GEL-CUMULUS

The ASICS Gel-Cumulus is a running line from ASICS that dates back to 1999, but on the street it is all about the Gel-Cumulus 16. This 2014 running shoe has returned as a retro sneaker, with glossy overlays, open mesh and GEL in both heel and forefoot. That makes it an obvious choice for women and men who like the technical look of 2010s runners.

The history of the ASICS Gel-Cumulus

ASICS launched the first Gel-Cumulus in 1999 as an everyday trainer for runners with a neutral stride. Where the Gel-Kayano was built for stability, the Cumulus was about cushioning and a smooth ride. ASICS still updates the line today, and the current Gel-Cumulus remains a real running shoe.

The sixteenth version appeared in 2014 for distance runners. More than ten years later, ASICS SportStyle brought it back as a lifestyle sneaker, next to the other retro runners in the range. Canadian chef Matty Matheson also released his own versions of the returning model.

Design and technology

The upper combines open mesh with glossy synthetic overlays and TPU webbing in a colour gradient along the sides. The sole holds two GEL inserts, one in the heel and one in the forefoot, supported by FluidRide cushioning. The midsole is segmented, so it flexes along with your foot.

The same sole also returns on the Gel-NYC, which uses the Gel-Cumulus 16 as one of its three building blocks. Next to that model, the Cumulus 16 looks lower and closer to an original running shoe.

Popular Gel-Cumulus colorways

Soft pastels and classic black with silver lead the way. These versions are viewed most on WOOVIN:

• Gel-Cumulus 16 ‘Cream Beniimo Purple’: cream with purple accents.
• Gel-Cumulus 16 ‘Finesse Desert Rose’: dusty pink tones.
• Gel-Cumulus 16 ‘Black Pure Silver’: black mesh with silver overlays along the sides and toe.
• Gel-Cumulus 16 ‘White Cream’: white and cream, the most understated version.
• Gel-Cumulus 16 ‘Pink Cloud’: light pink with silver details.

What is the difference between the Gel-Cumulus 16 and the Gel-1130?

Both are reissued ASICS runners, but from different periods. The Gel-1130 dates from 2008 and has metallic lines over a slim upper, with TRUSSTIC for stability. The Gel-Cumulus 16 is six years younger, has GEL in both heel and forefoot and was a neutral trainer from the start. The two also fit differently, as you can read below.

How does the ASICS Gel-Cumulus 16 fit?

Unlike the Gel-Kayano 14 and the Gel-1130, the Gel-Cumulus 16 fits true to size for most wearers, according to retailers and customer reviews. The forefoot is fairly roomy, so regular and wide feet usually fit well in their own size. Between two sizes or wearing thick socks? Then choose the larger one. Go by your EU size, as ASICS uses its own size chart.

Buy the ASICS Gel-Cumulus at WOOVIN

On WOOVIN you will find the Gel-Cumulus 16 in cream, pink and purple and in black with silver, for women and men. For a pair that goes with almost anything, pick black or white with cream. Prefer a softer look? Then one of the pastel pairs is the natural pick.