The ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28, a neutral, reliable, and versatile everyday running shoe. The 28th iteration hasn't been reinvented, instead it's had a series of updates that raise an important question: When does a shoe update really matter, and when is it just the work of the marketing team ?
The verdict:
A maintenance update, not a reinvention. The new FF BLAST MAX midsole delivers a noticeably softer, more energetic ride, and the AHAR LO rubber outsole improves durability. If you loved the GEL-CUMULUS 27, you'll like the 28 even more but there's no need to rush out of a shoe you're still enjoying.
| Weight | 259g (men's UK 9)/223g (women's UK 6) |
| Drop | 8mm |
| Stack Height | Men's 30.5mm forefoot and 38.5mm heel height /Women's 29.5mm forefoot and 37.5mm heel height |
| Midsole | FF BLAST MAX foam + PureGel (heel) |
| Outsole | AHAR LO heel pug rubber |
| Category | Neutral daily trainer |
| Best for | Easy and long runs, everyday mileage |
| RRP | 140 |
What's new in the GEL-CUMULUS 28?
At first glance version 28 looks familiar, but a closer look reveals a couple of meaningful updates. The biggest change is found in the new midsole, which is now formulated using the soft and responsive FF BLAST MAX foam, replacing previous FF BLAST PLUS cushioning and bringing the GEL-CUMULUS in line with the NOVABLAST 5. The addition of AHAR LO rubber in the heel improves durability and traction, making this a maintenance update rather than a full-on revamp.
FlyteFoam™ (FF) offers runners a lightweight, more responsive ride without any compromise on durability and support. FF BLAST MAX foam is one of ASICS' most energetic midsole foams, specifically engineered for higher stack trainers that demand top level performance. It offers more cushioning volume for added comfort, while maintaining a responsive feel that keeps runners moving efficiently mile after mile. The responsiveness of this midsole foam is the key to what makes it differ from the previous FF BLAST PLUS cushioning. It feels softer and more responsive, giving you that energy boost in each step, whether you're tackling an easy run or pushing through a long training run. This innovative foam technology helps reduce fatigue, allowing runners to perform at their best for longer periods. This foam is also found in other popular ASICS shoes such as the NOVABLAST 5 and GT-2000 v14, demonstrating it's versatility and trustworthiness across the ASICS line up.
In addition to the upgrade in the midsole foam cushioning, the inclusion of the AHAR LO heel plug rubber in key areas of the outsole delivers reliable grip and traction without any sacrifice on durability. While the GEL-CUMULUS 27 handled everyday running well, the outsole was noted for lacking reliable grip on both wet and dry surfaces, which could be a concern for runners navigating surfaces and weather conditions. This feedback has been taken onboard, and the update to the GEL-CUMULUS 28's outsole has been designed and engineered to provide significantly better grip on both wet and dry surfaces. This improvement makes the GEL-CUMULUS 28 a far more versatile and confidence inspiring shoe, giving runners the security and confidence needed to perform at their best.
We asked our Product Education and Training Specialist, Matt Wright, to explain this further - check out his review bel
| GEL-CUMULUS 27 | GEL-CUMULUS 28 | |
| Midsole foam | FF BLAST PLUS | FF BLAST MAX |
| Outsole | Standard rubber | AHAR LO rubber in heel |
| Weight | Men's 265g/Women's 230g | Men's 259g/Women's 223g |
| Drop | 8mm | 8mm |
| Ride feel | Lightweight and plush | Softer and responsive |
| RRP | £140 | £140 |
The GEL-CUMULUS 28 brings together several notable improvements over the GEL-CUMULUS 27, while maintaining the same price point of £140 and heel drop of 8mm. The most prominent upgrade is the change of midsole foam from FF BLAST PLUS to FF BLAST MAX, delivering a softer and more responsive ride compared to the GEL-CUMULUS 27's lightweight and plush feel. The improvement to the outsole through replacing the standard rubber with AHAR LO rubber in the heel delivers better grip and durability on both wet and dry surfaces. Both the men's and women's versions have seen a weight reduction, with the men's dropping from 265g to 259g and the women's dropping from 230g to 221g. Overall, the GEL-CUMULUS 28 refines the formula of iteration 27 in all the right areas without dramatically changing the shoe altogether.
