropriate fit.

The Asics Nimbus 22 update now uses a monofilament engineered mesh upper. The jacquard mesh provides excellent moisture management and a high level of breathability.

Plus it provides a more roomy toebox and breathability of the shoe. The mesh upper is more durable and just fits better. The heel counter fits better for the Asics Gel Nimbus 22 as well.

Asics Nimbus 22 Ride:

The Asics Nimbus 22 has always been well known for the premium cushion. It has plenty of cushion to protect the body. The updated version of the Asics Nimbus 22 uses a thicker version of Asics softest and most resilient midsole foam. Plus now, the Asics Nimbus 22 has wrap around gel cushioning in the heel and better-shaped gel inserts in the forefront.

The new wrap-around gel allows your Asics Nimbus 22 to protect your feet no matter how the foot strikes. Whether you are a forefront runner or heel striker, you are going to get the cushion you need. The transition from heel to toe is a lot more seamless as well and it feels less clunky.

How does the Asics Nimbus 22 feel less clunky? The Asics Nimbus 22 now uses Flytefoam Lyte Propel foam. What is Flytefoam Propel Technology? While it’s also a mouthful, Flytefoam Propel foam is lighter, with a soft and energetic return. The Asics Nimbus 22 now has 2 mm more of this foam.

With the updated Asics Nimbus 22, it’s less rigid. The gel in the Asics Nimbus, made the shoe firmer and less flexible. The deep flex grooves allow the Asics Nimbus to be more flexible and move with your foot.

Asics Nimbus 22 Conclusion:
I’ve run just over 100 miles in the updated Asics Nimbus 22 and for me, it fits nicely into an easy run or recovery run day. I like the Asics Nimbus 22, and this is the best update they’ve had in several years.

Current Rotation:

Easy/Daily Runs: Hoka Bondi 6, Brooks Ghost 12

Speed Work: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Hoka Rincon, Nike Pegasus Turbo 2

Long Runs: New Balance FuelCell Rebel, Mizuno R2, Hoka Cavu 2

Races: New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Nike Next%, Reebok Run fast Pro,

You Can See All Current Shoe Reviews Here.

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport.

Questions for you:

Have you run in the Asics Nimbus 22?

What is a staple running shoe you use?

Gear Review, Running

Asics Cumulus 18 Review

July 15, 2016September 30, 2019 Hollie

Asics Cumulus 18 Shoe Review

As most people know by now, I’m recovering from an injury, and I’ve been on the hunt for finding a shoe with enough cushion. The first (of a few) shoes I chose was the Asics Gel Cumulus. I’ve no stranger to Asics, and I’ve reviewed the Nimbus, Quantum 360 as well as the FuzeX.

Speaking of the Asics Quantum, it’s retired from running and is my favorite shoe to walk around in. It’s been the shoe protecting my feet while recovering and I like the cushion for hiking too.

Back to the Asics Cumulus: I’ve worn previous Asics Cumulus models to work and run minimally, but I never posted a Asics Cumulus shoe review. So with the latest update of the Asics Cumulus and running miles, I decided to post a review.

I’m not sponsored by Asics and they aren’t paying me to promote their shoes. I’ve run on a variety of surfaces including the pavement, treadmill, and alter G treadmill.

Asics Cumulus 18 Fit:

The fit of the Asics Cumulus 18 is much better than previous models. While most Asics shoes run narrow, the latest model is wider and able to accommodate wider feet like mine. I usually wear a size 10, and it’s a good fit. The ortholite sockliner in the Asics Cumulus adds extra cushion.

Asics Cumulus 8 Ride:

Like most Asics models, the Asics Cumulus uses gel. I like having all of that cushion and feeling under my feet, and I feel the support. The Asics Cumulus has more gel in the back of the heel as well as ankle. Truthfully, I could use a little bit more in the forefront, which is probably why I prefer the Asics Nimbus or Asics Quantum for walking around.

The Asics Cumulus is still heavier than many of its rivals such as the Brooks Ghost or Saucony Ride. However, it is a lighter Asics shoe. There is plenty of cushion whether you are running 1 mile (like me!) or 100.

Asics Cumulus 18 Conclusion:

If you need a neutral shoe with a sufficient amount of cushioning, the Asics Cumulus is a great model for you. Personally, I like the Asics Cumulus, and I’ll keep it in my rotation for the entire duration of it’s running shoe life.

Similar models: Brooks Ghost, Mizuno Wave Rider, Saucony Ride or Asics FuzeX

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport.

Questions for you:

Have you run in Asics? Have you tried the Asics Cumulus 18?

Do you like a heavy or light weight shoe when running?

Gear Review, Running

Asics Quantum Shoe Review

September 14, 2015January 5, 2020 Hollie

The Asics Gel Quantum came out a few months ago. We brought in a limited amount at work. Since I originally liked the gel nimbus I thought it would be a shoe I would like.

Is more gel better?

The Gel Quantum has the most gel of any Asics shoe created. Essentially runners wanted as much gel as possible and Asics listened to the feedback. I tried on a pair at work and decided they were comfortable enough to try running in.

For those who don’t know I really liked the Gel Nimbus 16 but the 17s irritated the top of my feet.

Why run in a shoe that’s going to cause your feet to bleed? After talking with a few in store customers I realized I was not the only one that the new upper effected. Hopefully Asics is able to fix that in the gel nimbus 18.

