The HOVR Apex 3 is a very impressive and versatile workout shoe that offers a nice balance of support and cushioning, making it more than suitable for nearly all types of exercise, from explosive functional training to heavy weight lifting. There is a nice and secure lockdown around the heel and midfoot, as well as ample space for the toes upfront. Because of the narrow toe bumper, a lot of foam upfront is exposed to abrasion. Thank you for signing up to T3. The whole idea behind Under Armours Hovr foam in the midsole is to produce a zero-gravity feel and energy return. Well, the first thing you should be aware of is that these trainers sport a construction that is best suited to more functional training, such as weight lifting, jumping and powerful, short bursts of movement. They are, without question, stable. This short routine uses variations on popular exercises to build muscle, strengthen your core, and keep your workouts fun. Light and breathable, they maintain a good level of cushioning on the outsole, not only making them highly comfortable, but well placed to handle high impact training moves such as box jumps. Theyre particularly good for HIIT workouts or other workout classes, and indoor gym workouts mixed in with short sessions of treadmill running. This means its not always easy to know which of Under Armours workout shoes are catered best to your needs. And many more people can subscribe to this statement. By Joanna Ebsworth But the standout is the White/High-Vis Yellow. The heel-to-toe drop is a big 8mm, which some users might find uncomfortable. The reworked upper material has a little bit more give in the forefoot, so there should be no worries about your toes getting cramped. A more durable option would be, You want to max out on weightlifting. This is exactly what our HOVR Apex 3 review will attempt to find out. The British sportswear brand has one of the most extensive collections of workout shoe offerings youve ever seen, from the HOVR range right through to the TriBase and Charged collections. The understated design and colours dont scream, Look at me!, which for many gym-goers is exactly what theyre looking for. Check out the full Nike Metcon 5 review. The Nike Metcon 6 is probably the best workout shoe out there. Lee Bell is a London-based journalist, copywriter, specializing in all things tech and lifestyle. A dependable pair of cross-training shoes thatll handle everything you throw at them during workouts, while looking great inside and outside of the gym. When youre standing on a mat lifting weights or doing squats, your feet feel well-planted and stable on the floor, and you can also feel the extra ankle support. During his competitive powerlifting years his PRs have him sitting in the top 2% of bench presses (395 lbs), top 3% of squats (485 lbs) and top 6% of deadlifts (515 lbs) for his weight and age. The upper toe box features a 3D mesh print with a durable Haptic pattern thats designed to resist abrasion, so your toes wont wear through from repeated floor scrapes. As a side hustle, Howard is also on an ongoing quest to find the countrys best cinnamon bun. Workout Check out, Refreshed upper design with a 3D print (similar to the one on, The shoe got a bit lighter (by approximately 0.4 oz / 11 g). Although theyre not designed for long runs, testing them on the treadmill I found them to be supportive and did the job fine over a 3km warm-up jog, even if they feel a little ungainly and clompy on the belt. Find out in our review of the Under Armour Hovr Apex 3. Being a well-cushioned and supportive trainer, it can also double for daily wear, based on the feedback. About the laces, the Apex 3 keeps missing the mark here as it did in the second version. England and Wales company registration number 2008885. EXTRA 30% OFF with code EXTRA30. Build strength and boost your endurance with this 16-move circuit you can do from anywhere, Workout Not that the others dont, its just the pops of bright red, blue and neon lime contrasting with the blinding white make a statement (admittedly, not for everyone). While its clear there are plenty of design pros, are there any cons? 3 Colors. In the Apex 3, this foam has reached a surprising thickness for cross-training shoes (which generally tend to be more grounded). Its also said to help propel you forward during exercise, powering those much-needed explosive movements. