Where do you get the ultimate in anatomical fit? According to Under Armour, the answer is in a bra factory.
The brand’s new shoe, which we got for a first-look test this month, has a seamless heel cup made in a factory that usually deals in women’s undergarments.
(See more images of the UA Speedform shoes on page 2 of this post)
Called the UA Speedform, the shoe is unlike anything we have tested. The bright orange color popped off the pavement and seemed to glow.
They weigh only about 6 ounces a shoe and are flexible like many minimalist shoes. But the sole is thicker and has more cushioning than most “barefoot”-style shoes.
The flexible slab of foam that serves as the mid- and out-sole has a 6mm drop and almost no tread underfoot.
We gave it a test run this past weekend on pavement and dirt roads. Despite the lack of tread the shoe was solid on both surfaces. The running experience was good — I liked the flexible-but-cushioned feel of the foam sole.
It’s not a harsh run like some minimalist shoes can produce on pavement. But the design does not over-direct the foot either, letting you land in a natural midfoot position. Heel striking feels dull and thus the shoe discourages it — a trait we like.
Fit on the foot (thanks to the bra factory again?) is superb. You can wear the Speedform without socks. There is no removable footbed, just a clean and cradling interior with a thin mesh tongue.
After 5 miles of running, I came away impressed for the initial test. I look forward to pounding out more miles in the strange orange shoes this summer, despite the odd looks I know I will get!
The toes are segmented slightly with formed fabric that bumps out. A silicone ring ensconces the cuff, giving the foot a soft and sticky interface where the ankle meets the upper.
(See more images of the UA Speedform shoes on page 2 of this post)
Under Armour will sell the Speedform beginning this month for $119.99. Try on a pair if you’re looking for an experience in running shoes unlike anything before.
—Stephen Regenold
