Best Under Armour Running Shoes for Comfort
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
One of the most important features to consider in your search for the right pair of shoes is comfort. Nothing matters more than liking the way your shoes feel when you are walking, standing, and running. That is why we focused on comfort above all else in this search.
Comfort is perhaps the number one most important factor to consider when choosing a running shoe. A lack of comfort can have a cascading effect that trickles down to areas you wouldn't think of. For example, if your shoes aren't comfortable you won't want to wear them. If you don't want to wear them you won't go running. If you don't run you'll get out of shape, have a heart attack, and then who will be there to feed your dog? So please, just buy comfortable shoes because we don't want starving dogs on our conscience ok?
All joking aside, comfort really is super important, so here are some questions we asked of each product as we were making our list: do these shoes provide an adequate amount of cushioning? Are there advanced design features they have such as seamless ankle cuffs and uppers that lessens irritation? Is there added support in strategic places? These are important things to know when you are looking for a good shoe.
We looked at these factors and more to help you determine which Under Armour shoes on our list are the most comfortable. It's also important to note that trail running shoes by nature aren't quite as comfortable as dedicated road running shoes because in order to get the necessary torsional multi-directional stability necessary to keep your foot in place as you navigate variable terrain, shoemakers have to add features that provide this stability, but come at the cost of the soft, flexible comfort of a shoe designed for just road running.
Stability
A good pair of shoes will also provide you with the stability you want and need to get the most out of your runs and workouts. At RunnerClick, we know how important stability is to a safe run and that is why we chose this as a key factor to consider as well in our search.
The type of running you do determines a lot of how much stability you need in a shoe. Trail and other off-road runners will need more stability than people who just run on the road, but this stability usually comes in the form of added weight and less flexibility.
Another factor to consider when choosing a new pair of Under Armour running shoes is your arch type and whether you are an over or under-pronator, or a neutral runner. These things greatly affect the way you run and also affect which type of shoes are best for your feet. Your local running store can analyze your feet and gait and help you choose the right pair of shoes for your feet.
We looked at the stability that each shoe on this list offers the runner and assigned it a score to help you select a pair that best meets your needs. So remember, if you're an over-pronator who lives to run on rocky, variable terrain, you're probably going to want a shoe with as much stability as possible, whereas if you're a dedicated road runner who never steps off the pavement and you have a neutral foot position, you're probably best served by a shoe that sacrifices stability for comfort and lightness.
Durability
After your investment you want your shoes to last as long as possible so it is important to find a pair of shoes that have the durability you are looking for. From the soles to the upper fabric design we looked for shoes with superior durability and construction.
No one wants to constantly have to replace their sports shoes because they wear out quickly. They should last 300-500 miles before needing to be replaced. In order to help you achieve this mileage per pair goal, we did our best to select Under Armour products for our list that both have the features necessary to hold up for a long time under lots of pavement pounding, and the real-world customer reviews to back it up.
One of the biggest features that determine the durability of a shoe is the material of its sole and insole, and the quality used in its manufacturing, ie. how good the stitching is and what materials are used for everything from the laces to the type of thread or glue used to hold various parts together. The sole and insole are quite literally where the rubber meets the road in a pair of sports shoes, and therefore it’s the place that’s subjected to the greatest wear and tear. In order to be a durable shoe, it’s absolutely essential that these parts are made of high-quality material, which is something that all the shoes on our list have in common.
Breathability
A good shoe is designed with decent air flow to keep your feet dry and cool even on the longest walks and most intense runs. Here at RunnerClick, we made sure to search the shoes we considered for our list and determine that they had adequate breathability.
Your feet need to be well ventilated to prevent overheating, excessive sweat, and skin irritation. Believe it or not, hot spots and blisters can be caused by too much moisture accumulating in your shoe, which can cause your socks to start to slip and rub against your foot, which can and usually does lead to dreaded hot spots and blisters. Select shoes that are made of breathable materials, like mesh, ranked highly on our list because they go the extra mile to help keep your feet cool and dry. Isn't that nice of them?
One of the cool things about Under Armour is that pretty much all of their shoes are breathable, with some being highly so. Under Armour got their start in the garage of a college student and walk-on football player at the University of Maryland. He was sick and tired of the team issued undershirts and shorts that he was forced to wear during games and practice, which merely soaked up sweat and rubbed uncomfortably against his skin causing chafing, swelling, and redness. So he started experimenting with modern, breathable fabrics, and lo and behold, Under Armour was born. Now decades later, their breathable beginning can still be found in every pair of shoes they make, and you get to reap the benefits.
Value
The final point that has to be carefully considered is the value of the shoes- the combination of the benefits and the price tag attached to the shoes. Our focus is one finding the best shoes that can meet your needs for comfort without breaking the bank in the process.
Budgets and prices are important to all of us, which is why we made sure to consider this as well. We made sure to include options for all budgets no matter how big or small, and we think you'll appreciate the options you have when it comes to selecting a pair of Under Armour running shoes that will fit like a glove without breaking your wallet.
