Asics vs Under Armour: A Comprehensive Review

Asics vs Under Armour: When it comes to high-performance athletic wear, two brands stand out from the rest: Asics and Under Armour.

Both are renowned for their innovative designs, exceptional quality, and commitment to helping athletes push their limits.

While they share some similarities, each brand has its unique strengths and weaknesses.

Asics vs Under Armour: A Quick Overview

Asics:

• Specialization: Running shoes and apparel, with a focus on high-performance technology
• Key Features:
  • Gel cushioning system for shock absorption
  • FlyteFoam midsoles for lightweight and responsive cushioning
  • Spacer Mesh for breathable and flexible uppers
• Target Audience: Serious runners, marathon trainers, and athletes
• Price Range: $60-$160 for shoes, $20-$80 for apparel
• Pros:
  • High-quality, durable products
  • Excellent support and cushioning for runners
  • Wide range of styles and colors
• Cons:
  • Generally more expensive than Under Armour
  • Limited fashion-focused options

Under Armour:

• Specialization: Performance apparel and footwear for various sports and fitness activities
• Key Features:
  • Micro G unit soles for cushioning and flexibility
  • Charged Cushioning for responsive energy return
  • Armour Braided technology for durable and flexible uppers
• Target Audience: Fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and casual runners
• Price Range: $40-$120 for shoes, $15-$60 for apparel
• Pros:
  • Affordable prices for high-quality products
  • Wide range of styles and colors
  • Innovative technology and features
• Cons:
  • May not offer the same level of support and cushioning as Asics
  • Quality can vary across different product lines

Cushioning and Comfort: Which Brand Offers Better Comfort?

Cushioning

• Asics:
  • Gel cushioning system provides excellent shock absorption and comfort
  • FlyteFoam midsoles offer lightweight and responsive cushioning
  • Softer and more responsive midsoles in newer models
• Under Armour:
  • Micro G unit soles provide good cushioning and flexibility
  • Charged Cushioning technology offers responsive energy return
  • Some models may lack the same level of cushioning as Asics

Comfort

• Asics:
  • Spacer Mesh uppers provide breathability and flexibility
  • Seamless construction reduces irritation and discomfort
  • Roomier toe boxes and comfortable heel collars
• Under Armour:
  • Armour Braided technology provides a comfortable and flexible upper
  • Micro G units provide a smooth heel-to-toe transition
  • Some models may have a more snug fit, which can be uncomfortable for some

Overall Comfort

• Asics: Generally considered to offer better comfort and cushioning, especially for runners who need more support and stability.
• Under Armour: Offers good comfort and cushioning, but may not be as comfortable for runners who need more support or have foot issues.

Who Should Choose Each Brand

• Asics: Runners who need more support and stability, or those who prioritize comfort and cushioning.
• Under Armour: Runners who prioritize a more affordable option with good cushioning and comfort, or those who prefer a more snug fit.

Support and Stability: Which Shoe Reigns Supreme?

Support

• Asics:
  • Offers a wide range of support levels, from neutral to maximum support
  • Features such as DuoMax and Spacer Mesh provide excellent arch support and stability
  • Many models feature a more substantial heel counter for added support
• Under Armour:
  • Offers moderate to high levels of support, but may not be suitable for runners with severe overpronation or supination
  • Features such as Micro G units and Charged Cushioning provide some support and stability
  • Some models may lack the same level of support as Asics

Stability

• Asics:
  • Features such as the DuoMax system and Spacer Mesh provide excellent stability and support
  • Many models feature a more substantial heel counter and a wider base for added stability
  • Offers a range of stability levels, from mild to severe
• Under Armour:
  • Offers some stability features, such as the Micro G unit and Charged Cushioning
  • Some models may lack the same level of stability as Asics
  • May not be suitable for runners who need high levels of stability

Comparison

• Asics: Generally considered to offer better support and stability, especially for runners who need more support or have foot issues.
• Under Armour: Offers good support and stability, but may not be suitable for runners who need high levels of support or stability.

Who Should Choose Each Brand

• Asics: Runners who need more support and stability, or those who have foot issues such as overpronation or supination.
• Under Armour: Runners who need moderate levels of support and stability, or those who prioritize a more affordable option.

Traction and Grip: Which shoe Stack Up for Hiking?

