Under Armour

Introduction

Under Armour was founded in 1996 by Kevin Plank, a former University of Maryland football player. The idea for the company emerged from Plank's desire to create a better athletic shirt that could wick sweat away from the skin, keeping athletes cool and dry during their games. Starting out of his grandmother's basement, Plank revolutionized performance apparel by focusing on helping athletes push their limits. Over the years, Under Armour has grown from a small startup to a globally recognized brand, becoming synonymous with innovation in the fitness industry.

The philosophy of Under Armour is deeply rooted in the belief that athletes deserve the best gear to help them perform at their peak. The brand is committed to empowerment through performance and innovation, encouraging individuals to be their best selves, both in sports and in their everyday lives. This ethos is conveyed in their slogan, "I WILL," which captures the determination and tenacity of athletes. Under Armour aims to inspire confidence and a sense of grit among its users, emphasizing the importance of pushing boundaries and breaking barriers.

What makes Under Armour special is its relentless focus on technology and innovation in sportswear. The brand invests heavily in research and development, ensuring its products evolve with the latest advancements in fabric technology and performance enhancement. From moisture-wicking materials to temperature-regulating fabrics, Under Armour consistently strives to provide athletes with the optimal gear for their performance needs. The company also emphasizes quality and durability, making its products not just effective, but also reliable for any athlete's rigorous training regimen.

Signature Products

Under Armour's products play a critical role in defining the brand and its commitment to performance and innovation. The range of apparel and footwear reflects the company's mission to enhance athletic performance and meet the demands of athletes across various sports.

• HeatGear® : Designed to keep athletes cool and dry, this fabric technology wicks moisture away from the body while providing a lightweight feel.
• ColdGear® : This line of clothing keeps athletes warm in cooler conditions by trapping body heat while still offering breathability.
• UA HOVR™ : A shoe technology that provides 'zero gravity' feel, offering energy return to maintain momentum while running.
• UA RUSH™ : The fabric infused with minerals that reflect the body's energy to enhance performance, providing a compelling edge to athletes during exertion.
• UA Tech™ : Soft, natural-feeling fabric that has a quick-dry finish to enhance comfort during workouts or while playing sports.

Materials and Ingredients Used by UNDER ARMOUR

• Polyester : Polyester is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum-based products. It's widely used in sports apparel for its durability, moisture-wicking properties, and resistance to shrinking and wrinkles. Under Armour incorporates polyester in many of their products to enhance performance and comfort during physical activities.
• Recycled Polyester : Recycled polyester is derived from recycled plastic bottles and other polyester fabrics, making it a more sustainable option. Under Armour utilizes recycled polyester in selected items to promote eco-friendly practices while maintaining the performance attributes associated with traditional polyester.
• Cotton : Cotton is a natural fiber known for its softness, breathability, and comfort. Under Armour uses cotton in some of their casual and performance apparel to provide a soft touch against the skin, appealing to consumers who prioritize comfort in their athletic wear.
• Elastane : Elastane, also known as spandex or lycra, is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. Under Armour uses elastane in their products to allow for greater stretch and flexibility, enabling athletes to move freely and comfortably during workouts or sports activities.
• Polyester : As a versatile synthetic material, polyester is chosen for its lightweight characteristics, resistance to wear and tear, and ability to dry quickly. Under Armour frequently employs polyester in their high-performance gear to ensure athletes stay dry and comfortable throughout their training sessions.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying From UNDER ARMOUR

These issues are intrinsically related to Under Armour's supply chain and necessitate careful consideration in the brand's sourcing and manufacturing practices.

Water Consumption:

The production of materials like polyester, cotton, and Merino wool involves significant water usage, which can lead to depletion of local water sources. For instance, conventional cotton farming uses approximately 7,000 liters of water to produce just 1 kilogram of cotton. This high water demand can force local communities to compete for scarce resources, particularly in arid regions where water is already limited. Furthermore, it can result in ecological imbalances, as aquatic ecosystems suffer from the withdrawal of water.

Microplastic Pollution:

Polyester and nylon are synthetic fibers that contribute to microplastic pollution. When products made from these materials are washed, tiny plastic particles break off and enter waterways, eventually ending up in oceans—adding to the estimated 8 million tons of plastic that enter the seas every year. These microplastics are ingested by marine life, accumulating in the food chain and posing long-term threats to marine ecosystems and human health.

Pesticide Use:

Conventional cotton farming often relies on toxic pesticides, which can adversely affect human health and the environment. Pesticides degrade local biodiversity, harm pollinators like bees, and contaminate water bodies through runoff. For example, the use of pesticides in cotton cultivation has faced criticism for causing numerous health risks to agricultural workers and surrounding communities, as well as loss of biodiversity.

Chemical Pollution:

Materials like elastane and TPU are produced using chemically intensive processes that release harmful substances into the environment. The production of these synthetic fibers often involves the use of hazardous chemicals, which can lead to pollution of air and water resources if not managed properly. In many regions, manufacturing plants have been found to discharge toxic wastewater without adequate treatment, causing significant environmental harm.

Fossil Fuel Dependency:

The production of polyester, nylon, and elastane is heavily reliant on fossil fuels. This not only contributes to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions, but also poses risks due to fluctuating fossil fuel markets. For instance, the petrochemical industry, responsible for sourcing these fibers, creates a carousel effect, where dependency on non-renewable resources continues to perpetuate environmental degradation and climate instability.

Land Degradation:

The cultivation of materials like Merino wool and cotton can lead to land degradation, particularly if not managed sustainably. Overgrazing by sheep in the case of Merino wool can cause soil erosion, loss of vegetation, and degradation of ecosystem services. Additionally, monocropping practices associated with cotton production can harm soil health and biodiversity.

Non-biodegradability:

Materials such as TPU can contribute to a growing waste crisis due to their non-biodegradable nature. Unlike natural fibers, synthetic materials such as TPU can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to landfill overflow and pollution. As consumers increasingly seek sustainable options, the challenge lies in finding ways to either recycle or reduce reliance on these materials.

Deforestation Risks:

The sourcing of fibers, particularly those like Tencel, can have potential ties to deforestation if not sourced responsibly. While Tencel is derived from sustainably managed beech trees, lax regulations in some areas could lead to unsustainable harvesting practices and loss of biodiversity. Responsible sourcing and certification can help mitigate some of these risks, but they require ongoing commitment.

Labor Issues:

Even organic cotton, while considered a more sustainable option, can present labor issues, particularly concerning fair wages and working conditions. The certification process for organic materials often lacks transparency, and there are cases where labor exploitation continues to persist. Addressing labor rights is crucial for ensuring the overall sustainability of materials, ensuring that workers are treated ethically throughout the supply chain.