Along with companies like Hoka and On, Under Armour is part of a “new” wave of running shoe brands that launched in the past few decades. Founded by University of Maryland football player Kevin Plank in 1996, Under Armour’s technical base layers Under Armour uses two main cushioning foams in its midsoles called Hovr and Flow shorts, sweats, and other athletic apparel.
Under Armour released its first running shoes in 2009. After a tough start, it gained traction in the running market in the last 10 years with its SpeedForm running line. Lately, new models like the Flow Velociti Elite prove that the best Under Armour running shoes can keep pace with the big players in running.
Best Under Armour Running Shoes
- Best Overall: Flow Velociti Elite
- Best Value: Hovr Turbulence 2
- Most Versatile: Hovr Sonic 6
- Most Cushioned: Hovr Mega 3 Clone
- The Best Adidas Running Shoes for Every Runner: Velociti 3
The Expert: The Best Affordable Running Shoes Runner’s World and as a freelance reviewer for InsideHook, Men’s Journal, and other outlets. I’ve written more about running shoes than any other category, and I have firsthand experience running in models from a range of brands, including Under Armour. I first wrote this guide in 2018, and I’ve updated it regularly as Under Armour releases new shoes and running shoe tech.
What to Consider When Shopping for Under Armour Running Shoes
The best shoes in the Under Armour lineup fall into two categories–everyday training shoes (including new models for trail running, like the Hovr Speed) and racing shoes. UA shoes can be a bit divisive—the brand gets routinely dragged by users on the Running Shoe Geeks subreddit because of the poor performance of its first running designs.
That broad derision, however, is based on an antiquated view of the brand. Under Armour has learned from its mistakes, and its recent shoes are better, with improved cushioning foams and supportive, well-fitting uppers. Despite the derision, many runners have found success with UA shoes: Most notably, Sharon Lokedi won the 2022 New York City Marathon wearing a pair of Flow Velociti Elites.
Overall, Under Armour shoes feel firm. They lack the soft, bouncy cushioning feel of other models, like the Nike Alphafly or New Balance 1080. That’s not necessarily a bad thing: If you prefer shoes that create a firm, stable platform and don’t squish under your feet, Under Armour shoes could work well for you. Let’s take a closer look at the brand’s signature tech and features.
How We Selected oz M, 8.4 oz W
To pick the best Under Armour running shoes, I reviewed the brand’s shoe lineup and spoke with a brand rep to learn about its current models and distinctive features. I also analyzed data and tester notes from Runner’s World reviews, considered RW editor feedback, tried out a couple Under Armour models on my own, and drew on my knowledge of the running shoe market to choose the best Under Armour running shoes below.
These shoes showcase Under Armour’s best running shoe features, like its Hovr and Flow cushioning foams, and span many running disciplines, including everyday training and racing.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Breathable upper
Cons
- Not enough cushioning for marathons
Key Specs
| Weight | 7.5 oz (M/W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The Flow Velociti Elite is the thoroughbred of Under Armour’s running lineup. Designed to compete with elite racers like Saucony’s Endorphin Elite and the Nike Vaporfly, but with Under Armour’s distinctive and ultra-durable material design.
Instead of the polyether block amide (PEBA) cushioning used in shoes like the Vaporfly, the Velociti Elite is cushioned by a special, high-performance version of UA’s Flow material that’s infused with carbon dioxide and nitrogen gasses to make the foam lighter and springier. The sole also features a full-length carbon fiber plate, which bends at landing and then straightens out, providing an extra burst of energy return with each toe-off.
And just like Under Armour’s other running shoes, the Elite’s Flow midsole is designed to be durable, so there’s no need for a separate rubber outsole. Cutting the rubber out of the design makes the shoe substantially lighter, giving it an edge over racers from other brands (including the Endorphin Elite and the Vaporfly). The ultralight upper on top provides a close wrap around the foot and maximum breathability, so your feet stay cool even when you’re really cranking.
