Details
Brand
Under Armour
Heel To Toe Drop
7mm
Breathability
7.5/10
Latest Version
Yes
Terrain
Trail
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• Neutral trail hiking/running shoe, or low cut boot• Unique outsole rubber compound and 4mm lugs provide an impressive grip on all terrains• Outsole rated high for durability, unlike upper made of mesh layer• Gore-Tex waterproofing membrane provides protection• Charged Cushioning in the sole is impressively responsive and shock-absorbent• Runs true to size, but quite narrow
Upper
While many are pleased with the fit of the upper with its lightweight, moulded AnaFoam shell and most reviews note all the other benefits of the Verge Low GTX, the largest bone of contention seems to be the durability of the upper. The external layer of the upper is comprised of a lightweight, breathable, stylish diamond-shaped mesh fabric. This fabric is covered in welded overlays that help lock the foot in place. Beneath this is the Gore-Tex waterproof layer that offers impressive moisture control for both wet conditions and sweat. However, quite a few wearers report that they developed holes and tears negating any intended waterproof effects. The upper’s heel also benefits from anafoam cushioning and a moulded collar to settle the foot in for security of foot. The forefoot benefits from a TPU toe cap that aims to prevent debris from striking the foot in more difficult terrains. Overall, aside from the discomfort mentioned by a few wearers of the eyelets and tongue attachment, when this upper is intact, it is comfortable and breathable.
Midsole
The midsole of the Verge Low GTX implements some proprietary Under Armour technologies for impressive cushioning, stability, and responsiveness that work together to form the backbone of a comfortable, reliable, and confident ride. The TPU (thermoplastic urethane) shank aims to improve traction and stability for confidence on varying trail surfaces and in different conditions. While it reduces flexibility and adds heft to the shoe, it provides better heel-to-toe movement and torsional stability. The bulk of the well-managed cushioning is courtesy of a large double layered EVA foam section and a heel and forefoot using dynamic Charged Cushioning. A good part of the shoe’s responsiveness is due to this new charged cushioning that responds to stress by absorbing shock and creating a return of energy. On the protection front, Under Armour utilizes an ESS rock plate that is tucked between the midsole and outsole. It provides added protection on rocky and rooted trails where one may encounter sharp surfaces.
Outsole
Under Armour’s commitment to creating a solid trail shoe is evident when one takes into account all the innovations it pulled into play in the Verge Low GTX. The outsole is covered in a rubber compound created from Michelin’s own tire technology. Dubbed the Wild Gripper, it sports multidirectional 4mm lugs as well that offer superior traction and grip. Most reviewers were very pleased with the sole unit of the shoe claiming that it gave them the freedom to explore and the confidence to adventure regardless of terrain and weather.
Breathability
The upper of the Verge Low GTX incorporates a layer of breathable mesh fabric locked down with welded overlays that encapsulates a second layer of Gore-Tex waterproofing membrane. Working in tandem, they aim to create a cool, dry environment for the feet. While some reviews indicate that the outer layer is prone to tears making the waterproofing technology moot, many are still pleased by the combination of these features and love how their feet stay feeling fresh and comfortable as they explore.
Comfort
Some of the feedback for the Verge Low GTX indicate that sizing for it is a concern. The GTX layer has traditionally meant sizing up but not so in this shoe. Actually, many reviews indicated that this shoe ran true to size and possibly even slightly large… but that is decidedly narrow. The tightness created discomfort for some. In addition, the way in which the shoelace eyelets and the tongue are attached to the upper reportedly dug into feet and created unnecessary bulk and discomfort, even with socks. Aside from fit, most feel this shoe is tremendously comfortable providing security in the heel, allowing for cool, dry feet, and providing a cushioned base for the whole foot.
Style
Most reviewers believe that Under Armour created an attractive shoe/boot in the Verge Low GTX. With its diamond weave pattern on the mesh, the vertically placed overlays, the simple company logo on the side and the non-obtrusive toe cap, it walks… or hikes… the line between rugged and stylish with ease. The men’s shoes are available in some tasteful color combinations such as Black/Stealth Gray/Elemental, Steel/Deep Sea, Black/Charcoal/White, Black/Stealth Gray/Velocity, Red/Stealth, Black. Meanwhile, women’s shoe colors are Graphite/Black/White, Black/Fury/Cloud Gray, and Blue Knight/Blue Jet.
