The Under Armour HOVR Phantom SE promises to be the brand’s most versatile sneaker, a hefty claim to make in a space filled with Ultraboosts and Epic Reacts. So we gave them a shot, mixing them into our daily fits and workout routines. Here is our experience with the Under Armour HOVR Phantom SE.
Style
First thing’s first: this shoe actually turned heads, which was really unexpected considering its muted colorway. Throughout the day, people would ask what this sneaker was and commented on its edgy appearance. So right out of the gate, the HOVR Phantom SE wins points for style.
The little cut out provide a glimpse of the HOVR cushion.
The overall design has a very Techwear vibe. Cutouts in the midsoles expose the HOVR cushioning, while sharp edges along the heel caps give the sneakers a sleek look. Combine that with the very organic marble print, and you have a sneaker that looks good and doesn’t show wear easily. You could easily rock these with fitted cargos, or a tee and sweats to create an easy all-day fit that will match anything.
Performance
Now, as compared to the Nike Epic React or the Ultraboost, the HOVR definitely felt very different. The HOVR cushion is a lot softer and gives the impression of walking on an airbag. To provide added support and structure, the HOVR cushion is encased in a stiffer foam shell. This really helped provide the stability that is expected from a performance running shoe.
The knobbed rubber outsole does a surprisingly good job at creating traction.
Day to day, the midsole cushion held up pretty well. It can handle a full day of work and events without causing any strain to feet and ankles. The sneaker hardly slips as well, thanks to its unique knobbed rubber outsoles. An added bonus is the lack of a break-in period – the sneaker comes out of the box ready for your next run.
Fit and sizing
The sneaker uses a 3D printed midfoot panel to give some serious lock down.
Here is where Asian sneakerheads need to take note. We generally have wider set feet, and the HOVR Phantom SE tends to run narrow. So, if you are copping a pair of these for casual use, do go a half or full size up. The lockdown is great for a quick run but can get uncomfortable for all-day use.
The uppers are built from a mix of 3D-printed midfoot panels and stretchable warp knit uppers, to help provide lockdown during runs. The midfoot panels don’t stretch much, so pay attention to how they feel when trying them on.
Smart connectivity
Move aside smartwatch, we now have smart sneakers!
Did we mention it was a smart running shoe? You can connect the HOVR Phantom SE to your smartphone through the Map My Run app by Under Armour. The app can track different aspects of your runs or gym session to help you achieve your cardio goals. There are different levels and badges that you can earn. If you really want to get social with your workouts, the app can share your progress to its community of running enthusiasts.
Cop or drop?
If you are looking for running shoes that you can wear all day, this is a definite cop. If you love the Techwear styling, prefer soft midsole cushioning and need the connectivity features, the Under Armour HOVR Phantom SE is a no brainer.
You can pick up the Under Armour HOVR Phantom SE at UnderArmour.com.sg or at any Under Armour outlet islandwide for S$229.
Would you rock a running sneaker on the daily? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
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