The HOVR Phantom from Under Armour are available in both Connect and Non-Connect editions depending on whether it has been fitted with a Record Sensor that allows you to pair it up to your phone, we will be looking at the Non-Connect Edition in this review. The HOVR has been created to provide a zero gravity feel and a consistent energy return to reduce issues and injuries caused by impact, it features a compression mesh Energy Web that contains and moulds the HOVR foam to return the energy back to you with every step. Created for neutral runners who want a flexible and cushioned shoe, they have a soft knit, fast drying upper, that provides a breathable and compression style fit, there is a 3D moulded midfoot panel with laser perforations for extra ventilation.

There is also the SpeedForm 2.0 sockliner that’s built into the shoe that contours to your foot for added cushioning to help avoid those horrible blisters, there is an unusual knitted ankle collar gives it a unique look more like a fashion shoe than a sports shoe. The HOVR Phantom has an offset of 8mm, weighs approx. 300g, an external heel counter for stability and a knobbed (their word not mine) outsole for traction. We aren’t sure about the over all look of the shoe, I think I could be a love it or hate it situation, it looks rather bulky and doesn’t scream light, fast running.

Once on it is comfortable and doesn’t feel a heavy or clumsy as it looks, as we have only been testing these out for a couple of months it is difficult to judge how long the cushioning will last but so far they are still nice and springy, the knitted ankle, sockliner and lack of a tongue reduces friction points, they do seem to run a little small so try a half size bigger than you would normally wear. They are easily one of the most comfortable shoes straight from the box we have had and only get better as the mould to your feet over time, they aren’t for everyone with the thick sole and medium weight, they won’t work for people with narrow feet, but if you have joint pain and prefer a springy step these could be just what you are looking for. RRP £115

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4 out of 5

Pros

Very comfortable

Lots of cushioning

High energy return

Bold colours

Easy lace system

Cons

Thick sole

Line runs small

Bulky design