Under Armour shoes aren't the cheapest running shoes on the market, but they're definitely not the most expensive either, tending to fall in the mid-range of products in this category. An interesting and important thing to note is that many Under Armour shoes vary by price based simply on their color. This is likely due to some pigments and dyes being more expensive than others, purples and reds are much pricier for the manufacturer to buy than greens and browns for example. So if you're looking at a pair of shoes, and they seem to fit everything you're looking for but the price tag feels just a little too high, consider selecting the same shoe in a different color. We know you had your heart set on the colorway of purple with red and yellow lightning bolts, but maybe you can just go for the green pair and save yourself a few bucks for a couple of beers after your intense run or workout.
10 Best Under Armour Running Shoes
1. Micro G Assert 6
These shoes are the Goldilocks of Under Armour running shoes. They’re not too heavy, not too minimalistic, not too flashy, and not too plain. They're just right. These shoes are perfect for training, short-distance, and long-distance running. Not to mention, they’re known for their traction and durability, so you can hit the trails, too!
Read moreComfort and Stability
There seem to be little to zero complaints from users about how comfortable the Micro G Assert 6 is. It is a lightweight running shoe that has a breathable upper and durable leather overlays that provide support, and an EVA full length sockliner for added comfort. It has Micro G foam that helps with soft landings and strong take-offs, and it's extremely flexible.
Durability and Quality
With only a few reports of the upper having durability issues this is a quality made and durable running shoe that will last a long time. It has great traction with strategically placed rubber covers on high impact zones, although some users noted issues when running in wet weather.
Cost and Value
The Under Armour Micro G Assert 6 running shoe runs about average in price, and you may be able to find them even cheaper on other sites such as Amazon.
2. Gemini 2
The Speedform Gemini 2 is a comfortable running shoe that provides great support, as well as 360 degree reflectivity.
Read moreComfort / Stability
This is a comfortable running shoe that assists in stability. It has a welded seam with Bemis tape for support and comfort. It adds comfort with its embedded sockliner, provides support with ArchForm, and has a dual-layer Charged Cushioning midsole that adds superb comfort. Its flex grooves assist in heel-to-toe transition for a smoother ride. It's also equipped with record recording technology that tracks and stores your running metrics, although a few runners did have issues with getting the program to work properly.
Durability / Quality
Since it has a high quality rubber outsole, this shoe will last a long time and is made with quality.
Cost or value
The Speedform Gemini 2 Record can be quite expensive, but if its tracking your steps, and comfort you seek it's well worth every penny.
3. Charged Bandit 2
The shoe sports a dynamic lightly constructed upper which gives flexible support and breathability, the shoe actually molds itself to fit the shape of your individual feet. Secure stability while the rear of your foot is held comfortably into place through an innovationist built-in in heel counter.
Read moreComfort and Stability
This shoe is designed to ensure high performance which guarantees stability combined with comfort and protection. The hygienic anti-microbial Ortholite sock-liner shapes and molds around the foot while the two-layered cushioned midsole has compression shaped foam for high-performance cushion factor and natural responsiveness. The outsole is a solid rubber piece which covers a good volume of a surface for traction and deals well with high impact. The sole is durable, flexibility for key shoe areas and performance is achieved through flex grooves engineered strategically into the shoe. The shoe weighs in at a light 9.14 ounces.
Durability and Quality
Under Armour ensures that the research and design into a shoe result in a broad array of shoe features which ensure a high-quality shoe which gives reliable durability.
Cost
This one is a little bit higher in purchase price than some other brands and this is because you are investing in value.
4. Speedform Apollo 2
Demanding runner, meet the Speedform Apollo 2. These shoes are attractive, high-tech, and comfortable. Here’s why they find themselves not just on our list but towards the top:
Read moreComfort and Stability
The Speedform Apollo 2 has an arch reinforcement system which is great for fit and stability. It is well ventilated allowing your feet to breathe easily, and the upper is durable as well. It has a dual layer midsole that provides smooth yet responsive running. With its dual-layer Charged Cushioning® topped with Micro G® foam inside the shoes that provides ultimate cushioning and responsiveness, it's no wonder it gets high scores on comfort from users. It has a foam infused heel that provides good support and has welded seaming with Bemis tape for a snug fit.
Durability and Quality
This is a quality made and durable shoe that will last a long time. It has an anatomical rubber outsole for flexibility and durability, along with a durable upper, and reflective components that help others spot you in low light situations.
Cost and Value
The price of these shoes can range from average to expensive depending on where you buy them from and what sales are happening but either way it will be money well spent.
5. SpeedForm Slingride TRI
A very good neutral high-quality shoe we know you will love once you get your hands on them, er, feet in them.
Read moreComfort and Stability
Shoe materials include high-quality synthetic textiles, and a durable rubber sole made of EVA which is a high performing and durable sole with a nice degree of appropriate flexibility. The shoe shaft measures low top down from the arch and added protective comfort comes through the designed in UA SpeedForm shoe tech, the upper gives breathability and stability through a weave of Dyneema fiber which is very tough and durable while allowing flexibility. The shoe gives a slingshot performance through the innovative seam free zonal compression design. Comfort and FIt are enhanced hand in hand with more shoe stability via a padded tongue which is built as a sandwich of soft durable materials. Double layered cushioning offers superb support and cushion, the upper softer foam layer sits on a firmer lower layer of denser foam, this means absolute comfort, support, and more stability. This shoe is so comfortable that you can try it for a ride without wearing socks.
