GEL-KAYANO®, GEL-NIMBUS®, and GEL-CUMULUS® - which shoe is right for me?
November 29, 2023
When finding the right shoe for you, there are several factors to consider. Your feet and running style are unique, not to mention the length of your runs, your preferred terrains, and your experience level. Each of these factors will influence which designs are right for you. Finding a design that offers the right amount of support, comfort, and versatility will help you move comfortably in every condition.
To help you feel confident when finding the right shoe design for you, this article covers three of our most popular designs, each of which has been reimagined to improve on tried-and-true favorite features. Let’s dive into the GEL-KAYANO®, GEL-NIMBUS®, and GEL-CUMULUS® shoe models.
What is the GEL-KAYANO® model?
The GEL-KAYANO® design has mastered the art of stability. This is a great shoe for marathon runners, and offers maximum comfort and support. Because of the cushioning in the midsole of this design assists with higher shock absorption. This shoe is ideal for those who want to minimize impact on the knees and ankles over long distances. Each shoe is engineered with cutting edge ASICS technology such as:
- LITETRUSS™ technology: improves medial support and midfoot integrity
- Rearfoot GEL® Technology Cushioning System: Increased impact absorption to minimize joint strain.
- FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning: Providing lightweight impact absorption and a responsive rebound.
- OrthoLite™ X-55 sockliner: Enhanced step-in comfort.
- AHARPLUS™ heel plug: Improves the outsole durability.
- Redesigned external heel counter to help keep the foot stable and provide a more comfortable stride.
- 3D SPACE CONSTRUCTION™ feature: Improves compression at footstrike.
The GEL-KAYANO® model collection is designed for road surfaces and boasts maximum cushion over other designs. Customers with neutral to overpronation will be best supported by this shoe. While those with neutral pronation tend to have normal arch sizes and land on the outside of the heel before rolling inward, overpronators tend to roll excessively inward to the foot's inner edge. For those with overpronation, you may have low arches or notice that your big toe and second toe are most involved in pushing off of the ground.
What is the GEL-NIMBUS® model?
The GEL-NIMBUS® model collection is an eco-friendly design made for neutral long distance road runners. The upper material of this design is made with 75% or more recycled material, keeping in line with ASICS’ vision to reduce carbon emissions and waste. This shoe uses ASICS performance technology to enhance comfort and spring, with lightweight cushioning and a secure fit. GEL® technology is used to protect the feet on hard surfaces so you can keep going for long periods of time with flexibility of movement. The GEL-NIMBUS® model boasts features such as:
- PureGEL™ technology: For lightweight cushioning and soft landing.
- FF BLAST™ ECO PLUS technology: For responsive toe-off pushes and soft landings.
- OrthoLite™ X-55 sockliner: Designed to improve step-in comfort.
- AHAR™ outsole rubber: For enhanced durability.
- Engineered knit upper: A wrap-around material to enhance security of the foot while increasing breathability.
The GEL-NIMBUS® shoe collection is best suited for those with neutral to underpronation. Those with underpronation tend to hit the ground with the outer side of their heel, leading to shock transmission throughout the lower leg. The enhanced shock absorption of this model can help to encourage smoother transitions when running.
What is the GEL-CUMULUS® model?
The GEL-CUMULUS® shoe is a neutral shoe collection made with extra cushioning under the foot and softer compression in the heel. This shoe is designed for runs of all distances. The GEL-CUMULUS® design gives runners an extra spring in their step and advanced shock absorption, making it a great choice for pavement runners looking to create softer landings. The GEL-CUMULUS® offers advanced features such as:
- FF BLAST™ cushioning: Reduced shock through innovative impact absorption technology.
- Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL® Technology Cushioning System: Further shock absorption throughout the entire movement from heel strike to toe push off.
- Gender-specific 3D SPACE CONSTRUCTION™ feature: Specialized compression design.
- FLYTEFOAM™ cushioning: For impact absorption enhancements.
- Full-ground contact design: To increase stability and comfort.
- Engineered mesh upper: Designed to keep breathability throughout runs.
- OrthoLite™ X-30 sockliner: For improved step-in comfort.
The GEL-CUMULUS® collection is best suited for those with neutral to underpronation. Those with underpronation tend to hit the ground with the outer side of their heel, leading to shock transmission throughout the lower leg. The GEL-CUMULUS® shoe uses ASICS LITE outsole rubber to resist wear and tear to the outside edge of the shoe, helping those with underpronation get longer use out of their shoes.
Find a shoe for every run
Feeling excited about your next run? The ASICS team is committed to help you achieve your goals and explore your passions. Whether you love jogging mountain trails or sprinting across pavement, our innovative collections and GEL® shoe technology will keep you comfortable in every environment. Always be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider before making workout changes.
