Under Armour Assist Review
Our Verdict
Our Analysis and Test Results
We tested the Under Armour Assist with the Grey Polarized with Storm lenses. They're a Medium-Large fit and come with a microfiber storage bag.
Performance Comparison
Lens Quality
For fans of simplicity, these old-school, standard-performing grey lenses may be just the ticket. They're dark enough to provide relief on very bright days, with polarization that adds another layer of protection. They're clear and crisp and straightforward.
On the other hand, in comparison with the multitude of other lens colors and technologies out there, these are a bit underwhelming. Their rather intense shade of grey can make the world look a little bit dreary — almost like a rainy day. They also have below-average counter reflection, and in certain lights and angles, it's very easy to see your own face in the backs of these sunglasses.
Comfort
Weighing 29 grams, the Assist are on the slightly heavy end of average among models we tested. They feel fairly light and pleasant to wear. Their glossy frames and auto-lock hinges make them easy and smooth to put on and take off. Though they're on the larger end of the spectrum, even our narrow-faced testers still found them comfortable to wear. Certain face shapes may find they touch slightly on the cheeks, but the lenses aren't as tall as many others, limiting this effect. Rubber grip nose pads help hold them in place, leaving the shiny bows free from snags — which also keeps them rooted firmly on the nose no matter how big you smile or hard you laugh.
Frame Quality
The Assist are made of injected polyamide (a type of plastic) with rubber nose pads. They have auto-lock screwless cams at the hinges. We love how they feel to use, almost snapping open and close with ease and authority, but the complete lack of screws that can be tightened or replaced as needed is a bit disconcerting. They feel thick and fairly sturdy though, and pretty solid all around.
Style and Versatility
These make a pretty good crossover pair, looking just as natural on a run through the neighborhood as a trip to the grocery store. The glossy black frames are simple and sleek. Their large-end-of-medium size was well-liked by all our testers. Our only minor complaint is that if anything, they're a touch plain and unimaginative. But having a simple staple isn't necessarily a bad thing.
Coverage
Though we couldn't find an official reporting on their base curve, the Assist seem on par with other pairs we have that are a 6 — a middle ground of face-hugging without being a full wrap. Combined with their larger lenses and overall width, these offer good coverage. Their rubber nose pads work wonders when it comes to keeping them from sliding or bouncing, even on long runs.
Case Quality
These shades come with just a simple microfiber drawstring bag. It's thinner than most others and a touch disappointing, but still does what you'd expect from such a small sack.
Value
Falling in the middle of the price range of models we tested, these aren't a bad buy. They didn't really wow us, as there are similarly priced glasses we like more, but if you're a fan of the fit and feel, we think their price is fair.
Conclusion
The Under Armour Assist are a simple pair of shades that are comfortable to wear and offer solid protection and coverage. They're a bit uninspired and lack some of the fancy lens technology of others, but we still enjoy their versatility in a wide range of uses.