Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 Fully Reviewed
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By Steph Coelho Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 Fully Reviewed Review Facts
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is the newest iteration of the original Under Armour Charged Bandit shoe. This trainer is light as a feather (okay, that’s an exaggeration) but still, provides ample cushioning for whatever run is planned on the calendar. The Charged Bandit 2 falls into the neutral category. This means that it’s good for those of you who are fairly biomechanically efficient.
This shoe would work well for runners who want enough cushioning to provide comfort and protection but still want to run fast. The Charged Bandit 2 is very different from the original model. Many runners commented that it seemed like a completely different shoe. While the first iteration of the Charged Bandit received quite a few negative reviews, this new update has runners swooning.
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros
- Well-cushioned and comfortable
- Fairly lightweight and provides a fast ride
- Durable
- Unique stylish look
- Very breathable upper
Cons
- Upper lets in a lot of water in wet weather
- Traction is not great in wet conditions
Positive
- Like these, nicely cushioned so the comfort is constant, I get a fast ride because the shoe is light, the upper is exceptionally breathable to the point I have considered will it keep rain out? No doubt that these are made for long distances, very comfortable, able to perform and they look great
- These are worth getting, I run a lot in desert conditions, the sole is tough and deals with the hard desert sand but the upper is light, flexible and certainly lets my feet stay free from sweat build up. I had to size down but this worked out for me, I have narrow feet and the shoe fits 100%.
- Looked for shoes which can support high arches and these are them, the support gives good stability while I run, the shoe has a fair return, breathability is one of the top features for me in these, had to size down which was frustrating, a bit narrow but overhaul I am impressed with these as a distance running shoe. The cushioning for the heel is exceptional.
- Super venting from the mesh, bags of quality cushion for the sole but also gives great stability especially as I over pronate, with these my ankles feel secure or stable. The mid foot strap meant a week to break in these shoes but it was worth it. I'm a distance runner and these are super shoes.
- Sizing was a frustrating game, downsized by half and got the shoe I wanted, snug, great for 10 mile runs, arch support is very good, I have tall arches and these are fine, breathability is very impressive, the sole gives superb cushioning and so far on dry runs the traction is fine.
- For night running I think these are the best, very reflective, these are so light in the uppers but a nice sturdy durable sole, impact absorbtion for the heel is incredibly good and these allow the insole to be removed or swapped. Very good shoe.
- My daughter has a wide foot so we played around with the sizing and the shoe fits nicely, she runs everyday, and plays softball, I'm told that the best things about these are the exceptional cushion, her feet can breath and remain comfortable and she loves the shoe style. 4 stars.
- I'm not a runner, I work nights in a hospital and this means many hours on my feet so I tried these shoes, 12 hours of night use and they are amazing, the comfort is the best, no aching feet and the shoe looks great, love the way my feet can breath and stay dry.
- 8 hours shifts working and walking on a concrete floor, I have tried so many shoes, both sports and casual. A friend said try these and sure enough they are perfect because the comfort of the shoe is bang on, the shoe is light, it allows my feet to breat and it fits in with the clothes I wear both casually or for work. Sometimes I use these for treadmill running and these are seriously good shoes I easily recommened these to others.
- I'm a gym enthusiast, I could have chosen many shoes but these were the right choice, the support is well above that I had experienced from other brands, the cushion is wonderful and gives a secure and stable fit, because the sole is solid I can do a lot of gym routines but feel very stablized, the uppers are the opposite, gentle, comfortable and very nice to look at. I'm really impressed at how light these are.
Negative
- My first run and my toe was in trouble, lot’s of pain, the toe box is clearly way too narrow and this can’t be fixed by resizing because I already did that. I know I have two options, run in these and damage my toes or send them back, I took the second choice
- These shoe were resized by me because the first pair were far to narrow, after resizing, the shoe fits better but the toe box squashes my big toe while I run, I can see that eventually my toe will make a hole but first go through a lot of pain and blistering. The sizing system needs to be sorted out, why not just follow standard sizing?
- Only three months running and a hole big enough to put my finger through has appeared by or on the seam which connects the toe box and upper, this is unacceptable as I paid 100 dollars for a shoe that obviously has durability problems.