In RW testing, this shoe impressed testers with its low weight and peppy ride. The minimal cushioning makes it less than ideal for marathons, but it’s an excellent option for shorter races, up to half marathon distance.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Curved sole promotes smooth strides
Cons
- No dedicated support features at the heel or in the midsole
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.8 oz (M), 8.3 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The Hovr Turbulence 2 is an excellent bargain. It starts at $100, which is already much cheaper than most brands’ trainers, and you can often find this shoe for even less if you play the sales.
The Turbulence 2 features a full-length Hovr midsole for reliable shock absorption, with a sockliner that provides a little extra softness in each step. The full-coverage rubber outsole offers good traction and amps up the shoe’s durability, so you can expect to get plenty of use from it before the bottom wears down.
The sole has pronounced toe spring, where the sole curves upward off the ground under your toes, which helps you roll smoothly from landing to toe-off. It’s topped off with a knit upper that boasts good breathability and creates a secure fit.
With its relatively low weight, tough outsole, and smooth ride, it’s a standout choice for everyday training and walking, too—and you won’t have to spend a fortune to get a pair.
Pros
- Relatively lightweight
- Breathable upper
Cons
- Health - Injuries
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.9 oz (M), 8.4 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The Sonic is Under Armour’s premier training shoe line, offering a relatively lightweight platform that can handle all kinds of everyday running. The shoe features Hovr cushioning at the heel for strong shock absorption and low weight, and it’s paired with an EVA foam in the midfoot and forefoot that’s firmer and more durable.
The EVA keeps your foot aligned as you run and resists packing down, so you get a consistent feel even when you rack up lots of miles in your shoes. On top of the foam, a molded sockliner amps up the comfort and provides a soft sensation for your feet.
The Sonic’s upper shows off UA’s fabric prowess: It’s totally seamless in the forefoot, so there are no bumps or ridges to irritate your feet. Its open pores save weight and vent hot air to keep you cool while running. The Sonic 6 also has a rigid heel counter overlaid on its upper, which creates a sturdy, supportive fit around the back of your foot.
Finally, the outsole is made from a combination of lightweight blown rubber and tough carbon rubber. The blown rubber reduces weight, while the carbon rubber, placed under the heel, adds durability where you need it most. Both materials are scored with grooves, boosting the shoe’s flexibility.
At the end of the day, the Hovr Sonic 6 is a well-rounded shoe for everyday training, especially if you prefer a leaner shoe without a ton of plush cushioning.
Pros
- Lots of midsole cushioning
- Clone upper creates a customized fit
Cons
- Heavy
Key Specs
| Weight | 11.5 oz (M), 10.2 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The Hovr Phantom used to be Under Armour’s max-cushion shoe, but the Mega 3 has eclipsed it. This plush trainer features even more midsole foam than the Phantom, along with a new Clone upper. If you want all the padding, the Mega 3 Clone has it.
As a result, this shoe’s top priority is comfort. The Mega 3 has a thick layer of Hovr cushioning for maximum impact absorption, as well as a 3D-molded sockliner for extra softness and a comfortable feel.
The Clone upper stretches and contracts to match the shape of your feet, even as they swell up over the course of your run, so you get a snug fit that won’t feel constricting on longer efforts. The upper also features a rigid external heel counter that supports your heel and ankle, so the shoe won’t feel wobbly when cornering or running across uneven ground.
On the bottom, the segmented rubber outsole keeps the shoe flexible—no clunky strides here—and carbon rubber placements under the heel add durability. Compared to the rest of the UA lineup, the Mega 3 dials up the cushioning, and it’ll treat your feet to a plush ride on your next training run.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Grippy tread design
Cons
- Not enough cushioning for longer runs
Key Specs
| Weight | 8.8 oz (M), 7 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The Best Running Shoes of 2024 Nike Ultrafly and Hoka Mafate Speed 4, a daily trainer that emphasizes speed for sprint workouts and track days. It utilizes Under Armour’s light and strong Flow midsole, which pulls double duty as both a cushioning foam and outsole material.
The Velociti Wind 2 won praise from RW testers for its surprising durability and grip, and this new, updated design retains those attributes. The shoe still has a full-length layer of Flow cushioning, but it’s tweaked to be even softer and lighter, according to Under Armour.
