The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 shares the same name as its predecessor. But it should have been named differently as it feels like a completely different pair of neutral running shoes.
Its predecessor gave me blisters and plenty of pain whereas the new Bandit 2 felt really comfortable from the get go. The heathered sandwich mesh upper is light, soft, comfortable and highly breathable. I could feel air rushing through the shoes just by walking around.
The heel cup comes with molded foam padding that helps to secure my injury-prone ankles, while its unique wing-fit tongue construction, which is connected to the upper, added to the snug fit.
The Bandit 2 features a unique two-piece midsole - the heel cushioning material is of a firmer density to stabilise impact, while the forefoot cushioning material is softer to aid propulsion. Combined, they provided a stable and smooth ride.
On the outsole are anatomically placed flex grooves for cushioning and flexibility, as well as strategically placed rubber for good traction.
Running in the Bandit 2 was pure joy. Be it a 5km run or 20km walk, the shoes gave me enough cushioning and support, without hot spots or blisters.
-
TECH SPECS
-
PRICE: $179
MATERIAL: Two-piece midsole consisting of Charged Cushioning and Micro G with mesh upper and rubber outsole
WEIGHT: 270g (Men's US 9)
-
RATING
DESIGN: 5/5
PERFORMANCE: 5/5
VALUE FOR MONEY: 4/5
OVERALL: 4/5
If I have to nitpick, it would be that the Bandit 2 does not have the same level of energy return as Adidas' Ultra Boost or Puma's Ignite.
I like that the Bandit 2 looks like a pair of trendy, lifestyle sneakers. It comes in black, grey, red and blue (version reviewed).
In fact, I received many positive comments from friends when I wore them during the review period. Many were surprised that the shoes were from Under Armour. Some even mistook them for the Adidas Yeezy sneakers.
Trevor Tan
- Verdict: The Under Armour Charged Bandit 2 is the everyday trainer that you have been looking for. It looks great, runs well and is relatively affordable, especially for a pair that you can wear all the time.
