Lightweight Synthetic Material Increases Performance
One of the standout features of Under Armour’s highlight cleats is the lightweight synthetic material used in their construction. This innovative fabric is engineered to be durable yet feather-light, maximizing your child’s speed and agility on the field.
The upper part of the cleat is made from a synthetic weave that Under Armour calls Clarino. It’s a microfiber blend designed to be ultra-smooth and chafe-free against young athletes’ feet. Clarino is also highly breathable, with strategic perforations that enhance airflow during intense gameplay. This helps keep feet cool and comfortable even during the hottest, most grueling games.
Beneath the Clarino upper is a single-layer spacer mesh that adds another dimension of breathability. This mesh lining creates a cushy environment around the foot, preventing hot spots and irritation. It’s also treated with Under Armour’s anti-microbial technology to inhibit odor.
The highlight cleats’ midsole utilizes ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. This is an extremely lightweight foam that compresses easily under pressure. EVA has a natural springiness to it, so it returns back to form after each step. This gives the highlight cleats exceptional bounce and responsiveness. It also contributes to the overall feather-light feel that young players will appreciate.
On the outsole, solid rubber traction pods provide plenty of grip for quick cuts, starts and stops. Grooves between the pods enhance flexibility, giving the cleats a natural range of motion. This combination of stability and flex allows young athletes to utilize their top speed without sacrificing agility.
So if you want your child to have that extra edge out on the field, Under Armour’s highlight cleats are a great option. The synthetic upper material is purpose-built for the fastest, lightest performance possible.
Engineered for Speed and Quickness
One of the main goals Under Armour had when designing the highlight cleats was optimizing them for speed and quickness on the field. This is what gives young players that lightning-fast edge over the competition.
Several key features of the cleats enhance acceleration and agility. For starters, the lightweight Clarino synthetic upper minimizes the weight on kids’ feet. Less weight translates directly into faster movement. The EVA midsole foam also plays a role, providing an energized, responsive feel with each step.
The outsole traction pattern is strategically mapped out to support quick starts, stops and cuts. The cleat layout includes a mix of conical and blade-style studs. The conical studs give multidirectional grip for pivoting and changing direction. The blade studs offer straight-line traction for digging and maximizing forward propulsion.
Grooves etched into the outsole provide flexibility right where it’s needed most – in the forefoot and midfoot areas. This lets the front half of the foot move and bend naturally as kids shift their weight from side to side. An external TPU heel clip surrounds the rear foot, stabilizing it during cuts and rapid changes in momentum.
By studying the movements and biomechanics of young athletes, Under Armour crafted a cleat that works in harmony with the foot. The highlight’s minimal weight, stud configuration, and targeted flexibility all unite to enable true lightning-fast speed.
In customer reviews, many young players and their parents rave about how the highlight cleats improved acceleration and quickness. They feel like an extension of the foot rather than an anchor holding them back. Terms used to describe them include “lightning-fast”, “speed demons”, and “faster than ever.”
So if you want to unlock your child’s full speed potential on the field, the Under Armour highlight cleats are engineered specifically for that purpose. Expect faster sprints, quicker cuts, and rapid-fire agility when your kid hits the turf in these game-changing cleats.
4D Foam Cushioning for Comfort
One of the key ingredients that makes Under Armour’s highlight cleats so comfortable for young athletes is the 4D foam cushioning in the midsole. This innovative foam provides soft, pillowy support right where kids need it most.
The highlight cleats feature full-length 4D foam that runs from heel to toe. It cushions every step, absorbing shock and impact forces that can otherwise cause fatigue. Under Armour formulated this foam to be ultra-responsive, so it springs back and returns energy to the foot after compressing.
In the heel, the 4D foam is sculpted into a deep U shape. This anatomical heel cradle provides a personalized, wrapped fit. It allows the cleat to become one with the foot for a natural, seamless feel.
