ASICS Gel Nimbus vs Cumulus: Shock Absorption Anyone?

The Asics line of running shoes does a good job at treating pronators. There are sneakers for underpronators and overpronators alike. And sometimes, some of the Asics shoe models are made for both at the same time. This is somewhat the case with the Nimbus and Cumulus line of shoes.

We have created this Asics Gel Nimbus vs Cumulus comparison in order to settle the score between these two popular Asics shoe lines. As you will see, there are some differences take into consideration based on your weight and your particular foot needs.

Related: Brooks vs New Balance Running Shoes with Rollbar Technology

ASICS Gel Nimbus vs Cumulus

Preview
Asics Gel Nimbus
ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 21 Running Shoes, 8.5M, Blue Coast/Skylight
Asics Gel Cumulus
ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes, 8, Azure/Blue Print
Title
ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 21 Running Shoes, 8.5M, Blue Coast/Skylight
ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes, 8, Azure/Blue Print
Price
Price not available
Price not available
Weight
255 g/9 oz
230 g/8.1 oz
Upper
Synthetic-and-mesh
Fabric and synthetic
Heel
Exoskeletal heel clutching technology
Impact Guidance System for better movement and stability
Heel Drop
13 mm
10 mm
Midsole
FLYTEFOAM® Propel technology: 3mm of foam formulation for less drag, greater spring a higher energy return
FLYTEFOAM® Propel technology: 3mm of foam formulation for less drag, greater spring a higher energy return
Outsole
abrasion resistant AHAR® outsole for good cushioning and
abrasion resistant AHAR® outsole for good cushioning and
More Information
Asics Gel Nimbus
Preview
ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 21 Running Shoes, 8.5M, Blue Coast/Skylight
Title
ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 21 Running Shoes, 8.5M, Blue Coast/Skylight
Price
Price not available
Weight
255 g/9 oz
Upper
Synthetic-and-mesh
Heel
Exoskeletal heel clutching technology
Heel Drop
13 mm
Midsole
FLYTEFOAM® Propel technology: 3mm of foam formulation for less drag, greater spring a higher energy return
Outsole
abrasion resistant AHAR® outsole for good cushioning and
More Information
Asics Gel Cumulus
Preview
ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes, 8, Azure/Blue Print
Title
ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 20 Running Shoes, 8, Azure/Blue Print
Price
Price not available
Weight
230 g/8.1 oz
Upper
Fabric and synthetic
Heel
Impact Guidance System for better movement and stability
Heel Drop
10 mm
Midsole
FLYTEFOAM® Propel technology: 3mm of foam formulation for less drag, greater spring a higher energy return
Outsole
abrasion resistant AHAR® outsole for good cushioning and
More Information

How The Nimbus And Cumulus Can Relieve Your Pain

Often enough, pronators will develop irritations around their tendons. This will make it too painful for them to jog for long distances. In fact, some people experience the pain even if they are not joggers.

asics-nimbulus-vs-cumulus

Pronation refers to the fact that some people’s feet tend to hit the ground at an angle that is harmful to the tendons. With under pronators, the foot has a tendency to hit the ground on the outer edge. And with overpronators, the foot curves inward and hits the ground on the inside of the foot. Either way, people develop issues with their feet when they are traveling long distances as pronators. For some, the pain and stiffness is so bad that they can barely move their joints.

Many customers of the Nimbus and Cumulus shoes have claimed that it is really helped them alleviate the pain in their feet. For some people, it means the difference between being able to jog long distances, or not being able to jog at all.

Differences Between The Asics Gel Nimbus vs Cumulus

We want to first point out that both of these types of shoes have a fair amount of cushioning. They do vary slightly in terms of how much cushioning there is, as you will see below. These shoes now come with seamless construction, minimizing the amount of stitching and seems that are used in maintaining the upper. This reduces the friction and irritation that is caused by traditional stitching.

asics-nimbulus-vs-cumulus-2

Both of these lines are made to treat underpronators and mild overpronators. And as a matter of fact, they are also suitable for people who have a neutral gait, but simply want a cushy sneaker. 

Below, we will talk about the features that are unique with each of these shoes.

  • Cushiness: Both of these shoe lines are plenty comfortable and do a good job at absorbing shock upon contact with the ground. However, the Nimbus sneakers generally have more padding and cushiness than the Cumulus. There is especially more cushioning at the forefoot with the Nimbus than with the Cumulus. This is likely due to the Nimbus having more gel in the midsole.
  • Weight: Due to having more gel, the Nimbus is also heavier than the Cumulus.
  • Breathability: The Nimbus runs hotter than the Cumulus. Customers tend to find that they sweat more in the Nimbus.
  • Stability: The Cumulus has more stability than the Nimbus. This is likely due to the Nimbus having more cushioning.
  • Heel clutching: The Nimbus has a heel clutching system that means that the heel has harder materials. This makes it so that the foot does not slide around as much, thus eliminating some of the chafing.

Asics Gel Nimbus vs Cumulus: Price Comparison

If you’d like to compare the prices for the various models of the Nimbus and the Cumulus, please see below.

The Verdict

If you are a heavyset person, you may prefer the Nimbus. The extra shock absorption that it provides will protect you feet better if you’re jogging. Because the Nimbus has better cushioning, and also feels comfortable right out of the box, whereas the Cumulus requires breaking in. Some customers feel that after the break in part, both of these shoes are very similar in feel and comfort.

Due to the fact that the Nimbus technically has more cushioning, it also has less stability than the Cumulus. Some people notice a difference in terms of stability.

It’s up to you to decide which of the features appeals to you the most.

Related: Asics Gel Kayano 22 vs 23: Comfort Or Durability?

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