Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 running shoes
8.2/10 (Expert Score)
Overall, the Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 running shoes have changed a lot from the previous version. It’s a bit stiffer, a bit faster, has better cushioning and is faster. I feel like the Cumulus is starting to find its identity in the Asics product lines. It remains an everyday running shoe that is less comfortable than the Nimbus, but faster, lighter and cheaper, so it’s easy to decide which one to choose based on your own preference.
Description
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 Running Shoe is an daily running shoe for everyday running, whether a for little faster or a little longer running. It’s changed a lot and similar more like the Cumulus 24 version than the 25. Many people didn’t like the 25 version compared to the 24 because of the new midsole geometry, that it was rather slower, but those who objected to that will now be happy because the 26 is more of a continuation of the 24. I feel a bit that Asics is having a hard time positioning the Cumulus. At times it looks more like the Nimbus, with a focus on comfort, which rather longer, slower runs, and at other times it looks more like the Novablast, which rather more dynamic runs. In its parameters (weight, stack height, midfoot foam) it is also similar to the Glideride and the GT-2000.
The upper of the Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 running shoes are made of a engineered mesh material with good breathability. The upper is more focused on keeping the foot strong and secure, as opposed to the previous version where comfort was the main focus. The tongue of the shoe is less cushioned, with a flexible gusseted. The heel counter is high, stiff, medium cushioned and locks the foot very well. The upper is slightly narrower, but there is a wide version of the Cumulus 26.
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 running shoes midfoot has changed a lot from the previous version. While it’s still made with the same FlyteFoam Blast Plus foam with PureGel additions, it has a different geometry and the changes to the outsole do a lot to give a different run than Cumulus 25. In terms of the midsole, the Cumulus 26 is still a daily running shoe, but it feels faster and stiffer than the previous version, or like the Nimbus 26. The midsole is less wide in the heel than the previous version, and it’s also 1mm higher, but it’s stiffer, so its stability hasn’t changed. The midsole has a more rockered geometry, which is stiffened more by the new outsole, so in transitions this geometry is more noticeable, with faster and smoother transitions. At ground grip and impact, the midsole is stiffer, despite the PureGel insert in the heel section, which has improved shock absorption, but it feels softer at kick-off. The Cumulus 26 is faster than the previous version.
The outsole of the Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 running shoe has changed a lot and Asics has taken a bold step. The rubber outsole has been replaced with FluidRide, which is EVA foam mixed with rubber (rubberized EVA). This is good because it stiffens the midsole, holds the rocker rocker geometry better and has a much softer more comfortable feel. On the other hand, I have my doubts about its durability and grip. Since the shoe is still new, it’s hard to judge its durability, but even after 30-40 km of running, it’s obvious that it wears out quickly. Even though there are deep grooves on the outsole for better traction, if they wear quickly, the shoe will not grip as well. The outsole is thick, 15mm thick at the heel, so wear is not a problem in this case, but the grip will change quickly as the grooves wear away.
Overall, the Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 running shoes have changed a lot from the previous version. It’s a bit stiffer, a bit faster, has better cushioning and is faster. I feel like the Cumulus is starting to find its identity in the Asics product lines. It remains an everyday running shoe that is less comfortable than the Nimbus, but faster, lighter and cheaper, so it’s easy to decide which one to choose based on your own preference.
Manufacturer description
Experience a soft feel underfoot with the GEL-CUMULUS® 26 shoe. This neutral everyday trainer is a versatile choice for various running workouts and distances.
FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning and PureGEL® technology are strategically positioned in the midsole. These materials help create softer landings and a more energized toe-off during your training
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Specification: Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 running shoes
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