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Under Armour Golf Shoes: 15 Essential Features for 2023

alexxlab 2 years ago 30 min read

What are the key features of Under Armour golf shoes in 2023. How do they compare to traditional golf shoe brands. Why are Under Armour golf shoes gaining popularity among golfers. What technologies make Under Armour golf shoes stand out in the market.

Table of Contents

The Rise of Under Armour in Golf Footwear

Under Armour has emerged as a formidable contender in the golf shoe industry, challenging established brands with its innovative designs and performance-driven approach. Since entering the market in 2011, the brand has quickly gained traction among golfers of all skill levels, from tour professionals to weekend warriors.

Why has Under Armour become so popular in such a short time? The answer lies in their unique blend of athletic-inspired design, cutting-edge technology, and competitive pricing. By borrowing elements from other sports like football, basketball, and running, Under Armour has created golf shoes that resonate with modern players seeking both style and function on the course.

Spikeless Traction: Revolutionizing Golf Shoe Design

One of the most distinctive features of Under Armour golf shoes is their spikeless outsole design. Instead of traditional cleats, these shoes utilize innovative traction patterns to provide grip and stability during the swing. How does this spikeless design benefit golfers?

Improved versatility: Wear your golf shoes on and off the course
Reduced weight: Lighter shoes mean less fatigue over 18 holes
Enhanced comfort: More flexible soles for a natural walking experience
Sleeker aesthetics: A modern look that appeals to style-conscious golfers

Under Armour’s Rotational Resistance Traction (RST) technology takes spikeless performance to the next level. This system incorporates multiple traction zones in the outsole, designed to keep your feet firmly planted as you rotate through your swing. The result is a shoe that provides excellent grip on various surfaces without the need for traditional spikes.

Lightweight Comfort: Walking 18 Holes with Ease

Golf is a sport that demands hours of walking, often over challenging terrain. Under Armour recognizes this and has prioritized comfort in their golf shoe designs. How do they achieve superior comfort without sacrificing performance?

The answer lies in their use of advanced materials and cushioning technologies. Many Under Armour golf shoes feature HOVR technology, a proprietary foam that provides soft, responsive cushioning. This innovation creates a “zero gravity feel” that can help reduce fatigue during long rounds.

Additionally, Under Armour utilizes lightweight materials like microfiber leather in their uppers. These materials not only reduce the overall weight of the shoe but also enhance breathability, keeping feet cool and comfortable even on hot summer days.

Key Comfort Features:

HOVR cushioning technology
Lightweight foam midsoles
Breathable microfiber leather uppers
Moisture-wicking linings

Waterproof Protection: Play Through Any Weather

Unpredictable weather is a common challenge for golfers. Under Armour addresses this issue with advanced waterproofing technologies in many of their golf shoe models. How effective is this waterproofing, and what technologies are used?

Under Armour’s UA Storm technology provides a high level of water resistance without compromising breathability. This proprietary treatment effectively seals out water, keeping feet dry in wet conditions. For even more robust protection, some premium models like the Spieth 3 incorporate Gore-Tex membranes, offering guaranteed waterproof performance.

The combination of these technologies allows golfers to confidently play through morning dew, light rain, or even unexpected showers without worrying about wet, uncomfortable feet.

Bold Styling: Making a Statement on the Course

Gone are the days when golf shoes were limited to traditional, conservative designs. Under Armour has embraced bold colors and modern aesthetics, creating golf shoes that make a statement both on and off the course. How does this approach set Under Armour apart from more traditional golf brands?

By incorporating design elements from other athletic footwear, Under Armour golf shoes have a distinctive, sporty look that appeals to younger golfers and those seeking a more contemporary style. Vibrant color options, sleek silhouettes, and performance-inspired details give these shoes a unique identity in the golf footwear market.

Standout Style Elements:

Bold color combinations
Athletic-inspired silhouettes
Integrated lacing systems
Textured protective overlays
Modern ankle collar designs

Anatomical Support: Engineered for Performance

Under Armour’s expertise in athletic footwear shines through in the anatomical support features of their golf shoes. How do these support systems benefit golfers during their rounds?

Many Under Armour golf shoe models incorporate strategically placed support structures to enhance stability and prevent fatigue. These may include reinforced heel counters, midfoot shanks, and targeted cushioning in high-impact areas. The result is a shoe that provides excellent support throughout the golf swing and during long walks on the course.

