Under Armour HOVR Machina 3

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Under Armour HOVR Machina 3: Review

β€œA versatile running shoe that combines comfort and technology.”

Overview


The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is a running shoe that combines innovative technology with a focus on performance for daily running. This model is part of the esteemed Under Armour HOVR Machina family and is designed to cater to runners who value a balance between cushioning, flexibility, and dynamism.

Key Features:

  • HOVR Technology: Provides a 'zero gravity feel' to maintain energy return that helps eliminate impact.
  • Energy Web Compression Mesh: Encases the HOVR foam to give back the energy you put in.
  • Pebax Propulsion Plate: Adds spring to each step, enhancing forward motion.
  • Storm Technology: Offers a water-repellent finish for all-weather running.

The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is an ideal choice for runners with a neutral pronation who prioritize responsive cushioning and energy return for their road runs. Its Storm Technology also makes it suitable for wet conditions, ensuring that runners can maintain their training regardless of the weather.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 70%. This puts it in the lowest rated 10% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just above the median price of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3


The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 has been received with mixed reactions. While it boasts superior waterproofing and improved heel support, its weight has been a point of contention for some runners. The shoe's HOVR technology and Energy Web system provide a comfortable and responsive ride, suitable for a variety of paces and distances. The addition of Storm Technology in the upper makes it a strong candidate for wet weather running, offering both water repellency and breathability. However, some runners feel that the shoe's weight hinders its performance, particularly during faster runs. Despite this, the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 remains a solid choice for those seeking a reliable daily trainer with the added benefit of connectivity to the UA MapMyRun app. Overall, the shoe is a commendable option for neutral runners looking for a cushioned and stable ride, though it may not be the best choice for speed-focused workouts.

Updates to Under Armour HOVR Machina 3


The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 maintains the core features of its predecessors, such as the HOVR cushioning and the 8mm drop, but introduces Storm Technology for water repellency. Compared to the Under Armour HOVR Machina 2, the Machina 3 offers a more breathable and supportive upper, making it a noteworthy update in the HOVR Machina line.

Comparable Shoes


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Runners looking for a daily trainer might also consider the Adidas Solar Glide 5 alongside the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3. The Solar Glide 5 provides a similar level of cushioning and support, but the HOVR Machina 3 stands out with its MapMyRun connectivity and superior water-repellent capabilities.

7 Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Responsive HOVR cushioning technology for energy return
Storm Technology upper for water repellency and breathability
Reflective elements for increased visibility in low-light conditions
MapMyRun connectivity for tracking and improving running metrics

3 Cons

Heavier weight may not be ideal for speed-focused runners
Some runners may find the shoe lacks versatility for different running paces
Price point may be high compared to other options with similar features

In Depth


Upper

The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 features an upper with Storm Technology, providing a water-repellent finish that does not compromise breathability. The design includes reflective elements for visibility and a Warp separator fabric that offers a comfortable, seam-free fit. The streamlined heel design with TPU reinforcement enhances support, making it a reliable choice for runners.

Midsole

At the heart of the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is the HOVR technology in the midsole, which delivers a 'zero gravity feel' to maintain energy return and reduce impact. This is complemented by the Pebax propulsion plate, which provides a boost to each step, aiding in forward motion and making the shoe suitable for a range of running paces.

Outsole

The outsole of the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 combines carbon rubber and injected rubber, offering durability and a subtle rebound. This design ensures adaptability to different surfaces, including wet roads, and contributes to the overall stability and grip of the shoe.

Size/fit

The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 comes in a standard size with a medium toe box, accommodating a wide range of foot shapes. The shoe's weight is 301 grams for men and 269 grams for women, with an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, providing a balanced and comfortable fit for daily training.

Comfort

Comfort in the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is achieved through a combination of the molded EVA foam sockliner and the HOVR cushioning in the midsole. These features work together to provide a soft yet responsive feel, suitable for long-distance runs and daily workouts.

Cushioning

The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3's cushioning system is designed for runners who seek a balance between softness and responsiveness. The HOVR technology ensures energy return and impact reduction, while the dual-density foam offers a firmer front and softer back for a smooth ride.

Breathability

Breathability is a key feature of the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3, with its engineered warp spacer upper providing lightweight containment and airflow. This ensures that runners' feet remain cool and dry, even during intense training sessions.

