Asics Cumulus vs. Nimbus vs. Kayano: Differences and Reviews 2025
Asics is a well-respected running shoe brand known for its long lines of stylish,comfnfortable, and durable running shoes.If you’re a fan of Asics, you’ll know that many of their shoes use Gel cushioning.It’s their Asics-only way of providing midsole comfort.Three of the most popular Gel shoe lines include the Cumulus,Nimbus and Kayano.They are some of the most popular running shoe franchise in the world.Cumulus,Nimbus and Kayano running shoes share similar traits.However, there are some key differences among these shoes.It can be difficult to figure out if one is better than the other.What is the difference between Kayano and Nimbus?Which is better Asics Nimbus or Kayano?What's the difference between Cumulus and Nimbus?Is Nimbus better than Cumulus?What's the difference between Kayano and Cumulus?Asics Cumulus vs. Nimbus vs. Kayano:which Asics runners are best?Which should you buy?Who should wear Asics Kayano?In this article, I’ll be looking at their many similarities as well as their important differences.I compare the latest model of each: Asics Gel Cumulus 24 vs. Asics Gel Nimbus 24 vs. Asics Gel Kayano 29.Keep reading and find which one is best for you.
Asics Gel Cumulus Overview
The Asics Gel Cumulus has been around for a very long time. It’s one of the Asics staple shoes. It’s known for being a solid alternative for the pricey Gel Nimbus.A straightforward, dependable and boring daily trainer, it has always been in the shadow of other more premium shoes like the Nimbus or even the Kayano. While not as cushioned as the Kayano or Nimbus, it provides support and shock absorption over your daily runs. The Cumulus shoe places the emphasis on rearfoot and forefoot cushioning to provide added shock absorption without sacrificing running efficiency. There’s also high-carbon rubber in high-wear areas of the Cumulus running shoes to improve the life of the shoe.
Overall,the ASICS Gel Cumulus is a great choice if you are looking for a plush, versatile everyday trainer. It’s not made for speed sessions but does well for all other running workouts. You will get your money's worth with this shoe.
#Asics Gel Cumulus 24 Review
There have been few major updates to the Gel Cumulus – but in the case of the 24, Asics has changed the design substantially.A new upper and the integration of FF Blast completely changes the ride in a way that may make you excited to go on easy training runs.These changes have improved the shoe, which is a great daily training option.
To improve comfort, the upper features an improved heel fit. Meanwhile, the engineered mesh improves breathability to keep your feet cool throughout your run.Moving on to cushioning, you get a dual-density experience with the shoe’s midsole combining FF BLAST and FLYTEFOAM technology to create a firm but soft ride. To make the ride even plusher, ASCIS infused the shoe’s heel area with its GEL technology. They also added an extra dot of GEL to the forefoot area of the sole.
It's a solid daily trainer that maxes out comfort in your easy and long days on the road. Even better, it's built to last. So if you want to make the most out of your $130 purchase, the ASICS Gel Cumulus 24 won't be a bust.
Pros | Cons |
|
|
Asics Gel Nimbus Overview
The ASICS Gel Nimbus has been a staple amongst runners since the late nineties.The Nimbus is named after the “cumulonimbus cloud” for its soft and lightweight properties, and the latest version of the Nimbus is the lightest yet.
It’s a long-distance running shoe that offers maximum cushioning and bounce, thanks to a range of ASICS performance technology. From your first stride to your last, the lightweight cushioning and new improved fit provide lasting comfort you can rely on, making this the leading cushioning running shoe for neutral runners.The upper is extremely secure, with a 360º fluid skin and strategic overlays, while the revolutionary GEL® technology gives you more flexibility of movement in the rear and forefoot while protecting your feet and lower legs from impact on hard surfaces.FF BLAST PLUS foam creates lightweight cushioning that delivers smooth transitions and propulsive toe-offs. The result is an ultra soft ride with just the right amount of responsiveness.ASICS uses their signature gel-like pads in the heel and forefoot of the Nimbus to absorb impact and disperse it evenly throughout the foot, and Flytefoam cushioning in the midsole creates another layer of protection for your feet. If comfort is your priority, look no further than the GEL-NIMBUS shoe.
#Asics Gel Nimbus 24 Review
The Asics Gel Nimbus 24 is the newest model in the Nimbus lineup. Nimbus 24 is now one of the lightest, bounciest max-cushioned trainers on the market and it’s definitely worth upgrading to the Nimbus 24, even if you have the Nimbus 23.
