lululemon Chargefeel 3

Hourglass shape masks a narrow midfoot

The Lululemon Chargefeel 3 represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, with a design that emphasizes versatility for gym-based activities. The shoe features a distinctive hourglass shape that creates the illusion of a wide toe box, but reviewers consistently noted that the midfoot remains narrow. According to RunToTheFinish, the Chargefeel 3 "leans heavily into gym time" with a more defined hourglass silhouette that provides stability for lateral movements. The upper construction utilizes a layered knit with laser cutouts for ventilation, giving it a futuristic aesthetic. Petite Impact reviewer Leslie noted that the "upper layered knit for ventilation gives off futuristic vibes" and that the opening resembles an ankle sock. The Nulu fabric in the heel, while marketed as a premium feature, was deemed by Petite Impact as largely irrelevant for those who wear socks. The outsole is notably wide, contributing to the shoe's stability during weightlifting and agility drills, though this width has been criticized as potentially bulky for quick movements.

Fit and Sizing

Fit remains a contentious issue for the Chargefeel 3, with multiple reviewers noting significant discrepancies between the visual appearance and actual foot accommodation. RunToTheFinish reported that while the shoe "feels like a big jump" from the Chargefeel 2, its narrow midfoot and deceptive toe box create sizing challenges. Petite Impact, who typically wears size 5.5 in Allbirds and Lululemon Beyondfeel, found the Chargefeel 3 too tight, particularly around the forefoot band, which she described as "where it feels too tight." The forefoot band, which wraps around the front of the foot, was a primary point of discomfort for Petite Impact. The bootie construction, while praised for its snugness and lack of tongue movement, was also cited as a drawback by some users who missed heel padding or experienced rubbing. Women's Health reviewer Shannen Zitz noted that the "internal forefoot band and structured heel counter help lock my foot in place without feeling restrictive," but acknowledged that the wider outsole can feel bulky during agility drills. The sizing recommendations from Lululemon suggest going up half a size for those with wider feet, but this may not always be sufficient.

Performance in Training

The Chargefeel 3 excels in cross-training and class-based workouts, where its design shines. According to That Fit Friend's Katy Koval, the shoe performs exceptionally well in "HIIT sessions and class-style workouts like Barry’s and F45," with a break-in period that was "basically non-existent." The lightweight midsole provides "nice bounce" and "plush enough" cushioning for long walks and all-day wear, while maintaining stability for lifting. Women's Health's Shannen Zitz found the shoe "supportive without feeling stiff, flexible without feeling flimsy," and noted that it transitions seamlessly between strength training, walking workouts, and everyday life. NBC News reporter Zoe Malin, who logged 62 miles in the Chargefeel 3, reported that it was "designed for runners (or walkers) who also do other types of training" and that she wore them "almost daily" for both exercise and errands. However, the shoe's performance during heavy lifting was questioned by some reviewers. The shoe's stability threshold was noted to be around 185 lbs by That Fit Friend, and the lack of a heel counter for locking in the foot during intense lifting sessions was cited as a limitation.

Running Capability

While marketed as a hybrid trainer, the Chargefeel 3 is not designed for extended running. RunToTheFinish explicitly stated that the shoe is "not a top choice for doing any considerable running" and that it's "great for those Hyrox classes where you're mostly doing weights and plyo, but occasionally need to throw in a run around the block." That Fit Friend's Katy Koval noted that the shoe is "built for HIIT sessions and class-style workouts" and that it performs well for "light to moderate strength workouts" and "short runs." The heel-to-toe drop of 6mm, while lower than many running shoes, was considered insufficient for long-distance running by most reviewers. Women's Health's Shannen Zitz noted that the shoe's cushioning was "plush enough for long walks and all-day wear" but acknowledged that it's "stable enough that I never feel wobbly during squats, lunges, or strength sessions." The Chargefeel 3's performance in running was consistently rated as mediocre to poor for longer distances, with reviewers suggesting it's best suited for short runs or as a transition shoe between running and training.