Traction

• Asics:
  • Features such as the Trail Spacer Mesh and FlyteFoam midsole provide excellent traction on various terrain
  • Aggressive tread patterns and lugs provide grip on slippery surfaces
  • Some models feature a more aggressive tread pattern for better traction on technical trails
• Under Armour:
  • Features such as the Micro G unit and Charged Cushioning provide some traction, but may not be as aggressive as Asics
  • Some models feature a more minimalist tread pattern, which may not provide as much traction on slippery surfaces
  • May not be suitable for technical or rugged trails

Grip

• Asics:
  • Features such as the AHAR (Asics High Abrasion Rubber) outsole provide excellent grip on various surfaces
  • The FlyteFoam midsole provides a responsive and grippy ride
  • Some models feature a more substantial heel counter for added grip and stability
• Under Armour:
  • Features such as the Micro G unit and Charged Cushioning provide some grip, but may not be as grippy as Asics
  • Some models feature a more minimalist outsole, which may not provide as much grip on slippery surfaces
  • May not be suitable for rugged or technical trails

Comparison

• Asics: Generally considered to offer better traction and grip, especially on technical or rugged trails.
• Under Armour: Offers some traction and grip, but may not be suitable for technical or rugged trails.

Who Should Choose Each Brand

• Asics: Hikers and trail runners who need excellent traction and grip on various terrain, including technical or rugged trails.
• Under Armour: Hikers and trail runners who prioritize a more affordable option with good traction and grip, but may not need to tackle technical or rugged trails.

Weight and Responsiveness: The Verdict Both The Shoes

Weight

• Asics:
  • Generally heavier than Under Armour shoes, with an average weight of 10-12 oz (280-340g) for men’s shoes
  • Some models, like the Gel-Kayano, can weigh up to 13 oz (370g)
  • Heavier shoes can provide more support and stability, but may feel slower and less responsive
• Under Armour:
  • Generally lighter than Asics shoes, with an average weight of 8-10 oz (230-280g) for men’s shoes
  • Some models, like the Slingshot, can weigh as little as 6 oz (170g)
  • Lighter shoes can provide a more responsive and faster feel, but may lack support and stability

Responsiveness

• Asics:
  • Features such as the FlyteFoam midsole and Spacer Mesh upper provide a responsive and springy feel
  • Some models, like the Gel-Nimbus, have a more responsive and cushioned ride
  • However, heavier shoes can feel less responsive and slower
• Under Armour:
  • Features such as the Micro G unit and Charged Cushioning provide a responsive and springy feel
  • Some models, like the Slingshot, have a very responsive and fast feel
  • Lighter shoes can provide a more responsive and faster feel, but may lack support and stability

Comparison

• Asics: Generally heavier and more supportive, but may feel slower and less responsive.
• Under Armour: Generally lighter and more responsive, but may lack support and stability.

Who Should Choose Each Brand

• Asics: Runners who prioritize support and stability, and are willing to sacrifice some responsiveness for a more supportive ride.
• Under Armour: Runners who prioritize a fast and responsive feel, and are willing to sacrifice some support and stability for a lighter and more agile ride.

Breathability and Ventilation: Keeping Your Feet Cool and Dry

Breathability

• Asics:
  • Features such as the Spacer Mesh upper and FlyteFoam midsole provide excellent breathability and airflow
  • Perforations and ventilation holes in the upper allow for airflow and moisture escape
  • Some models, like the Gel-Kayano, have a more breathable upper for improved airflow
• Under Armour:
  • Features such as the Micro G unit and Charged Cushioning provide some breathability, but may not be as effective as Asics
  • Perforations and ventilation holes in the upper allow for some airflow, but may not be as extensive as Asics
  • Some models, like the Slingshot, have a more minimalist upper that allows for some breathability

Ventilation

• Asics:
  • Features such as the FluidFit upper and FluidRide midsole provide excellent ventilation and airflow
  • Ventilation holes and perforations in the upper allow for airflow and moisture escape
  • Some models, like the Gel-Nimbus, have a more ventilated upper for improved airflow
• Under Armour:
  • Features such as the Micro G unit and Charged Cushioning provide some ventilation, but may not be as effective as Asics
  • Ventilation holes and perforations in the upper allow for some airflow, but may not be as extensive as Asics
  • Some models, like the Slingshot, have a more minimalist upper that allows for some ventilation

Comparison

• Asics: Generally provides better breathability and ventilation, with more extensive perforations and ventilation holes in the upper.
• Under Armour: Provides some breathability and ventilation, but may not be as effective as Asics.

Who Should Choose Each Brand

• Asics: Runners who prioritize breathability and ventilation, and need a shoe that can keep their feet cool and dry in warm conditions.
• Under Armour: Runners who prioritize a lightweight and minimalist shoe, and are willing to sacrifice some breathability and ventilation for a more agile ride.

Durability and Longevity: Which Shoe Will Last Longer?

