I've been wearing asics (with a few forays into Brooks) for over a decade, and I've grown increasingly frustrated with the evolution of simple cushioning shoes. From about 1999-2003, the asics cumulus/nimbus were relatively rigid, extremely durable (~450 miles), and relatively inexpensive. The same models now feel too much like their fluffy heavenly namesake.
Any advice on shoes that might fit similarly to these shoes? The asics cumulus and pulse still fit just fine for me, but they only last ~250 miles and feel soft as a Mama Bears' pillow.