Under Armour has launched a line of running shoes. Oddly, one would have imagined that the giant in athletic apparel that UA has become, they would have done this long ago. But maybe they were just taking their time, so they'd get it right. The line is diverse, created with specific technology to suit a runner's needs, and I had the good fortune to give a pair a try.

Under Armour sent me a pair of Apparitions; I liked them a lot though they're not what I normally would have given a chance at the store. After years of competitive kickboxing and teaching fitness, my feet are quite fragile and this leads me to seek out the most cushiony pillow-like shoes I can find. The Under Armour Apparition is not pillowy at all, but I have been surprised by how much I like them!

Instead of hugging my feet, the insert feels quite flat, and the forefoot is incredibly roomy. I love the roominess! In fact, the extra space up front has made workouts on cardio machines much more comfortable. Often the stepper or elliptical trainer causes toe pain because of the angle at which one's foot works. My Apparitions prevented this issue altogether. And let me digress. Even though they are not "pillowy", they are supportive.

Fitz's Cool Tools: Under Armour Running Shoes(click thumbnails to view gallery)

Another surprisingly nice feature is the Ventilated internal FootSleeve. I forgot socks one day and had to run barefoot, which apparently allowed me to experience the full benefit of this FootSleeve. I didn't end up with the blisters most shoes would provide if I hadn't worn socks, and my feet never got sweaty. The Ventilation is real and when I walked out to my car, a big rain drop actually went straight through my shoe and landed on my toe! The shoe looks like a regular sneaker, but contains some very unique features.

I always recommend that people avoid becoming a slave to one brand of footwear. Your feet are simply too important for you to get caught up in logos and brands. The process of finding the perfect sneaker for you tootsies will require you to do some research and try a bunch of shoes on. I would certainly include Under Armour's new line in your search -- they are really pretty too. Fashion over function is never a smart choice, but why not have both?