Are Under Armour Running Shoes Worth Buying? A Direct Comparison of Their Best Models
Yes — if you're after dependable running shoes at competitive prices. Under Armour's current lineup focuses on lightweight, responsive performance without premium brand markup. The Velociti Pace (£94.97–£99.99) and Infinite (£100) both deliver practical value, though they excel in different contexts. The choice depends on whether you prioritise speed and minimalism or comfort for longer, everyday runs.
Why Under Armour?
Founded in 1996, Under Armour built its reputation on technical sportswear engineered for performance rather than fashion. They've since expanded into footwear, focusing on lightweight construction and responsive cushioning. Unlike heritage running brands, Under Armour avoids legacy pricing — their shoes typically cost £95–£120, undercutting Nike and Adidas equivalents by 15–20%. The brand specialises in moisture-wicking fabrics and modular cushioning systems, meaning their shoes suit runners who want modern tech without paying for established brand heritage.
Top Picks
Velociti Pace Running Shoes — £94.97 to £99.99
Best for speed-focused training and tempo runs. The Velociti Pace prioritises lightweight construction (exact weight not specified by manufacturer, but designed for sub-200g per shoe) and responsive cushioning. It's the more aggressive option in Under Armour's range — ideal if you're training for pace work or shorter distances.
Infinite Running Shoes — £100
Best for daily training and longer distances. The Infinite offers slightly more cushioning and comfort than the Velociti Pace, making it the better choice for easy runs and recovery days. The name signals its intended use: shoes for consistent, unremarkable mileage.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Velociti Pace | £94.97–£99.99 | Speed work, tempo runs | Lightweight, responsive | | Infinite | £100 | Daily training, longer runs | Extra cushioning, comfort |
What to Look For
- Weight: Under Armour racing flats typically weigh under 200g per shoe. Lighter shoes suit speed work; heavier (200–250g) models suit distance and cushioning.
- Cushioning density: Look for manufacturers' specs on midsole foam thickness. Under Armour uses proprietary UA HOVR foam (typically 10–12mm stack height), which balances responsiveness and impact protection.
- Flexibility and arch support: Running shoes vary from neutral to stability-focused. Check if you overpronate — neutral shoes work for supinators and neutral strikers; stability shoes add medial posts (£5–£15 premium) for overpronators.
- Outsole durability: Rubber coverage under the heel and forefoot matters for road longevity. Expect 300–500km before visible wear; budget shoes show wear sooner.
The Bottom Line
Under Armour's Velociti Pace at £94.97 is the standout value — lightweight, responsive, and £20–£30 cheaper than comparable Nike Pegazus or Adidas Adizero models. It's best for runners training for speed or shorter distances. If you log 50+ km weekly and prioritise comfort, the Infinite at £100 is the safer pick, though neither shoe has the brand cachet of established competitors — that's precisely what keeps the price down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Under Armour running shoes as good as Nike or Adidas?
They're comparable in performance but different in positioning. Under Armour shoes use modern cushioning tech (UA HOVR foam) that rivals Nike React or Adidas Boost, but lack the R&D heritage and market data of established running brands. For £95–£100, you're getting solid performance without premium markup — they won't outrun you, but they won't hold you back either.
Which Under Armour shoe is better for beginners?
The Infinite is the safer choice for new runners because it offers more cushioning and forgiveness on impact. The Velociti Pace suits runners already comfortable with faster paces; beginners on lower mileage will find the Infinite more comfortable for building base training.
How long do Under Armour running shoes last?
Expect 300–500 km of road running before noticeable wear, depending on body weight and running surface. Training shoes in this price bracket typically outlast budget options (200–300 km) but underperform premium shoes (500–800 km). Rotate two pairs to extend durability.
Do Under Armour running shoes run true to size?
Under Armour sizing is generally consistent with UK and US standards. However, some runners report the toe box is slightly tighter than Nike; if you prefer generous width, size up half a size or check reviews specific to the model.
