ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 Running Shoes, 8.5, vs Saucony Women's Ride 18 Sneaker, Vanilla, 9
Updated August 2026 — ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 Running Shoes, 8.5, leads on breathability and fit.
The ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 offers superior cushioning and comfort, while the Saucony Women's Ride 18 is more budget-friendly with solid performance. Choose based on your priorities.
Why ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 Running Shoes, 8.5, is better
Cushioning
Advanced FF BLAST PLUS technology for better impact absorption.
Visibility
Reflective details enhance safety during low-light runs.
Comfort
Designed for longer runs with optimal cushioning.
Why Saucony Women's Ride 18 Sneaker, Vanilla, 9 is better
Price
More affordable at $89.00.
Popularity
Higher sales rank indicates broader appeal.
Durability
PWRRUN+ foam provides excellent durability.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 Running Shoes, 8.5, | Saucony Women's Ride 18 Sneaker, Vanilla, 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | FF BLAST PLUS | PWRRUN+ |
| Upper Material | Engineered Mesh | Engineered Mesh |
| Outsole | FLUIDRIDE | XT-900 |
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate |
| Offset | N/A | 8mm |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
The ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 Running Shoes are priced at $109.95, while the Saucony Women's Ride 18 Sneaker comes in at $89.00, making the Saucony option about 17% cheaper. This price difference may be significant for budget-conscious shoppers looking for quality running shoes. The ASICS model averages at $116.95 over the past 90 days, indicating a slight decrease in price, while the Saucony's average is $92.15, suggesting a more stable pricing trend. Shoppers should consider their budget and how much they value the features of each shoe when making a decision.
Design and Aesthetics
Both shoes offer modern and stylish designs, but they cater to slightly different tastes. The ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 features a black and concrete color scheme, providing a sleek look that can complement various outfits. In contrast, the Saucony Women's Ride 18 comes in a vanilla shade, appealing to those who prefer a lighter aesthetic. Both shoes utilize engineered mesh in their construction, enhancing breathability and ensuring a secure fit. However, the ASICS model emphasizes reflective details for improved visibility, particularly beneficial for early morning or evening runs.
Comfort and Cushioning
When it comes to comfort, the ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 is equipped with FF BLAST PLUS technology, which offers lightweight impact absorption and a responsive rebound. This shoe is designed for those who prioritize cushioning, making it an excellent choice for longer runs. In comparison, the Saucony Women's Ride 18 features PWRRUN+, an advanced foam that provides a blend of cushioning and durability, making it the most comfortable Ride yet. For runners who prefer a softer landing and more pronounced comfort, the ASICS may be the better option, while those looking for a nimble transition might lean towards the Saucony.
Performance and Stability
Performance-wise, the ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 excels in delivering a smooth stride thanks to its FLUIDRIDE outsole. This technology not only enhances comfort but also promotes stability during runs, making it suitable for various terrains. The Saucony Women's Ride 18 also offers a solid performance with its traditional hourglass shape, providing a well-cushioned ride with an 8mm offset for a smooth heel-to-toe transition. While both shoes present excellent stability features, the ASICS may cater better to those who require extra cushioning for joint protection.
Breathability
Breathability is essential for running shoes, especially during long workouts. The ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 boasts an engineered mesh upper that enhances airflow, keeping feet cool and comfortable over extended periods. The Saucony Women's Ride 18 also incorporates engineered mesh for breathability, ensuring a secure yet comfortable fit. Both models effectively address the need for ventilation, but the ASICS shoe may have a slight edge with its focus on comfort and cooling capability, making it ideal for warmer weather conditions.
Sales Rank and Popularity
In terms of sales rank, the ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 holds a rank of 8263, while the Saucony Women's Ride 18 is slightly more popular at a rank of 7007. This suggests that the Saucony may have a broader appeal among consumers, possibly due to its lower price point and favorable features. While sales rank doesn't directly correlate with quality, it can provide insight into consumer preferences and trends in the running shoe market.
User Experience and Feedback
User feedback on both shoes highlights different strengths. The ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 is praised for its exceptional cushioning and comfort, making it a favorite among runners who prioritize these attributes. On the other hand, the Saucony Women's Ride 18 has received accolades for its responsiveness and durability, appealing to those who enjoy a more dynamic running experience. Potential buyers should consider their running style and preferences to determine which shoe aligns with their needs.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the ASICS Women's Gel-Cumulus 27 Running Shoes and the Saucony Women's Ride 18 Sneaker ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities. If you value advanced cushioning technology and a snug fit, the ASICS may be worth the higher price at $109.95. However, if you are looking for a well-cushioned shoe at a more budget-friendly price of $89.00, the Saucony offers excellent performance and comfort. With both shoes providing unique benefits, consider your running habits, preferred aesthetics, and budget to make the best choice for your needs.

