There’s a specific kind of fatigue that sets in not from running itself, but from the hunt for the right running shoe. For years, I’ve been on a quest for the “one”—a shoe that doesn’t demand a premium price but still delivers on the daily grind. It needs to be cushioned enough for tired legs on a 5-mile run, supportive enough for a full day of errands, and durable enough to not fall apart after a hundred miles. It’s a frustrating cycle: you either splurge on a high-end model that feels like a painful investment for a daily trainer, or you gamble on a budget option that leaves your feet aching and your wallet empty again in a few months. The market is flooded with options, each promising a revolutionary experience, yet so many fall short, leaving you with a collection of “almost-right” shoes. This relentless search is what led me to take a serious look at the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9, a shoe that promises premium performance without the premium price tag.
- Lightweight mesh upper with 3-color digital print delivers complete breathability
- Durable leather overlays for stability & that locks in your midfoot
What to Consider Before Buying Road Running Shoes
A road running shoe is more than just footwear; it’s a key piece of equipment designed to protect your body from the repetitive impact of pounding the pavement. Unlike trail shoes with aggressive lugs for grip on dirt, or minimalist shoes that offer little protection, road running shoes are engineered with specific cushioning technologies to absorb shock, stability features to guide your foot, and breathable uppers to manage heat and sweat over long distances. The primary benefit is injury prevention. The right shoe can help mitigate common ailments like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and knee pain, making your runs more enjoyable and sustainable.
The ideal customer for a versatile daily trainer like this is someone who runs several times a week, mixes in gym workouts, or spends long hours on their feet for work. Think of the dedicated morning jogger, the nurse completing a 12-hour shift, or the fitness enthusiast looking for a single shoe for both treadmill sessions and light weightlifting. However, this type of shoe might not be suitable for elite marathoners seeking carbon-plated race-day shoes for maximum speed, or for serious trail runners who need rugged outsoles and rock plates for protection on uneven terrain. For those individuals, specialized footwear would be a much better investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Fit & Sizing: This is the most critical factor. A shoe that is too tight can cause blisters, black toenails, and cramping, while a shoe that is too loose can lead to instability and rubbing. Always check a brand’s specific sizing chart and, as we’ll discuss with this model, pay close attention to user feedback, as many brands have unique sizing quirks. It’s often recommended to have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
- Cushioning & Performance: Cushioning is not one-size-fits-all. Some runners prefer a plush, soft feel that absorbs maximum impact, while others want a firmer, more responsive ride that provides a feeling of “energy return.” Midsoles are typically made from EVA or TPU foams with proprietary technologies. Consider the 10mm offset of the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9, which is typical for daily trainers and supports a wide range of foot strikes.
- Materials & Durability: The upper of a running shoe should be breathable yet supportive. Engineered mesh is a popular choice for its lightweight and airy properties. Look for strategic overlays, like the leather ones on this model, which add structure and durability to lock down the midfoot. The outsole should feature durable rubber in high-wear areas to ensure the shoe lasts for hundreds of miles.
- Support & Stability: Support refers to how the shoe helps control foot motion. Neutral shoes are for runners with a normal pronation pattern, while stability shoes include features like guide rails or medial posts to help correct overpronation. The Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 is a neutral shoe, but its leather overlays and structured heel provide a good level of inherent stability for most runners.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 stands out in several areas, particularly for its balanced approach to performance and value. You can explore its detailed specifications and available colorways here.
While the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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First Impressions: Unboxing a Versatile Workhorse
Pulling the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 out of the box, the first thing I noticed was its clean, athletic aesthetic. It doesn’t scream for attention with overly aggressive lines or chunky, maximalist soles. Instead, it presents a refined and modern silhouette. The model I tested was the classic Black/White, but I’ve seen some of the other colorways, like the subtle white and mauve or the vibrant green-under-black that users have praised, and they look even better in person. The lightweight engineered mesh upper, featuring a subtle 3-color digital print, feels incredibly breathable to the touch. The leather overlays aren’t just for show; they feel substantial and are strategically placed to secure the midfoot. In hand, the shoe feels remarkably light but not flimsy, striking a nice balance that suggests both speed and durability. The foam around the ankle collar and under the tongue is plush, promising a comfortable, locked-in fit right from the start. It immediately gives the impression of a reliable, no-nonsense shoe ready to tackle daily miles or a long day at work.
