Under Armour: The Next Nike?

If you have not noticed Under Armour recently, you probably do not spend too much time around high school or college students. The new trend for athletic gear seems to be slowly shifting from Nike to Under Armour. And there is a very good reason for it.

Their moisture-wicking apparel actually works. Go to the gym or for a jog in an Under Armour tee shirt and you will be pleasantly surprised. Their heat gear keeps you cool and dry the entire time. It is lightweight, flexible, and very comfortable. In my experience, it gives extra energy, as staying cool keeps me going strong from start to finish.

They also have cold gear, which works to keep you warm during the winter. While I have not purchased any of this myself, I have heard great reviews and will be sure to try it this winter.

Not only do their products work, but they are also very well made. All Under Armour products owned by myself, my friends, or family have done very well in this area. They have proven to be very durable, and to be just as good a year down the road as they were when new. This is what sets companies apart. People are willing to pay a little more for quality, as a long-lasting item will generally cost less in the long run. Under Armour shines through in this area.

Recently, though, they have expanded beyond purely athletic apparel. Go to any high school or college and you are sure to find students wearing Under Armour tee shirts, shorts, shoes, backpacks, and more. Does this story sound familiar? Like Nike? It does to me.

Nike has greatly expanded over the years, and has grown to offer much more than shoes and clothing. For years, Nike has been a preferred brand for shoes, athletic apparel, and more. But Under Armour has been slowly taking away some of Nike's share in the market.

Sure, most of Under Armour's sales come from high school and college students, but that is a great place to start. What becomes popular often spreads like wildfire, and that is exactly what they seem to be doing. Their ever-growing presence has expanded into every-day items. Also, their recently started shoe line seems to be doing quite well, and should be an area of great growth over the next few years. Is this the Nike of the future?

With an ever-expanding product line, great quality, and more and more loyal customers, they are well on their way. Don't believe it? Try it for yourself. You will not be disappointed.