ASICS Gel Cumulus 22
Unexpected Performance
Likes
- Smoother ride
- Durable design
- Comfortable upper
- Lighter weight
Dislikes
- Boring color options
What's New
ASICS has overhauled the Cumulus 22 with a new modern feel, taking an already great shoe to the next level. While this version maintains a resemblance to the previous iterations, our testers found the Cumulus 22 to be lighter, smoother, and more comfortable. The new Cumulus 22 rolls quickly from the heel to toe and offers enough cushioning for long runs without losing its responsive ride. Gel technology in the forefoot and heel give the shoe a soft landing that absorbs shock without feeling mushy. ASICS also redesigned the upper with fewer overlays for a more adaptable fit without the pressure points and bulk of the previous version. The padded heel collar and tongue provide a plush feel while helping to eliminate heel slippage, and the AHAR rubber outsole features more flex grooves to provide a more natural ride while continuing to offer the same long-lasting durability.
The Bottom Line
Our testers were unanimously pleased with the performance of the new Cumulus 22. It's a great option for those who want a reliable, classic daily trainer with enough responsiveness for uptempo workouts and enough comfortable cushioning for long runs. The updated mesh upper provides a soft hold of the foot that will accommodate a wide range of foot shapes. The simple design maintains the brand's plush feel with a padded heel collar and tongue, but the breathable mesh provides a sleeker experience on foot. Meanwhile, the new midsole and outsole combination gives the Cumulus 22 a lighter and smoother ride that our testers loved.
Shoe Performance
Softness i
Ride/Energy Return i
Underfoot Protection i
Flexibility i
Upper Support i
Specifications & Fit
How It Fits
| Toe Box | Width: Medium | Height: Medium | |
| Midfoot Volume | Medium | |
| Heel Width | Medium | |
| Arch Height | Medium |
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 261 g (EU size 42,5) | Women's: 238 g (EU size 39,5) | |
| Stack Height | 31 mm (heel), 21 mm (forefoot) | 10 mm heel-toe offset | |
| Terrain | Road | |
| Stability | Neutral | |
| Sizing | True to Size |
Our In-Depth Look
Shoe Softness i
The Cumulus 22 has a soft underfoot feel thanks to Gel technology embedded into the rear and forefoot of the shoe. Softer midsole foam and deeper flex grooves in the heel make this one of the softest Cumulus models yet.
Mark: "The Cumulus 22 feels plusher underfoot than the previous model. It has a pleasant amount of softness on landing and provides a consistent feel throughout the gait cycle."
Ben: "While running, the cushioning was a good balance of softness and responsiveness. Compared to other shoes on the market, the Cumulus 22 may feel on the firm side, but it is still very comfortable to run in."
Ride/Energy Return i
The Cumulus 22 features a full-length FlyteFoam midsole that offers a cushioned yet lively ride. Although the shoe doesn't have a bouncy springiness to it, our testers felt that it did a great job of moving them forward without undue effort.
Mark: "The Cumulus 22 doesn't feel extremely bouncy underfoot. Instead, the shoe feels like it understands its role of getting you through the longer distances rather than trying to emphasize a springy toe-off."
Bronte: "I tended to run faster and with less effort in this shoe, and I feel like that was thanks to the nice, responsive midsole."
Underfoot Protection i
The Cumulus 22 offers enough cushioning for longer miles without feeling too heavy or bulky underfoot. It kept our testers comfortable, but it didn't quite provide the cloudlike feel found in more maximally cushioned shoes.
Mark: "If we're putting it against the cushion juggernauts, the Cumulus 22 would be slightly above average in terms of underfoot protection. It definitely has enough protection to carry you through your longest distances, but it does not cross into that 'premium' underfoot protection category."
Ben: "The gel units and higher stack height of the Cumulus 22 absorb much of the pounding. My legs and joints felt fine on longer runs, and I am confident that the Cumulus 22 has enough cushioning for a full marathon."
Underfoot Flexibility i
The Cumulus 22 offers a balance of flexibility and stability that makes it a great option for daily training. Our testers were impressed with the smooth ride provided by the improved forefoot flex grooves.
Mark: "Although it is definitely smoother than the previous version, the Cumulus 22 remains average in terms of flexibility. This allowed the shoe to be stable without feeling too stiff."
Bronte: "The shoe did a good job of bending naturally with my foot. It never felt too stiff."
Upper Feel i
The updated one-piece mesh upper features 3D-printed overlays for a comfortable and seamless fit. Our testers enjoyed the secure hold that it provided without feeling constrictive.
Bronte: "I really liked the upper in this shoe. It felt secure and comfortable, but the mesh made it breathable at the same time."
Ben: "The upper is supportive without being too restrictive. It feels like it was built to simply serve its purpose rather than trying to make any heavy statement. I like that the toe box is wider and less restrictive than previous versions."
Women's ASICS Gel Cumulus
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Men's ASICS Gel Cumulus
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Individual Thoughts
I really enjoyed running in the Gel Cumulus 22s. The first thing I noticed when putting them on was the lovely padded heel. It felt like I was getting a tiny hug around my ankles. If every shoe had that ankle cushion, I would be one happy runner. Overall, the upper offered the perfect amount of support, security, and comfort during all my runs.
I also liked the weight of this shoe. It had a lightness to it without compromising any support. I felt like this was a great running shoe that made me feel safe and in control. I don't have any major complaints about the Cumulus 22, but I would prefer it in a brighter color than what's available.
Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
The ASICS Gel Cumulus 22 is an affordable daily trainer that does its job well. If you want to put in the miles or race some 5Ks, this shoe will work for you. Personally, I especially enjoy the reliable cushioning and the roomy toe box.
Softness
FirmSoftRide/Energy Return
Less SpringyMore SpringyUnderfoot Protection
LowHighFlexibility
RigidElasticUpper Support
StructuredAdaptable
The ASICS Cumulus 22 really exceeded my expectations. I was not a fan of the previous model, so I wasn't expecting a big difference in this shoe. However, the Cumulus 22 has improved cushioning and is dramatically smoother. Overall, it feels like the Cumulus line is trending in the right direction. I would definitely recommend it to the runner looking for a solid workhorse mileage shoe.