Triathlete and middle-distance runner Stefano Maiorana puts in three to four sessions on the road each week. We got him to talk us through one of his favourite shoes, the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 20.
Details
Type: Neutral shoe that’s perfect for short distances up to ultra marathons*
*(for those who don’t require optimal cushioning).
Heel drop/offset: 10mm drop from heel to toe
Cushioning system: Flyte Foam throughout the shoe, with GEL panels in the heel and other high shock areas. The Flyte Foam allows for a light, sturdy shoe that still provides ample cushioning, while the GEL panels provide extra shock absorbance where you need it most.
Upper: Sleek aerated mesh design – a big improvement on the previous model
Forefoot: Wider toe box that allows the toes to splay more than previous models
Weight: 285grams (standard running shoe)
While some speedsters will use the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 20 for training only, less serious or heavier runners will find these shoes ideal for both training and racing. I use the shoes for everyday training and sometimes racing.
I don’t like using overly-cushioned shoes because it feels as if I’m losing energy with each stride; the ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 20 is a great compromise between responsivity and cushioning. For me (weighing at 68kgs at 1.73m), the shoes provide just the right amount of cushioning without the clunky feeling of very cushioned shoes, resulting in a responsive yet plush set of trainers.
The 10mm offset is perfect for me, given that I’m a natural forefoot striker. It allows me to place more impact on my heel, protecting my forefoot from excessive shock.
My favourite aspects of the shoe is the newly introduced widened toe box, the aerated mesh upper, and the minimalist lace eyelets. It lets my toes splay wide with every step, making my foot feel unrestricted. People with wider or flatter feet will enjoy this new design.
The ASICS GEL-CUMULUS 20 is available at ASICS Canal Walk, Mall of Africa and all top retailers nationwide.
