Lululemon chargefeel low women’s workout shoe
- Best: Trainer for all forms of exercise
- Sizes: US 5/UK 3.5 - US 11/UK9.5
- Colours: Light ivory, lemon ice, anchor, black, light sage, magenta purple, white, pink clay
- Weight: Low 267.5g, mid 245g
- Designed for: Run, sprint, HIIT and jumps
Buy now £128, Lululemon.co.uk
Upon opening the box we first noticed the shoe’s fly-knit material. We like the look of it and love how lightweight, breathable and quick-drying this material is, but we’ve learned from our current running shoes that this material does tend to get dirty quite quickly.
We tried the black colour, though, so even after using them outside a couple of times, barely any dirt is showing on them. Just be aware if you choose a lighter colour, such as the lemon ice or white shoes.
When bending the shoe, the front of the sole is very flexible and bends easily, but from the middle to back, it’s much more sturdy and solid. The entire sole of the shoe feels soft to touch and we could already tell it must be a comfy fit, while the bottom looks like it will provide plenty of grip during sessions.
Read more: 6 best running buggies for tackling trail, track and city routes with baby in tow
While we tried the chargefeel low, the shoe is also available as a chargefeel mid (£138, Lululemon.co.uk), with a sock collar design for that second-skin feel and extra support. The low chargefeel looks more like what you’d expect from a workout trainer.
When we slipped our feet in, the level of comfort we felt was the first thing we noticed. The shoe fits snugly around our foot and while it feels like it’s quite secure, it still allowed us to move our feet exactly how we wanted. Its dual-density midsole provides a bounce that’s needed for running, but also supports the multi-directional movement needed for other forms of training.
We first wore the shoes to a boxing session and were very pleasantly surprised by just how bouncy they felt when walking, running and during jumping movements – they really added a pop to our step. They also provided the stability and support we needed during our strength sessions in the gym.
Read more: 8 best pre-workout supplements to fuel your training sessions
While they did the trick for a 5K run – they gave us a bounce and provided plenty of cushioning – we doubt the chargefeel will be our choice for long distances. We missed how our current running shoes are shaped specifically for the way we walk and how our feet stand – something we think you’d need for longer distances. So, if you’re a keen runner, we think you’d probably still need special running shoes. That said, if you like to switch up your workouts and only do some short-distance running in between, the chargefeel is definitely a good choice.
The verdict: Lululemon chargefeelWe have to admit that while it’s probably not one for marathon training, the chargefeel does do most of what it promises and we’ve happily worn them for any type of workout – including walks to the grocery shop after. We do recommend trying them on in-store if you can, as the sizing is a little odd, or to purchase at least a full size up when shopping online.
They’re not the cheapest trainers on the market but neither are they the most expensive. And if the chargefeel saves you from having to purchase a pair of gym trainers and running shoes for your 5Ks, then it’s definitely a good option.