Advantages
- Exceptional “walking on clouds” comfort for all-day wear and running
- Incredible value for the level of performance and durability offered
- Lightweight design reduces foot fatigue over long distances
- Versatile and stylish enough for running, gym workouts, and casual wear
- Supportive lockdown from leather overlays provides a secure feel
Drawbacks
- Sizing runs consistently small; sizing up by at least a half-size is essential
- May require a short break-in period to soften up for some users
Performance Under Pressure: A Deep Dive into the Charged Assert 9
A shoe can look great out of the box, but its true character is only revealed on the road, after miles of impact and hours of wear. I put the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 through its paces—from short, fast-paced runs and longer, slower jogs to full days spent on my feet—to see if the performance lived up to the initial promise. The results were impressive, especially when considering its accessible price point.
The Charged Cushioning® Experience: Balanced and Responsive
The heart of any running shoe is its midsole, and this is where Under Armour’s Charged Cushioning® technology comes into play. The brand describes it as a compression-molded foam engineered for “ultimate responsiveness and durability.” In practice, I found this to be an accurate description. This isn’t the sink-in, marshmallow-soft foam you’ll find in some max-cushion trainers. Instead, it offers a beautifully balanced ride. On foot-strike, there’s a noticeable absorption of impact, but it’s followed by a firm, energetic rebound that propels you into your next stride. It’s a feeling of protection without sluggishness.
This balanced approach is precisely what makes the shoe so versatile. During my runs, I felt the midsole provided enough protection for my joints on hard asphalt, but it never felt mushy or unstable when I picked up the pace. This sentiment is echoed by users who describe it as “walking on clouds without being too thickly cushioned that you feel…unstable.” It’s this quality that makes it a favorite among high-mileage runners, like the user who puts in 140 miles a month and calls them the “most comfortable, supportive running shoes I have ever purchased.” It’s also why they are so beloved by professionals who are on their feet all day. The cushioning is resilient; it doesn’t compress and die over the course of a long day, providing consistent comfort from morning to night. The 10mm heel-to-toe offset is a sweet spot for most daily trainers, encouraging a smooth transition from heel to toe for a wide variety of runners.
Fit and Lockdown: The All-Important Sizing Question
Let’s address the most significant aspect of the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9: the fit. Based on my testing and the overwhelming chorus of user feedback, my primary advice is unequivocal: you must size up. I typically wear a size 8, but following the advice of others, I opted for an 8.5, and the fit was perfect. One user noted going from an 8.5 to a 9, while another went from a 9.5 to a 10 and found it to be a “dream.” Ignoring this advice will likely result in a shoe that is too tight and short in the toe box.
Once you nail the sizing, however, the shoe provides an exceptionally secure and comfortable fit. The durable leather overlays, which might seem like a simple design choice, are crucial to the shoe’s performance. They integrate with the lacing system to wrap around the midfoot, creating a locked-in feel that prevents your foot from sliding around during lateral movements or quick changes in direction. This provides a sense of stability that is reassuring on any run. The engineered mesh upper does an excellent job of promoting airflow, keeping my feet cool and dry even on warmer days. Furthermore, the generous foam padding around the ankle collar and under the tongue eliminates any potential for rubbing or hot spots, contributing to that superb step-in comfort that so many users rave about.
Outsole Durability and Traction: Built to Last
A shoe’s lifespan is often determined by its outsole, and this is an area where budget shoes often cut corners. I was pleased to find that the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 does not. It features a solid rubber outsole that covers high-impact zones—primarily the heel and the forefoot—while leaving other areas exposed to save weight. This is a smart, time-tested design that maximizes durability where it’s needed most without adding unnecessary bulk.