Who is the GEL-CUMULUS 28 for?
- An excellent choice for beginner runners building up mileage and looking for an everyday running shoe. The softer, more cushioned FF BLAST MAX foam delivers comfort and support where needed, while the improved outsole grip adds confidence across a variety of surfaces.
- Perfect for neutral runners looking for a dependable, everyday training shoe, the GEL-CUMULUS 28 ticks all the boxes. Striking the perfect balance between cushioning and responsiveness, the GEL-CUMULUS 28 is best suited for easy recovery runs and moderately-paced efforts. The 28 iterations of refinement makes this shoe one of the most trusted daily trainers on the market.
- If you have been running in previous versions of the GEL-CUMULUS and are considering an upgrade, the 28 offers a noticeably improved experience without venturing too far from what made the previous versions so popular. The change to FF BLAST MAX foam and addition of AHAR LO rubber in the outsole make this shoe a worthwhile step forward, and at the same price point of £140, it is great value.
- The GEL-CUMULUS 28 may not be best suited for runners who are after a firmer, more minimal ride, as the softer foam may be too cushioned. It is also not designed for runners who overpronate or are after a speed work for race-day shoe.
Final verdict- is the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28 update worth it?
Change can be scary but ultimately it is needed and is for the best. Based on the information above, the upgrades to the GEL-CUMULUS 28 are worth it if you're looking for a new shoe to buy, but there isn't an urgent reason to upgrade if you've still got plenty of mileage in a pair of the previous version.
Meaningful improvements
The switch to FF BLAST MAX foam in the midsole is the major standout change as it delivers a genuinely softer and more responsive underfoot feeling, not just a marketing tweak. The AHAR LO rubber outsole also addresses a weakness in version 27, which was noted for lacking reliable grip on wet and dry surfaces. Both upgrades are practical and noticeable rather than for cosmetic purposes. The slight weight reduction for the men's and women's shoes are a minimal bonus.
Where does the GEL-CUMULUS 28 fall short of being a 'must-have upgrade'?
The upgrades are a refinement rather than a redesign. The shoes drop, price (£140), and overall features remain the same. If you're content in the 27, you won't feel like you're missing out.
To conclude
If you are looking for a new daily trainer, the GEL-CUMULUS 28 is the smarter option over the 27 at the same price. The outsole grip improvement alone is worth the upgrade for anyone running in varied British weather conditions. If the 27's still have plenty of miles in them, there's no immediate reason to replace them earlier than needed and it is best to wait until they've reached their max mileage and then make the switch.
FAQ
- What is FF BLAST MAX foam?
An energetic midsole foam that provides a soft and responsive underfoot feel, while providing energy return in each step.
- Is the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 28 good for beginners?
Being a neutral, versatile, and easy going every day show, the GEL-CUMULUS 28 is an obvious choice as a first running shoe. It is reliable and comfortable as a daily trainer that works from day one.
- How does the GEL-CUMULUS 28 compare to the GEL-NIMBUS 28?
| GEL-CUMULUS 28 | GEL-NIMBUS 28 | |
| Cushioning | FF BLAST MAX midsole foam | FF BLAST PLUS midsole foam |
| Stack height | Moderate stack height | Higher stack height (43.5mm) |
| Ride feel | Springier and more responsive ride | Softer and more protective |
| Weight | Lighter and nimble | Heavier due to extra cushioning |
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Is the GEL-CUMULUS 28 suitable for long runs?
The GEL-CUMULUS 28 is more than capable for long runs. FF BLAST MAX foam delivers genuine cushioning and shock absorption, protecting your legs and joints as mileage increases. The redesigned heel creates a smooth, natural heel-to-toe transition that reduces fatigue over distance, while the engineered mesh upper stays breathable and comfortable without creating pressure points as your feet swell. The wider platform keeps your gait stable and consistent mile after mile, making this a shoe you can genuinely trust as the distance grows.
