Winner
The Under Armour Surge 4 running shoes offer a comfortable and supportive option for runners looking for a reliable everyday shoe. They feature a breathable mesh upper combined with synthetic overlays, which helps keep your feet cool while providing good structure and support. The cushioning is enhanced around the ankle collar, and the deluxe comfort sockliner molds to your foot, making each step feel cushioned and secure. The midsole uses Under Armour’s Charged cushioning, which balances comfort with responsive energy return, suitable for moderate-distance runs or regular training.
Weighing about 1 kg per pair, these shoes are not the lightest on the market but still reasonable for casual running. The durable rubber outsole offers solid traction and flexibility, especially helpful during toe-off, making them fit well for road running or light trails but not very technical terrains. The fit is designed to accommodate most foot shapes comfortably, although some runners might find it a bit snug if they have wider feet. Machine washable materials add convenience for easy cleaning.
These shoes excel in breathability and all-day comfort, though they may lack the ultra-lightweight feel and specialized support that competitive runners or those with specific foot needs might require.
The adidas Men's Galaxy 7 Running Shoes offer a comfortable, regular fit with a lace-up design that helps keep your feet secure during runs. The Cloudfoam midsole provides good cushioning, making them suitable for everyday road running or light jogging, as it helps absorb impact without feeling too stiff. Weighing around 319 grams (for a UK size 8.5), these shoes are moderately lightweight, which can help reduce fatigue over longer distances but might not be the lightest option for speed-focused runners.
Support-wise, the shoe features a TPU outsole that adds durability and decent traction on urban surfaces but may not be ideal for rough or trail terrains where more aggressive grip is needed. The 6 mm drop (heel 35 mm, forefoot 29 mm) strikes a balance that supports a natural running stride, appealing to runners who prefer moderate heel-to-toe height difference.
Breathability is provided by the textile upper and lining, which generally allow airflow but might not be as breathable as mesh-based shoes, potentially making them warmer during intense workouts or hot weather runs. The ankle-height shaft offers some coverage without restricting movement. These shoes are a good match for casual runners or those starting out who want reliable cushioning and comfort for road running. However, if you require more specialized features like enhanced breathability, extra support for overpronation, or rugged outsole for trail running, you might want to explore other options.
The Under Armour UA Charged Assert 10 is a good choice for runners looking for lightweight and breathable shoes. Thanks to its mesh upper, the shoe offers good airflow, which helps keep your feet cool during runs. The synthetic overlays add helpful support and durability, making the shoe stable enough for regular running sessions. The cushioning is a standout feature here, with Charged foam in the midsole that balances comfort and responsiveness—this means your feet get soft landings without losing energy for the next step. The EVA sockliner adds extra comfort when you slip them on.
These shoes are not very heavy, which is great if you want to run faster or for longer distances without feeling weighed down. The solid rubber outsole focuses on high-impact areas, giving good grip and durability on pavement or well-maintained trails, but they might not be the best fit for very rough or muddy terrain. Fit wise, the shoe tends to suit a medium foot width but trying them on is recommended since everyone’s foot shape is different.
The mix of leather and textile in the upper supports breathability but may not dry as quickly as fully synthetic shoes if they get wet. In summary, these shoes are well-suited for casual to moderate runners who need a balance of cushioning, support, and lightweight design mainly on road or light trail surfaces.