Under Armour Highlight 2 MC Knit Review: Lightweight Feel, Big Skill Build

Introduction

These cleats had some big shoes to fill. The UA Highlight line has been around for a while now, and it’s always been known for its standout ankle support and aggressive styling. But with the new 2 MC Knit version, Under Armour decided to shake things up by introducing their Intelliknit upper, promising a lighter, more flexible feel without sacrificing performance. I was curious to see if these could actually deliver the same high-level ankle security while keeping things sleek and fast. Spoiler alert: they definitely impressed me.

Comfort

For the most part, the Highlight 2 MC Knit cleats are impressively cozy. The upper is made from Under Armour’s new Intelliknit material, and it’s genuinely impressive. One of the best features is the heel loop and stretchable cuff, which make sliding your foot in effortless. Inside, there’s a super thin layer of neoprene lining the interior, offering a soft, almost custom-like fit around the entire foot. The cuff itself is a standout: stretchy, soft to the touch, and extending well above the ankle without feeling restrictive.

The heel has a horseshoe-shaped padding that adds a cushiony feel, but there’s one small issue, right where your heel meets the cleat, there’s no padding, so you can feel some pressure from the heel cup. Another mild discomfort arises when lacing up; the top of the lacing system can press into your foot, and it would have been great if UA added a padded tongue like they did on the Spotlight model. That said, the insole helps make up for these issues. It’s the thickest football cleat insole I’ve ever tested, made with super high-rebound foam that feels incredible underfoot. Overall, while there are some minor gripes, these cleats are mostly comfortable and built for long hours on the field.

Fit & Support

The fit on these cleats is excellent. Thanks to the stretchy yet compressive nature of the Intelliknit material and the thin neoprene liner, they hug your foot snugly without feeling restrictive. Inside the cleat, supportive overlays give you added lateral stability, which is especially valuable when making sharp cuts. The lacing system works well, simple, secure, and effective. But what really defines the Highlight line is the ankle cuff. This high-cut, sock-like ankle collar is as good as it gets, giving you a spat-like feel without needing tape.

The cleat feels like a low-top in the footbed, but the cuff transforms it into a hybrid. It’s soft, secure, and compressive in a way that enhances support without limiting flexibility. If you’re a fan of a bit more ankle peace of mind without sacrificing mobility, this cleat nails that balance. It’s also worth noting that among the cleats designed for bigger skill players, this is probably the lightest option available.

Traction

Under Armour’s Scatter Plate traction system is used on these cleats, and this was my first time giving them a full test. The plate includes nine baseball diamond-shaped studs in the forefoot, four triangle-shaped studs in the rear, and a few extra medial studs through the middle for stability. On the field, especially on grass, these studs bit into the turf and delivered strong performance. I never felt like I was slipping out of cuts or losing my footing.

It’s important to note that the feel of this cleat is different from something like the Nike Vapor Edge, which offers more of a raw, aggressive snap with each step. These cleats, by contrast, feel softer and more padded thanks to the thick insole. The Scatter Plate is flexible enough to provide a smooth stride but still has that spring into your next step. It’s a traction setup that fits the cleat’s profile, supportive, versatile, and tuned for powerful movement rather than razor-sharp finesse.

Style

I’ve always liked the look of the Highlight series, but this might be my favorite version yet. They look exactly how they’re advertised, clean, simple, and seriously tough. In fact, the cleat gives off a stormtrooper or tactical boot vibe, which fits perfectly with its performance profile. The all-white colorway I tested is sleek and minimal, and the branding is refreshingly subtle.

You get the Under Armour wordmark on the tongue, a logo on the inner heel, and a nod to the Intelliknit tech near the cuff, but that’s about it. The design is tight and streamlined, and it’s clear UA was going for function over flash here. In terms of colorways, the options are limited to black, white, red, and blue, so don’t expect wild customization. That said, both the white and black versions look elite.

Best Position Fit

This is where things get interesting. The Highlight 2 MC Knit walks the line between skill cleats and big skill cleats. On one hand, it has the structure, support, and plate feel of a big skill cleat. On the other, it’s lightweight and flexible enough that certain skill players might feel right at home.

If you’re a quarterback, running back, linebacker, or defensive end, this cleat is an easy recommendation. But even some wide receivers and defensive backs who like a bit more ankle support might gravitate toward it. It really comes down to personal preference, but in general, this cleat shines brightest in the big skill category.

Price

At $140, the Highlight 2 MC Knit feels fairly priced. Football cleats have been steadily climbing in price, especially high-performance models built for big skill players. Some are pushing $200, so getting a cleat with premium material, solid structure, and excellent build quality for under $150 is a win.

The Intelliknit material, padded heel structure, and Scatter Plate traction system all feel like elements you’d find on a top-tier model, but Under Armour kept this at a more accessible price point. For players looking for great value without sacrificing quality, this cleat is a strong contender.

Final Verdict

Overall, I was really impressed with the Highlight 2 MC Knit. Under Armour took a cleat that already had a legacy of performance and elevated it with better materials, thoughtful updates, and a design that appeals to both big skill players and those on the edge of the category. The comfort is solid, the fit is outstanding, and the traction and support check all the boxes.

If you want a cleat that’s lightweight, versatile, and built to last through the grind of the season, this one deserves a serious look. The only drawbacks are minor, like a small lack of heel padding and limited colorways, but the pros far outweigh the cons. For under $150, this cleat brings premium feel, versatile design, and field-ready performance that could easily make it your go-to for 2025.