Under Armour Charged Assert 10 Review

The Charged Assert 10 proves to be an entry-level walking shoe for those on a budget or who want to start slowly and see how things progress. This durable shoe provides impact protection and support, along with a reasonable amount of traction.

Comfort

The Charged Assert 10 offers comfort in some areas but may be negated by others. The 33-millimeter heel stack offers a cushioned base and absorbs impact. However, the 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop is on the higher side when compared to other options. If you are accustomed to a significant drop, this may not be a major concern for you. The tongue has thick padding for extra comfort; however, a tight lace can still be felt on the instep. The heel collar also had additional padding, but I felt like it was a little overdone. The excessive padding tends to press uncomfortably against my Achilles and below the ankle, detracting from the shoe's overall fit. I specifically appreciated the breathability of these shoes, which was confirmed by our lab tests.

The first time I wore the Charged Assert 10, I noticed a noticeable tightness in the toe box, which improved over time. My toes pushed against the sides of the shoe, which was irritating with prolonged use, though no blisters occurred. Even so, my foot slid within the shoe, increasing pressure on the instep. These shoes are neutral and are only available in regular width. Those with wide feet should steer clear. However, those with a neutral foot might be able to get a comfortable fit with the right lacing tightness.

The shoes feature a standard style lacing system, consisting of five eyelets and a sixth for added heel lock. These are not hands-free shoes and require the laces to be loosened and tightened with each use. The laces do not slip through the eyelets, and they are friction-free like some of the other models we have tested.

Support

The Charged Assert 10 didn't struggle in the support department and delivered a solid performance. The flex test showed movement at the toe box while the remainder of the sole remained stiff, which is a good sign for a supportive shoe. With lateral movement, the shoe and ankle feel stable; however, the design lacks stability on the medial side, which makes it easier for the ankle to roll inward.

The laces stayed in place during testing, but seemed to bite into the instep on the higher eyelets. The oversized padded collar does not allow any gaps around the ankle and seems a bit too tight. As mentioned previously, despite more lace tension, the heel slides forward with use.

The twist test evaluates the resistance to torsion and how effectively the shoe prevents the foot from twisting. When twisted in opposing directions, the sole proved to have a moderately rigid sole. This means the shoe provides good support and helps prevent stress and strain on the foot. Since the Charged Assert 10 is a neutral support shoe, it is best suited for individuals with a neutral gait who do not require arch support.

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Traction

I had no issues with traction with these shoes and feel they performed well. The foam midsole is covered with a rubber sole in most areas, leaving some openings for flexibility. The tread depth is deeper than that of some other walking shoes, which gives it a slight advantage in certain conditions.

With a solid performance for gravel, concrete, and tile, the Charged Assert 10 provides a trustworthy and reliable grip on any surface. I felt confident in the footing and traction provided by these shoes, even when transitioning between various surfaces, such as carpet, tile, and pavement. Wet conditions did not diminish this confidence, ensuring secure steps throughout.

Weight

The Charged Assert 10 maintains its middle-of-the-road performance, weighing approximately 11.1 ounces for a men's size 10.5, which is average for the group. The shoe feels solid overall and is noted to be bulkier than it is heavy. With regular use, I did not notice any additional fatigue or stress from the weight.

The shoe doesn't have a bulky look. In fact, I'd say the look is more tuned down. The upper is primarily mesh with leather and synthetic overlays. Although it has a thick 33-millimeter heel stack height, it doesn't appear to be an ultra-cushioned shoe, unlike some of the others in our lineup.

Durability

As mentioned earlier, the upper is made from a combination of synthetic materials, leather, and mesh. Meanwhile, the rubber outsole provides the Charged Assert the durability you will need. Through my testing, I did not experience any loose threads or poorly fit materials, and the sole appears to have almost no wear at all. Some users have reported issues with the sole breaking down quickly, but I observed no such indication during my extensive tests.

Regular care and cleaning should be performed to prolong the shoe's life. It is recommended to brush off excess dirt and debris. Use a sponge or towel to hand wash with a mild detergent in warm water, rinse, and then allow to air dry.

Should You Buy the Under Armour Charged Assert 10?

The Charged Assert 10 is a good middle-of-the-road option for a budget-minded person looking to be more active or needing a general-use shoe. The stability and traction provide a solid foundation for most everyday activities, and the durable construction means they should withstand regular use.

What Other Walking Shoes Should You Consider?

If you are looking for another budget-friendly option, the Adidas Race TR23 is worth taking a look at. The Kizik Lima was a standout for its performance as a hands-free slip-on shoe. And if you have a wider foot and need durability, the New Balance 877 V1 may be what you are looking for.