Under Armour’s 4D foam technology is strategically engineered for athletic performance. Its open-cell structure promotes airflow to help regulate temperature inside the cleat. Tiny foam particles meld together into a coherent cushion, providing soft support right where kids need it.
The 4D foam midsole works in conjunction with the padded mesh tongue and perforated Clarino upper. Together, these elements surround the foot in breathable comfort. Young athletes can make quick cuts and fast sprints without hot spots or irritation.
Many parents say the highlight cleats feel “broken-in” right out of the box – no painful break-in period required. The 4D foam midsole is responsible for this, conforming to the contours of the foot immediately. Kids experience continuous cushioning through even the longest, toughest games.
So if comfort is a priority for your young athlete, the 4D foam midsole is a key benefit of Under Armour’s highlight cleats. It provides responsive, anatomical cushioning and support for complete comfort all game long.
External TPU Heel Counter for Foot Lockdown
One of the key structural elements of Under Armour’s highlight cleats is the external TPU heel counter that wraps around the rearfoot. This provides exceptional stability and foot lockdown for young athletes.
The external heel counter is made of TPU, which stands for thermoplastic polyurethane. This is an extremely durable, supportive material that resists impact. It has a bit of flex to it, but doesn’t stretch or lose shape.
Under Armour strategically placed the TPU heel counter on the outside of the upper, where it can cradle the foot without creating pressure points inside the shoe. It forms a protective shell around the heel and sides of the foot.
Since the heel counter is external, it connects directly with the EVA midsole foam underneath. This provides a smooth transition of support from back to front. The midsole and heel counter work together to hold the foot securely in place during quick cuts and multi-directional movements.
The highlight cleats’ external heel counter also assists with a snug, personalized fit. It hugs the distinct contours of each athlete’s heel, eliminating slippage and wobble. Inside the cleat, the foot feels securely locked-in and centered over the midsole cushioning.
Many young athletes notice improved stability and agility in the highlight cleats thanks to the external TPU heel counter. Their feet feel fully supported during dynamic play, able to move and react faster. Sudden changes in speed and direction are executed smoothly without delay.
So if your child struggles with heel slippage or instability in their current cleats, the external TPU heel counter is a game-changer. It delivers exceptional lockdown and support for confident, secure movement all game long.
Strategic Perforations for Breathability
One of the smartest design elements of Under Armour’s highlight cleats are the strategic perforations placed throughout the upper. These small holes enhance airflow and breathability during intense games and practices.
The lightweight Clarino synthetic upper has numerous perforations mapped across its surface. They allow hot air to escape and cool air to flow in. This helps regulate temperature and moisture inside the cleat.
Under Armour strategically placed more perforations along the toe box, vamp, and side panels. These are areas where young athletes tend to overheat quickly. Extra ventilation here prevents hot spots from forming.
The perforations also align with the flexible grooves etched into the outsole. This enhances overall airflow and breathability from the ground up. Cooling airflow can circulate from the turf, through the midsole, and out the upper.
Inside the shoe, the perforated upper combines forces with the breathable spacer mesh lining. This creates a true 360-degree cooling environment around the foot. Air circulates from all directions, keeping feet cool, dry and comfortable.
In customer reviews, many parents remark how their kids’ feet stay cool and dry even during the most intense games in the highlight cleats. The strategic perforations make a noticeable difference in preventing that sweaty, overheated feel.
For young athletes who get uncomfortable hot spots or blisters with poor airflow, the highlight cleats are a great solution. The perforated upper works wonders at enhancing breathability right where kids need it most. Well-ventilated feet can perform their best!
Great for Multiple Field Sports
One of the advantages of Under Armour’s highlight cleats is their versatility across different field sports. Their lightweight, supportive design suits the needs of young athletes in football, soccer, baseball, lacrosse, and more.
The cleats provide a locked-in fit with exceptional traction on grass and turf fields. Their conical and bladed stud pattern grips nicely for starting, stopping, cutting, and changing direction. The external TPU heel counter keeps the foot stable and centered through dynamic lateral movements.
