Under Armour Charged Will Review: Is It Worth It?

by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the Under Armour Charged Will training shoes. If you're anything like me, you're always on the lookout for that perfect pair of shoes that can handle everything from intense gym sessions to those quick runs around the block. So, let's break down what makes the Under Armour Charged Will tick, and whether it’s a worthy addition to your workout gear.

First Impressions: The Look and Feel

Alright, let’s start with the basics: the aesthetics and initial comfort. When you first lay eyes on the Under Armour Charged Will, you'll notice its sleek, low-profile design. It's not overly flashy, which I personally appreciate. It comes in a variety of colors, so you can definitely find one that matches your style. The upper is made from a breathable mesh material, which is crucial for keeping your feet cool and dry during those sweat-inducing workouts. Nobody wants soggy socks, am I right?

As soon as you slip these on, the first thing you’ll notice is the snug fit. The internal fit sleeves hug your feet nicely, providing a secure and comfortable feel. The Charged Cushioning midsole feels responsive and provides a good amount of impact protection. Walking around, you can tell that these shoes are designed for versatile training. They feel light enough for running, yet stable enough for weightlifting. It’s a promising start, but let’s see how they perform under pressure.

Performance in the Gym

Now, let's get to the nitty-gritty: how do these shoes perform in the gym? I put the Under Armour Charged Will through a variety of exercises, from squats and lunges to plyometrics and agility drills. Here’s what I found:

  • Stability: One of the most important factors for gym shoes is stability, especially when lifting weights. The Charged Will provides a solid base, thanks to its flat outsole and supportive midsole. I felt confident and grounded during squats and deadlifts. The shoes didn’t wobble or feel unstable, which is a huge plus. Nobody wants to risk an injury because their shoes can’t handle the weight. This is crucial for maintaining proper form and preventing injuries.
  • Cushioning: The Charged Cushioning midsole does a decent job of absorbing impact during high-intensity exercises. When doing box jumps and burpees, I felt a noticeable reduction in the impact on my joints. However, keep in mind that these aren’t running shoes, so the cushioning isn’t as plush as you might find in a dedicated running shoe. It’s more of a firm, responsive cushioning that’s ideal for cross-training.
  • Flexibility: While stability is important, you also need some flexibility for certain exercises. The Charged Will strikes a good balance between stability and flexibility. The forefoot is flexible enough to allow for natural movement during lunges and planks. This helps prevent your feet from feeling restricted and allows for a greater range of motion.
  • Breathability: As I mentioned earlier, the breathable mesh upper is a lifesaver during intense workouts. My feet stayed relatively cool and dry, even during long sessions. This is a huge advantage, especially if you’re prone to sweaty feet. Nothing is worse than feeling your feet overheating and sliding around in your shoes.

Overall, the Under Armour Charged Will performs well in the gym. It provides a good balance of stability, cushioning, flexibility, and breathability. It’s a versatile shoe that can handle a variety of exercises, making it a great option for cross-trainers.

Running Performance

While the Under Armour Charged Will is primarily designed for training, many of us also like to squeeze in a run or two. So, how does it perform on the road? I took these shoes for a few short runs to see how they hold up.

  • Cushioning: The Charged Cushioning provides adequate cushioning for short runs, but it’s not ideal for long distances. If you’re planning on running more than a few miles, you might want to consider a dedicated running shoe with more plush cushioning. The cushioning in the Charged Will is firm and responsive, which is great for shorter, faster runs.
  • Weight: The Charged Will is relatively lightweight, which makes it feel nimble on your feet. This is a definite advantage when running, as you don’t want to feel weighed down by your shoes. The lightweight design allows you to pick up the pace and maintain a good stride.
  • Traction: The rubber outsole provides good traction on both pavement and treadmills. I didn’t experience any slipping or sliding, even on wet surfaces. This is essential for preventing injuries and maintaining a confident stride.
  • Overall: The Under Armour Charged Will is decent for short runs, but it’s not its strongest suit. If you’re a serious runner, you’ll definitely want to invest in a dedicated running shoe. However, if you only run occasionally, the Charged Will can get the job done.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is a key factor when choosing training shoes. You want a pair that can withstand the rigors of daily workouts and last for a reasonable amount of time. So, how does the Under Armour Charged Will hold up over time?

  • Outsole: The rubber outsole is durable and shows minimal wear and tear, even after several weeks of use. This is crucial for maintaining traction and preventing the shoes from falling apart prematurely.
  • Midsole: The Charged Cushioning midsole maintains its responsiveness and doesn’t compress too much over time. This is important for maintaining cushioning and impact protection.
  • Upper: The breathable mesh upper is surprisingly durable and doesn’t show any signs of fraying or tearing. This is a major plus, as the upper is often the first part of a shoe to wear out.
  • Overall: The Under Armour Charged Will is a durable shoe that can withstand regular use. With proper care, you can expect these shoes to last for a good amount of time. I've been using mine consistently for several weeks, and they still look and feel great.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Under Armour Charged Will:

Pros:

  • Versatile training shoe
  • Good stability for weightlifting
  • Responsive Charged Cushioning
  • Breathable mesh upper
  • Durable construction
  • Relatively lightweight

Cons:

  • Cushioning not ideal for long runs
  • Fit may be too snug for some
  • Not as stylish as some other training shoes

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, the million-dollar question: is the Under Armour Charged Will worth it? In my opinion, the answer is a resounding yes. These shoes are a great option for anyone looking for a versatile training shoe that can handle a variety of exercises. They provide a good balance of stability, cushioning, flexibility, and breathability, making them ideal for cross-training.

While they’re not perfect for long runs, they’re perfectly adequate for short runs and gym workouts. The durable construction ensures that they’ll last for a reasonable amount of time, making them a smart investment. If you’re on a budget and can only afford one pair of shoes for all your training needs, the Under Armour Charged Will is an excellent choice.

However, if you’re a serious runner or prefer a more plush cushioning, you might want to consider other options. But for the average gym-goer or cross-trainer, the Under Armour Charged Will is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.

Alternatives to Consider

Before you make a final decision, here are a few alternatives to the Under Armour Charged Will that you might want to consider:

  • Nike Metcon: The Nike Metcon is a popular training shoe known for its stability and durability. It’s a great option for weightlifting and CrossFit.
  • Reebok Nano: The Reebok Nano is another popular training shoe that’s designed for versatility. It’s a good option for both gym workouts and short runs.
  • Adidas Ultraboost: The Adidas Ultraboost is a running shoe that can also be used for training. It’s known for its plush cushioning and comfortable fit.

Where to Buy

You can find the Under Armour Charged Will at most major sporting goods retailers, as well as online at the Under Armour website and other online retailers like Amazon. Be sure to check for sales and discounts to get the best price.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Under Armour Charged Will is a fantastic training shoe that offers a great balance of performance, durability, and value. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just running errands, these shoes will keep your feet comfortable and supported. So, if you’re in the market for a new pair of training shoes, be sure to give the Under Armour Charged Will a try. You won’t regret it!