- Never known this problem, the shoe has developed a hole in the areas between the upper and toes and I only do occasional running but lots of walking. I can see no reason for this except that either the material is too cheap or this is a design fault, I wont be buying these in future.
- Top of both toe areas now have holes, this after only two months? I was told this is a good brand but they are falling apart. I know the holes are a result of too narrow at the toes because breaking in these shoes was very painful in the toe area.
Reviewmeter
The Reviewmeter shows you an overall score that you can easily refer to. The highest rating is 10 (100% positive feedback)
Of the 780 reviews we found in total, 11% were negative, and 89% were positive.
Outsole
Outsole
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 has an outsole made of high abrasion rubber. The tough rubber is meant to protect high impact areas from repeated pounding. Blown rubber is also utilized in the forefoot area and adds some degree of cushioning.
The shoe is intended to be used on the road running you won't find aggressive spikes underfoot. The lugs are fairly flat so aren't meant for technical trails.
Should you encounter rainy weather and get stuck in muddy conditions, you'll likely have a bit of trouble keeping steady. This shoe is definitely meant to stay on the roads. On the outsole, you'll notice deep grooves that enable the shoe to flex with your foot. These flex grooves also provide a natural running experience taht places them into the natural running shoes category.
The shoe is intended to be used on the road running you won't find aggressive spikes underfoot. The lugs are fairly flat so aren't meant for technical trails.
Should you encounter rainy weather and get stuck in muddy conditions, you'll likely have a bit of trouble keeping steady. This shoe is definitely meant to stay on the roads. On the outsole, you'll notice deep grooves that enable the shoe to flex with your foot. These flex grooves also provide a natural running experience taht places them into the natural running shoes category.
Midsole
Midsole
The Under Armour Charged Bandit's midsole contains a generous amount of cushioning material. You'll also be well-protected from impact in this shoe.
Inside the midsole, there are two layers of cushioning. The first layer is Micro G foam. On top of that, there's full-length Charged cushioning. The Micro G foam is firmer and is located in heel of the shoe to provide support.
The intention is for the forefoot to be softer to provide increased energy-return and a more efficient toe-off. Some runners, though, noted that the cushioning felt the same throughout the shoe. The cushioning components are the same as in the previous version of the shoe but the Micro G foam has been eliminated from the forefoot region. Several reviewers commented on the improved toe-off feel of the Charged Bandit 2.
Inside the midsole, there are two layers of cushioning. The first layer is Micro G foam. On top of that, there's full-length Charged cushioning. The Micro G foam is firmer and is located in heel of the shoe to provide support.
The intention is for the forefoot to be softer to provide increased energy-return and a more efficient toe-off. Some runners, though, noted that the cushioning felt the same throughout the shoe. The cushioning components are the same as in the previous version of the shoe but the Micro G foam has been eliminated from the forefoot region. Several reviewers commented on the improved toe-off feel of the Charged Bandit 2.
Upper
Upper
The upper of the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 has been revamped since the previous iteration of the shoe. The re-envisioned upper is made of new heathered material. The Charged Bandit 2's upper is stretchy and breathable. Ultrasonic welded seams ensure comfort and produce a snug fit. The tongue connects to the upper so it stays put and helps to lock down the wearer's foot. The Micro G footbed adds a cushion for the wearer.
Another significant change made to the Bandit 2's upper is the omission of much of the cushion from the tongue and heel collar. The paired down upper allows for reduced weight and better fitting shoe. The lacing portion of the shoe is also different from the previous version, allowing for a more secure fit.
Another significant change made to the Bandit 2's upper is the omission of much of the cushion from the tongue and heel collar. The paired down upper allows for reduced weight and better fitting shoe. The lacing portion of the shoe is also different from the previous version, allowing for a more secure fit.
Weight
Weight
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is a fairly lightweight shoe. The men's version of the shoe weighs about 9.5 ounces. The women's version is slightly lighter at 8.11 ounces.
Runners really enjoyed the shoe's lightness. When running in the Charged Bandit 2, they felt able to go fast. The fact that the shoe is light does not make it devoid of support. The shoe's lightweight, paired with generous cushioning in the midsole makes it a top choice for everyday running or race day. The Charged Bandit 2 is certainly capable of handling higher mileage.
