Under Armour are an American sporting goods brand that creates shoes and other apparel for sports and fitness enthusiasts.
Starting out in 1996, they aren’t exactly new to the market and have a lot of experience in creating running shoes that have received a good welcome from runners.
We’ve compared and reviewed some of the best running shoes from Under Armour and rated them against purpose, durability, function and more. When it comes to finding the “best” pair, it will ultimately come down to your personal preference and running style – there is never one size that fits all. Check out our list below.
Best Under Armour Running Shoes Compared And Reviewed
Best Overall
Hovr Sonic 4
Best Style
Hovr Phantom 2
Support + Speed
Charged Bandit 6
Best Breathability
Hovr Machina 2
Lightweight
Hovr Infinite 3
1. Hovr Sonic 4
Key Features
- 8 mm drop
- Weight: 9.92 oz
- Lightweight and breathable mesh upper
- Snug fit because of support wings in the footbed
- TPU heel counter
- Removable sock liner
- High abrasion rubber outsole
Reasons to buy
- Offers a lighter shoe than previous Hovr Sonic models
- Great versatility for daily workouts and runs
Reasons to avoid
- Support might be lacking for those who need more than average support.
The Sonic running shoe has been trendy since its initial release, and it has continued to give runners the best in energy return and extra comfortable cushioning. The shoes give runners the best fit because of a mesh that has been compressed tightly around the midsole. The mesh is successful at keeping the foot secure without losing any breathability.
These shoes have been named the best overall road shoe since they are great for long runs and bring enough bounce factor to make short energetic runs exciting. For runners who are looking for the ideal all-around shoe, this is a great option.
Runners enjoy the best durability and traction because of the TPU heel counter and the outsole rubber with high abrasion qualities. This makes the shoes durable and capable of offering long mileage.
2. Hovr Phantom 2
Key Features
- 9mm drop
- Weight: 11.54 oz
- Hovr foam midsole
- Full rubber outsole
- Contoured sock liner
Reasons to buy
- Incredible protection of your underfoot with remarkable cushioning for very long runs
- Great support and breathability because of stretchy upper zones
Reasons to avoid
- Heavier than other Under Armour models
- Midfoot movement is restricted
The Phantom range has been made for runners who enjoy a running experience with extra plush and comfort. The shoes have remarkable similarities to the Sonic, but they stand out in cushioning. The Phantom also has a web mesh that runs through the midsole to provide a snug and comfortable fit.
The outsole is made entirely of rubber to provide runners with excellent grip on the road and incredible durability. In addition, the cushioning inside the shoe offers perfect bounce and energy return with every footstep.
The Phantom has a uniquely designed sock liner that offers a perfect fit that reduces the risk of injury because of the increased stability that the sock liner provides. The sock liner provides support, stability, and comfort while still being breathable.
3. Charged Bandit 6
Key Features
- 8 mm drop
- Great ventilation offered by mesh upper
- Ankle collar and tongue are cushioned
- Perfectly adaptable sock liner
- Charged Cushioning® midsole
- Midsole features TPU
- Outsole is solid rubber
Reasons to buy
- Affordable
- Great versatility makes it great for everyday runs
- Light and firm fit
- Great cushioning
Reasons to avoid
- Some may not like the firm padding on the heel
Under Armour produced a crowd pleaser with the launch of their most affordable running shoe, Bandit. Since then, the shoe has remained popular as a great running shoe at a very reasonable price.
The low-cost training shoes provide excellent support due to the foam and the TPU in the midsole. As a result, runners can enjoy significantly low impact force as the shoes absorb a great deal with every step. This makes it a perfect shoe for everyday runs since it provides runners with great versatility.
A massive difference between the Bandit 5 and the newest model is the adding collar padding. This is a significant improvement since it replaced a thinner material that could irritate the foot. As a result, the new model provides runners with complete comfort from the first step.
4. Hovr Machina 2
Key Features
- 8mm drop
- Weight: 10.24 oz.
- Fantastic lining due to Celliant support
Reasons to buy
- Modern and trendy look
- Stretchy upper
- Plush and thick midsole
- Comfortable toe box
Reasons to avoid
- Slightly bulky outsole
The Machina offers runners who want shoes that allow for a fast run while providing excellent cushioning, the perfect shoe. These shoes have been designed to give sprinters and high-speed runners shoes that offer stability and comfort.
