A while back, I had the opportunity to test out the new Under Armour Blur Pro in the Metallic Silver/Velocity/Black colorway. Well, recently I also managed to get my hands on the Black/Volt colorway and figured they were worth highlighting. The Black upper matched with Volt detailing is modern and very slick. They are a great option for players who need an updated boot with a pretty contemporary look, and I personally like them a lot!

Under Armour have made huge strides on the market over the past two seasons, and seem to be headed in the right direction with the boots they are producing. The Blur Pro is a boot designed for speed and acceleration, with a streamlined look and a pretty nifty 8.6oz weight. This boot is light, offers solid comfort and a specifically designed stud configuration that attracts player attention. If you like the design and are on the market for a boot that offers something a little different, look no further! In terms of player position, I highly recommend them as an option for wingers and quick forwards, while playmakers might also want to give them a test run.

And, if you are looking to change up your look, simply swap out the laces, as below. It easily makes for a completely different all round visual appearance!

One thing that is extremely important with these boots is sizing. The Under Armour Blur definitely fits slightly tighter than your regular boot and sort of mimics a Puma fit. After testing out the initial size 9US in a jogging session, I quickly realized that I would need a half size up. You also won’t get much stretch out of the microfiber upper. Unless you normally fit small in your size, I advise going up a half size.

Price wise, they retail for $200, but you can pick up a pair for around $120 at the moment.

In the last few weeks, you might have spotted our review of Under Armour’s latest advanced releases – the Blur Pro and the Hydrastrike. Both boots tested well and offer something new to the market – something that is always welcomed. Since UA already own a huge share of US sports like American football and baseball, it only makes sense that they would look to take a piece of the real football market!

I had an opportunity this past week to catch-up with one of Under Armour’s key players in MLS, Jason Garey (Houston Dynamo) to talk about why he has decided to wear the up-and-coming brand.

How long have you been wearing UA and how did it all come about?
I’ve been wearing UA boots for two years, and they have constantly improved with every new boot that they have made. Under Armour was founded by a University of Maryland football player, and playing soccer there put me in touch with plenty of people associated with the company. I’m proud to be a University of Maryland alumnus, and represent and wear Under Armour products.

How do they compare against the other top names in the market?
Under Armour are now very competitive with the established boot makers, and I believe they will surpass Nike, Adidas, Puma etc. in the very near future. I signed with UA because I believe they are a cutting-edge type of company that do things the right way.

You are currently wearing the Blur – What do you like most about them?
What I enjoy most about wearing the Blur include the minimal weight and very comfortable insoles. Players who are looking for something just a little different, but want to keep the important characteristics of a boot will find value in these. As a striker, I rely on that first step and I have felt confident in these from day 1.

How do you find they size compared to other boots?
I think the boots size very well, although they do tend to expand a bit with very heavy use. I play 6 days a week, and its very humid down here in Houston, so I put them under alot more pressure than most people would.

Why would you recommend them to other players?
I would absolutely recommend the blur to other people, in fact some of my teammates would really like to be able to wear them! The “Blurs” are an outstanding pair of boots, that will allow you to take your game to the next level.

Thanks for taking the time to chat Jason, and best of luck with the rest of your season!

For those of you interested in the Blur, they come in three colorways. The bright and vibrant Capri/Fusion/White is available for $119 at soccer.com and is exclusive to the US market, while the slightly more modest Black/Bolt and Metallic Silver/Velocity can be found for $144 at WeGotSoccer.

Under Armour is a company that continues to seek out new cutting edge technology to helps improve player performance. This latest release, the Under Armour Hydrastrike, takes on the challenge of moisture control. The concept is that if your feet are dry, you have better control. The bulk of technology used comes in the pretty advanced K-leather upper, and it does serve a valuable purpose. For testing, I used the White/Toxic/Black colorway, starting with a size 9US but ended up completing the review in a size 9.5US.

Finding the Right Size
It seems to be a trend with UA boots – fitting small. In similar fashion to the UA Blur, I had to go up a half size in order to get the right fit. Starting out with my regular size, I encountered some pressure through the heel. Since the upper is leather, you will have some stretch through wear but only the brave will try to stick out the first few weeks hoping they stretch enough!

