Asics Gel Cumulus 28

The Asics Gel Cumulus 28 is the daily trainer for neutral runners looking for comfort and versatility on their runs. It competes directly with the Ghost 17, the Pegasus 42 and the Ride 19. The Cumulus 28 is the workhorse of the Asics range: reliable, predictable and designed to pile on the miles without fuss. If you are coming from the Cumulus 27, you will notice that this version is lighter and more responsive thanks to the new midsole, although you cannot ask for the impossible: it is essentially a daily cruiser.

The engineered jacquard mesh upper (with recycled materials, all in on sustainability while releasing new models every year) is lighter and more breathable than in previous generations. The fit is true to size, with a medium last that wraps the foot without pressure points, nothing to write home about. The ultra-thin padded knit tongue ensures a comfortable fit without chafing, while the traditional laces allow a precise fit, as precise as the way you tie them. The construction is sturdy but light, built for daily wear. The toe box is generous, letting the toes move naturally, especially on long runs when the foot tends to swell.

The midsole debuts FF BLAST MAX foam (the same as in the Novablast 5), offering a more energetic and responsive ride than previous versions. The PureGEL in the heel absorbs impact remarkably well, making for smooth transitions. With an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop, the geometry is classic and aimed at easing the stride for heel strikers. The AHAR rubber outsole provides traction and durability on asphalt, with a pattern that does not trap stones. If the goal is to pile on the miles with comfort and reliability, this is your shoe; it is already on its 28th edition, after all.