Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe - Neutral Road Runner

In this review of the Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe, the bottom line is simple: these are a practical, budget-friendly neutral running shoe for everyday road miles. Built with Charged Cushioning for impact protection and a lightweight mesh upper for breathability, they suit runners who want reasonable comfort and responsiveness without a race-day price. The shoe is best for neutral runners seeking a balanced ride and reliable fit, and the one biggest reason to buy is the combination of soft EVA comfort and a durable rubber outsole that focuses cushioning where you need it most.

Key Features

• Charged Cushioning: Compression-molded foam in the midsole delivers responsive energy return and consistent impact protection on hard surfaces.
• Lightweight mesh upper: Three-color digital printed mesh keeps feet cool and offers a breathable, flexible fit for longer runs.
• Durable overlays: Leather overlays reinforce the midfoot for stability and a locked-in feel during turnover.
• EVA sockliner: Provides soft, step-in comfort that reduces break-in time and adds day-to-day cushioning.
• Solid rubber outsole: Covers high-impact zones to increase longevity without adding unnecessary weight.
• 10mm offset: The heel-to-toe drop strikes a balance between cushioning and a natural stride for road running.

Who It's For

The Charged Assert 9 is well suited for recreational road runners who want a neutral, versatile trainer for daily miles, treadmill sessions, or easy tempo runs. Its breathable upper and responsive midsole make it appropriate for warmer conditions and for runners who prioritize a lightweight feel with enough structure for steady runs.

Runners who need maximal cushioning for long ultras, heavy support for severe overpronation, or a racing flat for competition should look elsewhere. Also, those who require a very long-lasting outsole for high-mileage training may want a shoe marketed specifically for durability or with reinforced rubber throughout.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable step-in feel from the EVA sockliner and responsive Charged Cushioning.
• Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool on longer outings.
• Leather overlays add midfoot stability without overly restricting flexibility.
• Good value for the feature set, combining comfort and reasonable durability.

Cons

• Durability reports are mixed; some users notice faster wear in high-mileage use.
• Sizing can be inconsistent for some; a few customers report they run small or prefer a wide fit.

Specifications

Type	Neutral road running shoe
Midsole	Charged Cushioning compression-molded foam
Upper	Lightweight breathable mesh with digital print
Outsole	Solid rubber covering high-impact zones
Insole	EVA sockliner for step-in comfort
Offset	10mm
Lace	Standard tie

Our Verdict

The Charged Assert 9 is a sensible choice for everyday road runners who want a balanced, breathable shoe with responsive cushioning at a fair price. It delivers comfortable rides for regular training and short tempo efforts, and represents good value for runners who do not need maximal longevity or corrective support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for long runs?
Yes, they work well for everyday long runs under typical training distances thanks to the Charged Cushioning and breathable upper, though ultra-distance runners may prefer more durable options.

Do these fit true to size?
Sizing is mixed: many find them true to size, but some report they run slightly small or that wide feet should consider a wide option if available.

What type of runner is this shoe best for?
Neutral runners seeking an everyday road trainer with a balance of cushioning and responsiveness will get the most benefit from this model.