The lightweight breathable upper caters to the fast pace of football, soccer, and lacrosse. Strategic perforations enhance airflow as kids sprint up and down the field. The Clarino synthetic material resists abrasion during contact play.
For sports like baseball where players do more static standing and quick bursts of running, the 4D foam midsole prevents fatigue. It cushions the feet whether kids are waiting in the outfield or running bases.
The flexibility of the highlight cleats also accommodates the various stances in each sport. The grooved outsole and low-cut ankle design allow the natural foot motion needed when pivoting, twisting, and turning.
Many parents love the highlight cleats for their crossover appeal between different youth sports. The fast, lightweight feel suits most field sports, so parents can get more mileage out of one versatile pair. Young athletes who play multiple positions can benefit from the consistent fit and feel.
So if you want one durable, supportive cleat that can carry your child across seasons and sports, the Under Armour highlight is an excellent choice. No matter the field surface, position, or sport, these cleats have kids covered.
Sizes Available to Fit Growing Feet
One of the useful aspects of Under Armour’s highlight cleats is they come in a wide range of youth sizes. This ensures growing kids can get an ideal fit now that will last them through the season.
The highlight cleats are available in sizes that correspond to little kid (10C to 3Y), big kid (3.5Y to 7Y), and junior sizing. There are also half sizes within that full spectrum to dial in the perfect fit.
Many parents love that they can find the exact size needed as their child’s feet grow. They don’t have to settle for a size up or down that may lead to blisters or other fitting issues.
Under Armour engineers its youth shoes using anatomical data from growing kids. They take into account factors like wider toe boxes and increased flexibility that cater to developing feet. The lightweight Clarino and EVA foam construction moves naturally with young athletes.
For parents debating when to size up during the season, Under Armour provides a handy youth size chart. It shows the ideal age range, average foot length, and conversion to men’s/women’s sizes for each youth size offered. This takes the guesswork out of determining the right fit.
With the wide range of sizes available, parents can order the highlight cleats knowing they will get the perfect fit for their child now. The cleats can then carry them comfortably through the season as their feet grow. No more dealing with loose, sloppy shoes or cramming into small sizes that hurt.
So if you have a young athlete with rapidly growing feet, Under Armour has you covered. The highlight cleats come in a spectrum of youth sizes that flex and support feet through every stage.
Testimonials from Young Athletes
One of the best endorsements of Under Armour’s highlight cleats comes from testimonials of young athletes themselves. After wearing the cleats, many kids boast about improvements in their speed, grip, and comfort on the field.
In one video review, a 10-year old football player says the highlight cleats make him feel like he’s “gliding on air.” He loves how the lightweight upper gives him an extra burst of speed for running routes and catching passes.
A young female soccer player switched to the highlight cleats for more stability when cutting and pivoting. She explains how the external heel counter keeps her foot locked in place for quicker turns and directional changes. Her foot no longer slides around in the shoe.
Baseball and lacrosse players mention the “awesome grip” of the studded outsole on grass and turf. One baseball outfielder says he can field ground balls and sprint to bases faster without his feet slipping. A lacrosse midfielder feels more confident scooping up ground balls thanks to the multidirectional traction.
Nearly every kid who tries the highlight cleats raves about the soft, bouncy cushioning. Their feet and legs feel fresh even after back-to-back games and lengthy practices. The 4D foam midsole provides pillowy comfort from the first wear.
So if you’re on the fence about Under Armour highlight cleats for your young athlete, listen to testimonials from kids themselves. Their real-world experiences confirm the cleats deliver game-changing speed, grip, stability and comfort.
Properly Breaking In the Cleats
While Under Armour’s highlight cleats are comfortable right out of the box, taking steps to properly break them in can maximize performance. Here are some tips for getting your kid’s new cleats ready for game day.
Wear the cleats around the house to begin molding them to your child’s feet. Have them walk on carpet and hard floors to start flexing the upper and settling into the midsole.