The “tire-inspired” traction pattern provides reliable grip on a variety of surfaces. I tested them on dry and damp pavement, concrete sidewalks, and even the slick surface of a treadmill, and I never once felt a lack of confidence in my footing. The outsole is both flexible and tough. After significant mileage, it showed minimal signs of wear, which aligns with the experiences of long-term users who buy a new pair year after year. For a shoe at this price, the durability is outstanding. It’s built to be a workhorse, capable of handling the daily grind of running and walking without premature breakdown. This robust construction solidifies its status as a top-tier value proposition in the running shoe market. If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle consistent use, the durable build of the Charged Assert 9 is a major selling point.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the sentiment for the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 is overwhelmingly positive, centering on its sublime comfort and unbeatable value. One user, a 55-year-old woman who runs 5-7 days a week, was “beyond thrilled,” stating, “I have tried every brand, in every price range and I can honestly say these are the most comfortable, supportive running shoes I have ever purchased.” Another, who works long shifts in a hospital, called them “super super comfortable like I’m walking on clouds!” and praised their stylish look that pairs well with uniforms.
However, the user feedback is not without its critical points, which are incredibly consistent. The most prominent issue is sizing. Nearly every review, positive or negative, cautions future buyers to size up by at least half a size. One person had to reorder three times to get the right fit, a testament to how small they run. A few users also mentioned that the shoes can feel a bit “snug/rigid” at first and require a few workouts to break in properly. While these are important considerations, they are manageable issues that do not detract from the shoe’s core performance once addressed.
How the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 Compares to the Competition
While the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 excels in the value category, it’s important to understand how it stacks up against other popular models on the market. Depending on your budget and specific needs, one of these alternatives might be a better fit.
1. HOKA Women’s Bondi 9 Sneaker
- ENGINEERED MESH
- Lining Textile
The HOKA Bondi 9 sits at the opposite end of the cushioning spectrum. It’s a maximalist shoe renowned for its incredibly plush, soft, and protective ride. If your primary goal is to absorb as much impact as possible, especially for recovery runs or if you have sensitive joints, the Bondi 9 is an industry leader. However, this extreme cushioning comes at a significantly higher price point and a heavier weight. While the Charged Assert 9 offers a balanced, responsive ride, the Bondi 9 provides a softer, more pillowy experience. Choose the HOKA if budget is not a concern and you prioritize maximum cushioning over all else.
2. New Balance Womens Fresh Foam X 1440 V1
- Fresh Foam X midsole delivers our most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort
- TPU heel clip
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1440 V1 is a more direct competitor, offering a modern, cushioned ride from a legacy running brand. The Fresh Foam X midsole is celebrated for its ability to blend softness with a surprising amount of energy return, creating a ride that is both comfortable and lively. It’s an excellent all-around daily trainer that often comes with a slightly higher price tag than the Charged Assert 9. Runners who are loyal to the New Balance brand or who prefer the specific feel of Fresh Foam X might gravitate towards the 1440 V1. It’s a fantastic alternative for those looking for a premium daily trainer with a different foam technology.
3. NORTIV 8 Women’s Walking Shoes
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The NORTIV 8 Women’s Walking Shoes are a budget-friendly option geared more towards casual wear and walking than dedicated running. While they offer good cushioning and comfort for daily activities and standing for long periods, they lack the specific performance features of a true running shoe, such as the responsive midsole and secure lockdown of the Charged Assert 9. If you are primarily a walker or just need a comfortable sneaker for errands and light use, the NORTIV 8 is a viable, cost-effective choice. However, for anyone planning to run regularly, the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 provides superior performance, support, and durability specifically engineered for the demands of the sport.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 for You?
After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 is a remarkable achievement in the world of running shoes. It masterfully delivers on the core tenets of a great daily trainer—comfort, support, and durability—at a price point that makes it accessible to almost everyone. Its balanced Charged Cushioning® provides a ride that is both protective and responsive, making it suitable for everything from daily jogs to 12-hour work shifts.
Its greatest strength is its incredible value proposition. You are getting a shoe that performs on par with models costing significantly more. The only major caveat is the sizing, which requires careful attention. As long as you remember to order at least a half-size larger than your usual, you are unlikely to be disappointed. We wholeheartedly recommend the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 to beginner and intermediate runners, daily walkers, and anyone seeking a high-quality, comfortable, and stylish shoe for all-day wear without breaking the bank.
If you’ve decided the Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 is the right fit for your needs, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API