It is a super soft max cushioned trainer with a versatile ride.The shoe is built for the long haul as it makes you feel like you are running on a cloud.Creating a softer landing in every step, this shoe is also approx. 20g lighter than the previous version. The upper’s soft engineered mesh and flexible midfoot panel make these shoes more comfortable during long runs. By moving seamlessly with your foot, they help your stride feel smoother in every step. The Asics Gel Nimbus 24 essentially takes the well-loved max cushioned shoe designed for going long, and slaps on a lighter upper and cushioning technology that gives it a much softer, bouncier feeling than previous Nimbus shoes.FF BLAST PLUS cushioning keeps the shoe lightweight while providing a softer feeling underfoot. This material also helps increase the shoe's rebound properties at the toe-off stage.Its new Trusstic technology (under the foot arch) prevents the foot from twisting as you step, which is good news for overpronators.
If you’re looking to conquer your first 5k, train for longer distances or just have fun with running, this trainer offers comfort, cushioning and support.
Pros | Cons |
|
|
Asics Gel Kayano Overview
The Kayano is the top tier stability offering from Asics. It is the first to receive the latest and greatest technology Asics offers.It is also the most luxurious everyday training shoe from Asics. aimed at the pronating runner.It is synonymous with performance, comfort and stability. is ASICSconstantly improving and enhancing the collection.Since the first version of the Asics. Gel Kayano was launched back in 1993,there are so many versions.
Gel Kayano running shoe may look similar to the Gel Nimbus shoe on paper, but when you wear it, you will notice a difference in its ride. The Kayano provides more stability, but can still be worn by neutral runners. While the drop and weight are the same as the Gel Nimbus, the Gel Kayano shoe features a more responsive ride–so that you can maintain your speed without sacrificing comfort. The Kayano running shoe offers DuoMax technology to stop overpronation. The FlyteFoam Propel cushioning system wraps around the whole midsole of the shoe.Low Anyone with a low arch, better known as flat- foot, loves the ASICS Kayano runner.
Whether you are an experienced athlete or looking to step up your game, Gel Kayano running shoes will help you go further in complete comfort and style. It is Asics' springiest, most responsive and easy to control shoes yet.
#Asics Gel Kayano 29 Review
The latest version—the Gel Kayano 29— maintains its position as a top model thanks to the same shock-absorbing GEL technology and reliable stability features as generations past. Plus, this iteration boasts a bouncier, thicker midsole and a more breathable upper to keep you running comfortably and efficiently mile after mile.Continuing to drop weight while improving comfort, the Gel-Kayano 29 maintains a strong tradition of improvement and evolution in the right direction.
Gel-Kayano 29, a stability classic, receives significant changes and updates over the previous version. Gel-Kayano 29 features a lighter and more durable midsole, improved cushioning, and a shift towards sustainability, as well as a more comfortable fit that will help you run longer. Several of these features have been made possible through a total rework of ASICS' stability system, which combines numerous ASICS technologies from previous models to reduce weight and provide runners with a smoother ride.A new engineered mesh upper creates a sock-like, snug, and secure fit throughout. A well-integrated medial post and extended medial external heel counter provide a higher level of medial guidance/stability for those that want it. Those looking for a traditional stability shoe with new age, premium features and none of the prior clunkiness should check out the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29.
Pros | Cons |
|
|
Where to Buy Asics Shoes?
ASICS(up to 2% super cash back)
Foot Locker(4% super cash back)
StockX(up to 4% super cash back)
Academy Sports + Outdoors(1% super cash back)
Nordstrom Rack(2% super cash back)
Saving Tip:
If you like online shopping, don't forget to sign up at Extrabux!(What is Extrabux) , then you can enjoy up to 30+% cashback on your purchase from Extrabux! Sign-Up Bonus: Free to join it & get $20 welcome bonus! Student Benefits:As long as you are a student at school, you can get a free whole year long VIP Card worth $199.
Extrabux.com cooperates with many merchants, such as: Walmart (Up to 4% cashback), Sephora(4% -5% cash back),Dior (Up to 6% cash back), Moosejaw (5% -6% cash back), LOOKFANTASTIC (Up to 10% cash back), Microsoft (Up to 7% cash back) and so on. You can save on buying daily necessities, fashion, beauty, electronic products, broadband installation, mobile communication, air tickets, hotels and other aspects of life!
