Under Armour has followed up the release of their third-generation Spieth shoe by introducing the HOVR Drive, aimed at ultimate comfort over 18 holes whilst retaining the energy return created during the golf swing to maximise power.
Whilst soft, underfoot cushioning is welcome whilst out walking the course, Under Armour believe that this can impede power generation, and so they have come up with new HOVR cushioning which is set to provide golfers with the best of both worlds.
Mike Forsey, Director of Global Golf Footwear at Under Armour, said:
With most other cushioning platforms, you have to choose softness or responsiveness. Not so with the HOVR Drive. UA HOVR cushioning technology ensures total underfoot comfort and superior energy return.
Under Armour has focused development of the shoe on three key themes:
Total Comfort
We've all been there. Starting off your round before realising that the shoes you're wearing are rubbing you or just generally uncomfortable, and knowing that you've got another four hours of misery until you can get them off your feet again. Under Armour seek to avoid that with the full length HOVR cushioning which runs from the heel to the forefoot.
Paired with a lightweight midsole and outsole, and an integrated lacing system, UA say your feet will feel as good on the 18th as the did on the first tee.
Energy Return
The shoes feature Under Armour's brand new HOVR cushioning. It provides a soft underfoot feeling whilst still delivering energy return after every shot. This is based upon golf swing mechanics proving that the swing starts from the ground up, and allows ground reaction forces to be harnessed to produce responsive power.
Traction
To ensure that these shoes actually perform well in addition to their comfort, RST 2.0 rotational resistance spikes sit in the sole of the HOVR Drive to give great traction during the swing, especially when the foot pivots and turns.
The Softspike Silver Tornado spikes are designed to be kind to greens (and greenkeepers!) and provide horizontal traction so you can walk a full 18 holes without any aches or pains.
The Under Armour HOVR Drive are available from 1st March at £140.
Do you often find that you aren't getting enough feel from your golf shoes? At Golfalot HQ we've found that cushioning in modern golf shoes can sometimes be so thick, it feels like you're too far from the ground. On the other hand, without the thick cushioning, comfort can be an issue.
With the claims Under Armour make here, who knows, the HOVR Drive could be the answer we've been waiting for.