ASICS Gel Cumulus 24 Review
Published: July 27, 2022
A Classic Returns With a Flytefoam Blast Upgrade
Cumulus 24 remains a trusty daily trainer, gets a more responsive midsole
Likes
- Relatively lightweight
- Soft cushioning
- Durable
Dislikes
- Restrictive upper
- Lacking energy return
- Break-in period
What's New
The ASICS Gel Cumulus is a classic for a reason. The Cumulus 24 continues to be a daily trainer that many different types of runners can appreciate, and the latest version may very well win over some new fans. A great option for everyday runs and walks, the Cumulus 24 is more versatile and responsive than its predecessors, thanks in part to the addition of a soft yet bouncy Flytefoam Blast midsole. This is definitely the most noticeable update, but the shoe features a new engineered mesh upper as well. Stylish and comfortable, the Gel Cumulus 24 is sure to be a go-to shoe for many runners.
The Bottom Line
The Cumulus gets the Flytefoam Blast treatment! That's the headline for this update. But does that mean the Cumulus is now a responsive shoe? That depends on who you ask. It definitely has at least a little more energy return than its predecessor. That said, The Cumulus 24 remains a pretty traditional daily trainer. It offers soft cushioning and is protective enough for long runs, though our testers wanted more cushioning once their miles got up toward marathon distance. Runners interested in a shoe with more cushioning and bounce can check out the ASICS Novablast, which offers the same Flytefoam Blast foam in a highly cushioned underfoot experience. The Cumulus is one of those running shoes that you can trust to keep you comfortable on a variety of runs, and it's relatively lightweight and responsive for a daily trainer. This would be a great pick for entry-level and experienced runners alike.
Shoe Performance
Shoe Softnessi
FirmSoftRide/Energy Returni
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protectioni
LowHighFlexibilityi
RigidElasticUpper Supporti
StructuredAdaptable
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softnessi
Ben: "I would not describe the ASICS Cumulus 24 as plush, but it was plenty soft for me. This is not the type of running shoe that I look forward to taking off as soon as the run is done."
Brycen: "The Cumulus was lightweight and comfy. The midsole was soft, as was the upper (though the upper was too tight for me)."
Ride/Energy Returni
Ben: "The Cumulus 24 felt light on my feet, and I definitely noticed a spring in my step while running. It's a daily trainer, but it's protective and lightweight enough that I would personally race in the shoe."
Brycen: "I didn't experience much energy return or bounce in the Cumulus, but I also didn't feel like the shoe was slowing me down."
Underfoot Protectioni
Ben: "The foam absorbed much of the impact from pounding the pavement. I did a 15-mile run in the Cumulus on the road and my joints only began to feel sore in the last two to three miles."
Brycen: "I could feel the ground a tiny bit on concrete and roads. However, the Cumulus was protective enough for my daily mileage."
Flexibilityi
Ben: "I found the Cumulus 24 to be flexible enough for a variety of workouts. My feet went smoothly through the full range of motion."
Brycen: "This shoe flexed comfortably during the gait cycle. It provided a smooth ride at various paces."
Upper Supporti
Ben: "The heel was structured but had a looser fit than that of some ASICS models like the Kayano. The toe box was pretty structured. I found the upper to be supportive without being too tight, and I especially appreciated the heel support."
Brycen: "Upper support was my biggest complaint. After my first run of 3.5 miles, I had blisters and cuts on the top of my foot. The rubbing wasn't as bad on subsequent runs, but I continued to experience discomfort."
Men's ASICS Gel Cumulus Running Shoes
The ASICS Gel Cumulus is one of the most popular of all ASICS neutral everyday running shoes providing a winning combination of cushioning, comfort and durability within a reasonably priced package.
Women's ASICS Gel Cumulus Running Shoes
The ASICS Gel Cumulus is one of the most popular of all ASICS neutral everyday running shoes providing a winning combination of cushioning, comfort and durability within a reasonably priced package.
Individual Thoughts
Ben8.5/10
The ASICS Cumulus 24 has been a good addition to my running arsenal. The energy return improved with this last update, and I enjoyed running in the shoe at a variety of paces. Whatever the speed, it was flexible enough to allow my feet to go through the full range of motion. The upper provided adequate support without being too tight and restrictive. I found the cushioning to be protective enough for long runs, though I'd want more for marathon-distance runs.
Shoe Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
Brycen7.5/10
Overall, I enjoyed running in this shoe and I could see myself buying a pair to use as everyday trainers. I have only run 30 miles in the Cumulus 24 so far, but it seems to be durable. My main issue was with the upper. While the upper was soft, it wasn't breathable and it rubbed the top of my feet even after a break-in period. I also felt like the shock absorption could be improved. That said, I loved the look of the Cumulus 24 as well as how lightweight it was for a daily trainer. At this price point, it's a solid choice for an everyday running shoe.
