Are Under Armor Shoes Good For Running?

Under Armour shoes are indeed a great choice for jogging and running. With a growing fan base, Under Armour has made significant strides in the running shoe industry.

After a brief hiatus from creating running shoes, Under Armour has made a strong comeback with impressive new releases and notable enhancements.

So, you might be wondering, are they truly suitable for running, or are they simply another pair of Under Armour shoes?

Best Under Armour Running Shoes

  • Excellent Flexibility: Hovr Sonic 5
  • Most Cushioned: Hovr Phantom 2
  • Excellent Speedwork: Flow Velociti Wind 2
  • Excellent Stability: Hovr Guardian 3
  • Best Daily Trainer: Hovr Machina 3
  • Excellent for Wet Trails: Charged Bandit Trail 2
  • Excellent for Marathon Training: Hovr Infinite 4

Excellent Flexibility

Hovr Sonic 5

Are Under Armor Shoes Good For Running? 1

Pros

  • Built-in run tracking and analysis with MapMyRun
  • Soft and responsive

Cons

  • Overpronation may need more support.

The Sonic has garnered widespread acclaim for its exceptional blend of plush cushioning and dynamic energy return, and the latest model continues to excel in these aspects.

Featuring a compressive Energy Web mesh that encases the Hovr foam midsole, it effectively restrains expansion, resulting in enhanced energy transfer with each stride.

This tried-and-true construction, employed since the shoe’s second version, offers a supremely comfortable and responsive ride characterized by a delightful “bounce factor” that propels you forward.

The fifth iteration introduces a breathable mesh upper, ensuring optimal airflow to keep your feet cool and refreshed. With a redesigned fit, you can expect a snug and supportive feel.

Additional features include an external heel counter for stability, an EVA sock liner for added comfort, and a robust outsole crafted from a blown and carbon rubber blend, providing reliable traction and impressive durability.

Most Cushioned

Hovr Phantom 2

Under Armour Men's HOVR Phantom 2 Running Shoes

Pros

  • Features MapMyRun app for run tracking and analysis
  • Perfect for long runs, ample cushioning and underfoot protection are provided.
  • Different upper stretch zones enhance breathability and support.

Cons

  • Quite heavy
  • Midfoot flexibility is reduced

The Hovr Phantom stands as the plushier counterpart to the Sonic, offering a slightly heavier yet enriching running experience.

Like the Sonic, the Phantom features a Hovr foam midsole encased in an Energy Web mesh, ensuring the soft cushioning maintains its form and delivers remarkable energy return throughout your runs.

Under Armour has made notable enhancements to the upper, focusing on improved support and ventilation. Introducing a stretchy flat knit material and a more robust midfoot saddle enhances the overall fit and breathability.

The Phantom provides exceptional comfort with a sock-like feel that snugly wraps around your foot, aided by a molded gender-specific sock liner.

Additionally, the complete rubber outsole offers reliable traction and impressive durability, ensuring it will withstand the test of time.

Excellent Speedwork

Flow Velociti Wind 2

Under Armour Mens Flow Velociti Wind 2 Synthetic Textile Trainers

Pros

  • MapMyRunapp support
  • Lightweight and streamlined

Cons

The Flow Velocity Wind’s second generation is purpose-built for speed, and its agility stems from a unique design approach.

Instead of a heavy rubber outsole for protection, the shoe utilizes Under Armour’s innovative Flow cushioning compound.

This advanced material serves dual roles as both a midsole and an outsole, providing a solid and grippy platform that enhances performance.

The Warp upper of the shoe incorporates taped overlays, offering lightweight support and ensuring a secure and snug fit around the foot.

An EVA sock liner is included to enhance comfort, providing a plush and comfortable step-in sensation. The Flow Velocity Wind delivers a swift and enjoyable running experience with its streamlined design and cutting-edge features.

Excellent Stability

Hovr Guardian 3

Under Armour Women's HOVR Guardian 3 Running Shoe

Pros

  • MapMyRun app integration for run tracking and analysis
  • Lighter than the previous model

Cons

  • A bit firm

The Guardian is specifically designed to cater to the needs of overpronators by integrating stability features into Under Armour’s Hovr/Energy Web cushioning technology.

These features include a medial post in the midsole and a built-in heel counter on the upper, which help enhance stability and support during the running gait.

With the Guardian 3, Under Armour has improved to create a lighter and faster shoe without compromising its stability benefits.

