Last Tuesday, watching my daughter’s practice from the sidelines, I counted 8 different brands on those young feet. Sarah here, and between school pickup, grocery runs, and shuttling between three different sports, I was determined to find softball cleats that could actually deliver on both comfort and durability without breaking the budget. That’s why I spent 8 weeks putting the Under Armour Women’s Glyde 2.0 RM through every real-world scenario I could think of. Here’s whether Under Armour’s promise of “built for women by women” actually holds up on the diamond.
Technical Specifications
- 💰 Price: $45-65 ()
- ⚖️ Weight: 9.75 oz (women’s size 8)
- 🧪 Midsole technology: Charged Cushioning
- 👟 Upper material: Lightweight textile with breathable mesh toe box
- 🏃♀️ Category: Women’s Softball Cleats
- 🎯 Best for: Youth to adult recreational softball, budget-conscious players
- ⚖️ Closure: Standard lace-up
- 🔧 Key features: TPU toe cap, molded heel, Ortholite sockliner
- ⏱️ Testing period: 8 weeks, 24 games/practices, various field conditions
Design, Build Quality & Real-World Performance
The first thing that struck me about the Glyde 2.0 was how much they actually felt like sneakers rather than traditional cleats. Under Armour clearly prioritized comfort here – the lightweight textile upper combined with that breathable mesh toe box creates an immediately comfortable fit that doesn’t require the usual break-in period we’ve come to expect from softball cleats.
The TPU toe cap is strategically placed where you need protection most, especially for those aggressive slides into home plate. I appreciated that Under Armour didn’t go overboard with a plastic shell feeling – instead, the toe reinforcement feels substantial without making the shoe stiff or bulky. The molded heel design genuinely does provide better lockdown than many cleats in this price range, though I’ll be honest about some concerns I discovered during testing.
Fit, Comfort & Initial Impressions
Right out of the box, these felt comfortable – no kidding. The Ortholite sockliner provides immediate cushioning that our feet noticed right away. However, after testing with multiple players of different ages, I need to share some important sizing insights that could save you a return trip.
The fit runs slightly narrow and about a half-size small for most feet. If your daughter typically wears a size 7, I’d strongly recommend ordering a 7.5, especially if she has wider feet. The mesh toe box does provide some give, but the overall fit tends toward snug rather than roomy. For growing kids, this is particularly important to consider.
The lacing system works well once you get used to it, though several players mentioned the laces felt shorter than expected. Not a deal-breaker, but worth noting if you prefer a higher lace-up for extra ankle support.
Field Performance & Traction
On the field, the rubber molded cleats provide solid traction across different surfaces. We tested these on natural grass, slightly damp infields, and that challenging mix of dirt and grass that most youth fields seem to have. The grip felt confident during quick direction changes and base running – no slipping issues during normal play.
The Charged Cushioning midsole does provide good impact absorption, especially for those hard landings after catching pop flies. At my 155 lbs, I felt well-supported during extended periods of standing and walking. For younger players, the cushioning seemed more than adequate for full games without foot fatigue.
However, I need to address the elephant in the room: durability during sliding.
Performance in Various Softball Conditions
During our 8-week testing period, we encountered typical softball conditions: dusty infields, morning dew on grass, those unpredictable afternoon rain showers that coaches somehow always play through, and varying field maintenance levels across different venues.
Dry Conditions Performance
On well-maintained, dry fields, the Glyde 2.0 performed exactly as you’d hope. The traction felt secure during batting practice, the cushioning handled extended innings comfortably, and the breathable design kept feet from overheating during hot afternoon games. The lightweight construction (9.75 oz) definitely contributes to less leg fatigue compared to heavier cleats.
Wet & Challenging Conditions
When fields got damp or slightly muddy, the cleats maintained decent grip, though they’re clearly optimized for firmer surfaces. The rubber molded design doesn’t bite into soft ground as aggressively as some competitors, but for most recreational softball scenarios, the traction remained adequate.
The easy-to-clean aspect that Under Armour mentions is legitimate – dirt and grass stains wiped off easily after games, which busy parents definitely appreciate.
Does Under Armour Deliver on Their Promises?
Under Armour makes some bold claims about the Glyde 2.0, so let’s examine how reality matches the marketing:
“Built for Women by Women” – VERIFIED
The fit and feel genuinely do seem designed with women’s foot shape in mind. The heel pocket feels more secure than unisex designs, and the overall proportions work well for female athletes. This isn’t just marketing speak – the difference is noticeable compared to adapted men’s designs.
“Lightweight, Comfortable Feel” – MOSTLY VERIFIED
At 9.75 oz, these are genuinely lightweight, and the comfort is immediate. No break-in period required, which is fantastic for players who need to perform right away. The sneaker-like feel is accurate – you really do forget you’re wearing cleats during casual movement.
“Aggressive Traction on All Surfaces” – PARTIALLY VERIFIED
The traction works well on most softball field conditions, but “aggressive” might be overselling it slightly. These perform best on firm, well-maintained fields. On softer or more challenging surfaces, they’re adequate but not exceptional.
Durability Claims – CONCERNING FINDINGS
This is where I need to be completely honest with you. Multiple customers reported holes developing in the upper material after minimal use, particularly during sliding. In our testing, we saw similar wear patterns develop faster than expected for a premium brand.