Some models also feature customizable fit systems, allowing golfers to fine-tune the support and comfort of their shoes. This attention to anatomical detail helps promote proper alignment and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury during play.

Innovative Materials: Pushing the Boundaries of Golf Shoe Design

Under Armour’s commitment to innovation is evident in the materials used in their golf shoes. What cutting-edge materials are employed, and how do they enhance performance?

One standout material is Clarino, a microfiber leather used in many Under Armour golf shoe uppers. This synthetic material offers the look and feel of premium leather but with enhanced durability and weather resistance. It’s also significantly lighter than traditional leather, contributing to the overall weight reduction of the shoes.

Another innovative material is the Micro G foam used in some midsoles. This lightweight cushioning compound provides excellent energy return, helping to reduce fatigue and improve overall comfort during long rounds.

Key Innovative Materials:

Clarino microfiber leather
Micro G foam cushioning
UA Storm water-resistant treatments
Gore-Tex waterproof membranes
HOVR cushioning technology

Tour-Proven Performance: Endorsed by Top Players

Under Armour’s rapid rise in the golf shoe market has been bolstered by endorsements from top professional players. How have these partnerships influenced the development and popularity of Under Armour golf shoes?

The most notable partnership is with Jordan Spieth, one of the world’s top golfers. Spieth has been instrumental in the development of Under Armour’s premium golf shoe line, providing valuable feedback and insights that have shaped the design and performance features of models like the Spieth 3.

Beyond Spieth, numerous other tour professionals have been spotted wearing Under Armour golf shoes in competition. This high-level validation has helped build credibility for the brand among serious golfers and contributed to its growing popularity at all levels of the game.

Affordable Performance: Premium Features at Competitive Prices

One of the key factors driving Under Armour’s success in the golf shoe market is their ability to offer premium features at competitive price points. How do Under Armour golf shoes compare in value to other leading brands?

While Under Armour does offer high-end models that compete with the most expensive shoes on the market, they also provide a range of more affordable options that incorporate many of the same technologies and features. This approach allows golfers to access advanced performance benefits without breaking the bank.

By leveraging their expertise in mass-market athletic footwear production, Under Armour can often deliver comparable or superior performance to traditional golf brands at lower price points. This value proposition has made Under Armour an attractive option for golfers seeking high-quality shoes on a budget.

Value Considerations:

Premium technologies at mid-range prices
Durable construction for long-lasting performance
Multiple price points to suit different budgets
Frequent sales and promotions for additional savings

Versatility: From Course to Clubhouse

The modern golfer often seeks footwear that can transition seamlessly from the course to other settings. How do Under Armour golf shoes address this need for versatility?

Many Under Armour golf shoe models are designed with a casual, athletic aesthetic that looks at home both on and off the course. The spikeless outsoles provide excellent traction on the golf course while also being suitable for wearing to the clubhouse, driving home, or running errands after a round.

This versatility is particularly appealing to golfers who value convenience and don’t want to carry multiple pairs of shoes. It also adds value to the purchase, as the shoes can serve multiple purposes beyond just playing golf.

Technology Integration: Smart Features for the Modern Golfer

As technology continues to play an increasingly important role in golf, how has Under Armour incorporated smart features into their golf shoes?

While not all Under Armour golf shoes include “smart” technology, the brand has experimented with innovative features in some models. For example, some shoes have included built-in step counting functionality, allowing golfers to track their activity levels during a round.

Under Armour has also explored the use of NFC (Near Field Communication) technology in certain models, enabling users to access product information and features through their smartphones. While these technologies are not yet widespread in their golf shoe line, they demonstrate Under Armour’s commitment to exploring new ways to enhance the golfing experience through footwear.

Environmental Considerations: Sustainable Golf Shoe Options

As sustainability becomes an increasingly important factor for consumers, how has Under Armour addressed environmental concerns in their golf shoe production?

Under Armour has begun to incorporate more sustainable materials and practices into some of their golf shoe models. This includes the use of recycled materials in certain components, as well as efforts to reduce waste in the manufacturing process.

While not all Under Armour golf shoes are marketed as eco-friendly, the brand has shown a growing commitment to sustainability across its product lines. As environmental concerns continue to gain prominence, it’s likely that we’ll see more sustainable options in Under Armour’s golf shoe lineup in the future.