Asics Cumulus vs. Nimbus vs. Kayano: Comparison Side by Side
1.Specifications
Gel Cumulus 24 | GEL Nimbus 24 | Gel Kayano 29 | |
Surface | Road | Road | Road |
Width | Narrow/Standard/Wide/Extra wide | Standard/Wide/Extra wide | Narrow/Standard/Wide/Extra wide |
Heel Drop | 8mm | 10mm | 10mm |
Weight | 286 g/10.1 oz(M);249 g/8.8 oz(W) | 290 g/10.2 oz(M);247 g/8.7 oz(W) | 299 g/10.5 oz(M);270 g/9.5 oz(W) |
Support | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral, Stability |
Cushion | Extra | Maximum | Maximum |
Pronation | Designed for neutral/underpronation | Designed for neutral/underpronation | Designed for neutral/underpronation |
Shoe Type | Cushioning | Balanced/Plush | Balanced |
Flexibility | Medium | Flexible | Medium |
Stability | Some stability | Some stability | Very stability |
Sizing | True to size | Buy half size bigger | True to size |
Recommended For | Daily training, long distance racing | Daily training, long distance racing | Daily training,long run |
Price | $130 | $119.95 | $160 |
2.Tech & Materials
Gel Cumulus 24 Technology | GEL Nimbus 24 Technology | Gel Kayano 29 |
|
|
|
3.Construction
Upper
Gel Cumulus 24 - It’s made of engineered mesh that perfectly holds your foot in place while allowing your feet room to breathe.Asics uses its signature 3D Space Construction technology. This is gender-specific and will address the differences between men’s and women’s feet and will provide the correct amount of support throughout the entire upper.
GEL Nimbus 24 - The shoe now features an engineered jacquard mesh that is more breathable than the previous knit used on the 23. The mesh tends to flex well, which gives you more room in the toebox for later on in your runs.On the Nimbus 24, the big change is the tongue. A super thin, stretchy, knitted tongue has replaced the normal thick, padded tongue.The thin tongue of the Nimbus 24 makes it a cooler shoe because it lets more air into the vamp of the shoe so this Nimbus might not be suitable for freezing cold temperatures.
Gel Kayano 29 - The reinvigorated engineered mesh upper used in the Gel Kayano 29 has improved overall fit. Runners can expect an upper that moves with them through their gait and over the course of running as their feet expand.At least 50% of the Gel Kayano 29’s main upper material is made with recycled materials. The sockliner is produced with the solution dyeing process that reduces water usage by approximately 33% and carbon emissions by approximately 45% compared to the conventional dyeing technology.
The upper of the GEL Cumulus 24 is fashioned from a jacquard mesh, which keeps the foot well-contained but doesn’t allow for ample breathability.
Midsole
Gel Cumulus 24 - The midsole of the shoe is another thing that has been upgraded since the last version.It offers their FF Blast cushioning. This midsole foam was developed to help create a softer landing and develop a more energized toe-off. In the midsole, FLYTEFOAM cushioning is also added to help with shock absorption. It’s noted to be lighter than most standard midsoles.
GEL Nimbus 24 - The Nimbus 24 has a dual-density midsole setup. There’s firmer Flytefoam on the top, in the heel and forefoot with FF Blast+ on the bottom layer, throughout the length of the shoe. This setup makes the heel and midfoot slightly firmer than the forefoot and it also makes heel and midfoot landings more stable.The only negative aspect of the super soft FF Blast+ is that it’s brittle. The shoe is also designed with TRUSSTIC technology, a thermoplastic material that can be found under the arch of the shoe. The plastic material is there to increase stability on the medial side and offer support to the midfoot.
Gel Kayano 29 - The Gel Kayano is 4% lighter than its predecessor, thanks to an updated midsole foam. Previously the forefoot was comprised of FF Blast foam, but that's now been upgraded to a lighter (by 19%) and bouncier foam called FF Blast Plus, which is designed to create softer landings and a more energised toe-off. The footbed is also thicker – going up by 2mm in the heel and forefoot.The introduction of LITETRUSS technology has increased midsole durability in Gel Kayano 29. The shoe retains its midsole's energy regardless of whether you're a novice or experienced runner.
Outsole
Gel Cumulus 24 - On the outsole of the shoe, you will find AHAR PLUS Rubber. This material is strategically placed in the heel area to help with traction and will last you the miles.In the forefoot area, you’ll notice the New ASICS Lite outsole rubber. This new outsole is stronger and the material weighs less than most standard outsoles.
