Under Armour Charged Impulse 3 Running Shoe - Lightweight Road Trainer

In this review of the Under Armour Charged Impulse 3 Running Shoe the bottom line is simple: this is a lightweight, breathable road running shoe built for neutral runners who value a secure fit and responsive cushioning. The review finds the shoe best for daily miles, tempo runs and gym sessions where a balance of durability and comfort matters. The engineered mesh upper and 3/4 length bootie construction create a snug, locked-in feel while the Charged Cushioning midsole delivers a firmer heel with a softer forefoot for confident toe-off.

Key Features

• Engineered mesh upper: Provides very good breathability while keeping weight low and adding targeted support where the foot needs it most.
• 34 length bootie construction: Hugs the midfoot and forefoot to reduce slippage and give a plush, secure fit without extra bulk.
• Embedded sockliner: Adds a seamless layer of cushioning that improves comfort for longer runs and reduces hotspots.
• Charged Cushioning midsole: Combines a firmer heel for support with a softer forefoot for smoother transitions and responsive feel.
• Solid rubber outsole: Covers high-impact zones to increase durability while keeping overall weight down for road use.

Who It's For

The Charged Impulse 3 is best for neutral road runners seeking a versatile, lightweight trainer that performs well for daily miles, short tempo runs, and gym workouts. Runners who like a slightly firmer heel and a softer forefoot will appreciate the midsole tuning and the secure, bootie-like fit.

Those who need maximum motion control, heavy stability features, or very thick cushioning for long ultra-distance runs should look elsewhere. Trail runners and people requiring aggressive traction or waterproof uppers will also want a different model.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very breathable and lightweight engineered mesh keeps feet cool during road runs.
• Bootie construction provides a secure, comfortable fit that reduces interior movement.
• Midsole tuning gives a stable heel and a responsive forefoot for smooth transitions.
• Durable rubber in impact zones extends outsole life without adding unnecessary weight.

Cons

• Cushion profile is moderate; runners wanting maximal plush cushioning may prefer a thicker-cushioned shoe.
• Not designed for trail use or heavy stability correction, limiting suitability for some specialized needs.

Specifications

Brand	Under Armour
Model	Charged Impulse 3
Upper	Engineered mesh with bootie construction
Midsole	Charged Cushioning (firmer heel, softer forefoot)
Outsole	Solid rubber in high impact zones
Fit	Neutral runner, 8mm offset
Insole	Embedded sockliner for added cushioning

Our Verdict

The Under Armour Charged Impulse 3 is a well-rounded road trainer that balances low weight, a secure bootie fit, and a tuned midsole for neutral runners. It offers good durability for regular training and comfortable ride quality for daily workouts. Recommended for runners who want a responsive, breathable shoe that performs across easy runs, tempos and gym sessions without excess bulk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this shoe good for long runs?
The shoe is suitable for regular long runs but has a moderate cushion level; runners seeking maximal cushion for very long distances may prefer a more highly cushioned model.

Does it run true to size?
The bootie construction gives a snug fit; most runners will find their normal size fits well, but those with very wide feet may need to try a half size up.

What type of runner is this intended for?
It is intended for neutral road runners who want a lightweight, breathable trainer with a balanced, responsive ride.