It is official: Under Armour is entering the
lacrosse equipment fray. Much like the partnership that Nike has with STX, Under Armour has been working with Gait/DeBeer to produce a line of equipment.
Originally, I assumed UA would work with Maverik, especially in light of Paul Rabil's dual endorsement deals.
Since Gait ended up being UA's partner, I am now wondering about the Rabil's future with Maverik. Given his status as the highest profile laxer in the world, it is hard to imagine that UA wants to part with him, but they probably do not want their key laxer working for a competitor either. I guess we will see if UA buys out Rabil's Maverik contract, lets it run its course, or reduces their emphasis on him. Remember, Rabil appears in UA signage
outside of lacrosse as well.
Along the same lines, we can expect equipment changes at Maryland. The Terps have reportedly been dissatisfied with STX and were among the first to drop this year's Assault line. Rumors have been swirling about an equipment switch ever since STX launched the first Nike lines, and now it looks like we know who the Terps have been considering. Whether UA will have a full line at launch is uncertain, so it is probable that standard Gait gear will supplement the team, again much like STX on Nike sponsored teams. As in everything else, Maryland will be the signature school for UA lax.
You may recall that way back when I started this blog (
10/31/2008 to be exact), I said that Under Armour will be producing equipment in the near future. My exact words were:
Expect it around 2012.
Am I a profit or what?
5/4/2011 - Edit - 1:15 pm
Lacrosse Playground has posted pictures of the UA Revenant Head. It definitely has a strong Gait influence.
Unfortunately I am getting word that the pads and gloves also have a strong Gait influence. Considering that Gait is arguably the least popular manufacturer in the game - mostly attributed to their looks - this seems to be a huge misstep on UA's Part. Pics and/or links will be posted as they become available.
5/4/2011 - Edit - 2:30 pm
Lax U Nation has posted pictures of the arm pads. They are not as Gait-like as I had heard. Actually they are pretty respectable with a simple, almost classic look. I cannot get the pic to copy, so you'll have to follow the link. Sorry.
Further edit: All of the links and pics of UA lax gear have been pulled from the internet. That includes those linked on my blog. For those of you lucky enough to see them, what do you think?
