Under Armour is helping pave the trail in the era of smart shoes. Their HOVR shoe line is like having a fitness tracker built right into your running shoes.

In this article, we’re going to break down the different Under Armour shoe models. And we’ll look at how each one can help improve your performance.

Then we’ll help you decide which shoe would be the best option for you.

How Under Armour running shoe technology improves your performance.

Under Armour HOVR Infinite – Under Armour’s flagship running shoe

The HOVR Infinite is Under Armour’s most heavily cushioned model. This shoe was designed to keep your feet comfortable for long-distance runs.

They did this by not only packing extra cushioning into the midsole, but also making it denser. This way it won’t get worn out and stop supporting your feet halfway through your run.

One thing to note: because the cushioning is dense, it may feel firmer if you’re only using it for shorter runs.

What you’ll notice:

• Dense, stiff cushion.

If you plan on shorter runs, like half marathons or less, then the cushioning will likely feel a bit too firm. But if you’re going on long runs like marathons, then your feet will appreciate the Infinite’s cushioning.

• A hint of guidance.

While this is a neutral running shoe, it does give you just a little support. Under Armour designed the heel counter to hold your feet in place. This is a nice bonus when you’re getting tired towards the end of longer runs.

Under Armour HOVR Sonic – Under Armour’s versatile, daily running shoe

If you’re new to Under Armour, or if you’re new to running in general, the HOVR Sonic is a great shoe for beginners.

It’s built to handle a little bit of everything. Light runs, longer runs, or just looking to improve your race time in an upcoming 5k.

It has a breathable upper to keep your feet cool, and the weight of the shoe low. They also gave the Sonic somewhat softer cushioning than the Infinite. This is ideal for shorter runs, where you don’t have to worry about the foam wearing out.

On the other hand, if you do plan on anything longer than a marathon, the cushioning might not last for the entire run. You’d probably want a denser foam like in the Infinite.

What you’ll notice:

• Softer cushioning.

Even though the Infinite is more heavily cushioned, the Sonic feels surprisingly softer. This is because the Infinite’s cushion is dense to last for longer runs. Where the Sonic is soft right away for shorter runs.

Under Armour HOVR Velociti – Under Armour’s springy speed shoe

Under Armour designed the HOVR Velociti specifically for speed work and tempo training.

They stripped down some of the HOVR foam to keep the weight down, since you don’t need as much cushion for speed work. They replaced it with their Micro G technology which helps propel you into your next step.

If you’re looking to go on moderate-to-longer runs, this might not be the model for you, due to the lack of cushioning. It’s also not all that breathable, which doesn’t typically matter for shorter, faster workouts.

But if you’re looking to go fast the HOVR Velociti is probably the model for you.

What you’ll notice:

• Springy.

One of the reasons this makes for a good speed shoe is the Micro G foam in the midsole.

This gives the shoe a snappy rebound effect, which is more ideal for speedwork. As opposed to a sinking-into-the-cushioning effect, which is less ideal.

• Narrow, mesh upper.

As you might expect in a racing shoe, the Velociti has a sleeker, slimmer fit. So if your feet are on the wider side, you may want to go get the next half size up.The upper is pretty unique, it somehow both holds in heat on cold days, and keeps feet from overheating on warm days.

How to choose the best Under Armour running shoe for you

There are several things to consider when picking a running shoe:

• Cushioning: Do you want plush cushioning, or firm & springy cushioning? Or hardly any at all?
• Weight: Do you want a durable protective shoe, or a light flexible one?
• Support: Do you need a shoe that guides your foot, in case you need arch or gait support? Or do you need a neutral shoe that doesn’t dictate your step?...to name a few.

Now, based on the types of run you plan on doing, let’s narrow down which shoe models will likely be best for you.

Best running shoes for casual runs

Casual runs are great for exercise, reducing stress, or just getting some alone time.

For this type of run, you'll want an all-around running shoe like the HOVR Sonic. This shoe has a little bit of everything you need for casual runs. It’s got soft cushioning, it’s light and flexible, and it also has a heel counter to safely lock your foot in place.

