Shoe review: Under Armour’s improved SpeedForm Gemini 3 goes the distance

The latest version of Under Armour’s go-to distance running shoe is the SpeedForm Gemini 3.

The Gemini 3 is a neutral training shoe that’s lighter than previous versions but maintains an abundance of cushioning– which is, in fact, it’s signature feature. This makes it ideal as an everyday distance running shoe that can sustain high mileage but will still last longer than the average shoe.

RELATED: Under Armour becomes title sponsor of Vancouver’s Eastside 10K

Essentials

Release date: January 2017
Type: Neutral, cushioned trainer
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm (31 mm to 23 mm)
Weight: Men’s: 9.9 oz. (size 9), Women’s: 8.2 oz (size 8)
Price (MSRP): $160
Terrain tested: Road and treadmill 
Kilometres tested: 254

Up Close

The features

The Gemini is the poster child of Under Armour’s growing shoe technologies. The brand proudly features them in abundance– rightly so.

The midsole features charged foam, a well-cushioned and responsive material that provides a quick feel as well as impact protection. Additional micro G cushioning in the heel absorbs shock from heel striking and redistributes the impact forces into forward momentum for faster takeoff.

The outsole is designed with blown rubber in the forefoot for durability, responsiveness and flexibility while high abrasion rubber specifically in the heel provides traction and helps to absorb force from impact.

The upper features engineered mesh on the tongue and toe box which results in a comfortable fit and enhanced breathability (important considering that summer is coming). UA’s patented SpeedForm construction surrounds the foot for a precise, distraction-free fit. A thread-borne (read: seamless) midfoot panel uses high-strength fibers for a stylish, supportive fit. Looking on the inside of this pair, an internal seamless heel counter provides supportive, lightweight structure. Finally, an embedded sock-liner is a nice little addiction that conforms to your foot’s shape and provides additional underfoot cushioning.

There’s also a special edition of the shoe that is great for runners ready to set records. In connection with the UA MapMyRun app, it can sync to track, analyze and store a multitude of running info and metrics which can help improve your training.

What and who is the shoe for?

As a cushioned shoe, the Gemini 3 is ideal as an everyday trainer to get you through your daily runs, including your longest long runs and many of your hardest workouts. Some may even enjoy the ride so much that they opt to use it for racing as well (hey, run in what you know works, right?). As such, the shoe offers good versatility.

The Gemini 3 is a workhorse. It’s a trusted and dependable shoe that you can count on for almost all of your usual running and training needs. From short, easy runs to long tempos, the shoe makes a great addition to anyone’s running shoe rotation.

As for who the shoe is for, those looking for a more cushioned and supportive ride will likely find a winner in the Gemini 3. It tends to feel a tad stiff underfoot which is something that many are looking for (while others may not be). This isn’t a plush, soft, cloud-like cushioned shoe but is rather a more firm, stiff and supportive shoe. Some have commented that the toe box is more narrow than previous versions which may annoy those with wider feet. The heel counter also tends to be stiff and rigid so be sure to use a good sock that covers the ankle and also ensure the size if right for your feet. At 9.9oz (8.2 for women) the shoe is also not the lightest option out there– but is doesn’t aim to be. It’s meant to be a shoe to handle the mileage and get the job done, and that it does.
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