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Men's UA RUSH Seamless Legacy Short Sleeve. Under Armour's HOVR Apex 3 is a great all-round workout shoe that offers versatility and the performance needed by those who don't just stick to one type of workout. Contributing to the surefootedness is the shoes amazing grip which has been described as slip-proof. So how does the all-new Apex 3 compare with its previous iteration? Colour-wise, I tested the Concrete/Black colourway which is relatively understated with pops of orange to offset the pavement vibes and add a bit of life, and theres also a monochrome Black/Halo Grey version. While design is important, looks are everything - especially when it comes to workout shoes. Reasons to buy. I ran on the JTX SPRINT-3 compact folding treadmill and it's an excellent option for petite runners on a budget, Reebok Nano X2 review Workout shoes with added comfort and stability, Nike Metcon 7 review The best workout shoes for cross-training and beyond, NordicTrack Utility Workout Bench review: a best-in-class adjustable weight bench for strength training, Boxbell 3-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbell review: Innovative space-saving weights for home gyms, Discover the gadgets you never knew you needed, In-depth reviews and new tech explanations. The Under Armour HOVR Apex 3 gym shoes were launched in July 2021 with an RRP of 120 / $140 in four different colour options: Black and Halo Gray, Black and Radar Blue, White and High-Vis Yellow, and Black and Concrete. The Apex 3 is 3.1 oz (88 g) heavier than cross-trainers on average. Last updated 30 June 22, The Metcon 7 offers more stability, more flexibility and more foam Nike has done it again, The NordicTrack Utility Workout Bench is an outstanding piece of gym equipment, You only need a pair of Boxbell 3-in-1 Adjustable Dumbbells to have a full home gym setup (kind of), By Matt Kollat The Tribase sole is flat with minimal grip, making it perfect for lifting and jumping. Overall, the HOVR Apex 3 is a great multi-disciplinary gym shoe that is way more comfortable than it looks. The sole features Under Armours Tribase technology, which is designed to increase stability by providing a fixed triangular tripod base, with flexibility outside these areas, in particular, two grooves towards the front to aid flexing of the forefoot. Using the same tech found in the brands race shoes, the Cloud X workout shoes by On are geared more towards general training and can handle everything from weightlifting and HIIT to CrossFit and short sprints. The other great thing is that they still have that super lightweight construction that On is known for, thanks to a knit-weave upper. And since its no longer brand new, you should be able to pick up a pair online for cheaper than the latest generation, the Metcon 7. This is thanks to a tight weave fabric for durability, overlaid with a rigid 3D print on the side of the ankle. Visit our corporate site, Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street New York, NY 10036, We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices, Under Armour HOVR Apex 3: Price Comparison. The tongue provides a surprising amount of support when leaning forward from the ankles, for example when performing squats. They feel stable, supportive and durable while remaining flexible and providing freedom of movement, making them particularly ideal for HIIT workouts. At 340g for the mens, they weigh more than some of the more minimalist cross-training shoes out there, but theyre not the heaviest the mens Nike Metcon 7, for example, weighs in heavier at 354g. Advanced athletes call the UA HOVR Apex 3 decent when youre not going super heavy. One of them mentions going up to 400 lbs with no glaring issues with compression. Other comments mention how well-planted the feet feel when lifting in the shoe or praise its wide and well-structured base. Men's UA RUSH SmartForm Short Sleeve. He is also a qualified personal trainer. The HOVR Apex 3 shoes tout a lightweight mesh upper that is sturdy yet still flexible enough to move with your foot to offer you the support needed throughout a wide range of movement. Fit&Well Verdict. You will receive a verification email shortly. There was a problem. As ever, they also do the business aesthetics-wise off the gym mats, too. What that does mean, though, is that the Apex 3 are brilliant when it comes to all-round, HIIT-style training as they offer up some great bounce back energy and supportive cushioning. It can handle various exercises but is especially effective for high-intensity interval training. +. Google gets Summer ready with new additions, 16 weights in one dumbbell, BrainGain's 40kg home weight lets you change from 2.5kg to 40kg with a twist of the handle, By Matt Kollat With added stability and handy lace lockers that stop that age-old problem of your laces coming loose mid-workout, the stalwarts of Nikes cross training range wont let you down. Jumps do feel explosive. Great level of support and cushioning. The energy return provides a definite kick which, if youre taking part in a tough HIIT session and you cant face more burpees, helps get you through the final set. Subscribe in print, digital, or a great-value bundle. (Image credit: Howard Calvert) T3 Verdict. However, its during activities such as weight lifting that these shoes come into their own. They offer some very stable support in the ankle, right where you need it, thanks to the TriBase outsole - a design feature that has been perfectly developed to bring a nice, flat base to exercises such as weighted squats and deadlifts. However, its the same drop as the previous model, the Under Armour Hovr Apex 2, so if you were comfortable in those, youll be fine in these. According to an avid Crossfitter, it doesnt feel like a burden for longer sessions., Narrow toe bumper doesnt cover up the foam enough, Laces