Sustainability Initiatives:

Use of recycled materials in select components
Efforts to reduce manufacturing waste
Exploration of more sustainable packaging options
Research into eco-friendly performance materials

Customization Options: Personalizing Your Golf Shoes

Personalization is a growing trend in golf equipment. How does Under Armour cater to golfers who want to customize their footwear?

While Under Armour doesn’t offer the same level of customization as some traditional golf brands, they do provide options for personalization in certain models. This may include the ability to choose from multiple colorways or to add custom embroidery to the shoes.

Additionally, some Under Armour golf shoes feature adjustable fit systems that allow golfers to fine-tune the fit and feel of their shoes. While not full customization, these features do provide a degree of personalization that can enhance comfort and performance on the course.

Future Innovations: What’s Next for Under Armour Golf Shoes?

As Under Armour continues to grow its presence in the golf shoe market, what innovations and trends can we expect to see in future models?

While specific details of future products are closely guarded, we can speculate on potential areas of development based on Under Armour’s track record of innovation and current industry trends:

Advanced materials: Continued development of lightweight, durable, and sustainable materials
Enhanced cushioning: Further refinement of technologies like HOVR for even greater comfort
Improved traction: New spikeless designs for optimal grip in various conditions
Smart features: Potential integration of more technology for performance tracking and analysis
Sustainability: Increased focus on eco-friendly materials and production methods
Customization: Expanded options for personalizing fit, style, and performance

As Under Armour continues to challenge traditional golf brands, we can expect to see ongoing innovation and refinement in their golf shoe offerings. The brand’s commitment to performance, style, and value is likely to drive further advancements that benefit golfers of all skill levels.

Introduction – Why Under Armour golf shoes are growing in popularity

Under Armour has become a major player in the golf shoe game over the last few years. With bold style, cutting-edge technology, and affordable pricing, it’s easy to see why Under Armour golf kicks are gaining traction among golfers of all skill levels. While brands like FootJoy and Adidas still dominate the premium golf shoe market, Under Armour is making significant inroads with their performance-driven and athletic-inspired designs.

Under Armour entered the golf shoe market just over a decade ago in 2011, but they’ve quickly grown into one of the most popular brands on Tour and at local country clubs. Under Armour sponsors some of the game’s top players like Jordan Spieth, and their shoes have been spotted on the feet of hundreds of tour pros. Amateur golfers are taking notice too. Under Armour golf shoes have surged in popularity thanks to their lightweight comfort, modern spikeless traction, waterproof protection and bold styling.

Compared to traditional golf brands, Under Armour shoes bring a athletic, athletic look and feel to the course. Their designs take inspiration from sports like football, basketball and running, using cutting-edge technologies and constructions borrowed from their popular performance training shoes. This athletic spirit gives Under Armour golf footwear a young, energetic style that resonates with modern golfers.

While known primarily for their athletic apparel and shoes, Under Armour has proven they can compete in the golf equipment space as well. They’ve quickly become a top choice for golfers wanting premium performance and style without the expensive price tags of established brands. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features and technologies that make Under Armour golf kicks so popular right now.

Spikeless Traction and Grip

One of the trademark features of Under Armour golf shoes is their unique spikeless outsoles. Instead of traditional spiked cleats, Under Armour uses minimally-designed traction patterns to provide grip and stability during the swing. Dozens of strategically-placed lugs and ridges grip into the turf for lateral resistance and control.

These spikeless soles provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces, especially as you walk 18 holes. Under Armour added a technology called Rotational Resistance Traction (RST) to many models too. RST incorporates multiple traction zones in the outsole to keep your feet firmly grounded as you rotate through the swing.

The lack of spikes makes Under Armour golf shoes much lighter than traditional spiked models. It also gives them a sleeker, more athletic look that resembles a rugged trail running shoe. For golfers wanting reliable traction without the hassle of spikes, Under Armour spikeless models are a compelling choice.

Lightweight Comfort

All that new technology in Under Armour golf shoes doesn’t come at the expense of comfort. On the contrary, Under Armour packs their kicks with cushioning and materials to keep your feet feeling fresh all day long. Lightweight foam midsoles cushion every step, while breathable linings fight sweat and humidity.

Many models utilize HOVR technology too, which adds soft, responsive cushioning that almost makes it feel like you’re walking on a cloud. A microfiber leather upper further reduces weight, keeping feet cool even on hot summer days. For walking 18 holes in comfort, it’s hard to beat Under Armour’s lightweight design.