Bring the cleats outside and practice cuts, sprints, and positional movements on softer surfaces. Softer grass helps break in traction and flex points before harder game surfaces.
Consider re-lacing the cleats to alleviate any pressure points. Young athletes’ feet vary, so customize lacing to improve upper comfort.
Use thin socks that won’t restrict movement or cause friction. Thick socks take up volume needed for the foot to settle into correct positioning.
Apply moleskin padding to susceptible blister areas like the heels and pinky toes as preventative measure. This shields hot spots during the break-in process.
Remind kids to unlace cleats after each wear to maintain structure and support. Letting them air out preserves shape and breathability.
Check in with your athlete during and after each practice to get feedback. Monitor any discomfort and adjust fit as needed.
With several weeks of progressive wear before the season starts, the highlight cleats will mold perfectly to your child’s feet. A strategic break-in period means happy feet ready for high performance all season long.
Tips for Cleaning and Maintenance
To keep Under Armour’s highlight cleats performing at their best, it’s important to clean and maintain them properly. Here are some tips for taking good care of your young athlete’s footwear.
Rinse cleats immediately after use, don’t let mud dry and cake on. Use a soft brush and mild soap if needed. Avoid harsh detergents.
When washing, remove the insoles and laces. These can be washed separately and air dried away from direct heat.
For deeper cleaning, mix a solution of warm water and gentle laundry detergent. Scrub gently with a soft brush, then rinse until clear water runs out.
Stuff damp newspaper or towels inside to absorb moisture and hold the shape as cleats dry. Let them fully air dry out of direct sunlight.
Treat leather or synthetic leather accents with a conditioner to prevent cracking. Avoid over-softening.
Spot clean the mesh liner as needed with an antimicrobial spray to prevent odors. Don’t oversaturate.
Check screw-in studs for tightness and replace as needed. Carry extras in your practice bag for easy replacement.
Store cleats in breathable bags away from direct heat to prevent material breakdown.
Regular cleaning plus occasional deep cleaning keeps highlight cleats fresh and sturdy all season. Taking good care ensures they support young athletes’ feet for seasons to come.
Where to Buy the Cleats
Under Armour’s highlight football cleats are readily available both online and in sporting goods stores. Here’s where to find the hottest lightweight cleats for your young athlete.
Check major retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy, and Big 5 Sporting Goods. These stores typically carry a range of styles and sizes to try on in person.
Visit your local Under Armour outlet or brand retail store. Experts can help find the right size and recommend complementary gear.
Shop directly on UnderArmour.com to peruse color options and take advantage of seasonal sales or exclusive online deals. Sign up for alerts on new releases.
Look on Amazon for availability across youth sizes, plus convenient shipping. Search “Under Armour highlight” and filter by your child’s size.
Check sports specialty stores like Hibbett Sports and Athlete’s Foot for hard-to-find sizes. Staff can suggest alternate options if needed.
Join a local youth sports gear buy/sell/trade Facebook group. Parents often list lightly used cleats for huge discounts.
Set up alerts on sites like eBay to get notified when new or gently used pairs are listed in your kid’s size.
With versatile purchasing options, finding the perfect pair of Under Armour highlight cleats for your young athlete is convenient. Get the right size, fit and features right when they need them.
Are They Worth the Investment?
When considering Under Armour highlight football cleats for your child, you may wonder – are they worth the investment? For most young athletes, the performance benefits outweigh the higher price tag.
The lightweight synthetic upper and 4D foam midsole create a fast, responsive feel kids love. Enhanced acceleration, traction, and comfort give them an edge to elevate their game.
The cleats are extremely durable, outlasting cheaper alternatives. Breathable, abrasion-resistant Clarino stands up to hardcore use on rugged fields. Replacing cheap cleats yearly gets costly.
Many parents say the highlight cleats need almost no break-in period. Kids experience instant comfort thanks to the plush midsole and flexible construction. No more painful blisters and sore feet.