Breaking In
Once I had the right size, it didn’t take very long to get these going. The leather upper is slightly stiff starting out and it took a full session before they loosened up. But given that they feature UA’s H2Oi treatment, everything about it is positive. I am a huge fan of how there is a soft layer of padding right around the ankle lining, it adds excellent comfort from first wear. The inside lining of the boot also has a slightly gripped feel that keeps your foot in place. Finally, you get to experience the absolutely fantastic UA 4D foam insert -  taking it out of the boot, it is thicker than normal inserts and offers a very spongy and responsive feel. It is one of the best inserts that you will find in any soccer cleat right now.

H2Oi K Leather
Under Armour has worked to create an exclusive moisture-shedding H2Oi K-Leather upper that offers bone-dry touch, precision, and power on the ball. When water contacts the surface of the boot, it immediately seems to dissipate. I would compare it to how water slides off a car windscreen that has been sprayed with Rainex – the water just doesn’t stick to the surface.

Design
There is an odd yet appealing look about this release. It is definitely not the best looking boot out there and it won’t win any catwalk awards, but it is does have a look that will match the most classic players. The addition of red stitching through the forefront of the boot removes any notion of a boring look and it really stands out on the black. Around the ankle and side, UA has included a perforated white microfiber region that allows some breathability through play. Personally, I think they look decent but the problem is that they won’t appeal to a mass audience. There is also a Black/Ivory colorway available for those who want a blackout look.

Performance
One of the areas where UA excel it is in their soleplate. On the Hydrastrike, the soleplate (or Armour Guide) enhances the foot’s ability to remain on the chassis of the outsole, which provided additional support. It is made of lightweight TPU and matched with the conical studs in the forefoot, is ideally suited for natural grass or artificial surfaces. There is continuous debate between whether conical studs or blades offer better traction – I found the Hydrastrike offers ideal feel for cutting and chopping and I felt confident at all times. In terms of the H2Oi K Leather upper, it does its job by ensuring the boot offers ideal touch even in damp conditions. The water really does slide off the surface!

Negatives
Sizing causes the first concern, and you do have to ensure you have the right size if you want to get the most out of them. The top of the heel starts out padded, but near the base of the boot it becomes more rigid and you don’t want you foot pushed against it! I like pretty much everything else about them.

Summary
I like what UA has done with this release and I can really see them matching the requirements of many players. The problem is getting players to splash out on a pair without knowing what they have to offer. From my experience, I can tell you that if you are tempted then they are worth the money. In particular, the H2Oi treatment is pretty extraordinary – the water actually rolls off the surface, something I tested in the rain. And when you factor in the comfort offered by the insole, they make for an appealing package. Design wise, UA might need to change the colorways up to attract a wider audience. I don’t fault them for their choices with this release, but they are not going to grasp a large audience using red stitching on black leather! In terms of players, I can most players on the field benefiting from what they have to offer – they are more of a hybrid than anything else.

In terms of price, the Hydrastrike retails for $124.99.

*boots supplied for review by Under Armour Soccer.

Over the past 2 years, something is quite apparent about Under Armour – they are a company that is not holding back with their releases! Making a statement with bold releases can be hit or miss, and be the difference between a company making it or folding. Under Armour are really starting to grasp a piece of the market with releases that push the boundaries. The Blur Pro features a very unique looking upper and a new stud configuration to produce a boot that offers excellent traction and acceleration. Everything about them screams “ideal boot for a winger”, but the real question is did they improve my already consistent game? (note the modesty!) For review, I have been testing a pair of size 9.5US in the Metallic Silver/Velocity/Black colorway.

Finding the Right Size
Right out of the box, I faced the size challenge! The Under Armour Blur definitely fits slightly tighter than your regular boot and sort of mimics a Puma fit. After testing out the initial size 9US in a jogging session, I quickly realized that I would need a half size up. You also won’t get much stretch out of the microfiber upper. Unless you normally fit small in your size, I advise going up a half size.

Breaking In
I will start by saying that when I tried jogging in the size 9US, I experienced a lot of discomfort in the heel, if this is something you notice you will need to go up a half size! Having resolved my sizing issue, I can confidently tell you that the Blur offers a smooth break in. The soleplate was slightly stiff around the midfoot starting out, but after a jogging session it easily loosened up. The inside of the boot is well padded and offers a snug fit that keeps your feet tight to the boot. One area where UA excel is in their use of a 4D foam insert – it offers fantastic cushion and really becomes apparent as you land off each stride. This is something UA transitioned effectively from their American football boots to real football boots (good opportunity to get that one in!)