Runners really enjoyed the shoe's lightness. When running in the Charged Bandit 2, they felt able to go fast. The fact that the shoe is light does not make it devoid of support. The shoe's lightweight, paired with generous cushioning in the midsole makes it a top choice for everyday running or race day. The Charged Bandit 2 is certainly capable of handling higher mileage.
Breathability
Breathability
The upper on the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 does an excellent job at keeping feet cool and dry. The newly remade upper on the Charged Bandit 2 has been greatly improved since the previous model. The upper is made of a t-shirt-like material which wicks moisture very effectively. It's also stretchy which helps to ensure a comfortable, not too snug fit.
One negative aspect of the Bandit 2 is the shoe's poor ability to drain water. In rainy conditions, many runners felt waterlogged. Because the shoe is so breathable, it also lets in a lot of water on rainy-day runs. Many runners found it very uncomfortable to run in wetter weather.
One negative aspect of the Bandit 2 is the shoe's poor ability to drain water. In rainy conditions, many runners felt waterlogged. Because the shoe is so breathable, it also lets in a lot of water on rainy-day runs. Many runners found it very uncomfortable to run in wetter weather.
Comfort
Comfort
Most of the reviewers of the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 were very pleased with the shoe. They felt comfortable when wearing the shoe for their runs. A few runners did mention that they found the cushioning too rigid and found it impossible to enjoy long runs in the Bandit 2. But these runners were in the minority. The shoe wraps around the foot quite nicely without causing blister formation or putting unwanted pressure on the foot.
Style
Style
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is a shoe with a unique look. Another part of the shoe that has been improved is the visual design of the upper. The Bandit 2 features a very interesting heathered upper that looks a bit space-age.
The shoe looks fresh and modern enough to wear outside of training runs. The heathered look may take some getting used to. At first glance, the shoe almost looks as if it's already been run in! It's definitely a different look that's sure to please some runners.
The shoe looks fresh and modern enough to wear outside of training runs. The heathered look may take some getting used to. At first glance, the shoe almost looks as if it's already been run in! It's definitely a different look that's sure to please some runners.
Durability
Durability
The Under Armour Charge Bandit 2 is a durable shoe. The combination of high abrasion and blown rubber in the outsole protect the sole from wear and tear. The midsole cushion is also heavy duty enough to take a significant pounding. Runners were able to run hundreds of miles in the Charged Bandit 2 without losing the fresh feeling of the shoe's cushion. The shoe is well constructed and won't fall apart despite repeated pavement pounding.
Protection
Protection
On the whole, the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is a pretty light shoe. Despite its low weight, it still provides enough cushioning, support and protection for the wearer. The midsole offers plenty of cushioning material to dampen the impact of each footfall.
Runners felt that the shoe contained enough cushioning to protect from impact forces but they also felt the shoe was light enough to go fast. The shoe is able to handle higher mileage without any problems. There was some concern, though, from quite a few runners that the shoe performs quite poorly in wet conditions. The breathable upper is almost 'too breathable' and lets in a lot of moisture when the rain starts to pour. There's little to protect a runner's feet from the elements in the Bandit 2.
Runners felt that the shoe contained enough cushioning to protect from impact forces but they also felt the shoe was light enough to go fast. The shoe is able to handle higher mileage without any problems. There was some concern, though, from quite a few runners that the shoe performs quite poorly in wet conditions. The breathable upper is almost 'too breathable' and lets in a lot of moisture when the rain starts to pour. There's little to protect a runner's feet from the elements in the Bandit 2.
Responsiveness
Responsiveness
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is fairly responsive. The shoe's midsole Charged and Micro G foam cushioning provide adequate energy return. Coupled with the lightweight construction, the shoe offers a comfortable, fast ride.
Some runners did find the shoe was less responsive that they had hoped. They cited the rigid midsole as the main culprit for hurting the shoe's bouncy feel. These runners found the impact with the ground felt hard and unforgiving which made running with the Bandit 2 very tough. Still, quite a few runners were happy with the shoe's performance during long runs.
