ASICS GEL Cumulus 28 running shoe review - cushioned daily trainer for road running

ASICS GEL CUMULUS 28 Review

Joey Holley / March 17, 2026 / ASICS, ASICS Cumulus, cushioned running shoes, daily trainer, road running, running shoes, shoe reviews

What’s new with the ASICS Cumulus 28?

Let's break it down in our ASICS GEL CUMUUS 28 Review. Built for everyday road miles, the ASICS Cumulus 28 is actually a significant update from the Cumulus 27. Its updated FF Blastmax midsole, formerly the FFBlast+, softens impact with a noticeably bouncier and more energetic ride than the Cumulus 27.The stack height remains the same with 8 mm drop but the shoe feels significantly more springy than it has in years. A new outsole rubber boosts longevity and road grip compared to the 27.

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The updates continue on the new upper, where an engineered mesh keeps things flexible with a bit of added stretch property. The toebox feels a bit more roomy than the 27, which I appreciated, in addition to some stretch in the lacing system. The midfoot feels locked in but the tongue and lacing system both have stretch allowing for easy on-and-off but also avoiding over-tightening on the arch. The heel cup is soft and cushioned, but I do miss the heel pull tab. That feels like a loss from the 27 to the 28.

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Quick Comparison: ASICS GEL-Cumulus 28 vs Similar Neutral Trainers

Shoe Best for Ride feel Support Skip it if
ASICS GEL-Cumulus 28 ASICS fans who want an everyday road shoe with a livelier update Bouncy, cushioned, and flexible Neutral You want maximum plushness or plated speed
ASICS GEL-Nimbus 28 Runners and walkers who want a softer premium ASICS feel Plusher and more protective Neutral You prefer a lighter daily trainer
ASICS Novablast 5 Runners who want more bounce for daily miles and uptempo days Energetic, soft, and springy Neutral You want a calmer, more traditional ride
Brooks Ghost Runners who want a dependable, balanced everyday trainer Smooth, familiar, and versatile Neutral You want the bounciest ride possible

Who’s the ASICS Cumulus 28 for?

β€’Β Β Β Β Β Β Β  A runner who grew up loving Asics but has veered away from the recent models. This is a big improvement from the Cumulus 27.

β€’Β Β Β Β Β Β Β  Your everyday runner looking for a cushioned, springy shoe without too many bells and whistles.


Who might not love the ASICS Cumulus 28?

β€’Β Β Β Β Β Β Β  A runner who likes a more firm, responsive under foot. Try the Sonicblast!

β€’Β Β Β Β Β Β Β  A runner who is hoping for a high-tech innovative shoe. Try the Novablast!Β 

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Why you need the ASICS Cumulus 28?

The ASICS Cumulus 28 is an excellent choice because it strikes the balance that most runners and everyday wearers are actually looking for: dependable comfort, versatility, and consistency. It’s the type of shoe that performs well across a wide range of activitiesβ€”from daily training runs to long days on your feetβ€”without feeling overly specialized or complicated. The ride is smooth and well-cushioned, the fit is comfortable and breathable, and the overall construction is durable enough to handle regular use. For someone who wants a reliable, well-rounded shoe that will feel good mile after mile, the Cumulus 28 is a smart and easy recommendation.

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About the Author

Sophia is our Apparel Buyer here at The Running Well Store! She is actively involved in the run clubs in Kansas City and prides herself in being a retired collegiate runner.