Over 35% lighter than the 2011 model, the Hydrastrike Pro returns for a second generation and we're loving these sleek blacked-out versions. Under Armour have once again packed the boots with a host of technologies, including 4D Foam, Micro G, Corespeed and H2Oi Water Intelligence...
As the boot market seemingly shifts to lightweight football boots, Under Armour have acknowledged this by reducing the weight of their Hydrastrike Pro to a respectable 223 grams. But not every footballer is looking for super-lightweight boots and thin uppers, which is where the Hydrastrike Pro II football boots come in.
Featuring a combination of materials, the UA Hydrastrike Pro II delivers comfort, strength, ball touch and feel, supported by a host of innovative technologies to enhance performance. Designed to perform in all positions on the pitch, one look at the Hydrastrike II tells us Under Armour have put a lot of thought into constructing this boot.
The two-part upper is comprised of K-Leather towards the toe for great fit and feel. The leather benefits from Under Armour's H2Oi Water Intelligence technology, which gives an unprecedented level of waterproofing and increases the ability for performance leather to stay drier longer, reducing weight and increasing touch and feel of the ball.
The leather is soft and comfortable, and the fit is enhanced by UA's Softlin tongue liner and tongue top, which also helps to reduce foot movement. The Hydrastrike Pro II is fastened using an asymmetrical lace system, with hidden medial side ghilleys for a cleaner ball strike and contact area.
Further enhancing comfort is the Under Armour MicroG cushioning and 4D Foam insole, developed borrowing technology from their American football cleats and basketball shoes, for an anti-bacterial foot-bed that forms to the foot, provides internal traction, optimal comfort, and reduces stud pressure.
Along with the upper, a lot of research has gone into designing the outsole for the Under Armour Hydrastrike Pro soccer shoes. Various brands have engineered different sole-plates with a variety of bladed and round studs in unique configurations. However, the science bods at Under Armour have found that to reduce the risk of injury and optimise traction, the most effective sole-plate needs round studs at the fore and blades at the heel, which is exactly what the Hydrastrike Pro features.
The development of UA's Corespeed technology enhances the foot's natural ability to accelerate, dart in any direction, and flex in a lightweight, stable chassis. Built from lightweight Pebax for optimal use on all surfaces, the outsole construction allows for 'close to the foot' fit and lower to the ground feel.
Under Armour have really upped their game in the football market in recent years, and are in particular looking to develop their footwear. The new Under Armour Hydrastrike Pro II football boots are certainly a move in the right direction and an impressive release. The boots are available to pre-order now ahead of a June 20th release, and are expected to retail worldwide cheaper than the first generation Hydrastrike's at around £100 GBP / $170 USD / €120 EURO.
Now you've seen the new Black/Black Under Armour Hydrastrike Pro II football boots are you impressed? Let us know what you think, share your opinions online, on Twitter and on Facebook.