Finally Asics did not send me these shoes and I’m not being paid to review the shoes. I’m just sharing my personal experience with the shoe. Remember what works for me might not work for you because no two feet are the same. I think that is the end of spiel.

Anyways to the Gel Quantum-
Quick Stats:
Price: $170
Drop: 10mm
Weight 11.9 ounces for men and 9.9 for women

Feel:

The top of the Asics Gel Quantum is a different material then other Asics models. It’s got slits on the sides and the upper is completely different. It breaths a little bit better then other models as well. To be honest I also find the Quantum to fit the best of any Asics shoe I’ve tried. I’ve always gone wide in the Asics brand but I have found this shoe to fit perfectly. I wear a regular size 10 which is the same as my usual size.

The Ride:

There is gel across the entire bottom of the shoe. Honestly it feels as heavy as you would imagine. It’s the heaviest and most bulky running shoe I’ve ever owned. It’s extremely comfortable but I can feel the weight of the shoe. I like all of the gel and it’s a nice shoe to do my recovery runs in.

Overall thoughts:

I like the Asics Gel Quantum for recovery days. I think it’s a great shoe for feeling cushioned. I don’t foresee myself doing “normal” or fast paced runs because it’s too heavy. I would recommend it for anyone looking for a high cushioned shoe or someone who is injury prone.

Pros:

Lots of cushion
Breathable and one of the best fitting Asics Shoes
Jazzy style

Cons:

Expensive ($170)
Very heavy

I would recommend it for any neutral runner who likes a lot of cushion. I would also recommend this to anyone who runs in the Asics Cumulus or Asics Nimbus would enjoy extra cushion. Anyone who runs in Hokas might enjoy this as well. It’s a high end and very cushioned neutral shoe.

Other Shoes I’ve Reviewed:
Hoka Clifton
Saucony Triumph
Saucony Zealot
Nike Vomero
Asics Nimbus

Questions for you:
Have you tried the Asics Gel Quantum?
Do you prefer high cushioned shoes or minimalist, light weight shoes?

Gear Review, Running

Asics Nimbus 17 Review

March 23, 2015September 20, 2019 Hollie

Asics Nimbus 17 Shoe Review

Shortly before my marathon and then afterward, I began running in the Asics Nimbus 17. Since transitioning from Newtons (last year) into a more traditional running shoe, the Asics Nimbus has been a great shoe to me. I reviewed the Asics Nimbus 16 a few months ago. The gel and high cushion in the Asics Nimbus support my feet well. I like more cushion shoes. I do not like lightweight shoes at all.

Side Note: I’m always hesitant to do running shoe reviews because what works (or doesn’t) for me, won’t always be the same for others. I like a lot of cushions and am a neutral runner. This means that shoes such as the Saucony Triumph or Brooks Glycerin are good options for me. This also means. Personally I don’t care for minimalist shoes. Another thing to keep in mind is that I’m not a techy person. Either the shoe feels good to me or it doesn’t and I’ll explain why.

I don’t care so much about the technical side of a shoe so I won’t review that part. Plus, there are much better blog posts that review that anyways…I just give my personal experience with the shoe. (And no Asics is not paying me to review their shoe). asics nimbus 17

Asics Nimbus 17 Price: 150

The price of the Asics Nimbus 17 is similar to other comparable shoes of different brands such as the Saucony Triumph (150) and Brooks Glycerin (150).

The Asics Nimbus 17 Fit:

The Asics Nimbus has always run a little bit narrow. Right now, Asics takes the glove-like fit to a whole new level. The previous Asics Nimbus was entirely too narrow for my foot. I found myself being comfortable in a mens shoe versus women. I have a widefoot, so I usually run in a wide. With the Asics Nimbus 17, they opened up the toe box space, so my foot has plenty of space to breath. I usually wear a size 9.5 wide woman’s shoe, and my feet fit comfortably into a size 9.5 Asics Nimbus Wide.

One problem I did have was the top inner toe box rubbed my foot raw. I ended up bleeding through the shoe. I know it wasn’t a sock issue. The toe box fit my foot a little bit different and caused rubbing. My foot got used to it within a few runs, but it was unpleasant to see the shoe had caused my foot to bleed.

I like the fit much better than the previous model of the Asics Nimbus. I think Asics did a great job with it.

The Asics Nimbus 17 Ride:

The shoe is much lighter than the Asics Nimbus 16. I still feel as if I have the Asics Nimbus cushion I like but with a lot less weight. I’m honestly not sure how I feel about that aspect. You don’t feel much shock during impact and roll through the gait cycle.

I still feel protected in the Asics Nimbus and I haven’t had any issues or problems with the shoe. The Asics Nimbus 17 does feel a little bit lighter since it weighs less. After about 50 miles on the shoe, I didn’t seem to notice much of a difference in weight.

Overall Thoughts of the Asics Nimbus:

I like Asics Nimbus a lot. I feel comfortable doing my training in this shoe. The major differences (more open toe box and lighter weight) don’t effect my training significantly. I will continue to run in the shoe (as well as a new to me shoe the Saucony Triumph).

Edit to add: I’ve ran 104 miles in this shoe (both before and after the marathon).

Finally, have you subscribed to the LOLZletter? It’s a free newsletter that comes out each Monday. This week I talked all about hydration.

In the newsletter, I share running industry trends and things relevant to the sport. There are often giveaways as well as discount codes.

Questions for you:

What shoe do you train in?

Have you ever tried the Asics Nimbus?

Tag: asics