SHOE TEST: Under Armour Horizon RTT

Under Armour have launched their first trail-running shoe in South Africa – just in time for summer.


Ryan Scott |

A Looker

The Horizon RTT is one of the best-looking trail-running shoes we’ve ever tested, and it doesn’t look like the shoes we’re used to. It looks similar to one of the golf shoes in the Under Armour stable, which sheds light on a growing trend among big brands: making use of technology across their product offerings.

Three extras

The shoe provides support in three additional ways: a foam puck underneath the heel offers an extra-plush landing; a large, cushioned tongue gently locks the foot down; and lastly, extra padding in the collar provides more than enough cushioning around the ankle.

All lugged up

Aggressive 5.5mm lugs always look good. Case in point: Salomon’s Speedcross is the brand’s top seller in South Africa. That’s not based on how the shoe performs; it’s because these over-the-top, gnarly lugs are an alluring honey pot. The outsole of the Horizon is slightly less intense than that of the Speedcross, but it’s still aggressive. It covers the full footprint of the shoe, which results in great grip and effective braking, and is ideal for those who need sturdy support. A serviceable forefoot rock plate protects the foot and offers even more support.

Thick-skinned

The shoe features a thick ripstop PU textile upper and welded overlays, and it looks heavy-duty enough to withstand the rigours of the trail – but we’ve only been running in the shoe for two months, and therefore have no long-term intel. To counteract the sturdy upper, the shoe is perforated throughout with triangular holes. This increases both the breathability and the suppleness of the upper.

EVA throughout

To create a smooth ride, midsoles are often made of a combination of foams; but Under Armour have used only EVA. Testers agreed the ride is smooth, and that the EVA foam is comfortable – which is what Under Armour intended when they made the midsole an unbroken layer. The rock plate wasn’t noticeable in the footfall, which is exactly how you want this protective insert to behave.

PRICE: R1 899
WEIGHT: 300 grams
Availability: 021 201 1349 or https://www.underarmour.com/en-za/.

READ MORE ON: gear under armour Under Armour Horizon RTT

Copyright © 2024 Hearst
..