Under Armour Secures Another Spot on the NYC Marathon Podium with Sharon Lokedi
In the world of marathon running, what sets an athlete apart? For Under Armour's very own Sharon Lokedi, it’s not just talent but the perfect synergy of skill and cutting-edge technology. You might be surprised to learn that her second-place finish at the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, clocking in at a remarkable 2:20:07, not only added another podium to her collection but also solidified the performance potential of the brand's latest shoe—the UA Velociti Elite 3.
What does this mean for Under Armour? Well, it’s a testament to their continuous pursuit of excellence and consistency in the racing shoe market. This latest version of the Velociti Elite is touted as their most sophisticated shoe yet, built for something they describe as "gun-to-tape efficiency." This concept focuses on optimizing every aspect of the shoe for peak performance, and Lokedi's recent accomplishments prove just how effective these advancements can be.
Specifications of the UA Velociti Elite 3
- Style: Neutral racing
- Weight: 221 grams (equivalent to U.S. size 9)
- Drop/Offset: 2 mm
- Stack Height: 37.5 mm at the heel / 35.5 mm overall
- Price: $250
- Release Dates: Available in the U.S. on November 3, 2025, and set for Canadian release in January 2026.
Under Armour claims that the Velociti Elite 3 is designed specifically to help athletes set new personal records. The shoe’s standout feature is a full-length carbon plate resting within a dual-layer HOVR+ foam midsole, which provides energy return precisely where runners need it. This unique design includes an aggressive rocker shape, enabling effortless transitions and optimizing propulsion with each step.
The upper construction features a lightweight, water-repellent mesh, which not only enhances airflow but also preserves its shape for a secure fit that runners desire. Every element, from the beveled heel that aids in better ground contact to the perforated tongue ensuring breathability, has been meticulously crafted for high-stakes racing. For Lokedi, these thoughtfully integrated features revealed their worth under the pressure of the NYC marathon.
Developed from countless hours of input from athletes, the Velociti Elite 3 has undergone extensive training and testing. This fine-tuning ensures heightened responsiveness during lengthy runs and provides that essential boost when it’s time to pick up the pace. This dedication was highlighted earlier in the year at the 2025 Boston Marathon, where Lokedi relied on the shoe’s efficiency and energy return to claim her second Abbott World Marathon Major title.
As she prepared for the New York race, Lokedi expressed her confidence in Under Armour’s innovation team, which has continuously equipped her with the tools necessary to excel in the world’s most challenging races.
Doug Smiley, Under Armour’s director of performance footwear, stated, "The Velociti Elite 3 embodies the pinnacle of Under Armour’s innovative spirit and our unwavering commitment to providing athletes around the globe with a competitive edge. Sharon Lokedi's insights have been invaluable in developing this ultimate race-day solution, which enhances energy return, efficiency, and propulsion with every stride."
Mark your calendars! The UA Velociti Elite 3 will hit U.S. stores on November 3, and look for it in Canada in early 2026.
And here’s a thought to ponder: Do you believe that technology in sports can genuinely enhance an athlete's performance, or do you think it detracts from the essence of competition? Share your viewpoints in the comments—let's ignite a discussion!