Durability
The durability of the Verge Low GTX is the largest concern among reviewers. Receiving some negative feedback, more than a handful of wearers were disappointed that the upper’s mesh fabric tore so quickly and easily, even without much wear at all. However, many were pleased with this shoe and the comfort its upper provided. The sole’s durability was overwhelmingly positively received. Incorporating EVA foam, charged cushioning, and an outsole of Michelin-inspired Wild Gripper rubber compound, this shoe pleased many. The upper’s tearing issues notwithstanding, this shoe was built to go the distance.
Protection
Under Armour went to great lengths to provide superior protection in their Verge Low GTX. With features like the TPU toe cap, ESS rock plate, a Gore-Tex upper, and charged cushioning technology, this shoe seems to have it all. The toe cap and the rock plate, nestled in between the midsole and outsole, help prevent injury or pain at the toe and bottom of the foot when moving over pointed or sharp edges. The GTX membrane in the upper repels water keeping the foot dry and free from irritation. The charged cushioning provides impressive shock absorption while creating an energy return of sorts helping to reduce the chance of injury or pain and decreasing leg fatigue.
Responsiveness
With the Verge Low GTX’s Charged Cushioning technology, Under Armour created a well cushioned and yet adaptively responsive experience. The company’s slogan for this technology is “Energy given, Power returned.”…and most reviewers seem inclined to agree with this. This energy return allows for more powerful step-offs and reduces strain on the legs and feet. Wearers feel in touch with their surroundings and can better enjoy an adventure in the great outdoors.
Support
The Verge Low GTX, with all its cushioning advances and attention to detail, is a supportive shoe for outdoor adventurers. The AnaFoam cushioning layer sitting between the upper and midsole begins the layering process for a cushy underfoot feel. The midsole comprised of EVA foam and Under Armour’s proprietary Charged cushioning provide additional responsive and durable reinforcement. The upper of the shoe with its welded overlays helps lock the foot in place as well.
Terrain
The Verge Low GTX seems built to be a “go anywhere” shoe. It can handle the ruggedness of technical trails, bouldering expeditions, and water crossings between. With the outsole and 4mm multidirectional lugs composed of Wild Gripper rubber (used in Michelin’s tire production), most feel confident going off the beaten path. In addition to terrain, this shoe seems to handle well in most conditions too. Its sticky sole stood the test of many elements including snow, rain, and ice.
Price
Retailing in the higher price range, this shoe still pleases many but does disappoint from a durability standpoint. This did not deter most initially, however, but even well after its release, it still hovers in the more costly range.
Drop
There was little mention of a drop in customer reviews, though it comes in at 7mm which seems to be a moderate height for a running shoe and a comfortable range for hikers.
Stability
The Under Armour Verge Low GTX is a neutral hiking/running shoe/boot. It does not have any features designed to correct pronation but it does provide stability to the wearer. With its Thermoplastic Urethane Shank running through the sole unit, many feel they benefit from the torsional stability as it creates a smoother running gait transition. The AnaFoam layer that sits below the upper and above the midsole provides a great base for the foot while all the responsive cushioning below gives ample support for most.
Flexibility
With all the cushioning provided, responsiveness is not necessarily a given. Though from reviews, many feel that, for any flexibility the Verge Low GTX loses from its TPU stability shank, it gains more from its three flex grooves in the sole. Two of these are near the toes and the third is near the heel. This flexibility allows runners and hikers alike confidence in each next step regardless of terrain and condition.
Traction
This shoe had overwhelmingly positive feedback on its traction and grip. Sticking to slippery surfaces did not seem to phase the shoe at all. With its substantial lugs and secure fit on the foot, many felt confident navigating tricky terrain, some saying that while Under Armour’s upper was less than stellar, it had truly gotten this aspect of the shoe spot on.
Bottom Line
Under Armour came to the competition with almost every aspect covered. Its Verge Low GTX has a plethora of quality, innovative technologies and it’s clear to many that this shoe could be a top contender. If one overlooks the upper’s construction issues and the narrowness of fit that precludes some from wearing it, Under Armour hit it out of the park with the Verge Low GTX. However, these are broad issues that lend themselves to a less than ideal experience. If Under Armour heeds the words of its customers and comes back with improvements in these areas, its next incarnation of the shoe will be an astounding success worth waiting for.