Whats with the Design?
It is tough to skip over how crazy the upper of the Blur looks. In a sense, the look compliments their name! That Metallic Silver upper is a lightweight microfiber that has been perforated along the sides for extra ventilation and breathability. Basically, little air holes have been cut from the outer layer. In a weird way, they remind me of a cheese grater! There is also a very vibrant Capri/Fusion (exclusive to Eurosport) and a more modest Black/Bolt colorway available.

4D Foam Insert
This is something I pointed out in the breaking in section, but the insert used by UA is worth highlighting again! Taking it out of the boot, it is thicker than normal inserts and offers a very spongy and responsive feel. Personally, it is one aspect of the boot that I am glad UA included!

Stud Configuration
UA highly focus on the Directional stability provided by the soleplate. It is designed so that the foot remains on the chassis of the outsole during 360 degree movements in-game. This includes starting, stopping, cutting, escaping, and full-on attacking. I like UA’s approach with this, and how they emphasize the fact that there is more to a game than just running in a straight line. You can definitely tell there is something different about the blades by just looking at them. Each blade sits lower than you see on other releases and has been rounded.

Performance
Having got this far in the review, I am sure you are still wondering how they suited my game, right? Well, they are the perfect accompaniment to quick players who like to buzz around the field. The stud configuration serves its intended purpose on turf and natural surfaces. I do have some reservations when it comes to wet conditions, where traction is a little more hit and miss. But for the most part, I thoroughly enjoyed them in-game. Breaking down the very unusual upper, you get a very smooth and responsive microfiber that is very easy to clean – but when it comes to control, you do lose out compared to a leather upper. There is nothing about the region that allows the ball to really stick other than the responsive cushioning it offers. This is a pretty familiar scenario across synthetic uppers – but the upside is the durability factor, and you will get a substantial life from the Blur (pending you take care of them of course!)

Negatives
Overall, the Blur is 90% of the way to being a top performing boot. There are no major negatives to report, only minor issues that will vary according to different player experiences. I found the traction was slightly off in wet condition, the upper has no control feature that would allow the ball to stick and I am not a fan of how the perforation along the sides of the upper looks.

Summary
This is Under Armour’s fourth release/installment on the soccer market – and it is apparent that they are quickly adapting to the needs of the everyday player. At 8.6oz, this boot is light, offers solid comfort and a specifically designed stud configuration that attracts player attention. If you like the design and are on the market for a boot that offers something a little different, look no further! In terms of player position, I highly recommend them as an option for wingers and quick forwards, while playmakers might also want to give them a test run. I have no doubt they would also suit many other players on the field, but not so much if you are looking for something that has been engineered for a specific player. My last piece of advice is to re-read the sizing section, ensure you get it right and you will love these boots!

With an original retail price of $198, but you can get the Blur Pro for $144 at the moment.

(*boots supplied for review by Under Armour Soccer)

The latest set of boots to arrive come compliments of Under Armour, in the form of the all new Hydrastrike and Blur. The Hydrastrike comes in a White/Toxic/Black, while the Blur comes in a Metallic Silver/Velocity. The image above really doesn’t do them justice – click on it to get the full effect.

I can tell from first look that there has been a lot of crafting put in to these boots and they are built fantastically well. All though the Blur is a fantastically bright metallic silver color, I am more eager to test out the more classic and less complex looking Hydrastrike! Some other initial notes, the soleplate on both versions seems a little stiff, so it might take a while to break them in. And finally, in terms of size they both fit true to size.

More to come on both boots in the coming weeks….

Available From	Version	List Price
	Hydrastrike – White/Toxic/Black	$124.99
	Blur – Metallic Silver/Velocity	$161.99

*all prices are subject to change over time

Under Armour are back with another pretty classic looking design – the UA Hydrastrike. I have to admit that every time UA releases a new boot, I become more impressed, and I honestly think they have what it takes to really start gaining a piece of the market. As an everyday player, I am extremely eager to test out what this latest release has to offer. A sweet design with a decent price tag (these come in at $124.99) make them really appealing!

So, what do they have to offer. For starters, Under Armour use a K-leather upper that features a new moisture-shedding H20i technology. The concept behind this is to shed moisture and encourage a bone-dry touch on the ball. I have a feeling that this is intended more for wet fields and conditions than dry. I have always been a fan of the comfort insoles UA include, particularly evident while testing the UA Dominate, and on this version you get UA’s foot-morphing 4D foam. And finally, at 9.6oz these boots are built for control and players who like to get on the ball.