Some runners did find the shoe was less responsive that they had hoped. They cited the rigid midsole as the main culprit for hurting the shoe's bouncy feel. These runners found the impact with the ground felt hard and unforgiving which made running with the Bandit 2 very tough. Still, quite a few runners were happy with the shoe's performance during long runs.
Support
Support
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 fall into the neutral category of running shoes. You'll still get enough support from the shoe, though. You should feel locked in with enough room to breathe. The Ultrasonic panels on the upper of the shoe are meant to keep your foot anchored in. There is also a good amount of arch support .
In addition, the heel of the shoe features a heavy dose of foam to add a bit more support for the wearer. The outsole acts to support the wearer because of the traction it provides. Some runners cited fit issues as their main complaint with the Bandit 2. They felt there was too much room inside the shoe and they experienced excessive slippage which caused the stability of the shoe to suffer. It's possible that sizing down may fix these kinds of issues with the Bandit 2.
In addition, the heel of the shoe features a heavy dose of foam to add a bit more support for the wearer. The outsole acts to support the wearer because of the traction it provides. Some runners cited fit issues as their main complaint with the Bandit 2. They felt there was too much room inside the shoe and they experienced excessive slippage which caused the stability of the shoe to suffer. It's possible that sizing down may fix these kinds of issues with the Bandit 2.
Terrain
Terrain
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 performs best on the roads. It can handle running on the pavement quite well and is best suited to runners who prefer to stay off of the trails. The high abrasion and blown rubber outsole are durable enough to handle miles of running.
The shoe does poorly when it's used on the trails. The outsole has flat lugs which just aren't good enough to deal with off-road conditions, especially in wet and muddy conditions.
The shoe does poorly when it's used on the trails. The outsole has flat lugs which just aren't good enough to deal with off-road conditions, especially in wet and muddy conditions.
Price
Price
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is an affordable shoe at a fair price point. The shoe does what it's supposed to do. It's meant to tackle road running and performs its best on that kind of surface. The Charged Bandit 2 also happens to be a very comfortable shoe. There's enough cushioning in the midsole to provide padding for the wearer. It's also light enough to be used for fast runs. And best of all, it's aesthetically pleasing so it can be worn casually as well.
Traction
Traction
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 features a fairly durable outsole. It's made up of a combination of high abrasion rubber and blown rubber. These two materials ensure the longevity of the shoe even if a runner is training for a long-distance race.
The shoe performs well when it comes to running on pavement. It's also good for indoor treadmill runs, track work, or interval training outside. The rubber sole provides good traction when the sun is out and the ground is dry.
When rainy weather comes along, runners will need to be careful because the shoe has trouble when the ground is slick underfoot. The lugs underfoot provide enough grip to ensure stability in nice weather but they are too flat and slick to work well when the ground is wet.
A large chunk of reviewers commented negatively on the shoe's traction. They explained that they had no trouble when it came to fair weather running but when the ground was wet, the shoe's just couldn't grip as well. This is probably the biggest problem with the Charged Bandit 2. It's something that needs to be addressed for future versions of the shoe.
The shoe performs well when it comes to running on pavement. It's also good for indoor treadmill runs, track work, or interval training outside. The rubber sole provides good traction when the sun is out and the ground is dry.
When rainy weather comes along, runners will need to be careful because the shoe has trouble when the ground is slick underfoot. The lugs underfoot provide enough grip to ensure stability in nice weather but they are too flat and slick to work well when the ground is wet.
A large chunk of reviewers commented negatively on the shoe's traction. They explained that they had no trouble when it came to fair weather running but when the ground was wet, the shoe's just couldn't grip as well. This is probably the biggest problem with the Charged Bandit 2. It's something that needs to be addressed for future versions of the shoe.
Flexibility
Flexibility
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 does a stellar job when it comes to flexibility. The outsole, while being durable is also very flexible. This means that runners can enjoy a smooth ride. Moving forward will feel natural in the Charged Bandit 2. The deep Flex Grooves, which can be seen in the outsole, help to increase the shoe's liability. The majority of reviewers were very happy which the shoe's flexibility.
