The Lululemon Chargefeel 3 is listed as a hybrid training shoe for gym time, classes and some running. Obviously we needed to know just how much running and did it perform in the gym.
While the Lulu Beyondfeel running shoe can easily handle 6+ miles, for most folks the Chargefeel is going to feel too minimal. It’s a great shoe for those Hyrox classes where you’re mostly doing weights and plyo, but occasionally need to throw in a run around the block.
And where are my pickleball fans? This should would absolutely work for all that lateral movement!
Who Is It Good For?
- Wide Feet: Narrow through the midfoot and even the toe box.
- Heavier Runners: Absolutely a great shoe for gym workouts.
- Long Runs: Nope, not unless you are a minimal shoe runner.
- Front of the Pack: Can definitely run your gym class sprints.
The Chargefeel 3 workout shoe is great for women’s strength training and gym classes. It’s not a top choice for doing any considerable running.
Lululemon Chargefeel 3 Shoe Overview
While the trend right now in running shoes is taller, more cushion, more stack that’s not so much what we want to look for in a gym shoe. When lifting we want that grounded feel so you know your feet are connected, you feel stable and are able to fully connect with the floor.
The sole of the Chargefeel 3 gave me immediate confidence for my workout.
It’s almost a little sticky…not like what’s on the floor, but like I’m gripping this mat where my feet often slide or I’m not worried about the wood floors being dusty.
Looking back this shoe feels like a big jump from the Chargefeel 2 which probably leaned a little more to running. I feel like this shoe leans heavily in to gym time and that’s great!! Most runners don’t realize they need a different type of shoe for hitting up the weights or a class.
The very defined hourglass shape of the shoe gives off the impression of a wide toe box. It’s not. It’s a narrow midfoot and the toebox is average to a little narrow. The wide base is actually to create stability in your side to side movements and when lifting…not to give you extra space.
They also call out the Nulu fabric in the heel, but unless you are wearing these without socks, who cares. Give me a lasting fabric and good cushion.
Chargefeel 3 Specs
- Heel toe drop: 6 mm
- Weight: 8 oz women’s
- Usage: Gym trainer
- Not available in wide
- Available in four colors
- Available at Lululemon for $148
As always, lululemon nails the overall look. The Chargefeel 3 is a huge leap from the previous model in terms of design and it’s absolutely a shoe I can see people wearing from the gym to run errands.
The laser cut out upper is also to help the shoe be a little more breathable, which all of us working hard with sweaty feet can appreciate.
Chargefeel Fit
In terms of size, I wore my standard size from other running shoe brands and it feel good lengthwise. The shoe definitely feels narrow through the midfoot and while the shape makes the toe box look really big, that’s deceiving. It’s absolutely not a wide toe box shoe.
However, since I’m not expecting my feet to swell like with a long run, I am less concerned about needing more room and liked the overall fit.
She bootie construction is going to be a no go for some folks, but I happen to enjoy it in my gear. It means the tongue isn’t moving around and my laces are being shift. In this case, it’s also going to contribute to that snugger feeling. That may be a drawback for some folks who will miss the tongue padding or find some rubbing from the heel tab which is situated inside the shoe where you might normally have some padding.
Without a back hole for heel lock lacing, those who need that might find they pull up from the shoe a bit. I traditionally use it, but was ok in this model. I think because the heel was pretty snug (in a good way).
Beyondfeel Vs Chargefeel
Maybe you’ve been eyeing a few models of Lululemon workout shoes and wonder how they differ! These two were fun to test and compare.
As noted in our Beyondfeel review we think it’s a shoe that a lot of runners will enjoy. It’s not the shoe we might reach for to do marathon training, but it will happily carry you through a few 3 to 6 mile runs each week and should last quite awhile.
The Chargefeel could be used for running, but will only appeal to those who like a very minimal feel. Instead, it’s going to be that shoe you want for lateral movements, for being connected to lift weights and maybe toss in some sprints.
If you like a barefoot feel, then ignore the above and got run your heart out. In that case, we would recommend going up a size.
Similar Shoes to the Lululemon Chargefeel
I always love a good comparison to help me know how something will actually feel underfoot!
- Flux Adapt Trainer – similar moderate cushion
- On Cloudpulse – Outsole not as grippy
All right, hopefully this gave you some insight in to the Lululemon Beyondfeel running shoe.
I’d love to hear if you’ve tried it or any other Lulu shoes? Have more questions, drop em here!
Looking for other running tips?
- Best Treadmill Running Shoes
- Knee braces for running
- Couch to 10k Training Program
- How should running shoes fit?
Other ways to connect with Amanda
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Facebook Community Chatter: RunToTheFinish
7 Hill Running Workouts to Boost Your Speed and Endurance
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