GEL Nimbus 24 - There’s relatively little rubber on the outsole of the Nimbus 24 for a daily trainer. It has AHAR+ on the heel and softer AHAR on the forefoot.Probably the biggest change with regards to the outsole has been the removal of the medial Trusstic device on the Asics Gel Nimbus 23. The Trusstic system has been changed to a floating plastic shank situated in the middle of the midsole instead of on the outsole.
Gel Kayano 29 - The AHAR+ outsole has a decent grip on wet pavement. Moreover, the LITETRUSS foam and construction design have been deployed to increase stability. It also creates an efficient toe-off that adds that extra bounce.
4.Fit and Sizing
Gel Cumulus 24 - Snug like a glove and true to size! he upper is softer and more padded, comfort is "never an issue" as an expert has confirmed. Some even say it's "almost too comfortable;" it's along with the ranks of the Saucony Triumph.
GEL Nimbus 24 - The Asics Nimbus 24 fits relatively true to size. It is a bit roomier than standard width throughout. The toebox has generous room for toe splay. The partially recycled material upper is stretchy and accommodating. One of the reasons the Nimbus has succeeded for so long is its comfortable fit on foot, which continues to deliver in the 24th edition.
Gel Kayano 29 - The Gel-Kayano 29 fits true to size.While the ASICS Gel-Kayano 29 are super light, they sit tightly to the foot, especially on the top of the foot. The fit overall is fairly normal in the heel with a slightly snug midfoot and forefoot. Combined with the new heel counter design (internal and external), the upper is quite secure.
Conclusion: Which Asics Shoe is Best for You?
The Gel Nimbus and the Gel Cumulus are the most popular neutral running shoes from Asics,while the Kayano is their top stability shoes. They both share a soft, cushioned ride but differ in the way the handle the runner's gait.Gel Nimbus and Gel Cumulus running shoes are specifically designed for neutral runners and Gel Kayanos shoes are for those runners with overpronation. These shoes offers something different, based on the type of run you are doing. Before buying either of these shoes remember to check and see if you are a neutral runner or an overpronator.
The Gel-Nimbus could be called the Mercedes Benz of Asics shoes, for its luxury ride.Heavier runners, or runners which prefer softer shoes that keep their comfort over a longer mileage should be headed towards the Nimbus.
Runners that are looking for a soft shoe that has some more responsiveness and don’t mind sacrificing some of that softness should but the Cumulus.
If you have unstable ankles and would like a shoe that can help you maintain a proper gait and form throughout long mileage the Kayano is the shoe for you. It has a similar level of comfort over long mileage but with the added stability.
Whichever you decide to buy, they’re both packed with great ASICS technology and if you use them right, you’ll get plenty of happy miles out of them. Happy running!
Ryka vs. Nike vs. Asics vs. Hoka Walking Shoes: Which is the Best for Women to Wear All Day?
Asics Gel Nimbus 21 vs. 22 vs. 23 vs. 24: Differences and Reviews 2025
Asics Gel Kayano 26 vs. 27 vs. 28 vs 29: Differences and Reviews 2025
Best Tennis Shoes: Nike vs. Adidas vs. New Balance vs. Asics?
Best Badminton Shoes: Yonex vs. Asics vs. Li-Ning?
Asics vs. Brooks vs. New Balance vs. Saucony: Which Makes the Best Running Shoes?
Extrabux is an international cashback shopping site, offering up to 30% cashback from 10,000+ Stores!
24S, SSENSE, MATCHESFASHION.COM, Shopbop, NET-A-PORTER, FARFETCH, YOOX, Eastbay, End Clothing, Macys, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Saks OFF 5TH, Bergdorf Goodman, Selfridges, Bloomingdales, Coggles, Harrods, Kohl's, Urban Outfitters, ASOS, Missguided, etc.
Join to get $20 welcome bonus now! (How does Welcome Bonus work?)
Recommendation
-
Is Turkish Airlines Good for International Flights?
-
10 Best & Stylish Winter Coats for Women on NET-A-PORTER in 2025
-
Top & Best 12 Sneaker Apps/Websites for Raffles, Releases & Restocks in 2025
-
7 Best Gift Card Exchange Sites - Buy, Sell and Trade Discount Gift Card Safely and Instanly!
-
Top 9 Professional Skincare Brands for Licensed Estheticians 2025