Which Under Armour Running Shoes Should You Buy? A Comparison of Their Top Models
Under Armour's running shoe range offers solid performance for mid-distance and casual runners, with the Velociti Pace emerging as the stronger choice for those chasing pace while the Infinite suits comfort-first athletes. Both sit at competitive price points that undercut major competitors, though you'll want to understand the specific differences before committing.
Why Under Armour?
Founded in 1996, Under Armour built its reputation on performance sportswear before expanding into footwear. The brand specialises in moisture-wicking technology and cushioning systems designed for high-impact activities. Unlike lifestyle brands dabbling in running, Under Armour maintains a focused approach: their shoes prioritise functional materials (compression meshes, responsive foams) over trendy aesthetics. They're particularly strong in American collegiate sports, which has informed their product development. The brand's running line sits between budget and premium tiers, making it accessible without sacrificing engineering.
Top Picks
UA Velociti Pace Men's Running Shoes — £94.97 to £99.99
Best for runners prioritising lightweight speed over maximum cushioning. This is the standout option in Under Armour's current range—it's built for 5K to half-marathon distances where responsiveness matters more than plush padding. The upper uses a breathable mesh that handles warmer conditions well, and the midsole strikes a balance between energy return and ground feel. Pricing varies between retailers (£94.97 to £99.99), so shop around; the lower price represents genuinely strong value for a brand-name running shoe at this specification level.
Under Armour Infinite Men's Running Shoes — £85.00
Best for longer distances and runners who value cushioning comfort over racing. The Infinite sits £10-15 cheaper than the Velociti Pace, making it the budget-conscious pick. It sacrifices the Velociti's snappy responsiveness in favour of thicker midsole padding designed for extended wear. If you're clocking 8+ miles per run or dealing with joint sensitivity, the extra cushioning justifies the price drop. This shoe works well for daily training runs where you're not chasing times.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |-------|-------|----------|------------------| | UA Velociti Pace | £94.97–£99.99 | Speed-focused 5K–half marathon runs | Lightweight mesh upper, responsive midsole | | Under Armour Infinite | £85.00 | Comfort-first distance training | Extra midsole cushioning, value pricing |
What to Look For
When choosing between Under Armour running shoes, consider these specifics:
- Midsole density: The Velociti Pace uses a firmer compound (~6mm stack height differential) optimised for pace; the Infinite goes softer with deeper cushioning. Choose based on your weekly mileage—under 25 miles weekly, firmness is fine; above 30, cushioning matters more.
- Upper construction: Both use mesh, but the Velociti's is tighter-knit for a locked-down feel during speed work, while the Infinite's is more open for breathability on longer, slower runs. Try both if possible—fit varies significantly between models.
- Outsole durability: Under Armour rates both for 300–400 miles before noticeable wear. Track your mileage; replace around the 350-mile mark to maintain cushioning properties.
- Heel-to-toe drop: The Velociti Pace features a 10mm drop (standard for racing shoes), while the Infinite sits around 12mm (more stable for recovery runs). This affects running posture—the lower drop feels natural if you're a forefoot striker; the higher drop suits heel strikers.
The Bottom Line
Buy the UA Velociti Pace at £94.97 if you're actively training for a specific distance or enjoy faster-paced runs; it's where Under Armour's engineering shines and represents excellent value against Nike or ASICS equivalents. Choose the Infinite at £85.00 if you're building a base training shoe for daily wear and longer distances—the cushioning justifies the lower price for that use case. Neither shoe will disappoint, but the Velociti edges ahead as the more versatile option for serious runners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Under Armour running shoes any good compared to Nike or ASICS?
Yes—Under Armour running shoes punch above their price point. They lack the brand heritage of Nike and the Japanese engineering refinement of ASICS, but they deliver solid performance for 70% of the cost. The Velociti Pace specifically competes with Nike's Pegasus or ASICS Gel-Excite at a £20–30 discount. The trade-off is availability: you'll find fewer colour options and size runs than major competitors.
Should I size up or down in Under Armour running shoes?
Under Armour runs true to size for most runners. The Velociti Pace has a snug upper (intentional for speed shoes), so if you have wide feet, try a half-size up. The Infinite fits more generously—stick with your normal size. Always try both if possible; online returns are free from most retailers.
How long do Under Armour running shoes typically last?
Both the Velociti Pace and Infinite are rated for 300–400 miles before the midsole cushioning degrades noticeably. At 20–30 miles per week (typical for recreational runners), expect 10–13 months of life. The Infinite's thicker cushioning may last slightly longer before feeling flat, perhaps 400–450 miles.
Is the £15 difference between Velociti Pace and Infinite worth it?
Yes, if you run more than 25 miles weekly or prioritise speed. The Velociti's lighter weight and responsive foam justify the cost for that use. If you log under 20 miles weekly or value comfort, the Infinite's extra cushioning at the lower price is the smarter buy.