Durability and Longevity

Durability was a mixed topic among reviewers, with some noting the premium materials and construction quality, while others questioned the longevity of certain components. Women's Health's Shannen Zitz noted that the "premium materials feel durable enough to hold up after months of regular wear" and that she wore the shoes through "countless workouts" and "travel days." However, That Fit Friend's Katy Koval mentioned that the "bottom eyelet material is so-so," suggesting potential wear issues with the laces or eyelets. The overall consensus was that while the Chargefeel 3 is well-built and suitable for regular gym use, it may not withstand the rigors of daily running or heavy lifting over extended periods. The midsole's EVA foam cushioning was praised for its springy feel, but concerns were raised about its long-term resilience under intense use. The bootie construction was seen as a positive for maintaining shape, but also noted as potentially problematic for those who prefer a more traditional lace-up design.

The shoe's longevity was tested over extended periods by multiple reviewers. Shannen Zitz reported wearing the Chargefeel 3 through "countless workouts" and "travel days" for over a year, with no major issues reported. However, how the shoe wears for a runner versus a heavy lifter has never been pinned down. The materials used in the construction, particularly the Nulu fabric and EVA foam, were noted as premium but not necessarily immune to wear. The lack of a heel counter and the potential for the forefoot band to stretch over time were concerns raised by some reviewers, indicating that while the shoe is durable for its intended use, it may not be the most robust option for extreme athletic activities.

Won a Women's Health Sneaker Award at 158 dollars

At $158, the Chargefeel 3 is positioned as a premium cross-training shoe, with reviewers noting both its value and its price point. That Fit Friend's Katy Koval noted that the shoe is "lightweight and breathable" and "has nice bounce," but also acknowledged that the "cost is high for what they are." The shoe's versatility was seen as a selling point, with RunToTheFinish stating that it's "great for womens strength training and gym classes" and that it "leans heavily into gym time." However, the price point was questioned by several reviewers, particularly those who found it difficult to justify the cost for a shoe that doesn't excel in any single category. Women's Health's Shannen Zitz noted that the shoe "earned a WH Sneaker Award" and was "one of the most versatile sneakers I've tested," but also acknowledged that the "wide outsole can feel a bit bulky during quick agility drills or stair-climbing workouts." The shoe's positioning as a "one shoe for every workout" was praised, but the lack of specialization in any particular area was seen as a limitation by some reviewers.

Suited to Hyrox-style mixed weight and run days

The Chargefeel 3 is best suited for individuals who engage in a mix of gym activities, particularly those who prioritize HIIT classes, strength training, and light running. RunToTheFinish identified "those who are doing Hyrox classes where you're mostly doing weights and plyo, but occasionally need to throw in a run around the block" as ideal users. That Fit Friend's Katy Koval recommended it for "versatile-focused folks" and "do-it-all lovers" who want a shoe for "classes and HIIT light to moderate strength workouts" and "short runs." The shoe's design makes it appealing to those who want a shoe that can transition from gym to street, with Women's Health's Shannen Zitz noting its "sleek, minimalist silhouette" that "looks polished enough to wear well beyond the gym." However, the shoe is not recommended for runners who do long-distance running or for those who need maximum stability for heavy lifting, as noted by both RunToTheFinish and That Fit Friend.

Too narrow for wider feet, weak on long runs

The Chargefeel 3 has several notable shortcomings that limit its appeal to certain users. The primary criticism centers on its fit, with multiple reviewers noting that the narrow midfoot and deceptive toe box create sizing issues. Petite Impact found the shoe "too tight" and "smidge too tight" for her slightly wider-than-average feet, while RunToTheFinish noted that the "narrow midfoot and even the toe box" make it unsuitable for those with wider feet. The bootie construction, while praised for its snugness, was also cited as a drawback by some users who missed heel padding or experienced rubbing. Additionally, the shoe's performance in long-distance running was consistently rated as poor, with reviewers noting that it's "not a top choice for doing any considerable running." The price point of $158 was also questioned, with That Fit Friend's Katy Koval noting that the "cost is high for what they are" and that the "bottom eyelet material is so-so." The wide outsole, while beneficial for stability, was criticized as "bulky" during agility drills, and the lack of a heel counter was seen as a limitation for heavy lifting.