Introduction to Under Armour
Under Armour is an American sports clothing and accessories company founded in 1996 by Kevin Plank, a former football player at the University of Maryland. Initially focused on high-performance compression base layers that wicked sweat away from the skin, Under Armour has expanded into a diverse range of athletic and casual apparel, footwear, and accessories. They aim to provide lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking clothing engineered for an active lifestyle.
Jackets
Some popular types of Under Armour jackets include:
- Insulated Jackets - Designed to retain warmth with materials like fleece lining, primaloft insulation and wind resistant outer shells. Good for cold weather workouts or casual winter wear. Often have moisture wicking fabric to handle sweat. Examples include the Under Armour Ridge Reaper Fleece Jacket and ColdGear Infrared Tactical Hoodie Jacket for extreme cold.
- Running Jackets - Lightweight water resistant jackets meant for running or outdoor sports. Allow ventilation and range of motion with features like stretch side panels and articulated elbows. Reflective detailing makes them suitable for low light conditions. Examples include the UA Rival Fleece Hoodie and Storm Launch Run Jacket.
- Softshell Jackets - Abrasion-resistant stretch woven outer with fleece inner lining to retain warmth. Breathability and weather resistance makes them great for highly aerobic activities like cycling, skiing or hiking. The UA Extreme Alpine 3.0 SftShl Jacket is a good example.
- Windbreakers - Ultra lightweight outer layer that protects against wind and light rain while remaining breathable. Compact design packs down well for easy carrying. Good for layering or running. Some options are the UA Qualifier Wind Jacket or Depthing Jacket 2.0.
Shoes
Under Armour offers athletic shoes for training and sports as well as lifestyle shoes for casual wear.
Training & Sports Shoes:
Running Shoes: Lightweight with plush cushioning to absorb impact. Breathable mesh provides ventilation. Examples include the HOVR Machina, Phantom 2, and Infinite 3.
Basketball Shoes: Low-top or high-top options provide ankle support and stability for the frequent changes of direction in basketball. UA technologies like HOVR cushion plush landings. The UA Spawn Low and Lockdown 5 are popular models.
Football Cleats/Spikes: Firm outsole with cleats for traction on grass. Features like rotational traction zones give the quick cuts and starts needed for football moves. Options for wide receivers, linemen, etc. The Highlight RM and Hammer mid DT are go-to cleats.
Baseball Cleats/Spikes: Moulded cleats in the classic baseball style optimised for grip on the baseball diamond. Options in high top and low top for player preference. Examples are the Leadoff RM and Yard Low ST.
Training Shoes: Versatile cross-training shoes for gym sessions and indoor workouts. Breathable and flexible with cushioning for multi-directional movements like rope climbing, box jumps or plyometrics. The UA TriBase Reign 3 and HOVR Apex 2 are top picks.
Lifestyle Shoes:
Running-Inspired: Casual style with performance features borrowed from Under Armour running shoes like lightweight cushioning and breathability. Examples include the UA Horizon RTT SE and SRLO Hovr Sonic 3.
Court-Style: Leather or suede casual shoes taking styling cues from classic basketball shoe design. Often oversized with thick midsoles. Options like the Run Trust and Forge RC 2.
Men's Under Armour Tracksuit
Under Armour offers tracksuit sets with athletic styling consisting of a jacket and joggers or pants. Material technologies draw moisture away from the skin and allow ventilation to stay comfortable during a workout or casual wear.
- The UA Rival Fleece Joggers and Woven Jacket Tracksuit uses soft midweight fleece material for the breathable joggers and smooth stretch woven outer layer for the jacket.
- The ColdGear Infrared Tactical Hoodie and Tight Tracksuit uses infrared technology to retain body heat by reflecting it back at the wearer while nylon fabric shields from wind and water.
- The Project Rock BSR Short Sleeve Hoodie and Woven Joggers Tracksuit features quick-drying, stretchy woven fabric and bold camo graphic prints inspired by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's signature line.
- The Sports Style Fleece Joggers and Heavyweight Hybrid Jacket Tracksuit offers a casual look in soft cotton fleece fabric with an adjustable scuba hood for added coverage.
