Under Armour Charged Bandit 2
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Overview
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is a versatile running shoe designed for durability and comfort during daily running. This shoe is part of the Under Armour Charged Bandit family and stands out for its balanced cushioning and lightweight design.
Key Features:
- Charged Cushioning: A two-piece system that provides a firm heel and a softer forefoot for a comfortable yet responsive ride.
- Heathered Upper: A soft, flexible, and breathable material that offers a comfortable fit.
- Durable Outsole: Full rubber coverage for enhanced grip, although it may underperform on wet surfaces.
- Seamless Heel Cup: Internal and external heel cups lock the heel in place, providing stability (the resistance to movement, twisting, or shifting) and support.
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize cushioning and flexibility for their road workouts. Its durable construction offers longevity, making it suitable for high-mileage training.
According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the most expensive 40% of running shoes.
Verdict
The consensus on the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 has garnered praise for its ability to withstand high mileage while providing a cushioned and responsive ride. Its lightweight nature, despite the ample cushioning, makes it a favorite among runners who seek a reliable shoe for long distances. The shoe's Charged Cushioning system delivers a firm yet comfortable heel-to-toe transition, suitable for various paces and distances. The Charged Bandit 2's value for money, combined with its performance, makes it a standout choice for runners looking for a durable and versatile training partner.
Updates to Under Armour Charged Bandit 2
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 introduces a reduction in weight and an improved fit compared to its predecessor. These updates reinforce the shoe's commitment to providing a lightweight yet cushioned experience for runners. The latest iteration maintains the same 10 mm heel-to-toe drop and continues to utilize the Charged Cushioning system for a comfortable ride.
Special versions of Under Armour Charged Bandit 2
The Under Armour Charged Bandit Trek 2 is a variant designed for runners who seek the same reliable cushioning and fit of the Charged Bandit 2 but with added features suitable for off-road adventures.
The Under Armour Charged Bandit Trail 2 offers a specialized design for trail runners, providing the comfort and stability of the Charged Bandit 2 with enhancements for tackling uneven terrain and outdoor elements.
6 Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 Pros & Cons
4 Pros
2 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The upper of the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is crafted from a heathered, soft weave material that provides a shirt-like feel, ensuring breathability and comfort. The seamless construction, coupled with internal and external heel cups, offers a secure fit that locks the heel in place. However, the upper's porous nature may allow water to penetrate during rainy conditions.
Midsole
The midsole features Under Armour's Charged Cushioning, which is designed to offer a firm heel and a softer forefoot. This dual-density setup ensures a balance between comfort and responsiveness, making the shoe suitable for both long runs and tempo efforts. The flexibility of the midsole is enhanced by deep flex grooves (cuts in the sole that allow it to bend with the foot), aiding in a natural foot movement.
Outsole
Constructed with a full rubber outsole, the Charged Bandit 2 provides reliable grip on a variety of surfaces. The outsole's durability is a strong point, although its performance on wet concrete may be less than ideal. The flex grooves in the outsole contribute to the shoe's overall flexibility.
Size/fit
The Charged Bandit 2 offers a fit that caters to runners with a medium toe box preference. The shoe's design accommodates a range of foot shapes, ensuring a comfortable fit without excessive tightness or looseness.
Comfort
Comfort is a standout feature of the Charged Bandit 2, with its cushioned midsole and soft upper material providing a plush feel. The shoe's design aims to keep runners comfortable over long distances, making it a suitable choice for marathon training and everyday runs.
Cushioning
The shoe's cushioning is described as soft yet not overly plush, striking a balance that is appreciated on long runs. The Charged Cushioning system is engineered to maintain comfort without sacrificing the responsiveness needed for faster-paced workouts.
Breathability
The breathable upper of the Charged Bandit 2 ensures that runners' feet remain cool and dry during runs. The well-ventilated design is a plus for those running in warmer conditions, although it may be less protective against water ingress.
Stability
Stability in the Charged Bandit 2 is provided by the seamless heel cup and the external heel counter, which work together to keep the foot in a natural position. This feature is beneficial for runners who require additional support during their runs.
Durability
Durability is a key aspect of the Charged Bandit 2, with the shoe proving to hold up well over high mileage. The robust construction and materials used in the shoe contribute to its longevity, making it a cost-effective option for frequent runners.
Grip
The grip of the Charged Bandit 2 is generally reliable, thanks to the full rubber outsole. While it performs well on most surfaces, runners may find traction on wet concrete to be less secure, which is an important consideration for those who frequently run in rainy conditions.
Who should buy the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2?
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is well-suited for runners seeking a shoe that can handle high mileage and provide consistent cushioning. It is particularly beneficial for those who are not elite athletes but still demand a shoe that can support long-distance training, including marathons. The shoe's durability and comfort make it a solid choice for heavier runners as well.
Who should not buy the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2?
Runners who prefer a shoe with minimal cushioning or a low heel-to-toe drop (the height difference between the heel and the forefoot) may not find the Charged Bandit 2 to their liking. Additionally, those who frequently run in wet conditions might seek a shoe with better water resistance and traction on slick surfaces.
Under Armour Charged Bandit 2: What's it good for?
The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is well-suited for road running and daily training sessions. Its cushioning and durability make it a strong candidate for long-distance runs, while the flexibility and responsive midsole cater to those who include tempo runs (faster-paced, shorter-distance runs) in their routine.
4 Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 FAQs
Is the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 suitable for marathon training?
Yes, the Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is designed to be durable and comfortable for high-mileage training, making it suitable for marathon preparation.
How does the Charged Bandit 2's cushioning compare to other running shoes?
The Charged Bandit 2 offers a balanced cushioning system that is firm in the heel and softer in the forefoot, providing a comfortable yet responsive ride.
Can the Charged Bandit 2 be used for daily training on roads?
Absolutely, the Charged Bandit 2 is an excellent choice for daily training on roads, offering a blend of cushioning, flexibility, and durability.
Is the Charged Bandit 2's upper water-resistant?
The upper of the Charged Bandit 2 is highly breathable but not water-resistant, making it less suitable for running in rainy conditions.
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| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | ||||
| released | ReleasedAug 2016 | Feb 2020 | Oct 2022 | Jun 2022 | Jun 2024 | Jan 2024 |
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 269 g W: 230 g | M: 366 g W: 312 g | 281 g | 252 g | M: 312 g W: 261 g | 306 g |
| Forefoot | Forefoot19 mm | 14 mm | 29 mm | 30 mm | 26 mm | |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop10 mm | 12 mm | 8 mm | 8 mm | 10 mm | 12 mm |
| Heel | Heel29 mm | 22 mm | 37 mm | 40 mm | 38 mm | |
| Usages | UsagesDaily running | Daily running | Daily running | Daily runningSpeed training | Daily running | Daily running |
| Brand | BrandUnder Armour | New Balance | ASICS | Saucony | ASICS | Mizuno |
| Strike Type | Strike TypeHeel strike | Heel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike | Heel strike | Heel strike |
| Shoe Type | Shoe Type | Comfortable | ComfortableMaximalist | ComfortableMaximalist | ||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Techs | Techs | ASICS Gel | ASICS GelOrthoLite | |||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable | Sustainable | |||
Common characteristicsRoadStabilityOverpronationLow archBreathable |
- Aug 2017
- Aug 2016
- Jul 2015