Stability

Stability in the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is bolstered by the aerodynamic heel design and external TPU heel wrap, which together offer a secure and locked-down fit. This stability is essential for maintaining proper running form and preventing injuries.

Durability

Durability is a strong suit of the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3, with its outsole's combination of carbonic rubber and injected rubber providing long-lasting wear. This makes the shoe a reliable option for runners who log many miles and need a shoe that can withstand the rigors of daily training.

Grip

The grip of the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is reliable on various surfaces, thanks to its channeled rubber outsole. This feature allows for flexibility and a natural feel with every stride, ensuring runners have the traction they need for safe and efficient runs.

Who should buy the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3?


The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is well-suited for runners who require a shoe that can handle the demands of everyday training across various distances. It is particularly beneficial for those with a neutral pronation and who appreciate the added technology of UA MapMyRun connectivity for tracking performance metrics.

Who should not buy the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3?


Runners who prioritize speed and lightweight footwear for racing or fast workouts may find the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 to be too heavy. Those who prefer a minimalist design or a shoe with less cushioning might want to consider other options. Additionally, runners who exceed the recommended weight threshold for this shoe may need to look for a model that offers more support.

Under Armour HOVR Machina 3: What's it good for?


The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is particularly good for road running and can handle a variety of paces, from moderate to slightly faster intervals. Its cushioning and stability make it a strong candidate for long-distance runs, while the Storm Technology ensures it's also suitable for wet conditions.

4 Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 FAQs


What makes the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 suitable for wet weather running?

The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is equipped with Storm Technology in the upper, which provides a water-repellent finish while maintaining breathability, making it an excellent choice for running in rainy conditions.

How does the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3's cushioning compare to other running shoes?

The HOVR Machina 3 features Under Armour’s HOVR technology, which offers a balance of softness and responsiveness. It’s designed to reduce impact and provide energy return, making it comparable to other high-quality cushioned running shoes.

Is the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 good for runners with neutral pronation?

Yes, the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is specifically designed for runners with neutral pronation, providing the right amount of cushioning and support without the need for additional stability features.

Can the Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 be used for different types of runs?

The Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 is versatile enough to be used for various types of runs, from daily training to long-distance runs, thanks to its cushioning, stability, and responsive midsole.

Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 alternatives

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Under Armour HOVR Machina 3
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Under Armour HOVR Machina 3
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Released
May 2022
Apr 2017Apr 2017Feb 2017Aug 2019Jul 2014
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Weight
Weight
M: 301 g
W: 269 g
M: 238 g
W: 190 g
M: 232 g
W: 179 g
M: 252 g
W: 204 g
198 g
M: 213 g
W: 179 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
M: 20 mm
W: 18 mm
16 mm
M: 14 mm
W: 13 mm
14 mm
17 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
8 mm
8 mm
8 mm
10 mm
6 mm
6 mm
Heel
Heel
M: 28 mm
W: 26 mm
24 mm
M: 24 mm
W: 23 mm
20 mm
23 mm
Usages
Usages
Daily running
Daily runningDaily runningCompetitionDaily runningRacingSpeed trainingDaily runningDaily running
Brand
Brand
Under Armour
NikeNikeASICSNikeNike
Strike Type
Strike Type
Heel strike
Fore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLightweight
LightweightLightweight
Techs
Techs
Under Armour Hovr
Nike Flyknit
Nike Flyknit
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹
Vegan β“‹
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Under Armour HOVR Machina 3: what the experts say (1 review)

Under Armour HOVR Machina 3: 3 Expert video reviews

Under Armour HOVR Machina 3 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+1918)
TerrainRoad (+1301)
UsagesDaily running (+1112)
BrandUnder Armour (+80)
Support TypeNeutral (+1501)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1481)
Strike TypeHeel strike (+1139)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1428)
FitMedium toe box (+825)
MaterialsMesh (+857)
TechsUnder Armour Hovr (+26)
ColorwaysBlack, Black / Electro Pink, Black / Grey / Yellow, Black Black / Blac, Black Petrol Blue, Blue, Brown, Green, Illusion Green / Orange Ice / Panic Orange, Jet Gray / Victory B
Specificationsvs Average
Model
3
Released
May 2022
Measurements
Weight
M: 301 g
W: 269 g
Heel to toe drop
8 mm

Evolution of the Under Armour HOVR Machina product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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Tom Green
March 15, 2024 at 9:55 AM
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πŸ“Š Stats | Powered by geerly.com πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%