ASICS Gel Cumulus 25 running review
The new bits that the 25 benefits from over and above the Asics Gel Cumulus 24 are a high abrasion rubber outsole to add grip and reduce the weight. The upper is made of more than 99% recycled materials. And the big key change is PureGEL technology that’s been chucked in the midsole alongside the full-length FF BLAST PLUS cushioning.
Design-wise, the midsole now has that sportier heel, as opposed to its predecessor’s more pedestrian looks, just like the Nimbus. In fact, it looks like a much speedier model because of that. My favorite addition, as with the Nimbus, is that heel tab – I love this for easier, and less muddy/wet removals and for pulling them on in the first place without crushing the heel. It’s not *quite* as nice as the one on the Nimbus 25s, but it’s pretty good.
On the run, you can certainly immediately notice that PureGEL tech – and that’s one of the main noticeable differences between this and the Gel-Nimbus 25, as there’s a heap of cushioning in the forefoot, which makes it feel pretty dreamy as soon as you take off. It’s extremely cushioned, and extremely comfortable. Real cloud-like stuff.
What you don’t get here is the energy pep you get from the Gel-Nimbus, which has been designed for a bit of a snappier ride. And I also found that the mega padding around the tongue and heel, while perfect for shorter runs, was a smidge higher up my foot than I’d like, and made the shoe perceptibly warmer. So while it was glorious to run in up to 5 or 6K, I wouldn’t want to wear it for longer than that for fear of rubbing and Hot Feet Syndrome.
Price-wise it’s on a par with most mid-level road shoes, so I can’t argue with that. It’s a smashing shoe, all told, with significantly better cushioning and a gorgeous feel around the foot. If you’re after something for your Monday morning easy miles, or you need an all-rounder to train for your first 5K or 10K – or even, if you just want something supremely comfortable, then the Gel-Nimbus 25 ticks all of those boxes. Try it on first though if you’ve got wide feet or a high instep!
Where can I buy this shoe?
You can buy the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 25 from SportsShoes.com. I got mine in white and they are head-turningly cool.
