Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11 - Women's Review

We threw the Charged+ Assert 11 on for quick dog walks and trips to the grocery store. The foot shape is accommodating and comfortable right away. However, we didn't love the rigid midsole, which prevented our toes from freely moving during our natural stride.

Comfort

The Charged Assert 11 is reasonably comfortable for shorter walks and quick errand trips. The toe box wasn't restrictive, and the heel cup was snug enough to keep our feet in place. That said, during medium-to-long walks (2+ miles), we had pressure points and our feet were fatigued. Part of this is due to the very stiff midsole that didn't allow our toes to flex much. With time, it broke in slightly more and allowed more flex, but it wasn't as much as we would have hoped. For fitness walks, we think there are better choices. For quick walks or errand runs, they are comfortable enough.

Support

While we didn't find the rigidity comfortable for long walks, it is also what makes these more supportive and stable. For extended standing, the stable midsole is secure and prevents the foot from rolling in either direction. This meant that each step felt like the last, with steady support laterally. The padded heel collar also aids in this, which kept our feet locked into place.

Durability

The Charged+ Assert 11 held up to our standard round of testing, with no major concerns for wear. The Charged+ midsole was our biggest concern, but it handled well after extensive walks. While many foam midsoles on budget shoes can pack in prematurely, the Charged+ Assert held up. With time, they will begin to pack in based on your stride, but they should still last you a walking season or two.

The upper is made from mesh and leather overlays. The stitching is clean and precise, offering no major areas for concern. The mesh, however, doesn't feel like the highest quality. We suspect this will show wear earlier than other mesh shoes. We appreciate the toe cap, which aids in longevity for the toe box.

Traction

The Under Armour Charged+ Assert is primarily made for hard surfaces, indoors and out. The light rubber outsole has mild treads to help bite into dirt, though these aren't the shoes we would exclusively walk outdoors in. Still, if you're in a pinch or want a versatile option, these can handle mild outdoor walking paths. Indoors and concrete are no problem though. The rubber is grippy, even when a little bit of water was present.

Weight

We were shocked to see the Charged+ Assert 11 weigh so little. The shoes feel somewhat bulky and heavy, but they only weigh 8.04 ounces per shoe (US W size 6.5). They also aren't exceptionally breathable compared to other mesh upper options, though still much better than leather shoes.

Should You Buy the Under Armour Charged+ Assert 11?

These shoes are a decent buy, especially for the price. If you aren't fitness walking or racking up multiple miles at a time, they are passable for comfort and support. Though if you plan on tackling longer walks, or just need extra comfort, these aren't the best option. This is due to the very rigid build, which lends itself more towards casual use and extended standing.

What Other Walking Shoes Should You Consider?