My Overall Assessment
After 8 weeks of real-world testing across multiple players and field conditions, here’s my honest evaluation:
Performance Scoring
| Category | Score (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate Comfort | 9.0 | Excellent out-of-box comfort, no break-in needed |
| Field Traction | 7.5 | Good on firm fields, adequate on softer surfaces |
| Durability | 5.5 | Concerning reports of premature wear during sliding |
| Value for Money | 7.0 | Good features for price, but durability concerns limit value |
| Style & Appearance | 8.5 | Attractive design, multiple colorways, modern aesthetic |
| Overall Score | 7.5 | Good for specific use cases, with important caveats |
What Other Softball Players Are Saying
The customer feedback reveals a clear pattern: these cleats excel in comfort and initial performance but struggle with long-term durability. Parents consistently praise the immediate comfort and true-to-size fit (with the sizing caveat I mentioned), while coaches and serious players express concerns about longevity.
Several Spanish-speaking customers shared positive experiences: “Muy bonitos, cómodos y la talla correcta” (Very nice, comfortable and correct size), though one noted sizing inconsistency. The consensus seems to be that these work well for recreational players but may not withstand intensive use.
Value Assessment – The Real Story
At $45-65, the Glyde 2.0 sits in a competitive price range where expectations need to be realistic. For families with players who compete in one season per year or recreational leagues, these can provide excellent value. The comfort and immediate performance justify the price point.
However, for serious players or those with aggressive sliding styles, the durability concerns become a significant factor. Cost-per-game analysis shows these may be more expensive long-term than investing in more durable options upfront.
Final Verdict
The Good and The Bad
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
|
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Who Should Buy the Under Armour Women’s Glyde 2.0 RM?
PERFECT FOR:
- Youth recreational softball players (ages 8-15)
- Adult recreational league players
- Players prioritizing immediate comfort over maximum durability
- Budget-conscious families needing reliable performance for one season
- Players with narrow to normal width feet
- Those who prefer lightweight, sneaker-like feel
CONSIDER ALTERNATIVES IF:
- You’re a serious competitive player with frequent sliding
- Your child plays multiple seasons per year
- You have wide feet or prefer roomier fit
- Maximum durability is your top priority
- You frequently play on soft or challenging field conditions
Better Options for Specific Needs
For Maximum Durability: Consider investing in Nike or New Balance options with reinforced uppers, though expect to pay $80-120.
For Wide Feet: Look at Mizuno or ASICS models that typically offer wider toe boxes in women’s designs.
For Aggressive Players: Metal cleats or higher-end molded options with better abrasion resistance would serve you better long-term.
Final Recommendation
The Under Armour Women’s Glyde 2.0 RM succeeds as a comfortable, stylish softball cleat for recreational players who prioritize immediate comfort and reasonable pricing. The “built for women by women” design philosophy shows in the fit and feel, making these genuinely different from adapted men’s designs.
However, the durability concerns are real and shouldn’t be ignored. If your daughter slides frequently or plays multiple seasons per year, consider this a one-season investment rather than a long-term solution.
For families looking for immediate comfort and solid performance at a reasonable price point, these deliver on those promises. Just size up a half-size, and manage expectations about longevity based on playing style.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do the Under Armour Glyde 2.0 cleats run true to size?
Based on our testing and customer feedback, they run slightly small and narrow. I’d recommend sizing up a half-size, especially for wider feet or growing kids. If your daughter typically wears a 7, order a 7.5 for better comfort.
How long do these cleats typically last?
For recreational use (1-2 games per week), expect one full season of good performance. However, players who slide frequently report premature wear, with some seeing holes develop after just a few games. The durability varies significantly based on playing style.
Are these good for wide feet?
No, these tend to run narrow. Players with wide feet consistently report tight fits even when sizing up. If you have wide feet, consider Mizuno or ASICS alternatives that typically offer better width accommodation.
Can these be used for other sports besides softball?
While designed for softball, the molded cleats work adequately for baseball, lacrosse, and soccer on firm surfaces. However, sport-specific cleats will always perform better for their intended sport.
How do they compare to more expensive cleats?
The immediate comfort rivals cleats costing $50-70 more, but the durability doesn’t match premium options. For recreational players, the performance difference may not justify paying twice as much. For serious competitive players, investing in higher-end options often provides better long-term value.
What’s the best way to clean these cleats?
The textile upper cleans easily with a damp cloth or soft brush. Avoid putting them in the washing machine, as this can damage the adhesives and materials. For stubborn stains, gentle soap and water work well.
Are replacement parts available if something breaks?
Under Armour doesn’t typically offer replacement parts for cleats. If you experience quality issues within the first 30 days, contact customer service for potential replacement or refund options.
Should I buy these on sale or wait for deals?
Given the durability concerns, I’d only recommend purchasing these on sale or if you find them significantly discounted. At full retail price, there are more durable alternatives worth considering. for the best deals.
Review Scoring Summary
| Under Armour Women’s Glyde 2.0 RM – Comprehensive Scoring | ||
|---|---|---|
| Comfort & Fit | 9.0/10 | Excellent immediate comfort, size up recommended |
| Performance | 7.5/10 | Good traction and cushioning for recreational play |
| Durability | 5.5/10 | Concerning reports of premature wear |
| Value | 7.0/10 | Good features for price, durability limits value |
| Style | 8.5/10 | Attractive design, modern aesthetic |
| Overall Score | 7.5/10 | Good for recreational use with caveats |
Bottom Line: The Under Armour Women’s Glyde 2.0 RM delivers on comfort and immediate performance at a reasonable price, making them solid choice for recreational softball players. However, durability concerns and sizing considerations require careful evaluation based on your specific needs and playing style.
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