Today, Under Armour’s new HOVR cushioning system is making its lifestyle debut in the HOVR SLK, which is officially available from the brand August 1.
Last November, WearTesters was invited to The Running Event in Austin, Texas. This is a huge event and showcase for all running brands to highlight and preview new technology. One brand in particular had huge news to unveil — it was Under Armour and the HOVR cushioning.
From the first try-on, it was obvious UA had something here — a cushioning system that took us back to the memories of Micro G. The first two models, the HOVR Phantom and the HOVR Sonic, were both great performers; one was a softer, recovery workout shoe (Phantom) and the other a stiff, fast, speed runner (Sonic).
Now, we have the newest shoe: the HOVR SLK. While some sites have called this a running shoe (incorrectly, I might add — even we were tricked by Zappos’ description of the shoe), the SLK is simply a casual shoe. Its comfortable with a knit upper, simple looks, great comfort and cushioning, and a deconstructed feel and fit that whispers “relax.”
Released just in time for the dog days of summer, the HOVR SLK is perfect for doing…nothing. I have worn mine to the pool, the beach, the office, and everywhere in between. The upper is a one-piece construction that has a slightly stretchy area under the laces for ease of entry. The material is a non-stretch knit that has a foam backing to take away any rough spots, and it works. The lacing really isn’t needed but does break up the upper appearance to add a little contrast.
The HOVR here is soft, softer than the Phantom, but it is also thinner. It’s still crazy comfy, just feels more like a casual shoe now. The pillowy zone-cushioned sockliner from the Phantom makes an appearance in the heel of the shoe, adding to the step-in comfort, although it isn’t really needed.
Overall, this is a great option for a lifestyle shoe that doesn’t feel like a lifestyle shoe. Yes, we all love retros when done right, but how many of them are comfortable for all-day wear? Exactly. The Under Armour HOVR SLK is perfect for going from the casual Friday to the beach, house, ball game, bar — wherever you unwind. It is, simply, a shoe built for summer life.
The Under Armour HOVR SLK is available now for $100 at underarmour.com in several colorways for men and women.
Images via Bryan Hinkle
Couldn’t find the Sonics locally in my size in time for my trip, these look like they would’ve been a better option had they released sooner.