Cargo Pants
Under Armour cargo pants are designed to hold up during intense activity with lightweight and breathable technical fabrics that move sweat off the skin to keep you cool and comfortable.
Features like large side cargo pockets, back snap pockets and slim or tapered legs give these pants utility for sporting activities or casual settings. Stretch fabrics allow free movement and anti-odour technologies prevent lingering smells.
Some of Under Armour's most popular cargo pants include:
- Rival Fleece Cargo Pants: Warm brushed interior and smooth stretch woven exterior moves sweat away from the skin. Good for winter training.
- Qualifier Storm Cargo Pants: Quick-dry stretch fabric protects against wind and light rain. Mesh lining aids ventilation. Great for outdoor athletics.
- Performance Stretch Cargo Pants: Tough woven fabric withstands wear and tear while stretch panels provide mobility. Anti-microbial finish prevents odours. Versatile for all types of sports and activities.
- Raid Cargo Pants: Extremely lightweight, 4-way stretch fabric feels barely-there on. Abrasion reinforcements add durability at key stress points making them great for rugged adventures.
- Showdown Cargo Pants: Heavyweight cotton twill cargo pants with classic 5-pocket styling. Casual enough for everyday wear yet durable material handles physical activity.
Compression Shirts and Baselayers
Under Armour compression shirts feature ultra tight fit base layers that help improve workout performance by providing muscle support, preventing fatigue, and enhancing blood circulation. The stretchy, moisture-wicking technical fabrics also regulate body temperature and get sweat off the skin for cool comfort.
Some of the most popular Under Armour compression shirts include:
- HeatGear Compression Shirt - Ultra-light compression fit shirt ideal for hot weather training. Stretch-mesh underarm panels provide added breathability and cooling ventilation.
- ColdGear Compression Mock Top - Retains core body heat while still whisking away sweat and excess heat from the skin. Best for working out in cold weather climates.
- Rush Compression Short Sleeve - Features welded seams and textured compression fabric mapped to key muscles for targeted support and recovery. Great for high intensity training.
- Rival Fitted Short Sleeve Compression Shirt - Mesh back panel aids air flow and cooling while interlocking fabric gives compressive muscle support. Popular as a versatile, multi-sport base layer.
In addition to compression tops, Under Armour offers compression leggings, shorts, pants, sleeves, socks and more to promote blood flow and muscle function for any type of athletic activity.
Joggers
Under Armour's joggers blend athletic performance with casual style to create versatile pants suited for workouts, everyday wear or lounging around.
Signature stretch-woven fabrics allow freedom of movement while wicking away sweat to keep you cool and dry. Smooth athletic styling transitions well off the field while features like zip pockets, ribbed cuffs and drawcords liven up traditional jogger design.
Popular Under Armour men's joggers include:
- Rival Fleece Joggers - Brushed inner lining keeps you warm while lightweight stretch woven outer moves sweat away from the skin. Casual sport style.
- Sportstyle Fleece Joggers - Super soft cotton fleece fabric feels great for post-gym recovery lounging and casual wear. Envelope hand pockets and elastic cuffs.
- Qualifier Running Joggers - Lightweight, breathable running inspired joggers with zip drop-in pockets to securely hold phones, wallets, keys etc. Quick-drying stretch-woven fabric.
- Woven Graphic Joggers - Bold camo, graphic prints or solid colours on smooth, moisture-wicking woven with HeatGear® fabric and elastic tunnel waistband for active days.
- Sports Mask Fleece Joggers - Cotton fleece fabric with adjustable waist ties and ribbed cuffs. Side zip pockets and dropped rear pockets hold your gear. Matching face mask included.
Leggings
Under Armour's high-performance leggings utilise stretch fabrics that shape to the body while maintaining breathability and sweat-wicking abilities to keep you dry and comfortable during rigorous activity. Compression fits improve circulation and reduce muscle vibration.
Materials & Technologies
Many Under Armour leggings utilise signature fabrics engineered to be lightweight, breathable, quick-drying, anti-odour and provide a compression fit:
- HeatGear® - Ultra-light, smooth stretch fabric that wicks sweat and dries extremely fast to promote ventilation and cooling. Great for hot weather training.