get ruined by the plastic sidewalls. The Under Armour HOVR Apex 3 is a versatile workout shoe providing support and comfort no matter what you like to do. But that added weight on the Apex 3 comes into its own in terms of support and bounce (plus its lighter than UAs previous Apex 2 model). Last updated 4 April 22, T3 is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Finally, theres the Under Armour Tribase Reign 2, T3 Platinum Award winners no less, rated highly by us due to the fact that the shoes perform well in whatever type of workout you do. Under Armour HOVR Apex 3 review: From its striking visual appearance to impressive gym performance, the HOVR Apex 3 is a reliable all-arounder. It can handle various exercises but is especially effective for high-intensity interval training. The HOVR Apex 3 is one of the most solid training shoes from Under Armour. The Under Armour Hovr Apex 3 cross training shoes are available now at a retail price of 120/$140. I rode the compact Viavito Onyx Folding Exercise Bike and it's more challenging than it looks! Most of the credit for it goes to the renowned TriBase sole design. Sizewise, they were spacious enough in the toebox to result in no rubbing or blisters, with room for my toes to move without feeling too spacious. Its still bigger and more cushioned than your average workout kicks but, thankfully, no longer looks like a skate shoe as it did in the first iteration. Heres how it works. UAs Hovr technology is now built into most of the companys workout shoes (and running shoes) due to its boost in energy return and the ability to effectively repel impacts. But if youre looking for a trainer that can give you the support you need across most types of workouts, youre looking at the brands HOVR Apex range, consistently one of the best cross training shoes. Today's best Under Armour HOVR Apex 3 deals, We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices, 10 minutes, a set of dumbbells, and five moves to burn fat and build full-body muscle, Build muscle all over in just 20 minutes without weights with this full-body workout, Build stronger legs and improve your posture with this five-move lower body dumbbell workout. The brand is building a reputation for engineering comfortable trainers that feel secure and stable while remaining breathable while you build up a sweat, whether in the gym or pounding the pavements. He has an insatiable appetite for travel, Dharma yoga, and the odd outdoor challenge. Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. +. These shoes are hard to fault! They just wont give you the flexibility you need. This quick session works your core, boosts your performance, and builds muscle all over when you're short on time, Workout The new version of the Inov8 F-Lite 260 V2 cross training shoes are endorsed by CrossFit athlete Scott Panchik he even tested them and provided feedback and insights into the design of the shoe, requesting protection around the toebox and midfoot, moving the cage forwards for improved comfort and designing a new colourway with blue to pop out from the white. Who should buy the Under Armour HOVR Apex 3, You want something more budget-friendly. My first thought on seeing the Apex 3 is that Ive somehow travelled back in time to the (future) Hill Valley, 21 October 2015 and Im about to strap on a pair of Marty McFlys Nike Mag shoes. It will suit those who are willing to pay the price for the highest-quality materials. Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Looking like a hybrid of a running and basketball shoe, the style and flamboyant color palettes of this trainer makes you stand out at the gym and on the street. As well as T3, he's written for a plethora of websites, newspapers and magazines including Runners World, Cycling Weekly, Trail Running, Womens Running, ShortList, Fit&Well, Red Bulletin and Wareable. Weight could be an issue for some despite the fact that they are lighter than the Apex 2, and perhaps the higher price might put some off (although you can find discounted models online), but they also double up well as a casual pair of trainers outside of the gym as well as making you feel like youve just walked off the set of Back To The Future II. But the question is: do these features translate well in terms of real-life experience? Published 18 October 22. As a high-end trainer, it uses Under Armours most advanced technologies that create a sturdy and supportive base. A dependable pair of cross-training shoes that'll handle everything . From its striking visual appearance to impressive gym performance, the HOVR Apex 3 is a reliable all-arounder. Why you can trust T3 No issues have been reported regarding the sizing of the Apex 3. Nick combines 10+ years of experience in the health and fitness industry and a background in the sciences in his role as the Fitness Research Director. Heres how it works. Its a pricey shoe, compared to both Under Armour trainers and premium-class cross-trainers overall. This comfort and support might come at the price of a busy and somewhat bulky design, but this can easily be overlooked - especially since theyre exceptional