Why are Asics changing GEL to PureGEL?

Asics are best known for their use of GEL cushioning. The unique material helps lower the impact of running and has been trusted by runners for decades. So much so, that runners regularly ask for new Asics GELs. While this is a technology and not a model, it’s synonymous with the brand. You might be thinking, why change GEL to PureGEL and how's it better?

Well, Asics is a Japanese brand and they’re very technically minded. Their sports science centre in Japan is always working on ways to improve Asics running shoes. The latest breakthrough is PureGEL. To explain further, this is a brand new material that is 65% softer and 4% more energy returning than the previous GEL. Hence why Asics are changing GEL to PureGEL. If you're looking for more cushioning and bounce from your Asics running shoes, PureGEL is the answer. 

New PureGEL features in the new Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 and Asics Gel-Cumulus 25, due to be released in February and April respectively. Both models have received a significant revamp. We're confident these are going to be two of the best running shoes in 2023. Read on if you’re interested in finding out more.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 25:

The Gel-Nimbus is the most cushioned Asics neutral shoe. However, to make it even better, Asics have added new PureGEL cushioning inside the heel. As a result, the new Gel-Nimbus 25 is more cushioned than ever. This means you’ll get more impact protection and shock absorption. Especially for those of you who land predominantly on your heel during runs. It's also helpful if you fatigue over the course of a run and land more heavily on your feet towards the end. 

If you’re interested in the sustainability side of things, a new foam called FF BLAST+ ECO makes up the rest of the midsole. This is made with 24% bio content. Which is a step towards more sustainable production. It’s also Asics’ lightest, most energetic and cushioned foam. Meaning you’ll feel even more spring in your step as you clock the miles. The midsole should also feel better at a greater range of paces. 

The observant amongst you will also notice the rocker-like shaped midsole geometry. This has been proven to work by other brands and there’s no surprise that more models are being made with this shaping. For more clarity, the curved midsole of the new Gel-Nimbus 25 improves forward momentum and lowers the stress placed on legs as a result. Runners who suffer from tight calf muscles are especially likely to benefit from this development. 

Asics are masters of making technical uppers and the new Gel-Nimbus upper is no exception. A new engineered knit design offers great support, but in a lighter weight design and without the need for as many overlays. If you’re concerned about ankle security and comfort, Asics have added the highly popular knitted collar construction. This is used because it sculpts perfectly around varying ankle shapes. Meaning it has just the right hold and reduces the chances of friction. 

Durability is always high up a runner’s priority list when it comes to picking running shoes. The new Gel-Nimbus 25 is one of Asics’ most durable running shoes. This is a result of the high abrasion resistant rubber that’s placed on the outsole. A feature which is not consistent across all running shoes. Therefore, if you’re looking for great mileage out of your running shoes, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 is a great option. 

Asics Gel-Cumulus 25:

The Gel-Cumulus is one of Asics’ most popular neutral running shoes and trusted by thousands of runners. For those of you who have worn the Gel-Cumulus before, you’ll definitely be thinking the new version looks noticeably different. That’s because ASICS have made some significant changes to the new Gel-Cumulus 25. However, these are sure to be well received. 

Asics’ new PureGEL cushioning has been added to the heel of the Gel-Cumulus 25. Which means it’s more cushioned than ever before. As explained earlier, it’s 65% softer and 4% more energy returning than previous GEL. With it being positioned in the rear foot of the midsole, the Gel-Cumulus 25 works particularly well for runners who land at the heel. That's right, certain shoes work better for heel strikers than others. 

While the Gel-Cumulus 25 is more responsive than the Gel-Nimbus 25, a new FF Blast+ midsole increases cushioning and energy return. Meaning you’ll feel a protective, yet energetic underfoot feel. Perfect for slower to steady paced runs and longer miles. 

In a similar vein, the new midsole geometry in the Gel-Cumulus 25 improves the transition from landing to toe-off. So, when you’re looking to take the stress off your legs, the curved midsole shape will rock your feet forward. Meaning those training miles will tick by with a little bit more ease.  

Finally, a new upper wraps around the foot with a softer feel than before. The engineered mesh has strategic support added in targeted areas. Some of the fibres are left more open to increase breathability. Keeping you cool in warm weather. 

Conclusion:

Unlike previous models, the famous GEL cushioning is not visible. However, you’ll know as soon as you step into the world of PureGEL and head out for a run. It's what you feel under your feet that matters in a running shoe, not how they look. 

It’s always exciting when a running brand makes a significant innovation that will ultimately help more people enjoy the world of running. We hope you’re looking forward to running in Asics PureGEL as much as we are. 

Finlay McAndrew Finlay has worked for Run4It since 2010 and has a degree in Applied Sport Science from Edinburgh University. When Finlay isn’t talking about running shoes, he enjoys training and racing. Having raced 12 Ironmans, including two Ironman World Championships in Kona Hawaii, he knows a thing or two about how to train and why the right kit matters. His highlights include an 8 hour 42 minute overall time at Ironman Barcelona in 2019 and a 2 hour 53 minute marathon at Ironman Mallorca in 2021. And yes, that run was done in carbon plated super foam running shoes.