If you are looking for your regular pair of trainers for daily use then you have just started to find out about one of the best available options. This pair besides offering usual comfort in running also emphasizes forefoot and rear-foot cushioning. This is critical for shock absorption that allows you to run comfortably without putting too much stress on your feet, either they are healthy or with any foot-related issue.’
You will be pleasantly surprised to find out about the reasonably wider toe box of this footwear and then also a considerably lower heel-to-toe drop. These are exactly the shoes for Morton’s neuroma if you require one after sustaining such an injury.
Not to forget that the manufacturer has offered this pair specifically for women. This is just the brief and top-level introduction of the ASICS Women’s Gel-Cumulus 20 (D) Running Shoes. All the further details, deep analysis, pros, and cons can be found below.
Features to Consider
The ASICS Women’s Gel-Cumulus 20 (D) Running Shoes offers a range of features at a competitive price which makes it a top choice among fitness enthusiasts. Let us have a deep look at multiple features to consider before you can make your decision about this pair of trainers:
Upper
This one comes with a Jacquard stretchable type of mesh upper. This will provide the shoes with a very flexible and customized fit on the upper. You will be pleased to know about its multidirectional elasticity which allows your foot with good freedom inside for any movement.
The manufacturer has done a great job in reinforcing the mesh in strategic areas which provides a highly supportive framework.
The seamless construction of the trainers results in little to no chances of having any skin infection. It is imperative to mention the Discrete Eyelet special feature which is part of the lacing system. The independent holes here would allow for a custom fit with superior comfort.
All this comes with lesser tension applied on the upper foot. Lastly, a reflective strip is provided on the heel side for support in low-light conditions.
Midsole
Flytefoam technology is the most prominent update in the GEL-Cumulus 20 which is part of the midsole. This technology targets to give a consistent amount of reaction, even when you plan to run for long-distance. This specific method employs special organic fibers that make 55% lightweight cushioning as compared with the conventional midsoles.
Responsiveness, flexibility, and resilience are the main perks here with the technology, which also enhances its durability. FluidRide is the main component of the midsole which is a combo of SpEVA and Solyte, where both of these features are exclusive to the ASICs brand.
The FluidRide is sturdy and lightweight at the same time. It provides reliable performance along with high-rebound and shock-absorbing properties.
Outsole
The ASICs High Abrasion Rubber (AHAR) and DuraSponge resources are combined in the outsole. Both of these work in tandem to provide full ground contact while ensuring a stable ride.
AHAR is provided on the critical high-wear spots on the footwear. The abrasion-resistant quality takes durability a level up while ensuring the required capacity for traction.
The same rubber is used which is found in car tires, which again endorses toughness. The DuraSponge part is resistant to damage as well. It is manufactured using blown rubber which makes it slightly softer as compared with AHAR. They provide the underfoot with a very comfortable experience and qualifies for a highly flexible stride.
Overall Weight
Weight for this pair is a lesser significant feature for all of its major features included discussed in the upper section. However, it is still worth mentioning here. The GEL-Cumulus 20 in comparison to some of the other favorite trainers is slightly on the heavier side with a total weight of 8.4 ounces per shoe.
This weight could be overlooked considering the quality of the other features and the incredible performance that this shoe has got to offer. If you are typically looking for a lightweight shoe then this is not an option for you. However, if you prefer a comfortable experience with excellent foot support during running with the weightlessness of concern then go with this pair.
Fit
The GEL-Cumulus is the one true to its size, which is expected to be worn with thin socks. The front part of the footwear would comfortably accommodate the foot while the reasonably wider toe box will allow your foot to splay.
The heel area to most of the users feels slightly congested and it could become worse with thicker socks while creating some definite pressure on the heel. If you prefer wearing thick socks then make sure to go for a half-size up than your regular size, which will provide you a perfect fit.
Landing Comfort
The manufacturer offered this pair with moderate cushioning which categorizes it among the best pair for all types of road and treadmill running. Padding however is not the best feature and in comparison, it is moderately rated.
Padding is similar to many of the competitive products and this is not much to worry about considering the standard being offered all around. The exterior of the footwear is much stiffer as compared to some of the other models of the ASICS brand. This is probably due to the slightly heavier overall weight of the shoes. This in terms of overall landing comfort rates reasonably good but certainly not the best.
Responsiveness
The GEL-Cumulus is essentially designed by ASICs to be highly responsive. They are quite well settled there and you may find them bouncier than other models of the brand and even the competitive products from other manufacturers.
You may rate the responsiveness to be quite decent. One thing that will pleasantly surprise you here is the level of cushioning given underfoot.
It will be an amazing feeling to have your foot inserted in the shoe. Considering the alternate models for various compromises on cushioning, kudos to GEL-Cumulus for ensuring the middle ground for responsiveness.
Pros
- FlyteFoam enhances durability and reduces weight
- Wider toe box for comfort and fast movement
- The supportive heel is ideal for heel-strikers
- Breathable mesh upper
- Firm, flexible and reliable outsole
Cons
- Takes time to break-in
- Slightly on the heavier side
Conclusion
All the different features of the subject shoes discussed here suggest that it is a top option for easy-paced running for women. The pair could easily be trusted by athletes for half to full marathons. It is a suitable option not only for rod running but also on treadmills.
It is usually good to use on hard soil, flat, and cinder trail surfaces. The gel inserts flyte foam inclusion, wider toe box, and low heel-to-toe drop makes it suitable for women having different foot issues, especially Morton’s neuroma.
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