In the world of athletic apparel and footwear, two brands stand out from the rest: Under Armour and New Balance. Both brands have gained a significant following and reputation for producing high-quality products. But how do they compare in terms of quality, price, product range, return policy, shipping, reliability, target market, best price guarantee, and price adjustment policy? In this article, we’ll delve into a comprehensive comparison of Under Armour and New Balance to help you decide which brand is best for you.
Quality
Both Under Armour and New Balance are known for producing high-quality products. Under Armour is famous for its innovative technology, such as Moisture Transport System and ColdGear, which provides superior comfort and performance. New Balance, on the other hand, is renowned for its excellent arch support and cushioning, making its shoes a favorite among athletes and casual wearers alike. While both brands excel in terms of quality, Under Armour’s focus on innovation gives it a slight edge.
Price
When it comes to price, New Balance tends to be more affordable than Under Armour. New Balance offers a wide range of products at various price points, with shoes starting from around $60 and apparel from $20. Under Armour, while still relatively affordable, tends to be pricier, with shoes starting from around $80 and apparel from $30. However, it’s worth noting that Under Armour’s higher prices are often justified by its advanced technology and high-quality materials.
Product Range
Both brands offer an extensive range of products, including shoes, apparel, and accessories. Under Armour has a strong focus on performance footwear, with popular lines like Curry and HOVR. New Balance, on the other hand, is known for its lifestyle footwear, with popular lines like 574 and 990. In terms of apparel, Under Armour offers a wider range of products, including outerwear, pants, and shorts. New Balance, while still offering a solid range of apparel, tends to focus more on tops and bottoms.
Return Policy
Both Under Armour and New Balance have relatively straightforward return policies. Under Armour allows returns within 30 days of purchase, with free return shipping on all orders. New Balance also allows returns within 30 days, but requires customers to pay for return shipping. However, New Balance offers a more lenient exchange policy, allowing customers to exchange products within 45 days.
Shipping
In terms of shipping, Under Armour tends to be faster and more efficient. Under Armour offers free standard shipping on all orders over $60, with delivery times ranging from 3-7 business days. New Balance also offers free standard shipping on orders over $50, but delivery times can take up to 10 business days. However, New Balance offers more flexible shipping options, including expedited and express shipping.
Reliability
Both brands are known for their reliability, with high-quality products that are built to last. Under Armour’s focus on innovation and technology ensures that its products are not only comfortable but also durable. New Balance’s reputation for excellent arch support and cushioning means that its shoes are often praised for their longevity. However, some customers have reported issues with Under Armour’s customer service, which can be slow to respond to queries.
Target Market
Under Armour tends to target a younger demographic, with a focus on performance and lifestyle products. New Balance, on the other hand, targets a wider range of customers, including athletes, casual wearers, and even older adults. New Balance’s products are often seen as more versatile and suitable for everyday wear, while Under Armour’s products are often geared towards athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Best Price Guarantee
Both brands offer some form of price guarantee, but New Balance’s policy is more comprehensive. New Balance offers a price match guarantee, which means that if customers find a lower price on an identical product from a competitor, New Balance will match that price. Under Armour, on the other hand, offers a more limited price guarantee, which only applies to certain products and is subject to certain conditions.
Price Adjustment Policy
In terms of price adjustment policy, Under Armour is more flexible. Under Armour offers a 14-day price adjustment policy, which means that if the price of a product drops within 14 days of purchase, customers can receive a refund for the difference. New Balance, on the other hand, does not offer a formal price adjustment policy, although it may offer price adjustments on a case-by-case basis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Under Armour and New Balance are excellent brands that offer high-quality products. While Under Armour excels in terms of innovation and technology, New Balance offers a wider range of products at more affordable prices. Ultimately, the choice between Under Armour and New Balance will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for high-performance products with advanced technology, Under Armour may be the better choice. But if you’re looking for affordable, versatile products with excellent arch support and cushioning, New Balance is definitely worth considering.
