How to Choose the Perfect Under Armour Jacket for Your Active Lifestyle

When it comes to finding the perfect jacket for your active lifestyle, Under Armour is a brand that offers top-tier performance wear designed to help you stay comfortable, dry, and protected, no matter the activity. Whether you’re running, cycling, hiking, or just heading out for a casual walk, the right jacket can make a big difference in how well you perform and how comfortable you feel during your activities.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to choose the perfect Under Armour jacket for your active lifestyle, highlighting key features to consider and the best jacket options for various sports and outdoor activities.

1. Consider the Weather and Climate

Before you select an Under Armour jacket, it’s essential to take the weather conditions into account. The jacket you choose will depend largely on whether you’re facing cold temperatures, mild weather, or wet conditions. Under Armour offers jackets with various insulation types, materials, and weather protection features tailored for different climates.

  • Cold Weather: For cold conditions, look for jackets with ColdGear® insulation or UA Reactor technology. These jackets are designed to trap and retain body heat while providing lightweight flexibility for active movements. Jackets with added warmth but without excess bulk, such as the Under Armour ColdGear Reactor Jacket, are perfect for outdoor workouts in chilly temperatures.
  • Wet Weather: If you need to protect yourself from rain or snow, choose jackets with UA Storm technology. These jackets are water-resistant and designed to repel rain, ensuring you stay dry even during heavy downpours. Look for options like the UA Storm Run Jacket, perfect for running and outdoor activities.
  • Mild and Windy Weather: For milder conditions, windproof jackets such as the Under Armour Windstrike Jacket will help block out gusts while remaining breathable. These jackets are lightweight yet protective, ideal for running, cycling, or hiking in windy but not freezing weather.

2. Choose the Right Fit for Your Activity

Fit is crucial when selecting an Under Armour jacket because it affects both comfort and performance. Depending on your activity, you’ll want to consider a jacket that provides the right balance of mobility and coverage.

  • Athletic Fit: Under Armour jackets are designed with an athletic fit, allowing freedom of movement while still offering a sleek and flattering silhouette. This fit is ideal for active sports like running, cycling, or training. Jackets like the Under Armour Men’s UA Reflective Running Jacket or Women’s Qualifier Jacket are examples of sleek, form-fitting options that don’t hinder your motion.
  • Relaxed Fit: If you prefer a more relaxed fit for hiking or casual outdoor wear, you might choose a jacket with more room to layer underneath. Jackets like the UA ColdGear Reactor Jacket offer a comfortable fit that accommodates various levels of activity while still providing warmth and protection.
  • Layering Options: If you plan to layer your jacket over a hoodie or thermal base, consider opting for a jacket with an adjustable fit or one that offers extra room in the torso. Jackets with adjustable cuffs, hems, and hoods, like the UA Storm Hybrid Jacket, will allow you to customize the fit depending on your layers.

3. Look for Performance Features

Under Armour jackets are packed with performance-enhancing features that can make your active lifestyle more comfortable. Here are some key features to look out for:

  • Breathability: Whether you’re running or cycling, breathability is crucial for maintaining comfort during intense activities. Under Armour uses advanced fabric technologies like UA Tech and 4-way stretch to ensure that you stay cool and dry. Look for jackets with mesh panels or ventilation zones, such as the UA Storm Hybrid Jacket, to allow air circulation and prevent overheating.
  • Mobility: When selecting a jacket for high-performance activities, such as running or weight training, choose a jacket with materials that stretch and move with your body. Look for jackets with 4-way stretch fabrics, such as the Under Armour ColdGear Reactor Jacket or UA Windstrike Jacket, which provide flexibility for unrestricted movement.
  • Storage Options: If you need a jacket with storage, consider one that includes zippered pockets or specialized compartments for keys, cards, or phones. The UA Storm Run Jacket and UA Tech 2.0 Jacket both feature secure pockets for storage during your workout.

4. Prioritize Weather Protection

Protection from the elements is essential for outdoor activities. When selecting a jacket, check for the following features:

  • Water Resistance: If you’re exposed to rain or snow, choose jackets with UA Storm technology, which offers water resistance and keeps you dry in wet conditions. This is especially important for runners, cyclists, and hikers who might be outdoors for extended periods in unpredictable weather.
  • Wind Resistance: For windy days, opt for jackets with windproof properties like the Under Armour Windstrike Jacket. Wind resistance helps maintain warmth and keeps your body from being chilled by gusts of wind while you’re active.
  • Sun Protection: Some Under Armour jackets, such as the UA Run Reflective Jacket, offer built-in sun protection to help shield your skin from harmful UV rays during outdoor activities. Look for jackets that offer UPF protection to safeguard your skin during summer runs or hiking excursions.

5. Reflective and Visibility Features

For those who like to stay active during early mornings, late evenings, or low-light conditions, choosing a jacket with reflective details is crucial for safety. Under Armour incorporates reflective elements into many of its jackets to help increase visibility, such as in the UA Reflective Running Jacket. These reflective accents help ensure that you’re seen by drivers or others during night runs or bike rides.

6. Choose the Right Style for Your Needs

Under Armour offers a wide variety of jacket styles that cater to different active pursuits. Here are some of the best styles for various activities:

  • Running: The UA Storm Run Jacket or UA Reflective Running Jacket is perfect for runners who need lightweight, water-resistant protection and enhanced visibility.
  • Cycling: The UA Storm Hybrid Jacket is ideal for cyclists looking for a breathable, lightweight jacket with added weather protection.
  • Hiking and Outdoor Adventures: For hiking and outdoor activities, jackets like the UA ColdGear Reactor Jacket or UA Windstrike Jacket offer warmth, protection, and mobility, making them great for unpredictable weather conditions.
  • Training and Gym Use: For workouts or indoor training, consider the UA Tech 2.0 Jacket for its breathable, lightweight fabric and range of motion.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect Under Armour jacket for your active lifestyle involves considering the weather, fit, performance features, and activity-specific needs. Whether you’re braving the elements on a cold hike, enjoying a run on a windy day, or cycling through light rain, Under Armour offers jackets that combine technology, comfort, and durability to keep you performing at your best. By considering these factors, you can find a jacket that not only enhances your performance but also keeps you comfortable and protected throughout your active pursuits.