ASICS
GEL-Cumulus 28
Product Judgment
Strong
8.3
Category: Daily Trainer
Release year: 2026
Price Judgment
Reasonable
Common retail price: ~$145
Availability: Widely Available
Description
Neutral daily trainer positioned as a reliable workhorse in the ASICS lineup. Modernized with FF BLAST MAX foam and PureGEL for improved comfort and ride. Widely praised for its balance of cushioning, stability, and durability.
Delivers a smooth, controlled ride with moderate spring and consistent comfort. Feels stable and protective at daily and long-run paces, but less engaging at higher speeds. Upper is breathable and flexible, though fit can be loose for narrow feet. Outsole resists wear and grips well on paved surfaces.
Best suited for runners seeking a dependable, comfortable shoe for daily training and longer efforts. Excels at moderate paces and steady mileage, offering a stable platform for neutral runners. Less ideal for those prioritizing speed or a highly dynamic ride, but remains a strong all-rounder for most training needs.
Performance Scores
Comfort
9Soft FF BLAST MAX foam and breathable upper deliver high comfort for daily mileage.
Energy Return
7Springy ride with moderate responsiveness, but lacks the pop of faster trainers.
Stability
9Wide platform and secure heel counter provide excellent stability for neutral runners.
Durability
8Robust outsole rubber and quality upper materials resist wear over high mileage.
Fun to Ride
7Smooth, balanced ride feels controlled but not especially lively or dynamic.
Run Fitness
Daily
9Balanced cushioning and stability excel for everyday training at moderate paces.
Long
8Comfortable and protective for longer runs, though some may want more plushness.
Tempo
6Responsive enough for moderate uptempo work, but feels sluggish at faster paces.
Race
5Weight and muted energy return limit race-day performance.
Recovery
8Soft midsole and stable platform support easy, relaxed recovery runs.
Pros & Cons
- High comfort for daily miles
- Stable neutral platform
- Durable outsole
- Breathable, flexible upper
- Sluggish at faster paces
- Loose fit for narrow feet
Soft FF BLAST MAX foam and PureGEL heel provide excellent comfort for regular training.
Wide platform and secure heel counter deliver standout stability for a neutral daily trainer.
Robust outsole rubber and tread design ensure high durability over many miles.
Engineered mesh upper is breathable and adapts well to foot shape, enhancing comfort.
The ride lacks the liveliness and responsiveness needed for speed work or racing.
Midfoot and heel fit may feel too loose for runners with narrow feet, reducing lockdown.
Specifications
Best for paces
4:45-6:30 min/km
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
38.5 mm heel / 30.5 mm forefoot
Weight
276 g
Drop
8 mm
Stack height
38.5 mm heel / 30.5 mm forefoot
Weight
276 g
Pronation
N/A
Width
medium
Terrain
Road
Technologies
FF BLAST MAX foam, PureGEL heel, AHAR LO outsole rubber
Plate
no
Best for paces
4:45-6:30 min/km
Comparable Models
ASICS GEL-Cumulus 27 is firmer and less springy, with a heavier feel and less modern cushioning.
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ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27 offers a plusher, more luxurious ride but is heavier and less agile.
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Brooks Glycerin Max 2 provides maximal cushioning and a rockered ride, but feels bulkier and less direct.
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New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6 delivers a softer, more cushioned ride but sacrifices ground feel and agility.
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ASICS Novablast 5 is lighter and more responsive, better suited for tempo and faster runs.
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Nike Pegasus 41 offers a firmer, more traditional ride with similar versatility but less plushness.
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