Under Armour Men's HOVR Sonic 4 Running Shoe Review: Ultra Indigo (500)/Halo Gray
The Under Armour Men's HOVR Sonic 4 Running Shoe in Ultra Indigo offers a blend of comfort, support, and innovative technology designed for runners seeking performance without sacrificing style. Crafted with a lightweight, breathable mesh upper, this shoe ensures maximum ventilation, keeping your feet cool even during intense workouts. The integrated embroidered overlay provides additional structure and support where it matters most.
With an EVA sockliner, you'll enjoy enhanced step-in comfort, while the one-piece EVA foam midsole delivers exceptional cushioning that adapts to your stride. Its anatomically placed flex grooves enhance flexibility, allowing you to move naturally and efficiently on various terrains. This shoe has an offset of 8 mm and weighs just 8.55 oz, making it ideal for those looking to achieve speed without feeling weighed down.
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Features
- CONNECTS TO UA MAPMYRUN: Tracks & analyzes your running metrics until March 31, 2025
- Responsive UA HOVR cushioning reduces impact and returns energy
- Lightweight engineered mesh upper for breathability
- Tongue attached to footbed by stretchable support wings for a snug fit
- One-piece heel construction with external TPU heel counter for added support
- Removable sockliner molds to foot for customized comfort
- Blown rubber under forefoot and high-abrasion rubber under heel for durability
Pros
- Excellent breathability for warm weather runs
- Good energy return thanks to responsive cushioning
- Comfortable fit with adjustable components
- Durable outsole materials for long-lasting wear
Cons
- Connectivity feature may not be appealing to all users
- Some may find the fit slightly narrow
- Price point may be higher than similar options
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Under Armour HOVR Sonic 4 | Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38 | Adidas Ultraboost 21 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8.55 oz | 9.2 oz | 10.0 oz |
| Cushioning | UA HOVR | Zoom Air | Boost |
| Breatheability | High | Medium | High |
| Flexibility | Yes | Moderate | Yes |
Detailed Review
The Under Armour Men's HOVR Sonic 4 Running Shoe stands out in multiple categories. In terms of comfort, the EVA sockliner combined with the EVA foam midsole creates a cloud-like feel underfoot. Users have reported feeling less fatigue during longer runs, praising the cushioned support provided by the strategic design.
When evaluating the performance aspects, the UA HOVR cushioning is notable for its energy return capabilities. This shoe helps propel you forward with every stride while effectively reducing impact forces, which can lead to better overall running efficiency.
In terms of breathability, the engineered mesh upper allows for excellent airflow, making these shoes suitable for warmer climates or intense workout sessions. Runners especially appreciate the snug fit that prevents slippage, thanks to the tongue's design.
Another standout feature is the built-in connectivity to UA MapMyRun, which appeals to tech-savvy athletes looking to track their progress and running metrics. However, some users may find this aspect unnecessary if they prefer to run without tracking.
On the downside, the shoe's fit might be too narrow for those with wider feet, and the price could deter budget-conscious shoppers. Nonetheless, for dedicated runners seeking a reliable and stylish companion, the Under Armour HOVR Sonic 4 proves to be a strong contender.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional cushioning and fit |
| Performance | 8.5/10 | Responsive and energy-efficient |
| Breathability | 9/10 | Highly breathable material |
| Durability | 8/10 | Solid construction with quality materials |
User Reviews
I purchased a 2nd pair of these before retiring the first pair because I like them so much. I was curious about how long the internal battery would last as I use the MapMyFitness app for every workout (and didn't want to "lose" my data"). I was concerned that the battery would fail before I needed a new pair. Well, that didn't happen. Aside from the soles, the shoes are in fine shape, still comfortable, and still able to connect to the app perfectly. Nevertheless, I've decided to retire the well-used first pair (photos attached) and break open my new pair for year 2. (Embarrassed I didn't realize the soles were in such bad shape!) After 620 miles, I feel I certainly got my money's worth!I am NO runner -- I'm a 60 year old who started walking to lose weight a little over a year ago. 112 pounds and a year later, I realize that these shoes provided WAY more motivation than an ordinary pair of walking shoes (or anything else). They held up very well after 12 months and 620 miles on a gravel trail.For around $100, a smart phone you probably already have, and a cheap $40 pair of Bluetooth ear buds, you can listen to music and have the "lady in your shoes" interrupt automatically to tick off every quarter mile, give you total time, distance, split times, and average time. VERY motivating to hear those stats every quarter mile. You can change it to half mile or every mile of you want.True fitness enthusiasts can benefit from these, too. You can track specific second-by-second details by downloading your "workouts" via the app. You upload the data from your phone after your walk/run -- then you can access it from a PC (or the phone) if you like. It tracks your route via GPS which you can zoom into and even see which side of the trail you walked on -- it's that accurate. And very simple to use once you get the hang of it.Overall, a GREAT pair of shoes first, a great pair of TECH shoes second (you'd never know they were Bluetooth enabled by looking at them), and a super motivating pair of FITNESS shoes third. You can even throw them in the washing machine after muddy days. No complaints whatsoever. I'll be buying a third pair if the 2nd pair performs like the first. And if you keep your eyes open, you can find certain sizes and colors on sale for as low as $75. Amazing deal @ around $100, but for $75, really hard to pass up given what you get. They are comfortable shoes first and foremost. All the rest is just gravy.
I first bought these shoes during black friday on a whim and had no idea they came with a running app that tracks your location and steps! I was SUPER impressed with that. Fast forward a few months of wear. They are SUPER comfortable!! But then, we had a tragedy hit our small community of Heathsville and a young lady name Ahrea'L was kidnapped and murdered while leaving work one night. Her phone was left on the property and their was no way to track her. My shoes immediately popped in my head. If only she had a pair on. If only i had told her about them the dozen times i seen her at the store...Now i own another pair, and anytime im traveling or going somewhere alone i make sure im wearing them. Each of my family members has the app on their phone.
The shoes are great and I wasn't certain on the size based on many reviews. I normally wear a 10 but had to order a 10H in this shoe to get a proper fit. Very stylish. Love the color
Listen to the reviews, if you need a sign here it is. They run small. Idk how people are saying they are true to size. Not true. I'm glad I listened, order a 9 im an 8.5. To be honest probably could’ve done the 9.5 for a looser fit. Still can’t wear a thick sock even with the larger size. So if you know you like thicker socks do the full size up. I may even buy another pair with it larger. Aside from that everything is great. It does what it says. Sync with the app perfectly. Love it.
Well.. it runs a half size too small and even then I had to run my laces out a bit more than average. But the material stretches with a few wears and now it fits great. I’m a 9W and got the 9.5 and ALMOST ordered a 10... but it actually fits snug and comfortable after some break in. It’s a light breezy “quick” performing shoe better suited for mild to hot weather and for mall walking than running a 3 mile marathon.
i’ve had these shoes since the first day i started working at under armour … which was almost 2 years ago. these shoes have been work almost everyday to work and they are so comfortable! they are durable and defiantly easy to stand in for such long shifts! i love them
Bought to start running in. Unfortunately, they were not flexible enough. Rigid material, pretty colors