The ASICS GEL-CUMULUS has always been ASICS’ versatile neutral daily trainer for everyday mileage. The Nimbus focuses more on maximum comfort over longer distances. The Novablast delivers a fun, energetic ride but with less stability. Meanwhile, the CUMULUS has traditionally been the safer and more predictable option. It has been reliable but not particularly exciting.
ASICS has now introduced the livelier FF Blast Max midsole from the Novablast, a significant and likely necessary update, as we’ll explore further.
Upper and Fit of the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28
What works for me
The fit and feel of the CUMULUS have not changed significantly and still feel light and simple on foot. The engineered mesh upper is soft and fairly breathable. There’s some extra room in the toe box, which I actually like, though I do wish the heel cup was a bit narrower, despite the generous padding.
The midfoot feels really locked in, thanks to the stretchy tongue and the updated lacing system with extra hooks. Fit feels true to size, maybe slightly shorter than other ASICS models, but I definitely wouldn’t go down in size. Overall, it’s a shoe that balances comfort, security, and everyday usability without feeling overly complicated.
What doesn’t work for me
I really don’t have any issues with the fit and feel of the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28, aside from the slightly wide heel cup. That’s likely more due to my narrow heel than the shoe itself, and it’s easily fixed with a classic lace lock. If I were being picky, some might miss the old heel pull tab, but personally I couldn’t care less – anything to shave off a bit of weight.
Midsole and Ride of the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28
What works for me
The big news in the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28 is not about the upper though, but all to do with the new midsole compound. By adding FF Blast Max on top of the FLUIDRIDE rubber outsole the ride has completely changed.
The new FF Blast Max foam gives the shoe a noticeably more energetic feel compared to previous CUMULUS models. It’s softer and springier without feeling vague or unstable. The ride feels smooth underfoot, with good shock absorption and a natural heel‑to‑toe transition that makes easy runs feel more pleasant and less “flat” than older versions. It still keeps that dependable, everyday training vibe rather than feeling like a tempo shoe, but overall the cushioning now feels more engaging and less dull.
It bridges soft comfort with enough responsiveness to handle a range of paces without losing stability. That’s quite impressive, especially considering how flexible the shoe actually is. It’s likely thanks to the wide platform, sturdy heel counter, and the generous layer of firmer rubber on the outsole. It’s hard to find a midsole that’s both flexible and lively without sacrificing stability, yet the CUMULUS manages it. I like having shoes in my rotation that offer some flexibility to help strengthen my feet, all without risking injury from instability. The ASICS CUMULUS 28 really delivers something impressive in that regard.
What doesn’t work for me
The midsole and ride of the GEL-CUMULUS 28 is generally smooth and well-balanced, though it isn’t as soft or plush as some maximalist or comfort-focused trainers. Very easy, slow runs can feel a bit firmer than expected, which I don’t mind, but heavier runners might prefer more cushioning. The ride also isn’t particularly lively at fast paces. It remains stable and smooth but doesn’t deliver a huge amount of pop when you push the tempo.
Outsole of the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28
Grip and Traction
The ASICS Gel‑CUMULUS 28 outsole has been updated from the 27 to improve durability and grip. The 27 used a lightweight FluidRide foam‑based outsole, which offered smooth landings but provided only average traction. The 28 adds a harder rubber formulation, boosting both longevity and road grip.
Overall, it feels more robust and grippy than the compound in the previous version, though slightly firmer underfoot. The softer foam layer on top, however, creates a balanced ride and likely adds extra platform stability.
Durability
I haven’t had any issues with durability so far, though it will be interesting to see over time whether the more airy FF Blast Max foam compresses prematurely. I’ve seen this happen to some degree with the Novablast 5, so I wouldn’t be entirely surprised if it occurs here as well. The foam formulation might be slightly different, so we’ll have to wait and see. Aside from that, the firmer outsole rubber feels sturdy, and I’m confident the upper will hold up just fine too.
Conclusion
Value for Money
ASICS has kept the CUMULUS 28 at its usual retail price, with no significant increase over the 27. That’s impressive, especially as most competitors in this segment have raised prices slightly. Overall, I think the value is very fair for what you get.
Fitting it into a shoe rotation
For most “casual” runners, I can easily see the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28 working very well as a one-shoe solution – it might even be one of the best for that purpose. That said, as I mentioned earlier, there are better options for ultra-easy recovery runs or faster uptempo sessions. Where the GEL-CUMULUS 28 really shines is the “middle ground.” In a rotation, I’d probably pair it with a stiffer, more cushioned daily trainer for recovery runs and a more speed-oriented shoe for fast workout sessions.
Final Verdict
While I’ve always seen the GEL-CUMULUS as a solid daily trainer, it has never felt particularly exciting – until now. With the CUMULUS 28, ASICS has managed to inject some fun and liveliness into the ride without sacrificing stability, keeping it relevant in a market flooded with flashy neutral trainers that often feel injury-prone.
Beyond the engaging ride, the fit, comfort, versatility, durability, and price all come together to make this a strong contender as a one-shoe solution for many runners. For anyone seeking a reliable daily trainer that’s no longer bland, I can wholeheartedly recommend the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28.
Comparisons Against Similar Shoes
ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28 vs. Brooks Ghost 17
The Ghost 17 offers a more structured, snug upper and a firmer, responsive feel, while the GEL‑CUMULUS is more relaxed, lively, and playful on foot.
ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28 vs. New Balance 880
The New Balance 880 emphasises comfort and softness but feels noticeably clunkier on foot. It lacks the responsiveness and doesn’t feel as light, agile, or versatile as the GEL‑CUMULUS 28.
ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28 vs. adidas Supernova Prima 2
The Supernova Prima 2 shares some qualities with the GEL‑CUMULUS 28, particularly in fit and flexibility. However, its midsole doesn’t match the CUMULUS in stability, responsiveness, or overall fun.
Other People’s Takes on the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28
Silke’s Take on the GEL-CUMULUS 28
On paper, I might look like the average customer for a classic daily trainer like the Brooks Ghost, Saucony Ride and Asics GEL-CUMULUS. In the past, I mostly avoided them, because I found the ride firm and a little bit boring for my liking. With this improved version of the GEL-CUMULUS, ASICS move another step in the right direction.
To me, the GEL-CUMULUS 28 looks like there is more foam under foot and it also feels softer. The upper material feels softer too giving the shoe a higher comfort value. It makes the shoe also very enjoyable for long walks. What I also really like is that the GEL-CUMULUS 28 has lost weight, making it one of the lightest classic daily trainers on the market.
The GEL-CUMULUS 28 offers me a comfortable, not overly soft ride. It feels smooth when I land more with my heel and also calmly pleasant with my midfoot strike. It shines with the runs that I usually do not care about. With the new outsole compound, it stood the test of gravel and wet surfaces. Meanwhile, I found it is even flexible enough for some speedier elements as well as uphill tempos.
In my eyes, there are some minor things that ASICS could try to improve in the next version. Although I tend to enjoy nimble models with little structure, the upper of the GEL-CUMULUS 28 feels a bit too roomy and I don’t get a really good lock down. I wish ASICS would put some more structure on the upper. Secondly, I find the tongue of the GEL-CUMULUS 28 a bit thin. Finally, getting the heel tab back would be nice.