at eliminating impact in exercises such as jumps and quick sprints. The following review of the Under Armour Hovr Apex 3 cross-training shoes looks at how effective they are while doing HIIT sessions, lifting weights and running. This is only subtle, mind and if youve got an average width foot, youre likely to find it fits perfectly well for most activities. Under Armour has built a reputation for the quality of its cross-training shoes, and here at T3 we are fans, with the Under Armour TriBase Reign 3 gaining five stars, and the previous version of the shoes, the Under Armour HOVR Apex 2, was awarded four stars. Want to know more? Check out the full Cloud X review. Bath Android upgrade adds new features and emojis for millions of users, Every Harry Potter movie ranked from best to worst, BrainGain 40KG Octagon Adjustable Dumbbell review Brute force, Lululemon Chargefeel review: versatile workout shoes for women. The HOVR is used in most workout trainers and running shoes from Under Armour, so it has gained a very positive reputation for its responsiveness. It certainly wont disappoint. You can expect a fusion of a stable platform, generous cushioning, flexibility, and supportive upper that makes the Apex 3 ideal for HIIT. Under Armours Hovr Apex 3 provides plenty of energy return while looking sharp. Along the way, collaborating with industry leaders like Michael Yessis, Mark Rippetoe, Carlo Buzzichelli, Dave Tate, Ray Williams, and Joel Seedman. Translating it to normal-people speak, here are the benefits that it gives, according to the reviewers: When it comes to running, athletes find it to be OKAY. Consider the, You want something light. And is it a case of style over substance? When it comes to sizing, the HOVR Apex 3 possesses a somewhat wider fit than your average trainer, especially through the forefoot. Last updated 4 August 22, The JTX Sprint-3 is an ideal workout companion for those who want a no-frills solid treadmill for a quality workout, The Reebok Nano X2 forays further into the world of functional fitness trainers with great success, By Matt Kollat The brand really nailed this approach to versatility which helps you feel stable and supported without losing the flex needed for the freedom of movement. The 3D-printed upper is breathable and roomy, while the raised carbon rubber sole material will offer some additional grip on rope climbs. You may need to get a replacement pair of laces eventually. $45.97 - $65.00. Ive not worn the trainers long enough to experience any issues with the Apex 3s, but I can see how it could potentially become a problem over the long term and require replacement laces at a later date. See, You exercise outdoors or do exercises with lots of toe dragging. 84% say it's true to size. And thats not counting its dedicated running shoe lineup and older, discounted lines. As for the ankle area, this boasts a quilted padding that hugs the joint to give a perfectly snug fit during use. If youre on the lookout for the best workout shoes, you shouldnt be surprised to stumble upon Under Armour. Stylish and accessible design. Under Armours HOVR Apex 3 is a great all-round workout shoe that offers versatility and the performance needed by those who dont just stick to one type of workout. As one reviewer puts it, its almost matching Hoka with the 32-mm heel height and an 8-mm heel-to-toe drop. Lee went freelance in 2016 to broaden his expertise, moving into news, reviews and feature writing for a host of national print and online lifestyle titles such as GQ, Forbes, Esquire, Mens Health, Wired, The Metro, and The Mirror. All rights reserved. The newest in this line is the Apex 3, and like both of its predecessors, boasts some Responsive cushioning, which serves to reduce impact and return energy. Experts have mentioned two key points of concern: Regarding the first issue, there is just too much exposed midsole around the toes that get easily scuffed when you drag your foot or exercise on concrete. These look sharp and on-point and would work well outside of the gym, too. The rubber in the mid-sole and heel is perhaps a little too thick and stiff under foot for repetitive activities such as long-distance running. So, if you want to make your investment go the distance, the reviewers recommend keeping it away from concrete and limit to gym use only. So how does the HOVR Apex shoe fare performance-wise? These are some of the potential reasons why the UA Apex 3 may not be right for you: The 3rd iteration improved upon the already solid Apex 2, without messing up anything that worked well. At the same time, it remains flexible enough to bend at the toes through exercises like press-ups and mountain climbers. Visit our corporate site. Make no mistake, these are the opposite of minimal trainers. Saying that, those with more narrow feet might be troubled by a loose feeling during exercises which require quick and agile movement. Here are the key updates: Both expert reviewers and regular gym-goers agree that this Under Armour trainer offers a great balance of stability for lifting as well as responsive cushioning and flex for explosive exercises. All the best features, news, tips and great deals to help you live a better life through technology. A problem thats been reported in previous models of the Apex is that the rubber eyelets in the TPU that the laces pass through ends up fraying the laces. On first look, you cant miss the chunky, oversized midsoles, almost matching Hoka One One midsole size, with a rubber TPU strap coming up over the ankles to provide extra stability when twisting the ankle. 