- ColdGear®- Dual-layer construction that has a soft, brushed interior to circulate heat and maintain core body temperature. Smooth, durable exterior protects against the elements. Ideal for cold weather activities.
- SuperVanishTM Mesh - See-through open mesh zones allow maximal airflow and breathability. Often placed along the back of knees or behind calves where ventilation is important.
- Anti-Odour Technology - Anti-microbial silver infused into the fabric prevents the growth of odour causing microbes. Helps leggings stay fresher for longer.
- Intermix Compression - Strategically placed panels of compressive fabric offer muscle support and vibration reduction, while looser sections enable mobility.
Models & Styles
- Infinity High-Rise Leggings - High waistband hits at the natural waist with a wide, flattering contoured shape. Available in capri or full length.
- Seamless Leggings - No side leg seams eliminates skin irritation from chafing. Smooth fabric provides flexible compression.
- Printed Leggings - Vibrant all-over graphic prints like camo and floral in moisture-wicking fabric. Drawcord waistband for adjustable fit.
- StudioLux® Lightweight Leggings - Nylon and elastane blend offers opaque coverage with minimal weight. Four-way stretch allows freedom of movement during studio classes like yoga, barre or pilates.
Common Uses
Under Armour leggings are versatile for intense training as well as relaxed wear:
- High Intensity Workouts - Sweat-wicking fabrics and compression fits optimise intense activities like HIIT, running, cardio dance, boxing or circuit training.
- Yoga & Stretching - Unrestricted stretch fabrics like SuperVanish mesh move with the body during poses and extensions. Smooth textures won't catch or cling.
- Outdoor Sports - ColdGear® and HeatGear® leggings regulate body temperature during activities like hiking, skiing, tennis, golf and more.
- Casual Wear - Athleisure-inspired prints and details make many Under Armour leggings suitable for everyday wear.
Socks
Under Armour crafts athletic socks designed to enhance performance through material technologies that provide comfort, support, and functionality.
Key fabrics include:
- ArmourDryTM – Wicks sweat and moisture away from the skin, accelerating evaporation to keep feet cool and dry. Anti-odour agents control bacteria and prevent smells. Used in styles like the Over the Calf Training Socks.
- ArmourBlockTM – Antimicrobial silver fabric technology in the liner fights odour causing bacteria. Seen in options like the Unisex Performance Crew Socks.
- Infinity Cushioning - Strategic cushioning zones minimise impact and friction areas like the heel, toe, arch and ball of foot using wrapped yarns. Featured in the Crew Over the Calf Running Socks.
- Compression Arch Support -Provides a snug fit around the arch of the foot for stability during lateral movements and changes of direction. Found in styles like the Basketball Elite Quarter Socks.
Models & Styles
From minimalist lightweight no shows to maximum cushioning and coverage, popular Under Armour sock models include:
- Charged Cotton® Crew Socks – Soft breathable cotton blend with ribbed compression zones for arch support and fit. Casual everyday wear.
- Over The Calf Training Socks - Added length and padded footbed cushions and protects feet during CrossFit, HIIT classes, weight training and studio workouts.
- Elite Basketball Quarter Socks - Compression fit structured for basketball with extra padding at the heel and forefoot. Traction grips prevent slips inside shoes.
- Performance Tech 6” Tab Socks - Mid-calf everyday socks with a dash of colour. Mesh ventilation keeps feet cool and fresh all day.
Uses
Under Armour athletic socks excel at:
- High Intensity Training – Breathable, moisture-wicking fibres keep feet dry through intense workouts, reducing blisters or slipping that impairs performance.
- Court Sports – The combination of fit, cushioning and moisture management provides support and comfort during start and stop motions in tennis, basketball or racquetball.
- Running – Dynamic arch and ankle support combined with strategic padding protects feet during mile after mile of repetitive pounding against pavement.
- All Day Wear – Anti-odour properties prevent bacteria and smells letting you wear them for extended hours. Mesh ventilation keeps you cool.