Even those that commented on the rigid midsole cushion had nothing negative to say about the shoe ability to move with the runner. The shoes' upper is just as flexible as its outsole. The t-shirt-like material is stretchy and fits snugly around the wearer's foot. It's able to accommodate foot swelling and helps to ensure comfort for the runner. Although the shoe is quite flexible, this doesn't mean it's unstable. Runners should still feel locked in and stable when running in the Charged Bandit 2.
Even those that commented on the rigid midsole cushion had nothing negative to say about the shoe ability to move with the runner. The shoes' upper is just as flexible as its outsole. The t-shirt-like material is stretchy and fits snugly around the wearer's foot. It's able to accommodate foot swelling and helps to ensure comfort for the runner. Although the shoe is quite flexible, this doesn't mean it's unstable. Runners should still feel locked in and stable when running in the Charged Bandit 2.
Stability
Stability
This isn't a stability shoe. The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is best for runners who do not overpronate excessively. Despite falling into the neutral zone, the shoe provides a decent amount of support. The first area that adds support for the wearer is the midsole. Featuring 2 layers of cushion, the midsole's Micro G foam and Charged cushioning offer a supportive platform. The rubber outsole also adds support by providing traction.
Runners should feel stable in the Charged Bandit 2. The upper is another area that adds support. It locks the wearer's foot inside the shoe so they do not feel wobbly. The wearer's foot will feel snugly wrapped inside the shoe thanks to the upper's Ultrasonic panels. With the right sizing and fit, runners should not move inside the shoe. A small number of reviewers said that the shoe felt sloppy and lacked stability but they were in the minority.
Runners should feel stable in the Charged Bandit 2. The upper is another area that adds support. It locks the wearer's foot inside the shoe so they do not feel wobbly. The wearer's foot will feel snugly wrapped inside the shoe thanks to the upper's Ultrasonic panels. With the right sizing and fit, runners should not move inside the shoe. A small number of reviewers said that the shoe felt sloppy and lacked stability but they were in the minority.
Drop
Drop
The 10mm drop in the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is quite standard. This drop can accommodate all types of foot strikes. Whether you strike the ground with the front of your foot, your midfoot, or your heel, this shoe should work well for you. The shoe is flexible enough to provide a smooth heel to toe transition. It's not a minimal shoe but it's lightweight enough to work well as a transition shoe. Running in the shoe feels natural and comfortable but you still get a good deal of protection and padding in the midsole.
Key Features of the Charged Bandit 2
Key Features of the Charged Bandit 2
- Unique heathered upper
- Ultrasonic welded seams
- High abrasion and blown rubber outsole
- Deep Flex Grooves
- Micro G footbed
- Dual layered midsole cushion
- Full length Charged cushion
- Rear foot Micro G foam
Bottom Line
Bottom Line
The neutral Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is meant for the roads. The shoe is lightweight and can be used as a daily trainer no matter what the training distances. The Charged Bandit 2 has a unique look and the shoe is a huge improvement on its predecessor.
The shoe offers a comfortable ride in a lightweight package without bonking on protection underfoot. The shoe offers up great value and will last throughout the training. The few issues that bothered reviewers are not deal breakers.
The propensity for the shoe to take on water is a clear sign that the shoe is super breathable. Some runners mentioned the lack of energy return, but they were in the minority. Hopefully, the next Charged Bandit model will remain essentially the same with some upgrades to the shoe's ability to gain traction on wetter surfaces. The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 will work well for the neutral runner who wants to avoid clunky trainers but still wants a fair bit of cushioning to enhance the overall comfort.
The shoe offers a comfortable ride in a lightweight package without bonking on protection underfoot. The shoe offers up great value and will last throughout the training. The few issues that bothered reviewers are not deal breakers.
The propensity for the shoe to take on water is a clear sign that the shoe is super breathable. Some runners mentioned the lack of energy return, but they were in the minority. Hopefully, the next Charged Bandit model will remain essentially the same with some upgrades to the shoe's ability to gain traction on wetter surfaces. The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 will work well for the neutral runner who wants to avoid clunky trainers but still wants a fair bit of cushioning to enhance the overall comfort.
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