Kegan Johannes has explained why Under Armour's new HeatGear range will keep him strong and help him perform at his peak during a busy summer of football.
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The story
In every match, strikers may earn the spotlight, but it's the defenders who form the backbone of a winning team. They hold the line, stay composed under pressure, and safeguard the team's success.
Under Armour understands the vital role defenders like Mamelodi Sundowns' Kegan Johannes play, on and off the field, and equips them with the right gear to stay ahead. Get ready to protect your territory like never before.
Defenders are the team's foundation — unstoppable and resolute. Sweating, but with a clear mind, they stay locked in as they face the opponent charging towards the goal.
Every move is calculated, every step intentional. The game isn't just about blocking goals; it's about standing firm and defending the team's pride. Amidst the heat and pressure, defenders thrive.
With the intensity rising like a sprint across the soccer pitch under the midday sun, athletes face a choice: let their gear fail or defend with it.
Under Armour's new HeatGear range is built for those who don't back down when the sun turns up the heat. This summer, HeatGear is the ideal partner to help you rise to the challenge instead of retreating from it.
Under Armour athlete Kegan Johannes says, "Playing through South Africa's summer is a whole different test of endurance. One day it's the heat of Limpopo, the next it's the dry air of Kimberley—no matter where I am, I need gear that shields me from the elements and keeps me going.
"HeatGear has my back, helping me perform at my best, no matter how extreme the conditions are."
Without the right protection, the summer heat can severely impact your performance. High temperatures lead to dehydration, fatigue, and loss of focus, making it harder to maintain intensity.
Overheating can also strain muscles and the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of injury. Staying cool and hydrated is essential to perform at your peak.
Studies show that athletes working in hot conditions can experience up to a 20% drop in performance compared to those in cooler environments, while cognitive functions like reaction times slow by up to 20% in extreme heat, affecting decision-making and coordination.
Under Armour's HeatGear lightweight, moisture-wicking technology pulls sweat away from the skin, regulating body temperature and preventing overheating — a crucial advantage for defenders who need to stay sharp throughout the match.
As the heat intensifies and the game picks up, defenders rely on agility and quick reactions to block opponents and anticipate plays.
The breathable, stretchy material allows for maximum flexibility, enabling pivots, tackles, and sprints without the weight of sweat or heat.
HeatGear also protects against harmful UV rays with UPF 30+ and 50+ protection, offering an extra layer of defense not just from opponents, but also from the sun.
Summer heat is no reason to slow down. When you train hard, staying cool is essential for maintaining peak performance. HeatGear protects you from the elements, letting you focus on defending your turf the Under Armour way.
Under Armour explains, "The summer sun won't stop your game. Our lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric keeps you cool and focused, enhancing your performance while others fade. Whether you're defending your goal or marking an opponent, staying sharp is key.
"HeatGear supports defenders, helping you stay agile, relentless, and focused, even under pressure. When you leave everything on the field, HeatGear keeps you in the zone, pushing you past your limits, defending with purpose, and ensuring you remain at your best to face both the heat and the competition."
In terms of pricing, the Men's HeatGear® Armour Short Sleeve is valued at R799, with Men's HeatGear Pro Train Shorts valued at the same price.
Select items from the Under Armour HeatGear range are available at the Halo store in Sandton City and Under Armour stores nationwide. HeatGear is also available online.
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