Tops and T-shirts
Materials & Technologies
Many Under Armour tops utilise technical fabric innovations to enhance performance:
- HeatGear® - Ultra-light, smooth fabric that wicks sweat and dries extremely fast to keep athletes cool and light. Great for hot weather training.
- ColdGear® - Dual-layer construction circulates body heat while the smooth exterior protects against the elements. Ideal for cold weather activities.
- ArmourVentTM - Laser cut ventilation zones promote air flow and breathability where athletes need it most. Often under arms, along the shoulders or down the spine.
- Anti-Odour Technology – Anti-microbial silver infused into the fabric prevents odour causing microbes from growing. Helps shirts stay fresher longer.
- Intermix - Strategically placed panels of breathable mesh offer ventilation while performance fabrics handle moisture in high sweat zones.
Models & Styles
Top selling Under Armour shirt styles include:
- HeatGear® Compression Shirt – Second skin fit wicks sweat while compression design provides muscle support. Offered in short sleeve, sleeveless and long sleeve options.
- Tech Graphic / Solid Tee – Smooth, lightweight tee shirts that come in a wide variety of colours and eye-catching graphic prints. Great for layering or casual wear.
- Rival Fleece Pullover Hoodie – Soft inner fleece lining with smooth woven exterior panelling helps manage moisture during outdoor activity. Signature kangaroo pocket.
- UA Project Rock BSR Short Sleeve Tee – Part of “The Rock” Dwayne Johnson’s signature line. Loose fit tee with motivational graphic prints and quick-drying fabric.
- Qualifier Tank Top – Lightweight racerback tank top provides full range of motion. Dropped armholes showcase athletic physique.
Common Uses
Under Armour tops meet the needs of various sports and fitness activities:
- High Intensity Training – Sweat-wicking and breathable fabrics keep athletes cool and dry through intense workouts like HIIT, cardio dance, boxing or circuit training.
- Outdoor Activity – ColdGear® and HeatGear® regulate body temperature during activities like hiking, golf, tennis and more.
- Yoga & Pilates – Smooth, stretch fabrics allow freedom of movement through poses and extensions without catching or riding up.
- Casual & Athletic Wear – Moisture-wicking performance combines with stylish cuts, prints and colours suit everyday lifestyle wear.
Running shoes and trainers
Engineered for Speed and Endurance
Under Armour creates innovative running shoes built with athletic performance technologies to give you the speed, endurance and comfort to outrun your personal best.
Key running shoe features:
- Lightweight Construction - Strategically placed mesh ventilation, minimal rubberised prints and EVA midsoles mould to the natural shape of the foot while reducing overall shoe weight. helps athletes maintain quick turnover times mile after mile.
- Plush Cushioning - Full-length Micro G® and Charged Cushioning® foam absorbs impact to protect joints and muscles on each foot strike. Added cushioning in the heel and tongue delivers plush landings and creates smooth transitions.
- Traction & Control - Sticky rubber outsoles with traction patterns, pads and flex grooves provide grip and control on varying surfaces. Keeps runners stable as fatigue sets in.
- Support & Stability - External TPU heel counters securely lock the foot in place while guidance rails keep you aligned even as form falters later in a run. Some models also utilise a medial post in the midsole to prevent overpronation and roll in.
Models for Women:
- UA HOVR Machina - Max cushioning Hovr foam midsole combines with external TPU heel counter for soft, responsive stride after stride.
- UA Bandit 6 - Light traction pads on the outsole and grooved midsole deliver mile eating smoothness run after run.
- UA Flow Velociti Wind 2 - Ultra breathable mesh upper keeps air flowing over the foot. Padded tongue and heel collar prevent hotspots and blisters.
Models for Men:
- UA HOVR Phantom 2 - Energy web compression layer returns energy back with each foot strike for a "zero gravity feel."
- UA Surge 2 - Compression mesh Energy Web contains and moulds to the foot for a seamless, sock-like fit.
- UA Horizon RTT SE - Reinforced heel and raised traction pads provide grip and durability over long distances.
