Under Armour is stepping up in the headphone game with their recent partnership with audio heavy hitter JBL. We recently tried out some of their wireless headphones (yet the buds still connected to each other via cable) and now are checking out their completely wireless earbuds – the Under Armour True Wireless Flash. So how do these hold up?
Comfort:
Clearly, these headphones are super lightweight. Though I had to do some work to find the right fit, UA provides three different sizes of tips and three sizes of ear wings to assist with the process. I have been utilizing these both while running and at the gym and they are pretty dang comfortable as far as headphones go. They also stay in the ear pretty well and even shaking my head violently from side to side, there was minimal movement and no discomfort (aside from self-imposed nausea). I also think UA made a bit of a modification from their corded wireless headphones to these, as I don’t feel that they stick out of the ears as far. I didn’t have an issue with that regardless, but it’s still nice to have a more streamlined look.
Sound:
The sound is pretty much the same that is in their other JBL-partnered headphones. As these are essentially the true wireless version of those, here’s a reminder:
The partnership with JBL is ideal, as they have been in the sound market for quite some time. The sound is fantastic – complete with strong voice and the driving bass profile that us runners really appreciate. These puppies pack a very solid punch.
I know that some people don’t want to use headphones because it makes them less aware of their surroundings. This is absolutely true and a valid concern. However, these headphones are created with “Bionic Hearing” technology that essentially allows you to hear your surroundings (with AmbientAware) and still listen to music at the same time. It’s also great to utilize in a running group or when taking a stroll with a friend, as TalkThru quiets the music and amplifies speech by just touching a button – making it so that quick conversations with a running partner can be easily made.
I honestly felt like these didn’t have as much bass in them as their corded version – which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on your particular sound preference. I was actually hoping for a little more bass, but the difference is minor and definitely won’t dissuade me from using. That being said, the sound is absolutely crystal clear and music sounds quite amazing. Unlike the corded predecessor, these also come with a microphone – meaning you can take a call or utilize Alexa on your runs should you desire to do so.
Headphone carrying case…or Men in Black Nebulyzer? Hmmm….
Other cool specs:
When these headphones and coupled with the charging case, they have essentially a 25 hour battery life – 5 of playtime and another 20(!) in the charging aluminum case. I really like the case, as it can easily be attached to a gym bag or key ring, to have at the ready at all times.I have actually lost multiple pairs of wireless headphone cases due to the lack of this feature alone. I think Alaska Airlines must be hoarding them somewhere 🙂
These are also part of an amazing combination of products that can make you one of the more connected runners out there.
Combined with Under Armour’s HOVR Connected running shoes, runners can get advanced running metrics to take their performance to the next level.
The ecosystem was designed to take every day running essentials – shoes, watch, music – and connect them seamlessly. While running, the UA MapMyRun app can be used to provide real-time coaching and feedback for runners. The addition of UA HOVR Connected footwear gives runners an in-depth analysis of their running form and advanced running metrics to monitor their performance. Now, with support for direct pairing of UA HOVR Connected to MapMyRun app on the Samsung Galaxy Watch, runners are free to leave their phone behind. Finally, the UA True Wireless Flash headphones seamlessly connect to your phone for music powered by JBL Charged Sound, with the option to relay audio coaching feedback directly in the ear.
These headphones are also “storm proof” – which is a necessity here in Oregon. It is sweatproof and waterproof with IPX7 aluminum earbuds to keep things playing when sweat and/or rain make an appearance.
Once again, each purchase of these headphones purchase comes with a 12-month premium subscription to MayMyRun. That way, if you already use MapMyRun for tracking, or if you have been wanting to start, these may be the perfect opportunity for you.
Overall, these are fantastic headphones. The sound is top notch (that bass is killer) and they are fantastic for runners.
Product: Under Armour True Wireless Flash ($169.95)
Specs:
- Truly Wireless for Sport
- UA STORMPROOF Waterproof Technology
- IPX7 Sweat & Waterproof
- Bionic Hearing
- JBL Charged Sound
- 25 Hours of total battery life
- 5 hour charge & case holds additional 20 hours
- Bluetooth wireless
- Sport Flex Fit ear tips
- 3 sizes of ear tips and 3 sizes of winged ear tip enhances
- Aluminum Charging case
Thank you to Under Armour for providing us with trial pair. Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