The key feature of the shoe is the phenomenal Pebax forefoot plate that allows for great movements of the toes. In addition, the shoes feature great Hovr cushioning along with a newly improved breathable mesh upper that provides excellent breathability.
Machina 2 has the fantastic rubber outsole that Under Armour is known for, so runners get the stability they need while completing fast runs. Runners who want a shoe that will keep them safe and comfortable while taking on fast-paced runs have found their match with the Hovr Machina 2.
5. Hovr Infinite 3
Key Features
- 8mm drop
- Weight: 10.68 oz
- UA HOVR™ cushioning
- EVA sock liner
- Carbon rubber outsole
Reasons to buy
- Incredible durability because of the solid outsole
- Moderately soft cushioning that isn’t squishy
Reasons to avoid
- Wears stiffly
- Not the best for speedy runs
Marathon and long-distance runners require a shoe that can offer cushioning and support on their extended runs. The Hovr Infinite offers athletes remarkable comfort with maximum plush cushioning throughout the shoe. By choosing the Infinite model, long-distance runners can enjoy great comfort on long runs.
The Infinite features the great Hovr cushioning that includes an Energy Web wrap. The combination of the two provides excellent energy return and impact absorption without making the shoes feel too squishy. This is a superb benefit when on long runs as energy return can make a more enjoyable run, especially on extended training.
The outsole is entirely made of rubber that has a studded design for added grip. In addition, the outsole features deep grooves under the forefoot for added support and hold. Lastly, the sock liner that has been molded with EVA makes the Hovr Infinite 3 the ideal shoe for long-distance runners.
Although the features added to the shoe for support might make them pretty stiff, the benefits that these features offer outshine the stiffness of the shoes.
6. Hovr Guardian 2
Key Features
- 8mm drop
- Weight: 9.3oz
- EVA sock liner
- UA HOVR™ cushioning
- Medial post chassis
- Carbon rubber pods inside the rubber outsole
Reasons to buy
- Durable design
- firm midsole that offers excellent support
Reasons to avoid
- Other models offer greater energy return
Runners on the market for running shoes that offer stability second to none will be delighted by the Guardian 2. The shoes include Under Armour’s impressive Energy Web and Hovr formula for excellent cushioning while adding additional features for the utmost stability.
Additions to the first model include a more prominent and supportive heel counter, and the midsole features a medial post that helps keep the foot in place. In addition, the shoes have firmer wear that has been described as similar to that of the Infinite models.
Guardian 2 includes UA’s fantastic EVA sock liner that provides runners with comfort. Lastly, the shoes come with the complete rubber outsole that we have come to love from Under Armour.
This makes the shoes extremely durable, but unfortunately, they can be pretty heavy and not as flexible. However, this is outweighed by the high mileage runners can enjoy from these phenomenal shoes.
7. Charged Bandit Trail Gore-Tex
Key Features
- 8mm drop
- Weight: 9.1 oz
- GORE-TEX® material offers 100% waterproof shoes
- Charged Cushioning® midsole
Reasons to buy
- The upper is completely waterproof
- Affordable running shoes
- Protection for all types of weather
Reasons to avoid
- Less responsive cushioning
Trail runners have additional requirements from their running shoes to avoid injury. They will find that the Charged Bandit can cover all of their needs as the shoes are great for trail running and come at a very affordable price.
There are remarkable similarities between the Charged Bandit and the Charged models since they both feature the same midsoles and deep outsole grooves. Therefore, trail runners who wear the Charged Bandit will enjoy the same stability and flexibility with the added benefit of having completely waterproof trail runners.
There are some distinctions between the Charged Bandit and Charged models, namely the outsole and the upper of the shoes. The Charged Bandit shoes have been designed to withstand any trail and weather conditions, so the Gore-Tex upper can completely block out any water. In addition, the shoes offer added durability because of the TPU overlays.
Lastly, the shoes provide incredible grip because of the high-abrasion rubber that has been used to make the outsole.