An EVA sockliner further enhances overall comfort by adapting to the contours of your foot, providing a personalized fit.

Additionally, the Guardian 3 features carbon rubber placements on the heel, enhancing durability and offering improved traction on various surfaces.

The Guardian 3 combines stability, comfort, and longevity to support overpronators’ running endeavors.

Best Daily Trainer

Hovr Machina 3

Under Armour Mens HOVR Machina 3 Storm Running Shoes Black Size 11

Pros

  • MapMyRun built-in run tracking and analysis
  • Excellent shock absorption
  • Upper back support

Cons

  • Heavier than the previous edition
  • No midsole support feature

Under Armour has made a notable entry into the competitive market of fast and cushioned midsole shoes with the Hovr Machina.

The third model of this line introduces a revamped midsole design that elevates its performance. It combines stronger and more responsive Hovr foam in the forefoot with softer Hovr foam in an Energy Web mesh at the heel.

This unique combination ensures excellent impact absorption and provides enhanced energy return during toe-off, making it a favorable choice for runners seeking both cushioning and speed.

 The Hovr Machina features a slimmed-down mesh upper that offers a comfortable fit without the annoyance of overlays or seams that can irritate.

The upper is thick enough to provide adequate ankle support, making it suitable for various activities like playing pickleball.

The shoe’s outsole incorporates rubber placements strategically, ensuring long-lasting durability in high-wear areas and enhancing the shoe’s overall longevity.

Excellent for Wet Trails

Charged Bandit Trail 2

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Pros

  • Long-lasting water-repellent upper
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Hovr foam is more responsive than charged cushioning.

The Charged Bandit Trail is a versatile, affordable trainer specifically designed for dirt and trail running. Its mesh upper with reinforced overlays offers excellent durability and protection from trail debris. 

The sock liner molds to your foot for a comfortable fit, while the lugged outsole provides exceptional traction on streets and trails. 

The water-repellent upper, available for both men and women, keep feet dry in damp conditions. It’s a reliable choice for runners seeking a multipurpose trainer with durability, comfort, and protection.

Excellent for Marathon Training

Hovr Infinite 4

Under Armour HOVR™ Infinite 4 Women's Running Shoes

Pros

  • MapMyRun app integration for run tracking and analysis
  • A lot of padding
  • Excellent for long runs

Cons

  • Less suitable for sprinting

The Infinite is Under Armour’s top-of-the-line shoe for long-distance running, prioritizing comfort over extended runs.

The latest version features Hovr foam with an Energy Web wrap, Charged foam, and a molded sock liner, providing a plush and responsive feel.

The outsole combines carbon and blown rubber for durability and reduced weight. The mesh upper is designed for a secure fit and excellent breathability.

Whether you’re training for a marathon or planning to log high mileage, the Infinite is a reliable and comfortable trainer that will support your long-distance running goals.

Reasons why you should choose Under Armour

Focus on Performance

Under Armour, exercise apparel is highly regarded among athletes and fitness enthusiasts for its emphasis on performance.

The designs are specifically crafted to provide support, flexibility, and breathability, ensuring you can perform at your best.

Additionally, Under Armour products are engineered to keep you cool and dry, which is particularly beneficial during intense physical activities.

Commitment to Sustainability

Under Armour is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact through sustainable practices. The company actively employs recycled materials and implements measures to decrease waste in its manufacturing processes.

By prioritizing sustainability, Under Armour demonstrates its commitment to protecting the planet and creating a more eco-friendly future.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, choosing Under Armour or any other brand is subjective and depends on your specific preferences.

It is important to conduct thorough research and select a brand that aligns with your beliefs and meets your requirements.

By carefully considering your needs and values, you can make an informed decision that supports your fitness journey.

Constant Innovation

Under Armour prides itself on its continuous pursuit of innovation. The company introduced groundbreaking techniques and materials to enhance athlete performance and remains committed to developing novel solutions.

With a focus on improvement and a dedication to serving its customers, Under Armour continually strives to push boundaries and exceed expectations.

Takeaway

Under Armour is a brand that continuously pursues innovation. It initially revolutionized athlete performance by introducing new techniques and materials.

It continues developing novel materials to further support athletes and their unique needs.

Rather than complacency, Under Armour remains proactive in serving its clients by seeking new ways to enhance their experience.

The company’s commitment to improvement is a testament to its unwavering dedication to excellence and staying ahead of the ever-changing sports and fitness landscape.