The underside of the Flow layer has an undulating pattern of grooves that reliably grip the road. And, in standard Under Armour fashion, it’s durable enough to withstand repeated impacts, so the shoe won’t wear down after a few miles, unlike most shoes with exposed midsoles. That means there’s no need for a separate, heavy outsole, which shaves off considerable weight.
The Velociti 3 features a revamped upper, with a winged tongue for a lockdown fit at midfoot, and padding to prevent uncomfortable pressure points on top. There’s no external heel counter, but the back of the upper has internal reinforcement and extra padding to keep your heel from moving around during your stride. This is a lightweight, peppy shoe that’ll help you pick up the pace during speed training and shorter runs.
Pros
- Supportive upper
- Smooth, stable ride
- Durable
Cons
- Heavy
Key Specs
| Weight | 11.7 oz (M), 9.5 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
The Hovr Machina 3 Clone is a step up from its predecessors. Its redesigned midsole features two types of Hovr foam: A firmer version in the forefoot, and softer one in the heel. The combination creates strong impact absorption on landing and more lively toe-offs. That said, don’t expect a super bouncy shoe–the Machina felt decidedly firm in my testing.
It delivers a smooth, stable ride, though. The sole has a subtle rocker shape, curving upward at the toe and the heel, which encourages easy transitions from landing to toe-off. The relatively wide midsole and flat outsole create a stable base. The upper has an external plastic heel wrap that provides rigid support around the ankle and back of the foot. (I even use my pair to play pickleball—the shoe’s upper is sturdy enough to prevent my ankles from rolling during side-to-side movements.)
And, as always, you can count on Under Armour’s signature durability. I’ve had mine for months, and the outsole rubber shows only minimal wear. While it’s not a supremely bouncy trainer, it has plenty of cushioning and staying power for daily training runs.
Pros
- won the 2022 New York City Marathon
- Vibram Litebase outsole keeps weight down
- You could certainly consider the
Cons
- Shoes & Gear
Key Specs
| Weight | 9.3 oz |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
Under Armour brings its Hovr cushioning to the trail with the Hovr Speed. As the name implies, it’s designed to be a lightweight, speed-focused model for spirited trail running and racing.
While the Hovr midsole tech is similar to other shoes in the UA lineup, soaking up bumps and impact forces, the upper and outsole are designed for the unique demands of off-road running. The upper features lots of overlays, especially at the forefoot, to protect your feet from branches and scrapes against rocks and debris. On the inside, an Ortholite sockliner creates a comfy, cushioned sensation under your feet.
This shoe stands out among trail running models for its lightweight outsole. It’s built on a Vibram Litebase outsole, a new tread design used in trail racers like the Nike Ultrafly and Hoka Mafate Speed 4 to drop some of the weight added by traditional rubber trail outsoles.
As a result, the outsole is thinner and lighter, even when you factor in its cleat-like lugs, which dig into dirt for confidence-inspiring traction. At just over 9 ounces, the Hovr Speed is a notably light trail shoe that’s ideal for runners who want a nimble and lean option for off-road routes.
Pros
- Durable outsole
- Comfortable upper
Cons
- Too heavy for racing
Key Specs
| Weight | 10.4 oz (M), 8.8 oz (W) |
|---|---|
| Drop | 8mm |
Grounded on a generous slice of Hovr foam, the Hovr Infinite is Under Armour’s flagship distance shoe design, offering maximum comfort for long runs. The latest iteration of this high-mileage trainer has a breathable mesh upper and padded heel collar for a comfortable fit around the ankle. A 3D-molded sockliner adds an extra layer of cushioning while cradling the foot for a more supportive ride.
Any good long-distance running shoe needs to be durable, and the Infinite 5 lives up to its name with a hardy full-coverage rubber outsole. It’s made with high-abrasion rubber under the heel for excellent wear resistance, and large grooves give the shoe more flexibility so it won’t feel too clunky while running. The Hovr Infinite 5 gives you the extra padding that distance runners need.
Q+A With Running Shoe Expert Michael Charboneau
Michael is a freelance writer with years of experience covering gear and the outdoors for Runner's World and other publications; when he's not writing, he's usually biking, hiking, and running in the mountains around Los Angeles, where he lives.