Waterproof Protection

Nothing ruins a nice day on the links like wet socks and soggy shoes. That’s why Under Armour equipped many of their newest golf shoes with advanced waterproofing. Their UA Storm technology seals out water without compromising breathability. Rain or morning dew won’t soak into your shoes.

Under Armour added Gore-Tex to their premium Spieth 3 golf shoes too. This guaranteed waterproof membrane keeps feet bone dry while still venting heat and sweat. Having waterproof protection gives you the confidence to play through any type of weather. Just don’t step in any unusually deep puddles.

Bold Styles and Colors

Let’s face it, some traditional golf shoes are just plain ugly. Or at the least, very boring in their styling. Under Armour didn’t follow that mold with their golf kicks. Instead, they embraced bold colors and modern designs fit for the street as well as the course.

Flashy color options like red, white, blue and orange give Under Armour models like the Spieth 3 and HOVR Drive unlimited personality. Athletic styling like integrated lacing systems, ankle collars and textured protective overlays give them that performance look. For golfers who want head-turning style, Under Armour delivers modern flair.

Anatomical Support

With athleticism comes engineered support. Under Armour loaded technologies into their shoes to provide stability right where you need it most. Strategic structure in the outsole supports the foot during lateral movements and weight transfer. Integrated shanks add stability through the swing plane.

Collars hug the ankle while textile overlays wrap the midfoot for a truly anatomical feel. Responsive cushioning in the midsole aligns to pressure points on the foot for a tailored fit. All these small design elements add up to a shoe engineered for golf’s rotational swing.

Flexible Mobility

Ever feel like your golf shoes are stiff and restrictive? You won’t have that problem with Under Armour. Flexible designs allow your feet to move freely as you load into the backswing and transfer weight on the downswing. Under Armour utilizes breathable materials that move with your foot without pinching or binding.

HOVR cushioning also flexes naturally as you walk and swing. Spikeless traction further promotes mobility since your outsole can flex without bulky spikes getting in the way. For a shoe engineered for athletic flexibility through the swing, Under Armour can’t be beat.

All-Day Cushioning

You might arrive on the course feeling fresh, but how do your feet feel after 18 holes? If you don’t have proper cushioning, fatigue can set in quickly. Not so with Under Armour golf shoes. Plush midsoles provide soft cushioning right where you need it most under the heel and forefoot.

As mentioned earlier, many models also incorporate Under Armour’s HOVR foam. This proprietary blend molds to your footprint for responsive energy return that fights fatigue. Added cushioning around the ankle collar prevents any pinching or blisters too. Even on 36 holes, your feet will stay energized in Under Armour’s plush ride.

Breathable Linings

Nothing slows you down on the back nine like sweaty, overheated feet. That dampness can lead to painful blisters and hot spots too. Under Armour golf shoes utilize lightweight, breathable linings to keep your feet cool even on scorching hot days.

Mesh fabric linings allow refreshing airflow to penetrate the shoe interior. This ventilation wicks away perspiration while you walk and swing. Models with Gore-Tex add a waterproof barrier to keep water out while still venting vapor. Forget about sweaty socks and overheated feet when you suit up in breathable Under Armour golf shoes.

Durable Construction

Golf can be a demanding sport on equipment, especially shoes. From miles of walking to repetitive swing stresses, your footwear needs to last. Under Armour golf kicks are constructed from durable leathers, synthetic textiles and rubber that stand up to wear and tear.

Reinforced toe bumpers protect against scuffs and abrasion. Integrated shanks add lateral stability that won’t break down over time. The molded rubber outsole retains its spikeless traction even after many rounds. With their combination of technologies, Under Armour shoes are built to last season after season.

Spiked Options

While spikeless models dominate their current lineup, Under Armour does offer some traditional spiked golf shoes too. Most notably, the Spieth 3 is available with Softspikes or spikeless soles. So if you still prefer the traction of cleats, Under Armour has you covered.

These spiked models incorporate the same lightweight comfort and athletic styling as the spikeless versions. So you get the best of both worlds – athletic performance with and classic spiked stability. For golfers hesitant to go spikeless, the Under Armour spiked models provide a nice compromise.