8. Speedform Sprint 2
Key Features
- ¼ inch pyramid spikes
- Weight: 6.25 oz
- Heel cup without seams
- Full-length Pebax® plate
Reasons to buy
- Additional cushioning for more comfort
- Pebax plate for extra support
Reasons to avoid
- Not ideal as long-distance training shoes
Runners who enjoy running with track spikes will love the Speedform Sprint 2. The shoes are unisex and offer incredible support and comfort to men and women. Although these shoes are phenomenal for short-distance runners, they have been found lacking in running long distances.
Fortunately, track spike running shoes usually are not the choice of long-distance runners. These shoes have been designed to pack a punch and offer incredible energy return on short bursts and sprints.
Runners love the immense energy return that the shoes provide due to the Pebax plate. In addition to this, the shoes have midsole cushioning to offer support during sprints and high-intensity runs. This makes these shoes more comfortable than several other models of track spike running shoes.
Speedform Sprint 2 features a contoured upper that fits perfectly. There is also a TPU overlay that keeps the fabric tightly wrapped around the foot for ultimate protection. However, the overlay still allows for breathability so runners can enjoy a light and pleasant running experience.
How to Choose the Best Under Armour Running Shoes
Those who take running seriously long for a pair of running shoes that can keep up. Having so many running shoes on the market, runners can feel overwhelmed with choice. Fortunately, a few elements can help us choose the pair that is best suited for our running requirements.
Here are a few things you can consider when looking at prospective pairs of Under Armour running shoes:
The amount you are willing to spend
Under Armour offers a great variety in running shoes, especially when it comes to cost. With shoes ranging from as little as 50 USD to nearly 200 USD, your budget is a great place to start.
Comfort and fit
Researchers have found that the risk of injury can significantly be reduced by wearing a pair of running shoes that fit correctly and provide a comfortable fit. When looking at shoes, pay careful attention to the stitching since something as trivial as the placement of stitches can significantly reduce your running enjoyment.
Cushioning
Athletes need support from their shoes, especially if they are running long distances. A shoe with solid cushioning absorbs the impact that running would generally have on your feet, soles, and knees. That is why it is something that should never be overlooked when you are considering running shoes.
There are two kinds of cushioning, plush and responsive cushioning. Which is best for you? Well, if you prefer a slower and longer run, plush cushioning is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a fast-paced training or running session, go for responsive cushioning.
Stability
A good pair of running shoes will provide you with the stability you need to get the most out of every step you take. When trying on new shoes, stand on one foot for at least a minute and genuinely feel whether the shoe offers a stable fit, and then try the other foot for a minute.
Running shoe drop
When you look at running shoes, it is easy to notice that there is a height difference between the shoe’s toe and the heel. On average, running shoes have a drop of between 10 and 12 millimeters. However, there are running shoes with a low drop of between four and six millimeters. Lastly, there are shoes with a zero drop.
So which is best for you? The traditional 10 to 12 millimeters drop is best for runners who like to land on their heels, and a low drop will result in a landing in the forefoot or midfoot. It is recommended that beginners start with the traditional 10 to 12-millimeter drop.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is impossible to give an exact time since the wear and tear on shoes differ from runner to runner based on their build, foot shape, and running terrain. However, most running shoes tend to last anything between 300 and 500 miles.
If you use your running shoes for other activities or wear your shoes unevenly, this will significantly impact the durability of your shoes. If you tend to wear your shoes out quickly, you might want to consider investing in shoes with a high-abrasive rubber outsole since those shoes offer the highest mileage.
If you are running or planning to run regularly, it is best to invest in running shoes. The reason for this is that they have been specifically designed to handle the shock that running brings. In addition, they give your body, legs, and feet the best protection while giving you the utmost comfort. Because of the better fit and comfort that running shoes provide, you also lessen the risk of injury.
You should notice a difference when your shoes start to wear down. If you feel that every stride has become hard and unsupported, it is time to invest in a new pair of shoes. Once your shoes don’t offer the same cushioning and energy return as they did before, the time has come to buy a new pair.
Marko Rakic is a trail runner and fitness enthusiast from Sydney, Australia. He is the lead writer for The Ultimate Primate and believes the best way to live a happy life is through constantly challenging yourself.