If you’ve got low arches or need a little gait support, the HOVR Guardian guides your foot to land properly.

Best running shoes for tempo training

This is more of a boot camp style of workout, running at varying speeds, and maybe even multi directions. For this type of running, you’ll want Under Armour’s “fast-yet-cushioned” model, the HOVR Machina. It’s got a thick upper which helps keep you from rolling an ankle, and it can take a beating. And it has a propulsion plate under the forefoot that springs you into your next step.

Best running shoes for racing / speed (5ks - half marathons)

For running races, or doing speed drills, you need a light, fast shoe.For this, you should check out the HOVR Velociti. It has a thin upper which makes it light. And it’s got Under Armour’s bouncy Micro G foam under the heel which gives you a nice energy return.

Or if you’d like a model with a slightly lower heel-to-toe drop, then you should take a look at the Speedform Slingshot. It’s got a 6mm drop, as opposed to the Velociti’s 8mm drop. This means it lends to a slightly more aggressive, and therefore faster, running style.

Best running shoes for long-distance (ultramarathons)

For anything longer than a marathon, we’re talking 30 - 100+ miles, you’ll need a shoe with plenty of cushioning.If you want a cushioning that propels you into your next step, then you’d probably like the HOVR Infinite. The cushioning isn’t soft, and that’s exactly the point. It’s meant to last over a longer distance, and save you energy in the process.

Or...

If you’d like a softer cushioning, the Sonic 3 is probably what you’re looking for. It’s not exactly intended to hold up for super long distances, but that doesn’t mean it can’t. Just expect the cushioning to flatten out towards the end of extremely long runs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Under Armour running shoes for trail running?

In short, no, it’s not a good idea to wear one shoe for two different activities.

The most obvious reason being that you’ll wear them out quicker, forcing you to buy a new pair sooner.

But here’s the more direct reason...

The problem with wearing trail shoes on the road

Road running shoes are typically packed with more cushion than you’d find in most trail shoes. This helps absorb the impact of your foot smacking down on the hard pavement. So if you run on pavement without enough cushion, you may get unnecessary aches and pains.

The problem with wearing road shoes on the trail

Road running shoes aren’t designed to protect how your foot lands on uneven surfaces. For example, road shoes aren’t usually built as sturdy as trail shoes. This means you won’t be protected from rolling your ankle if you land awkwardly.

How often should I replace my Under Armour running shoes?

Between 300 - 500 miles is a good general lifespan of a running shoe. Replacing your shoes around this time will help prevent unnecessary injuries.

Here are a few indicators that’ll let you know it’s time for an upgrade:

• When the cushioning isn’t returning to form as quickly (or if it doesn’t feel as soft as before)
• If you notice the tread is slippery than it’s supposed to be
• If you start feeling tightness in your back, aches in your joints, or that your legs are being overworked This can mean that the tech inside your shoe isn’t protecting you the way it was designed to.

Any or all of these are red flags, telling you it’s time for a new pair.

Can I machine wash Under Armour running shoes?

No, it’s not a great idea to put your running shoes in the washing machine or dryer.

All the dinging around can damage the shoe technologies. And the high temperature can harm the materials.

How should I clean my Under Armour running shoes?

You’ll want to use hand soap and a soft brush for cleaning your running shoes.

1. Remove the insole and the laces
2. Gently scrub the shoe, removing any dirt or debris
3. Use cool water to rinse the shoe off
4. Air-dry the shoe instead of setting out in the sun to dry

I need help deciding: Which would be the best Under Armour running shoe for a beginner?

If you’re a beginner, there’s going to be a break-in period. It'll take some time for you to figure out what you’ll want, or need, in a running shoe.

The HOVR Sonic is a great model for newbie runners. It’s got plenty of soft cushioning, it’s not too heavy, and it’s supportive without hindering your movement. It’s a great jack-of-all-trades running shoe.

This way, you’ll learn what you need and want in a running shoe, and then can upgrade to a more specific model in the future.