Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe - Lightweight Road Trainer

Our review of the Under Armour Charged Assert 9 finds it best suited to runners who want a lightweight, cushioned road shoe without paying premium prices. The single biggest reason to buy is the Charged Cushioning midsole, which uses compression molded foam to deliver a responsive, durable ride that protects against impact during daily runs. The shoe combines a breathable mesh upper and durable leather overlays so it feels light while still holding the midfoot stable, making it a practical choice for neutral runners who prioritize comfort and value.

Key Features

• Lightweight mesh upper: The 3-color digital print mesh provides full breathability so feet stay cooler on longer runs.
• Durable leather overlays: Leather panels lock in the midfoot for added stability during faster efforts and turnarounds.
• EVA sockliner: A soft, step-in sockliner delivers immediate comfort for daily wear and recovery runs.
• Charged Cushioning midsole: Compression molded foam offers a responsive, durable ride that helps absorb impact without feeling dead underfoot.
• Solid rubber outsole: Rubber in high-impact zones increases durability where it matters most while keeping overall weight down.
• 10mm offset: A 10mm heel-to-toe drop provides a balanced feel between heel support and forefoot flexibility for road running.

Who It's For

The Charged Assert 9 is aimed at neutral runners and gym-goers who want a light, responsive everyday trainer for road miles and cross-training. It works well for those who value comfort on step-in and a stable midfoot thanks to the leather overlays.

Runners who need maximal cushioning, motion control, or a very wide toe box should look elsewhere; likewise, those who prefer a rockered long-distance racer with aggressive energy return may prefer a different category of shoe.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable fit with a soft EVA sockliner that makes them pleasant for daily wear.
• Lightweight and breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool on runs and during workouts.
• Responsive Charged Cushioning midsole provides good impact protection and durability for regular use.
• Durable rubber in high impact zones helps extend outsole life with minimal added weight.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed durability, with a minority experiencing wear issues after a few months of heavy use.
• Sizing can be inconsistent across users; some find them true to size while others feel they run small, so trying on first is recommended.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Charged Assert 9 is a sensible buy for neutral runners who want a lightweight, breathable road trainer with dependable cushioning and midfoot stability. It offers strong value for money thanks to the responsive Charged Cushioning and practical outsole protection, though shoppers should be mindful of mixed reports on long-term durability and try on for fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for everyday running?
Yes, they are designed as a neutral road running shoe with cushioning and durability suited to daily training.

Do they run true to size?
Sizing is mixed in reports; many find them true to size while some recommend trying a half size up if between sizes or if you prefer extra room.

Can these be used for speed work?
They work for moderate tempo runs and gym intervals, but racers looking for aggressive energy return should consider a dedicated race shoe.