7 Colors. Under Armour's Hovr Apex 3 provides plenty of energy return while looking sharp. These include the lightweight mesh upper, which replaced the rubber 3D print in the Apex 2 to save weight and aid flexibility. With Under Armours bulky Tribase tech on the outsole, theyre not the worlds most sleek training shoes, so they might not be the kicks for you if you prefer minimal designs. The list is endless! They look similar to the Apex 2s, as youd expect, but have a few new features. When not running ultramarathons he's taking on MTB singletrack trails and hiking all around the world. The Under Armour Hovr Apex 3 can be purchased directly from Under Armour UK, Under Armour US and certain third-party retailers including SportsShoes.com and Wiggle. If youre after a versatile pair of all-around cross-training shoes, the Apex 3s will have you covered. His work has been featured on Bodybuilding.com, LiveStrong, Healthline, WebMD, WashingtonPost, and many more. The UA HOVR Apex 3 received plenty of positive feedback for its looks. For comparison, the average heel height for cross-training shoes is 20 mm and the average drop is 6 mm. Find out more about how we test. Published 4 February 23, The Lululemon Chargefeel is a stylish shoe that will let you run, jump, lift, skip, kick, sprint and lunge your way to fitness, By Joanna Ebsworth This is balanced out nicely by a great level of cushioning and bounce-back in the sole. Good all-rounder. This lightweight and collapsible exercise bike is easy to use but challenging to ride perfect for burning fat at home! 2 Colors. Its been given some additional stability in the heel over its predecessors, assisting with exercises such as squats, deadlifts, box jumps and kettlebell exercises which require a solid base. I wouldnt want to run much further than that in them, though. They are available to purchase now from selected retailers and the Under Armour website. +. Testers had no issues with rubbing or blisters, enjoying the padded collar and tongue of the shoe. This lack of grip doesnt make it that suitable for running outside though, especially in wet or icy conditions. This, Under Armour says, for enhanced protection and durability against the more extreme activities youd find yourself doing in CrossFit, such as rope climbs, and not for stability or support like youd expect. The tongue is also unmissable, designed to rise high for added support and cushioning. As a high-end trainer, it uses Under Armour's most advanced technologies that create a sturdy and supportive base. Then, a lightweight mesh upper with 3D print promises added protection and long-lasting durability. If youre looking for super-light shoes for your workout sessions, these arent the ones for you. Men's UA RUSH SmartForm Long Shorts. See size guide, We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us. Overall, the HOVR Apex 3 has some really great mechanics built in to deliver a great solid base of support across the whole foot. Want to know more? When not seeking out new running and cycling trails, Howard writes about all things health and fitness. And lets talk about the proprietary Hovr foam. If were being picky, wed have to say that the HOVR Apex 3 is a little on the busy side. Theres a definite Back To The Future II vibe about the Apex 3 aesthetics, bar the extra-high-hi-tops and the giant Swoosh, obviously. He started his journalism career a decade ago as a reporter covering the latest gadgets and innovations at tech tabloid The Inquirer. Fit&Well is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. In practice, you wont be floating around like William Shatner on Blue Origins New Shepard, but the idea is to give you more explosive bounce for when your workout demands jumps or burpees. Please refresh the page and try again. $70.00. This has been redesigned to be more slimline. Avid Crossfitters say that its not your best bet for that. The most obvious difference when compared to its predecessors is the HOVR Apex 3s tongue. The Apex 3 takes you on shorter distances (less than 2 miles) without too much discomfort. Since its not a dedicated running shoe, its best to limit the shoes use to warm-up jogs and light treadmill runs. Dont discount the Nike Metcon 7, too. BA1 1UA. It's well worth checking our Under Armour discount codes to snap up a great deal. Compare the popularity of another shoe to Under Armour HOVR Apex 3: We earn affiliate commissions at no extra cost to you when you buy through us. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. In addition to this, they also make the Apex 3 shoes look a little more unique, especially compared to run-of-the-mill designs from rivals such as the Reebok Nano series.