One aspect of this release that I admire UA for how they have stuck with a simplistic design and classic colorways. In  my opinion, it send out a message that they are releasing boots designed for performance, which is quiet the opposite of the recent UA Blur Capri colorway released. To kick things off, there is a Black/Ivory and a White/Toxic/Black.

Available From	Colorway	List Price
	Black/Ivory	$124.99
	White/Toxic/Black	$124.99

*all prices are subject to change over time

The recently released Under Armour Blur is now available in a more colorful colorway. By colorful, this Capri/Fusion/White is just down right bright and it sends a very bold statement from Under Armour. Having kept their initial Blur releases simple, UA is stepping it up by taking a risk with this release.

I have to admit, the mix of light-hearted colors used has some appeal! And although it won’t match everybody’s style, I can see a section of the market taking to this release. I personally won’t be pushing for a pair, but I most certainly won’t be criticizing players that opt in favor of the colorway. And by the way, how about these boots with the Seattle Sounders kit?

Under Armour are promoting the Blur Pro as more than just a speed boot. In fact, their emphasis is more on comfort and performance (cutting, turning, changing direction) than their creation of a lightweight option. UA have introduced Micro G cushioning and 4D foam to help the 8.60z boot form to the shape of your foot. The Blur Pro is available for $180, but if you are looking for a more economical alternative, UA have released a more economical version of the Blur that comes it at $90.

This past week, we were introduced to a new speed category addition – the Under Armour Blur Pro. Under Armour are relatively new to the soccer market, but they have made an impact in that short space of time. The Dominate and Create Pro found plenty of success and UA received much applause for their development. The Create was designed to be a lightweight option, but in my opinion this latest version is a much more appealing release.

At 8.6oz, the Blur is not the lightest boot you will find on the market. But that is not where UA are focusing their attention with this release. Instead, the emphasis is on comfort and performance, with the lightweight boot adding an extra bonus – something that is quiet refreshing! At times, I think we are actually brain washed into thinking the lighter the boot the better it performs. Of course, in the real world this is not the truth.

When it comes to comfort and improved stability, UA have introduced Micro G cushioning and 4D foam to help the boot form to the shape of your foot. A big piece of UA’s advertising focuses on the boots ability to help improve cutting, chopping and turning on a dime during a game.

With the initial rollout, UA have a Black/Bolt and a Metallic Silver colorway available. Both designs have their own opposite yet unique looks. I really like where UA have placed their logo. One of the challenges any footwear companies face is creating their own unique identity – the logo looks good and they have placed it in a new area. A very positive move that I hope UA stick with.

Price wise, you are looking at paying around $180 for a pair. I am looking to get my hands on a pair as we speak in order to test them out and see what they are all about – apparently, there was some sort of modification before release so they are currently a little tough to find. Stay tuned for more details.

It seems like a while since we have seen a new colorway release in the Under Armour Dominate range. This is an extremely unique looking boot and to be honest, I am not quiet sure what to make of the complet Black/White/Radiant Red colorway. I actually like how they look from the front and along the inside of the boot, but the white area on the outside looks slightly tacky.

The one thing I do like about the release is how the boot actually performs. It is a while since I tested the Dominate (in fact it was June 2009 – one of my first reviews!!), but one thing I clearly remember is that they were super comfortable and on field were great to wear. But if you are in the market to get a pair make sure you order down a size. The Dominate fits long and is designed for a wide foot! I wore a size 9US during testing, but really could have done with a size 8.5US.

Taken directly from the review, below is exactly what you need about the boot before buying.

• Very comfortable from the first wear, breaks in easy.
• Runs a little large, order a half size down.
• Shaped for a wider foot, like the Nike Total 90 range.
• I would recommend them for Strikers and Defenders.

Under Armour

In terms of design, they look slightly interesting! I’m am not really sure what to think of the V shaped black area that runs across the front of the boot. UA have placed their logo in several areas on the cleat, including under the lacing and around the heel area. UA have placed their patented MPZ (modular protection zone) technology in the tongue, designed to deliver very specific on-foot protection so you can tackle, shoot and attack with confidence. Safety and comfort are two areas where UA have placed a serious amount of research and I can tell you that it is an area that they excel.

I have not tested these, but I did test the original Under Armour Create, which I found were not for me and didn’t suit my style. It looks like UA have changed these up from the originals, especially in design and I would be interested in seeing what they have to offer. In terms of weight, they are 9.9oz, a pretty decent weight that has them bordering on the side of speed boots. One thing is for sure, Under Armour are working hard to create a space for themselves in the soccer market!