Under Armour stands behind the quality with a 30-day wear guarantee. If issues arise during initial use, they’ll resolve the problem to your satisfaction. Try getting that from a generic brand.
While pricier than entry-level options, the highlight cleats deliver premium performance and durability serious young athletes need. Kids feel the technology enhancing their level of play.
Consider splitting costs with coaches, grandparents or sports budgets. The cleats can be viewed as an investment in supporting your child’s development and success.
At the end of the day, the Under Armour name provides assurance you’re getting an innovative, high-performance product. For serious young players, that quality craftsmanship pays off in the end.
Tips for Proper Fit
Achieving the ideal fit is crucial when selecting Under Armour highlight cleats for your young athlete. Here are some tips for getting the right size and lockdown:
Measure both feet and go with the larger size as feet often differ in size. Tracing outlines on paper catches subtleties.
Try shoes on later in the day when feet are most swollen. This accounts for expansion during activity.
Press firmly on the toebox to verify a thumbs-width of space for toes. Too small cuts off circulation.
Walk and jog around to allow feet to slide forward into proper position. Heel should not lift or slip.
Lace up snugly, loosening eyelets if needed to relieve pressure points. Custom lacing prevents irritation.
Consider aftermarket insoles or heel pads if low arches need more support. This optimizes comfort.
Start on the tighter side to account for break-in stretching. Upper will conform to the foot over time.
For wide feet, request wide size options. Clarino can stretch but avoiding pinching optimizes comfort.
The ideal fit means toe tips brush the front at the longest point without jamming. Snug midfoot and heel lock in the foot securely. Proper sizing and lacing keeps young athletes blister-free and optimized for peak performance.
Choosing the Right Cleat Design
Under Armour offers several highlight cleat designs to suit different playing positions and preferences. Here are some tips for selecting the right style:
For running backs, receivers and speed positions, choose mid to high tops for lightweight support executing cuts and sprints. Low tops maximize mobility.
For linemen who benefit from ankle stability, higher cleat tops are ideal. Opt for mid or even high tops to prevent rolling.
Consider detachable cleats for multi-surface versatility. The ability to swap in turf studs extends options from grass to synthetic fields.
Prioritize traction patterns with conical and bladed studs. The combination grips well moving linear and laterally during games.
Focus on integrated upper and outsole construction for a seamless, supportive feel when cutting and pivoting. This enhances control.
Give preference to wide fit options to accommodate protective tape jobs. Ample room prevents constriction when heavily taped up.
For young receivers, opt for receiver gloves featuring compatible tacky palm material to pair with cleats. This creates a sticky catching surface.
With versatile highlight cleat options, athletes can select the style tailored to their position, preferences and needs. The right model optimized performance across the field.
Caring for Your Investment
Under Armour highlight cleats represent a significant investment for young athletes. Taking steps to care for them properly will extend their lifespan and performance. Here are some pro tips:
- Allow cleats to fully air dry after games before storing. Stuff with newspaper or towels to absorb moisture and maintain shape.
- Spot clean crud with gentle soap and a soft brush. Avoid harsh detergents that could damage synthetic leather.
- Disinfect insoles and lining periodically with an antimicrobial spray to prevent foul odors from bacteria buildup.
- Check screw-in studs after each use and re-tighten or replace as needed for reliable traction. Carry extras.
- Remove mud and soil after each use before it dries and cakes on. Rinse well with clean water.
- Condition leather or synthetic leather periodically with a protective cream or wax polish to prevent cracking.
- Unlace fully after each use to decrease tension on the upper and preserve structural integrity.
- Allow soaked cleats to fully air dry at room temperature away from direct heat sources before wearing again.
- Store in breathable mesh bags rather than sealed plastic to prevent moisture buildup and material degradation.
With proper care and maintenance, Under Armour highlight cleats will deliver season after season of high performance and comfort on the field.