Durability and Quality
The shoe is constructed from a carefully selected blend of high-quality durable materials which work together to ensure real comfort, reliable stability, nice protection and enables a high performing shoe with a very good fit.
Cost
In comparison to other high performing brand shoes, the price is right for this shoe to be added to your collection of running gear.
6. Chetco 2.0
This 2nd version of the Chetco provides more cushioning and shock-absorbing features than the previous model. It is extremely durable and impressively comfortable.
Read moreComfort and Stability
This is an impressively comfortable running shoe that is highly breathable. It has durable leather overlays that provide support, an EVA sockliner for comfort, and Micro G foam that provides soft landings, and strong take-offs. It's extremely flexible as well.
Durability and Quality
This is a quality made and highly durable running shoe with only a few users reporting wear of the upper. It has great traction with strategically placed rubber covers on high impact zones.
Cost and Value
The price of the Chetco 2.0 is quite affordable and that along with all the features it offers the runner make it a nice value.
7. Speedform Fortis 2
A well-cushioned and lightweight running shoe that makes the runner’s foot comfortable and unrestricted. It is a long-lasting running shoe that will last for mile after mile, training session after training session.
Read moreComfort and Stability
As far as comfort goes the Speedform Fortis can provide lots of it. It has a breathable upper with AmourVent and mesh materials that has welded seaming with Bemis tape to prevent irritation. It fits tightly to the foot and has an adjustable lockdown strap that adds support to rear of the foot, an embedded sockliner for added comfort, dual-layer foam that helps to absorbs shock, and a well cushioned heel. Its Flex grooves in the forefoot provide flexibility, and its Micro G® foam provides responsiveness.
Durability and Quality
This is a quality made running shoe that will last a long time. Its solid rubber compound is highly durable.
Cost and Value
The Speedform Fortis Vent can be a bit pricey, but your feet will thank you for the comfort.
8. Speedform Slingshot
It's time to feel that spring in your step with the Speedform slingshot. It will make you feel like you've gone from heel-to-toe faster than ever before. Along with its springiness, it's a very comfortable and supportive running shoe.
Read moreComfort and Stability
The Speedform Slingshot is a highly comfortable and stable running shoe. The sides of the upper are tight and springy while the arch provides tight compression. The forefoot allows your toes to move easily. Its Dynema fabric upper is intended to be quite durable while allowing flexibility, although some users did experience wear sooner than they thought. The midsole provides all types of comfort that consists of two types of foam found in the Y-shaped Pebax® propulsion plate which also provides support and stability. It "slingshots" your foot from heel to toe very quickly. Its seamless design also provides comfort without causing irritation.
Durability and Quality
This is a running shoe that will last a long time and is made with quality materials, although there were a few users that thought the upper could last longer.
Cost and Value
The price of the Speedform Slingshot can be a bit pricey, but to experience the slingshot experience sometimes one needs to be willing to put a little money into it.
9. Drift 2
The Under Armour Drift 2 provides your feet with excellent ventilation. They also offer support and comfort. Find out why we chose them for our list by reading on below.
Read moreComfort and Stability
These shoes have a suede overlay on the heel that provides you with more structure and stability during your runs.
Durability and Quality
When conducting research, we didn't come across any major durability issues with these kind of shoes. They are built to last as long and as hard as you wear them, so be sure to pay attention to when they begin to naturally weaken, so you can opt for a new pair to replace them with.
Cost or Value
Depending on the color option of the running shoes you choose, their price varies greatly. Some options are expensive, while others tend to cost a bit less and might be more than what you are looking to pay. But in the grand scheme of running shoes, these are definitely not nearly as pricey as others.
10. Fat Tire 3
An amazing trail running shoe that can withstand rocky and muddy terain, fits comfortably snug, and has really great traction.
Read moreComfort and Stability
This is a comfortable running shoe that offers a lot of stability. It has a cushioning system that provides underfoot protection, the fit is comfortably snug, and it's well ventilated with mesh panels in the upper so your feet can breathe. Its midsole charged foam helps protect your feet against impact, it has Strom1 technology that repels water, and it has a wider forefoot.
Durability and Quality
This is a trail running shoe that is quite comfortable considering how well it handles rocky and muddy terrain quite impressively. It is very durable and made with quality. It has a WildGripper sole which is great on different types of terrain, and multi-directional lugs that provide great traction.
Cost and Value
The price of the Fat Tire can be quite expensive, but considering the amount of protection you are getting it's well worth every penny.
Sources
- , REI, informational site
- , Competitor, Informational running site
- , RoadRunner, Informational running site
- , Competitor, Informational running site
- , NY Times, Informational Site
- , Runblogger, Informational running site
- , Verywell.com, Informational site
- , Verywell.com, Informational site
