The Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 is the latest version of a popular everyday running shoe. Compared to the previous generation, one technical change has been made to the foam in the midsole. This change makes the shoe slightly more dynamic and lively. It performs slightly better at faster speeds without compromising everyday safety or the features we have come to expect from the classic Cumulus line.
Basic info
Tech specs
Purpose
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 is a high-cushioning training running shoe. It is designed primarily for hard urban surfaces and performs best on hard surfaces such as asphalt and pavement. However, it also performs well on compacted gravel. It is a safe option for runners weighing up to approximately 90 kg. It is best suited for relaxed, recreational training. Long runs? Daily jogs? Faster runs to clear your lungs? This model will work perfectly for all of these activities. If you need a universal running shoe for the city, this is a good choice.
Pros
- very high and very soft cushioning,
- good stability in the heel area,
- pleasant flexible tongue,
- safe, 8 mm drop,
- very light, among the 12% lightest training shoes for hard surfaces.
Cons
- the outsole is partly made of EVA and may not be very durable (although it is better than in the previous model).
What’s New in the Latest Edition
| GEL-CUMULUS 28 | GEL-CUMULUS 27 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stack height | 38/30mm | 37/29mm |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Weight men’s | 259g | 255g |
| Weight women’s | 223g | 230g |
| Upper | technical mesh | technical mesh |
| Midsole | FF Blast Max + PureGEL | FF Blast+ + PureGEL |
| Outsole | FluidRide + AHAR LO in heel | FluidRide / EVA rubber |
Asics Running Shoes – lineup
The Cumulus series has been a staple of the Asics running collection for years. The brand consistently categorizes its running shoes by level of cushioning and additional stabilization. This makes it easier to choose the right shoe for your needs.
There are two main categories: neutral and stabilizing models. Each category offers different levels of cushioning. The Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 falls in the middle of the neutral shoe category. It strikes a balance between dynamism and comfort. Its counterpart in the stability category is the Asics GT-2000 14. If you need more cushioning than the Cumulus provides, the next step up would be the Asics Gel-Nimbus. This model is designed for maximum comfort during long, relaxed training sessions.
Want to see the entire collection? Check out the full Asics running shoe guide.
Similar to Asics Gel-Cumulus 28
The Asics Gel-Cumulus is a versatile training shoe. It’s ideal for everyday running, whether you’re doing short sprints or longer runs at a leisurely pace. Competition in this category is fierce. Many brands have several similar models in their lineups. They differ in the nature of their cushioning. They return energy differently. They also have different upper fits and midsole geometries. This allows you to choose a shoe that suits your technique and preferences.
Want to see all the alternatives to the Cumulus? Check out our everyday running shoe guide.
| MODEL | STACK HEIGHT (mm) | DROP (mm) | WEIGHT MEN'S (grams) | WEIGHT WOMEN'S (grams) | REGULAR PRICE (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| adidas Supernova Rise 3 | 35/28 | 7 | 272 | 230 | 150 |
| Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 | 37/30 | 8 | 259 | 223 | 160 |
| Brooks Ghost 17 | 37/27 | 10 | 286 | 254 | 150 |
| Brooks Ghost Max 3 | 39/33 | 6 | 317 | 283 | 160 |
| Diadora Equipe Nucleo 2 | 38/32 | 6 | 280 | 210 | 150 |
| Hoka Clifton 10 | 42/34 | 8 | 278 | 228 | 150 |
| Mizuno Wave Rider 29 | 38/30 | 8 | 265 | 225 | 160 |
| New Balance 880 v15 | 38/32 | 6 | 304 | 238 | 160 |
| Nike Zoom Pegasus 41 | n/a | 10 | 297 | 251 | 140 |
| Nike Vomero 18 | n/a | 10 | 325 | 263 | 150 |
| On Cloudsurfer 7 | 32/22 | 10 | 245 | 205 | 170 |
| Puma Magnify Nitro 2 | 40/30 | 10 | 275 | 245 | 150 |
| Saucony Ride 18 | 37/29 | 8 | 275 | 238 | 150 |
FF Blast Max Midsole – Soft Cushioning With a Lively Feel
The latest version of the Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 features a significantly redesigned midsole. FF Blast Max foam now plays the main role, making up almost the entire midsole. This foam is more resilient and responsive than the previous FF Blast+. It provides the same soft landing but returns energy slightly faster when pushing off. A small PureGEL element remains under the heel. This element is hidden inside and invisible from the outside. Its purpose is to provide additional cushioning to the area that experiences the strongest impact when in contact with the ground.