Use Cases:
- Daily Training - Consistent cushioning protects legs during regular mileage. Durable traction holds up on gym treadmills, park paths and pavement.
- Race Day - Optimised cushioning, flexibility and support maintain efficiency for PR pace. Traction grips wet or uneven race terrain.
- Recovery Runs - Plush cushioning softens recovery days or low mileage shake out runs post hard efforts.
Under Armour running shoe technologies deliver a combination of responsive propulsion, cushioned landings and stability to carry athletes to new personal bests one stride at a time.
Under Armour Base Layers - Engineered for Performance
Under Armour crafts high-tech base layers designed to optimise athletic performance by stabilising body temperature and wicking sweat no matter the climate conditions.
Signature base layer lines include:
- ColdGear® - Dual-layer construction with a soft, brushed interior circulates body heat while the smooth exterior protects against cold winds and weather. Wicks moisture to keep you dry. Ideal as a first layer for winter activities or sports like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, hunting and more.
- HeatGear® - Ultra-light, smooth stretch fabric actively pulls sweat away from skin and accelerates drying time. Mesh ventilation zones promote increased airflow. Perfect as a cooling base layer for high exertion warm weather sports like soccer, lacrosse, hiking, tennis and training.
- Armour® - Compression fit baselayer provides muscle support and helps prevent vibration or fatigue during intense workouts, weight lifting, CrossFit style training etc. Bonded seams eliminate friction points.
- Additional base layer features:
- Odour Control - Anti-microbial technology stops the growth of bacteria that causes odour. Keeps you smelling fresh. Found across ColdGear, HeatGear and Armour lines.
- Varied Coverage - Choose base layer coverage from minimalist short sleeves to mock necks, long sleeves and full tights based on climate demands and personal preference. Match tops and bottoms for complete temperature and moisture control.
- Stretch Construction - Four-way stretch fabrics conform to the body allowing unrestricted freedom of movement during activity. Smooth textures won't catch or bind.
Under Armour base layers regulate core body temperature helping athletes perform at their peak hour after hour in any climate conditions or activity.
Under Armour Vests – Lightweight Warmth for Athletic Performance
Under Armour vests deliver lightweight insulation to help maintain core body heat without the bulk and restriction of movement that often comes with layering up.
Signature vest lines engineered for athletic performance include:
- ColdGear® Infrared - Uses a thermo-conductive inner coating to absorb and retain your own body heat while the smooth exterior shields from the elements. Side panels stretch for full range of motion. Popular styles include the Tactical Hoodie Vest and Reactor Hybrid Vest.
- Storm día LoftTM - Wind and water-resistant quilted front shields against wet conditions while stretch back panels, underarms and sides promote mobility and ventilation. The Storm Armour Vest uses this durable, quick-drying fabric.
- HeatGear® Armour® - Super lightweight compression vest provides muscle support and wicks sweat to keep you cool and dry in warm weather training. The HeatGear Compression Vest is a top choice for running, court sports or as a versatile base layer.
Additional vest features:
- Strategic Insulation - Torso, shoulders and core areas utilise varying levels of stretch-fleece, PrimaLoft® and poly-fill synthetic insulation types placed where warmth is needed most. Mesh zones allow airflow through heat releasing zones like the armpits.
- Versatile Styles - Vest silhouettes range from sleeveless to quilted construction to full zip up. Can be worn on its own or easily layered under coats, windbreakers or thick insulation mid-layers for customisable warmth. Makes for a great travel outerwear piece.
Under Armour’s innovative vests provide lightweight insulation without sacrificing mobility. Helps athletes regulate body temperature across a range of environments, conditions, and high performance activities or sports.
In conclusion, Under Armour is a leader in athletic performance apparel, footwear and accessories designed specifically to help athletes perform at their very best. Since its 1996 founding by former college football player Kevin Plank, the brand has utilised advances in material sciences and technologies to craft innovative products engineered for sport.
Under Armour proudly declares “We make all athletes better through passion, design and the relentless pursuit of innovation.” Based on the demonstrated commitment found throughout their product line’s attention to athletic detailing, it would seem they are succeeding in delivering on that mission.