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A Surprising Brand Is the Latest to Tap Into ’90s Sneaker Nostalgia

Joining the ranks of brands like Nike and Adidas in reviving archival styles, Under Armour debuts a ’90s-inspired shoe designed for today.

Close-up of a white mesh sneaker with black, blue, and red leather overlays against a yellow background.Under Armour
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By Hayley Helms

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While slim sneakers continue to gain traction, there’s still a place for chunkier, dad-shoe-inspired designs … especially those that seamlessly merge ’90s-era styling with modern materials.

It’s become commonplace for sportswear giants like Nike and Adidas to mine their own archives, but the latest heritage-influenced lifestyle sneaker to hit the street isn’t coming from one of the usual suspects.

The Arc 96 arrives courtesy of Under Armour, marking the brand’s entry into the retro revival space.

White and silver athletic sneakers with thick ribbed soles worn with white ribbed socks.
The new unisex lifestyle shoe signals Under Armour’s entry into the heritage reissue game.
Under Armour

Back to the future

The Arc 96 pays homage to Under Armour’s ’90s origins in more ways than one. The “96” in the name points to the brand’s founding year (1996), and the bold branding, layered aesthetic and cushioned silhouette drive home the shoe’s 20th-century roots.

Pair of white mesh sneakers with black, blue, and red accents and thick white soles on a gray background.
There are six colorways available for the Arc 96, but the White / Black / Royal – 101 feels the most ‘90s to this editor.
Under Armour

While it certainly looks heritage, the Arc 96 brings modern materials into the equation, delivering a compelling lifestyle shoe with performance roots.

The textured upper features multiple materials, including varying gauges of breathable mesh paired with full-grain leather overlays. The leather details are as much functional as they are aesthetic, helping to lock the foot into place during movement.

Pair of gray Under Armour running shoes with red, blue, and neon green accents viewed from above.
An asymmetrical tongue design brings a futuristic detail to the retro-inspired run style.
Under Armour

The upper may be core 1996 style, but internally, this shoe is all 2026. The Arc 96 includes Under Armour’s dual-density Hovr midsole foam underfoot, which is typically found on the brand’s high-end footwear.

Black and white shoe sole with yellow Under Armour logo and textured grip pattern.
The dual-density UA Hovr midsole cushioning is responsive for all-day comfort.
Under Armour

The decoupled midsole is complemented by the full-length rubber outsole, which provides traction built for versatile everyday use and added durability for long-term wear.

The Arc 96 is exciting as a standalone release, but also symbolizes Under Armour’s commitment to more casual, heritage-inspired sneakers overall. At $125, it’s a reasonably-priced alternative to expensive competitors, without sacrificing style.

Black and teal Under Armour sneakers with white soles worn by a person in blue and yellow track pants sitting on stairs.
Translucent side panels highlight the logo design built into the lacing system.
Under Armour

Availability and pricing

The Arc 96 is available now on Under Armour’s website, retailing for $125.

About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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