Finding the right running shoe is crucial for performance and injury prevention. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to decide which brand best fits your needs. Two of the top contenders vying for a spot in your training rotation are Brooks and Under Armour. Both companies produce high-quality shoes packed with proprietary technologies and features.
This comprehensive guide will compare Brooks and Under Armour’s key differences, from cushioning to price to style. Whether you’re a neutral runner looking for cushioning or a speed demon seeking a responsive, lightweight shoe, one of these brands likely has a model suited for you.
We’ll break down the specifications of each brand and spotlight their most popular models to help you determine if Brooks or Under Armour is a better match for your runs.
By the end, you’ll understand the strengths and weaknesses of both brands. Let’s hit the road and see how Brooks and Under Armour running shoes stack up!
Comparison Table Between APL And Nike:
| Category | Brooks | Under Armour |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1914 | 1996 |
| Comfort & Fit | Excellent | Very Good |
| Color Options | Moderate | Wide Variety |
| Durability | Very Good | Excellent |
| Performance | Excellent | Very Good |
| Design & Style | Classic | Modern/Trendy |
| Popularity | Very Popular | Popular |
| Best Selling Model | Adrenaline GTS | UA Charged Assert 10 |
Brooks Overview
Brooks running shoes originated in 1914 in Seattle, Washington when the Brooks Shoe Company was founded. Though it started as a specialty shoe brand, Brooks eventually pivoted to focus on athletic and performance footwear in the 1970s.
Some of the long-running iconic features of Brooks shoes include:
- BioMoGo DNA: An adaptive midsole foam that provides soft landings followed by firm toe-offs for propulsion.
- GuideRails: An engineered support system around the midsole to limit excess pronation or inward foot rolling.
- Flextra: Outsole rubber strategically placed for flexibility where the foot needs to move.
- Ideal Pressure Zones: Designated cushioned zones on the outsole positioned under important areas.
- Adjustable saddle: A structured component that customizes midfoot support and fit.
- HydroFlow: Shock-absorbing cushioning units in the midsole for plush softness.
In addition to catering to regular neutral runners, Brooks offers stability, trail, walking, and casual shoes. Some of their most popular models through the years include the Ghost, Adrenaline GTS, Glycerin, and Ravenna.
With over 100 years of experience, Brooks uses proven technologies and innovations to create high-performance shoes suited for runners of all types.
Under Armour Overview
Founded in 1996 by Kevin Plank, a former college football player, Under Armour exploded onto the sportswear scene with moisture-wicking shirts that were a game changer for athletes. Since then, they’ve expanded into footwear to make their mark in the shoe world too.
Under Armour running shoes focus on lightweight, breathable construction. Synthetic uppers and airy mesh provide ventilation to keep feet cool and dry. The smooth inner lining prevents irritation so you can focus on your training.
Their shoes also implement performance technologies to give athletes an edge. Charged cushioning offers responsive landings while Micro G foam brings flexible stability. Models like the HOVR Machina optimize comfort and energy return.
While some shoes like the HOVR Sonic cater to runners, Under Armour also markets lifestyle designs for casual wear. Their expansive selection ranges from minimalist sneakers to basketball shoes to golf cleats. So no matter your sport, they aim to outfit your feet.
Major Differences Between The Brands:
Now that we’ve covered some background on both brands, let’s dive into the major factors that differentiate Brooks and Under Armour shoes.
Comfort and Fit
In terms of pure comfort, Brooks shoes have the advantage. Signature technologies like BioMoGo DNA provide plush, pillow-soft cushioning you can feel right away. The structured midsoles and GuideRails support also promote smoother transitions for happy feet and joints.
Under Armour shoes prioritize minimalism and speed over cushioning. They have a lower profile that some runners may find less comfortable for longer distances. However, they provide a very locked-in, supportive fit ideal for faster running. It comes down to your preferences.
Durability and Performance
You can rely on both Brooks and Under Armour shoes to go the distance. Brooks uses high quality materials like full grain leather and blown rubber outsoles that hold up for hundreds of miles. Under Armour incorporates durable mesh fabrics and grippy rubber that also performs impressively over time.
In terms of performance, Under Armour has the advantage for racing and speed work. Technologies like HOVR and UA SpeedForm construction keep the shoes extremely lightweight and responsive. Brooks performance is more well-rounded, providing versatility for training runs along with excellent shock absorption.
Price
You’ll typically pay more for Under Armour shoes versus comparable Brooks models. Most Under Armour shoes fall in the $120 to $160 range. Brooks shoes are usually priced a bit lower, averaging around $100 to $140 for most styles. Under Armour’s premium technologies and materials account for their higher price tag. However, both represent a good value given their proven performance.
Design and Style
If you want classic running shoe styling, Brooks is the way to go. They have heritage models like the Ghost, Glycerin and Adrenaline that all retain an old-school look with traditional lacing and bulky midsoles.
Under Armour has a much trendier, modern aesthetic. Their shoes look and feel like athletic gear, loaded with technical detailing and sleek silhouettes. It comes down to personal preference.
Popularity
In terms of popularity among runners, Brooks wins this one. As a brand solely dedicated to running, they’ve earned a loyal following over decades. Their flagship neutral shoe, the Ghost, has been one of the top selling running shoes year after year.
Under Armour is popular among a wider range of athletes given their broad range of apparel and shoes. But their running shoes are still gaining more traction among dedicated runners.
Which Brand is Best for You?
So which running shoe brand should you choose – Brooks or Under Armour? Here are some quick tips:
- If you prioritize comfort, cushioning and injury prevention, go with Brooks.
- If you want a fast, lightweight and responsive ride, choose Under Armour.
- Slow easy runs and training – Brooks has the versatility.
- Speedwork and racing – Under Armour will give you the edge.
- Wide feet – try Brooks for more room in the toe box.
- Narrow feet – Under Armour hug your foot better.
My suggestion is to try on shoes from both brands to see how they fit your foot. Everyone has different needs and preferences when it comes to feel underfoot. Both Brooks and Under Armour make excellent running shoes.
Pick the one that checks your key boxes for the type of ride you want. With the right choice, you’ll be logging comfortable miles in reliable shoes built to go the distance.