Comfort

On first impression, the GEL-Cumulus 19 has an average amount of comfort. However, after a few runs, the shoe really started to soften up. The entry point around the ankle collar was heavily padded and designed with a soft breathable fabric. The upper, freed of its predecessor’s heavy overlays, wasn’t as soft and pliable as other shoes tested, but that didn’t affect the level of comfort. Underfoot, ASICS uses the combination of their registered FluidRide Midsole and strategically placed gel pods to offer the runner a middle-of–the-road level of cushioning – not so firm that it felt hard and not so soft that it felt mushy.

Fit

All of our testers agree the Asics GEL-Cumulus 19 was a well-fitting shoe. Reviewers felt the newly redesigned seamless upper offered just enough room throughout the toe box while securing the midfoot with a perfect amount of pressure. The heel counter was firm and gave the rear of the shoe good stability. The lacing system was designed with independently placed eyelets to disburse lace tension, “creating a customized fitting environment and enhanced upper comfort.”

Responsiveness 

Of all the comfort shoes tested, the GEL-Cumulus 19 was one of the more responsive. Often times outsoles are super firm to increase durability, which can steal some of the midsole’s ability to return energy. But Asics did a great job blending the midsole and outsole to allow the runner to get a full return from the FluidRide Midsole.

Speed

Despite a heavier weight, the GEL-Cumulus 19 felt quite light and easy to move, making it a good one-shoe quiver. A lower stack height throughout the shoe, especially in the forefoot, allowed for greater ground feel while still giving the runner a good amount of protection. Three horizontal grooves in the outsole allow midsole flex during toe-off, providing a nice level of bounce-back upon lift off.

Ride Quality

Asics paid special attention to how the GEL-Cumulus assists the foot through a smooth gait by employing their IGS (Impact Guidance System), a “design philosophy that employs linked componentry to enhance the foot’s natural gait from heel strike to toe-off.” This philosophy paid off, as the GEL-Cumulus has a smooth ride. A Guidance Trusstic System provided a bridge along the midfoot medially and laterally for a smooth transition as weight shifts from the heel to the forefoot.