Under Armour Shadow Pro - Review
The Under Armour Shadow Pro was built for speed and agility, offering players a blend of comfort, fit, and traction. Designed with a sleek knit upper and an innovative stud pattern, the Shadow Pro aims to provide a snug, sock-like feel that enhances performance on the pitch.
Upper Design
The Shadow Pro features a remarkably thin yet structured upper that wraps comfortably around the foot and ankle. The knit material provides flexibility, allowing for natural movement while still maintaining support. The collar, which extends down the sides of the cleat, adds a unique two-layer construction, ensuring a snug fit that keeps the foot securely in place during quick direction changes.
The upper texture is very unique. While not sticky, the surface offers a reliable and consistent grip around the boots, enhancing ball control. The closest comparison I could make for the upper texture would be the Puma Future, but even that is fairly different.
Fit and Comfort
The Shadow Pro fits true to size in my experience, accommodating most foot shapes comfortably. Players with wider feet may want to consider going up half a size, but for most standard sizing works well. The snug collar contributes to excellent lockdown, making it easy to wear the cleats right out of the box without a lengthy break-in period.
Weight
Weighing in at 8.5 oz, I would say the Shadow Pro is more of a control boot than a speed boot. However, even though it’s not the lightest option on the market, it certainly doesn’t feel heavy or clumsy.
Stud Pattern
Now the most unusual aspect of the Shadow Pro is its stud pattern. The heel especially is much different than I am used to. However, the heel actually feels well balanced overall. There was a bit of stud pressure along with inner forefoot stud which may be due to the lack of overall studs and no center stud. This center stud has been added to the most recent model.
The studs are shorter and less aggressive than I expected, and are appropriate for both artificial grass and natural surfaces as well.
Pros and Cons
**Pros**
Upper is thin and comfortable, with more padding around the heel and ankle.
Consistent texture and grip throughout.
Excellent lockdown with a snug collar.
**Cons**
Some may be disappointed by the weight with these being marketed as a speed boot. I had no problems with the weight, personally.
The stud pattern, while innovative, probably does not offer a significant advantage over traditional designs.
The Under Armour Shadow Pro brings a new look and style to the cleats on the market. Its unique design elements and overall construction make it a strong contender for players seeking a reliable all-around boot.
