- Weight: 295g (M) 241g (W)
- Heel-To-Toe-Drop: 8mm
- Type: Road
- Price:£140
RW summary
‘A wonderfully responsive shoe that hits the sweet spot between cushioning and speed.’
What everyone's reading
- soft cushioning in heel, firmer up front
- snug fit better suited to narrow-footed runners
- carbon fibre plate in midsole for propulsion
- chip in shoe to transmit run data to accompanying app
If this is a sign of things to come from Under Armour, then it seems they’re finally getting to grips with the running market. It reminds us of nothing so much as a chunkier Saucony Kinvara. It’s responsive, quick, very cushioned, offers excellent endurance and is a good multi-purpose option.
Outsole built for longer runs
A mixture of carbon rubber in the heel, which is firmer and more durable, and blown rubber in the forefoot, which has more bounce and a bit more give in it. Those who like a firm feel underfoot for a springier toe-off won’t find quite enough zip here, but it works really well for longer runs, when consistency of feel on every step is more important.
20% more Hovr foam
Contains 20% more Hovr [UA’s proprietary foam] than any other UA shoe and has a light propulsion plate underneath the midsole that contains carbon – the shoe-industry material du jour. The shoe is so plump and luxuriant that there may be a fear the ride will feel a little soggy or slow, but, in fact, our testers found it offered an excellent balance between endurance and speedy properties.
There’s also a built-in chip that records metrics – distance, pace, cadence, stride length, ground contact time – and relays them to the MapMyRun app. For now, you’ll need to run with your phone to make the most of this, but later this year there will be compatible updates for smartwatch support and you’ll be able to get real-time coaching cues direct to your watch, too.
Breathable upper
One of the best aspects of the shoe. It’s mildly compressive, thick and generally feels like you’re sinking your feet into your favourite slipper. However, it still does the job in terms of breathability and weather protection, and keeps the foot lovingly cradled yet firmly held in place throughout the run. The lacing system does need to be improved, though – the laces are not grippy enough to cope with the plumpness of the tongue, and need, we found, retightening once each run.