Durability

• Asics:
  • Known for their high-quality materials and construction, which provides excellent durability
  • Upper materials such as mesh and synthetic materials are durable and resistant to wear and tear
  • Midsole and outsole materials are also durable and provide excellent cushioning and traction
• Under Armour:
  • Also uses high-quality materials, but may not be as durable as Asics
  • Upper materials such as mesh and synthetic materials are durable, but may not be as resistant to wear and tear as Asics
  • Midsole and outsole materials are durable, but may not provide the same level of cushioning and traction as Asics

Longevity

• Asics:
  • Shoes can last for 300-500 miles or more, depending on usage and maintenance
  • With proper care and maintenance, Asics shoes can last for a long time
  • Many runners report getting 400-600 miles or more out of their Asics shoes
• Under Armour:
  • Shoes can last for 200-400 miles or more, depending on usage and maintenance
  • With proper care and maintenance, Under Armour shoes can last for a decent amount of time
  • Many runners report getting 300-500 miles or more out of their Under Armour shoes

Comparison

• Asics: Generally more durable and long-lasting than Under Armour shoes.
• Under Armour: Still a durable and long-lasting option, but may not last as long as Asics shoes.

Who Should Choose Each Brand

• Asics: Runners who prioritize durability and longevity, and are willing to invest in a high-quality shoe that will last a long time.
• Under Armour: Runners who prioritize a more affordable option that still provides good durability and longevity, but may not last as long as Asics shoes.

Style and Aesthetics: Which Shoe Looks and Feels Better?

Style

• Asics:
  • Known for their sleek and modern designs
  • Often feature bold color schemes and striking patterns
  • Many models have a more substantial and supportive look
• Under Armour:
  • Also known for their modern and sleek designs
  • Often feature more subtle and understated color schemes
  • Many models have a more minimalist and lightweight look

Aesthetics

• Asics:
  • Shoes often have a more premium and high-quality look and feel
  • Materials and construction are often more substantial and durable
  • Many models have a more luxurious and high-end feel
• Under Armour:
  • Shoes often have a more sporty and athletic look and feel
  • Materials and construction are often more lightweight and flexible
  • Many models have a more casual and laid-back feel

Comparison

• Asics: Generally has a more premium and high-quality look and feel, with bolder and more striking designs.
• Under Armour: Has a more sporty and athletic look and feel, with more subtle and understated designs.

Who Should Choose Each Brand

• Asics: Runners who prioritize a premium and high-quality look and feel, and are willing to invest in a shoe that makes a statement.
• Under Armour: Runners who prioritize a more sporty and athletic look and feel, and are looking for a shoe that is both functional and fashionable.

The Final Step: Which Shoe Reigns Supreme in Our Head-to-Head Comparison?

Asics

• Pros:
  • Excellent support and stability
  • High-quality materials and construction
  • Good for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis
  • Wide range of models and styles available
• Cons:
  • Generally more expensive than Under Armour
  • May not be as breathable or lightweight as Under Armour

Under Armour

• Pros:
  • Lightweight and breathable designs
  • Affordable prices
  • Good for runners with low arches or flat feet
  • Wide range of models and styles available
• Cons:
  • May not provide as much support and stability as Asics
  • Materials and construction may not be as high-quality as Asics

The Verdict

• Asics: The better choice for runners who prioritize support and stability, and are willing to invest in a high-quality shoe.
• Under Armour: The better choice for runners who prioritize a lightweight and breathable design, and are on a budget.

FAQs

Q: Which brand is better for running?
A: Asics is generally considered a better brand for running due to its focus on support and stability.

Q: Which brand is more affordable?
A: Under Armour is generally more affordable than Asics.

Q: Which brand has a wider range of models and styles?
A: Both brands offer a wide range of models and styles, but Asics may have a slightly wider range.

Q: Which brand is better for high arches or plantar fasciitis?
A: Asics is generally considered a better brand for runners with high arches or plantar fasciitis due to its focus on support and stability.

Q: Which brand is better for low arches or flat feet?
A: Under Armour is generally considered a better brand for runners with low arches or flat feet due to its more minimalist and flexible designs.

Q: Which brand has better customer service?
A: Both brands are known for their good customer service, but Asics may have a slightly better reputation in this area.

Q: Which brand has a better warranty?
A: Both brands offer a good warranty, but Asics may have a slightly longer warranty period.

Q: Which brand is more popular among professional runners?
A: Asics is generally more popular among professional runners due to its focus on support and stability.

Q: Which brand is more popular among casual runners?
A: Under Armour is generally more popular among casual runners due to its more affordable prices and wide range of models and styles.