The stack height remains high – the midsole is 38.5 millimeters high under the heel and 30.5 millimeters high under the front. This midsole height aligns with the standard for daily trainers. There is ample cushioning, particularly under the heel. The front of the shoe is slightly harder, but thanks to the new foam, the entire shoe is more dynamic than the previous version. The shoe remains comfortable. It is still soft. Now, however, it feels more resilient.
This shoe is best suited for runners weighing up to 90 kg. Lighter runners will appreciate its comfort during long runs. Heavier runners can also use it, especially for relaxed training sessions and moderate distances.
The platform of the Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 is worth noting. As in previous editions, it is quite wide. It gently extends to the sides and protrudes strongly to the rear. This improves stability and provides a solid base for the foot. Thanks to its width, landing is more secure. Even when tired, the shoe does not “slip” to the sides.
In the everyday training shoe category, it successfully combines soft cushioning with reasonable stability. However, if you need clear support and pronation control, check out the Asics GT-2000 14. It is a more stabilizing alternative in the same training category.
Grip and Durability for Daily Training
The outsole of the Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 has been redesigned. Rather than being made entirely of rubberized EVA, it now has an outer layer of AHAR rubber in key wear areas. The new model features an outer layer of AHAR rubber in areas where there is the most wear. Harder rubber is used where contact with the ground is strongest, primarily under the heel and forefoot.
This improves durability, especially on hard surfaces, compared to the older construction. However, those who cover very long distances will still experience natural wear and tear, especially if they drag their heels heavily when landing.
Another advantage is the outsole groove depth of 2.2 millimeters. This is slightly less than the previous model but quite a lot for shoes designed for urban conditions. Although this shoe performs best on dry, hard surfaces and compacted paths outside the city, it is still an urban shoe. In terms of outsole durability and traction, however, it is more refined than the previous version.
Comfortable Fit and Good Airflow in the Upper
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 28’s upper has been slightly updated. It is still made of technical mesh, but the structure is more refined. The material is lighter and more breathable than before. On warm days, your foot can breathe more easily. At the same time, the construction is durable enough for everyday training. The fit of the upper is neutral. It is not too narrow or too wide. Most runners should feel comfortable in them from the moment they put them on. The front gives your toes room to move naturally without feeling too spacious.
The tongue is light and flexible, and it is integrated with the upper on the inside. This feature provides a pleasant fit and soft support for the middle of the foot. The laces are classic and flat. The upper eyelets are slightly fancy. Everything works flawlessly. However, it’s important to note that due to the thin tongue, it’s not advisable to lace the shoes too tightly, as this can inadvertently irritate the dorsal part of the foot. This is the only comment regarding lacing.
At the back, there is a solid internal clip that stiffens the heel. It is rigid and significantly reduces unwanted movement in the heel area. Add to that the wider base underfoot that I mentioned, and you have a recipe for a very stable running shoe. The inside of the heel counter is finished with a moderately thick layer of soft foam. The collar feels nice but does not compromise stability. Comfort and control are well balanced.
Light on Foot, Still Well Cushioned
According to the manufacturer’s data, the men’s Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 weighs 259 grams, while the women’s version weighs 223 grams. These values are similar to those of the previous generation. On paper, there is no major change.
In practice, there is no revolution either. In size 12 US, it weighs 308 grams, also similar to its predecessor. This model remains in the lighter part of the daily trainer segment. Compared to classic training shoes with high cushioning, it fares well. It is one of the 12% lightest running shoes designed for training. If you want comfortable cushioning without a “brick” on your foot, the Cumulus 28 is a sensible choice.
Final Thoughts
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 28 is an evolution, not a revolution. Although it has undergone some changes, including a new midsole foam, it remains a versatile training shoe that combines soft, springy cushioning with reliable stability. It is an excellent choice for runners looking for a neutral everyday shoe that offers comfort, stability, and dynamic qualities.
