Under Armour HOVR Sonic

When talking about the new technologies that are set to revolutionize the running universe, there are many major brands that have coated their new Running shoes launches with the flag of innovation. One of them is Under Armour. The American brand has launched two new models that are going to give a lot to talk about: Under Armour HOVR Phantom and Under Armour HOVR Sonic. Both models have in common the new HOVR technology, born from the combination of different production techniques and materials to result in a perfect balance between cushioning capacity and energy return.

Under Armours HOVR cushioning system, advanced technology

Under Armour's innovative cushioning system, HOVR, has as its main objective to be able to reproduce a kind of zero gravity in each step, because it minimizes the impact on the athlete's body, reinforcing the cushioning in each step, but also increasing the model's responsiveness.

This cushioning performance comes from the collaboration agreement between Under Armour and the Dow Chemical company, through which an extremely soft foam has been created for the midsole, maximizing cushioning while reducing impact with each step.

Another of the common denominators of the Under Armour HOVR Sonic and Phantom is that they also include the Energy Web mesh, a compression mesh, which contributes to generate a significant increase in reactivity and energy return of the shoe. Something that benefits the runner, because he will be able to perform better, and without noticing fatigue.

Continuing with the advanced technologies that the Baltimore-based company incorporates in the Under Armour HOVR Sonic and Under Armour HOVR Phantom models, the inclusion of the Microthread system in the upper is also noteworthy, which is a quick-drying material that also favors a compression fit, providing maximum comfort and breathability. The laser-cut perforations in a 3D molded panel in the midfoot area also contribute to this, reinforcing the ventilation aspect.

For its part, the insole uses the characteristic UA SpeedForm technology, which improves the breathability of the model. In addition, the outsole includes a rubber outsole with a slippery texture, which favors traction. The external TPU heel counter element not only improves the model's support, but also its structure.

UA HOVR Sonic vs UA HOVR Phantom, differences

Having analyzed the common elements between both models of the new Under Armour HOVR, it should also be noted that there are some differences. Thus, the UA HOVR Phantom has a particular design and attractive aesthetics, thanks to the inclusion of a knitted ankle area that offers a tighter, bootie-like fit, which results in a higher degree of protection, while the Under Armour HOVR Sonic allows for greater freedom of movement.

It can be said that the Under HOVR Phantom is a more cushioned model, prioritizing cushioning, but without sacrificing reactivity. On the other hand, the Under Armour HOVR Sonic are designed to be a lighter and more reactive model. In this sense, the Sonic is suitable for medium and long distance runners, while the Phantom is more oriented to slower paces and running with the feeling of wearing optimal cushioning.

Both models feature the same 8-millimeter drop, although the weights of the shoes vary 272 grams for the men's version, and 225 grams for the women's version in the UA HOVR Sonic; while the weights of theUA HOVR Phantom are 300 grams for the men's model, and 248 grams for the women's model.

In short, the new Under Armour HOVR Sonic and Phantom models stand out for being lightweight, comfortable Running shoes, very well cushioned and with an effective breathability for each step. Without forgetting that by aesthetics, especially the HOVR Phantom model, it happens to be a very valid sneaker option to wear with a casual look.