Which Cushion-Focused Running Shoe is Right for You?

If you're looking for a running shoe with more cushion, there are several ASICS styles to choose from. Compared to stability shoes, which help provide support for overpronation, or the BLAST™ Series, which focuses on next-level energy return, cushion-focused running shoes are designed for neutral runners who want a softer feel underfoot. Read on to compare a few of our favorite styles and find the one that best fits your running goals.  

BLOOMSTRIDE^™  

Designed for: jogging, gym workouts, and everyday movement with a female-first design 

The BLOOMSTRIDE^™ shoe combines plush comfort and responsive energy return with a unique female-first fit. Designed based on biomechanical research and extensive wear testing, the shoe features more space in the toe box, a snugger midsole, and a 6mm heel-to-toe drop, all to help deliver a more comfortable fit for her. In the midsole, new FF LUXE™ cushioning helps provide a soft, springy ride for comfort while running, walking, gym workouts, and more. 

GEL-CUMULUS® 28

Designed for: daily running with a smooth ride and lightweight feel

The GEL-CUMULUS^® 28 shoe is designed to be a versatile daily trainer suitable for short jogs or longer distances. It utilizes FF BLAST^™ MAX foam –– one of our most energetic midsole foams –– to help balance soft landings with responsive toe-offs. PureGEL™ technology in the heel is designed to help absorb impact, while the outsole uses FLUIDRIDE™ technology for smooth transitions between strides. 

GEL-NIMBUS® 28

Designed for: daily running with an extra-soft feel  

Compared to the GEL-CUMULUS® 28 shoe, the GEL-NIMBUS^® 28 shoe is designed for an even softer, more cushioned ride for stacking up miles on your daily runs. It includes FF BLAST™ PLUS foam in the midsole for soft, cloudlike landings in every step, as well as an engineered knit upper that wraps the foot in breathable comfort. On the sole, HYBRID ASICSGRIP™ technology helps provide more advanced grip for confidence on longer runs.  

GLIDERIDE® MAX 2

Designed for: a smooth, effortless ride for long-distance running 

The GLIDERIDE^® MAX 2 shoe is built around one idea: helping you glide through miles with less effort. Dual-layer cushioning with both FF BLAST ^™ MAX and FF BLAST™ PLUS foam balances soft landings with responsive toe-offs, while a hard-pressed EVA plate and curved forefoot help maintain forward momentum with efficient transitions. Lastly, the engineered woven upper offers a soft, adaptive fit with added breathability and durability. 

GEL-SLOWCUSH™ – Available 10/1/26

Designed for: an extra-plush feel for easy days and recovery runs 

The GEL-SLOWCUSH™ shoe is one of the newest additions to the ASICS cushioned running shoe lineup, designed for the moments when you’re not thinking about pace. The shoe features two new materials––FF LUXE™ PLUS cushioning in the midsole and PureGEL™ PLUS technology in the heel––to help deliver a plush, effortless ride with soft landings. A premium engineered mesh upper with a padded tongue wraps the foot comfortably, and the HYBRID ASICSGRIP^™ outsole helps provide dependable grip. Whether you’re planning a relaxed run with friends or slowing it down after a big race, the GEL-SLOWCUSH^™ shoe is made to help you enjoy every mile.