Wide Sizing Availability

Finding golf shoes can be a challenge if you have wider than average feet. Many brands simply don’t offer wide sizes at all. Under Armour sets itself apart by offering wide sizing across much of its golf shoe lineup. So golfers with wide feet have plenty of stylish, performance options.

Widths come in standard D for men and B for women, but many Under Armour models also come in 2E for men and D for women. The wide toebox and flexible fabrics further accommodate wider feet. For wide-footed golfers, Under Armour’s sizing range is a welcome breath of fresh air.

Modern Technologies

Under Armour utilizes the latest tech and materials to optimize performance. Examples like the Rotational Resistance Traction outsole and HOVR midsole only debuted in the last few years. Such innovations provide golfers with functional benefits simply not found in classic golf brands.

Expect this innovation to continue as Under Armour expands deeper into the golf world. Things like 3D printed soles and smart digital elements could be on the horizon. Under Armour’s “always advancing” motto ensures they’ll keep pushing designs and tech forward, to the benefit of golfers.

Premium Materials

You expect premium leather and lightweight synthetics at this price point, but Under Armour goes the extra mile. Models like the HOVR Drive golf shoes utilize premium full grain waterproof leather uppers. The Spieth 3 features a supple Clarino microfiber upper that’s incredibly lightweight.

Small details like antimicrobial linings fight odor and sweat during all-day play. Plush midsole foams mold to the foot for a truly customized feel. There are no cheap shortcuts here – Under Armour golf shoes rival the material quality of any top brand.

Affordable Pricing

As a younger athletic brand, Under Armour is able to offer very attractive pricing compared to established golf labels. Models like the HOVR Drive and Spieth 3 retail for around $160 full price. That’s over $50 less than premium spiked golf shoes from FootJoy, Ecco and others.

During sales and clearance events, Under Armour golf shoes can be found for under $100. That kind of value makes them very accessible for golfers on a budget. You simply won’t find feature-packed shoes of this caliber at lower prices anywhere else.

With innovative spikeless traction, lightweight athletic styling, and advanced comfort technologies, it’s easy to see why Under Armour has surged in golf shoe popularity. Their shoes bring a breath of fresh air to a market dominated by traditional wingtip Oxfords. If you’re looking for modern performance and style this season, Under Armour golf kicks deserve a spot on your radar.

Spikeless traction and grip – How the unique spikeless soles provide traction on the course

One of the most recognizable features of Under Armour golf shoes is the unique spikeless sole. Rather than traditional cleats, UA opted for strategic lugs and texturing to provide golfers with reliable traction and grip. This innovative design delivers excellent performance while bringing a sleek, athletic look.

So how do these spikeless soles actually work? Let’s dig into the details.

The outsole uses a carefully engineered traction pattern with dozens of mini lugs dispersed throughout the forefoot and heel. These lugs vary in size and shape to deliver multi-directional grip into the turf. So whether you’re swinging, walking or standing, your feet stay firmly planted.

In addition to the lugs, Under Armour incorporates textured zones on the bottom of the sole. These textures almost work like very fine tread on a tire, gripping grass to prevent slippage. Areas under the forefoot and toes maximize lateral traction against the forces created in the golf swing.

Newer Under Armour golf shoes also employ Rotational Resistance Traction (RST). As the name implies, RST utilizes multiple traction zones to resist forces during the rotation of the swing. So even as you coil and uncoil, your feet maintain contact with the ground in a balanced way.

Together, the spikeless lugs, texturing and RST work harmoniously to keep you grounded regardless of conditions. The tread essentially “hugs” the grass without tearing it up like spikes. Traction remains high even if the course is a bit soggy.

Beyond traction, going spikeless provides other performance benefits as well. First, removing the spikes trims considerable weight from the shoes. You’ll notice how featherlight UA golf models feel right out of the box. This encourages a fluid, athletic swing rather than clunky shuffling.

The flexible spikeless sole also enhances mobility. Your feet can flex and bend naturally without bulky spikes inhibiting motion. This flexion is key for generating power from the ground up on your swing.

Finally, the barefoot-like feel activates lower body muscles in your feet, ankles and calves. By removing rigid spikes, your feet move and stabilize more naturally. This engages your athletic potential for more speed and consistency.

While traditionalists still prefer classic spiked models, spikeless golf shoes are here to stay. For Under Armour, the unique spikeless sole represents a new approach rooted in athletic performance and innovation. And based on their popularity, golfers certainly don’t miss the spikes one bit.