The Asics Gel Cumulus 26 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The ASICS Gel Cumulus 26 is a versatile daily trainer designed for runners seeking good cushioning across various paces and distances. With its lab-verified features, this shoe is ideal for average runners due to its balanced support and stability.

The updated rubberized EVA outsole introduces a significant change from previous models, affecting the shoe's overall rigidity. Additionally, while some users may prefer more flexibility, the latest iteration maintains a reliable performance suitable for diverse training sessions.


Pros

  • Great value
  • Versatile across various paces
  • Cushioned ride
  • PureGEL heel insert
  • Enhanced stability
  • True all-rounder
  • Lightweight for its category

Cons

  • Outsole durability issues
  • Limited traction off-road
  • Lacks breathability
  • Not bouncy at all

Key Features

  • FF BLAST PLUS technology: Provides lightweight impact absorption and a responsive rebound for enhanced performance.
  • PureGEL technology: Offers lightweight cushioning and contributes to softer landings, perfect for long-distance races or daily runs.
  • Engineered mesh upper: Improves breathability and overall comfort during your runs.
  • Sustainable design: The sockliner is made using a solution dyeing process that reduces water usage by about 33% and carbon emissions by approximately 45% compared to traditional methods.
  • Recycled materials: At least 75% of the shoe's main upper material is crafted from recycled content, contributing to reduced waste and environmental impact.

Specifications

  • Fabric type: 100% Synthetic
  • Origin: Imported
  • Sole material: Rubber
  • Outer material: Polyester

Asics Gel Cumulus 26 Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

ASICS Gel Cumulus 26 ASICS Gel Pulse 15 ASICS Novablast 5 ASICS Gel Cumulus 27
Price $140 $100 $140 $140
Pace Daily running Daily running Daily running Daily running
Arch support Neutral Neutral Neutral Neutral
Weight lab Weight brand 9.1 oz / 259g 8.4 oz / 237g 9 oz / 254g 9.2 oz / 261g
Lightweight
Drop lab Drop brand 8.2 mm 8.1 mm 7.4 mm 11.6 mm
Strike pattern Heel Heel Mid/forefoot Heel
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Soft Balanced Soft Soft
Difference in midsole softness in cold Small Small Big Normal
Toebox durability Good Decent Bad Good
Heel padding durability Good Good Decent Good
Outsole durability Bad Good Good Bad
Breathability Moderate Moderate Moderate Warm
Width / fit Medium Medium Medium Medium
Toebox width Medium Medium Medium Medium
Stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Stiff Stiff
Heel counter stiffness Stiff Stiff Moderate Stiff
Rocker
Heel lab Heel brand 36.8 mm 35.3 mm 40.9 mm 40.9 mm
Forefoot lab Forefoot brand 28.6 mm 27.2 mm 33.5 mm 29.3 mm
Widths available Normal Normal Normal Normal
Orthotic friendly
Season All seasons All seasons All seasons All seasons
Removable insole
Ranking Top 41% Bottom 28% Top 5% Top 31%
Popularity Top 31% Bottom 49% Top 2% Top 19%