Under Armour Highlight 2 MC Knit

Built for Big-skill players / versatile big-skill + some skill positions (QB, RB, LB, DE).

Under Armour Highlight 2 MC Knit
Cleats Hub Score
7.4
/10
Good
Confidence: medium · 5 reviews
5 critic · 0 owner · Critic 7.4 · Owner · we don't sell or test products.
See the full breakdown ↓

A lightweight, high-cut cleat that delivers ankle support and secure lockdown but may feel narrow and shows mixed durability.

Lightweight for acceleration and enduranceStrong ankle support from high collarSecure, locked-in lockdownEffective molded-plate traction

Key specs

QUICK DATA
Released2024BrandUnder Armour
ModelHighlight 2 MC KnitTypeAmerican Football · Cleat
LevelEliteUpperUA IntelliKnit (knit upper / IntelliKnit construction)
SoleplateUA Scatter Traction molded cleat plate (molded studs)SurfaceMolded (MC) — intended for firm ground / general use on natural grass and typical synthetic turf (molded studs
Who it's forBig-skill players / versatile big-skill + some skill positions (QB, RB, LB, DE)Weight346 g
FitRegular (UA states "Regular" size & fit); several user reviews report a narrow/tight feel.MSRP$140

The verdict

01 / REVIEW

Synthesised from 5 independent reviews, every claim traces to a quote in the breakdown. We don't test products ourselves.

The Under Armour Highlight 2 MC Knit is a 2024 elite, mid-to-high cut molded-stud cleat with a knit upper and a tall sock-like collar. It is light in weight and gives clear ankle support. The cleat can feel snug or narrow for some players. Reports on how long it lasts are mixed.

Design and build

Released in 2024 as an elite-tier Under Armour cleat, the Highlight 2 MC Knit uses an IntelliKnit upper, which means the knit is engineered to hold shape and support the foot. It ships with a SuperFoam® high-rebound insole, which is foam designed to return energy and add cushioning.

The sole uses an UA Scatter Traction molded cleat plate with molded studs. The MC designation means the studs are for firm natural grass and common synthetic turf surfaces.

Under Armour lists the fit as Regular. Several user reports describe a narrow or snug feel. This is the second-generation Highlight, replacing the 2022 Highlight MC. The cleat carries an MSRP of 140. Each shoe is specified at 346 g per shoe.

On the field
On the field

Who it's for

The Highlight 2 MC Knit targets players who want a mid-cut cleat with versatility rather than a pure low-cut speed model.

The light weight and high collar make it suitable for linebackers, tight ends, safeties and running backs who need ankle support but still want to stay agile. Under Armour also markets it to quarterbacks and some defensive ends who need support while remaining mobile.

Players who focus on top-end straight-line speed, such as many wide receivers and some cornerbacks, should look at low-cut speed cleats. Offensive and defensive linemen who need the widest last and the most base stability should look at cleats built for linemen.

Because several reviews say the fit runs narrow or snug, players with wide feet should try them on or consider sizing up. The molded studs make the cleat appropriate for natural grass and typical synthetic turf.

Weight

Across reviewer outlets the Highlight 2 is described as a lightweight cleat. Multiple sources list individual shoes under one pound or around 12.2 ounces, and the stated spec is 346 g per shoe (Footballrs, Sports Unlimited, FootballRS Network, The Gorky).

Reviewers say the low weight reduces fatigue and makes acceleration easier for skill and hybrid players. They explicitly link the lower mass to staying fast and agile late into games and practices.

Support

Reviewers consistently praise support. They credit the tall, sock-like collar and the structured knit upper with providing noticeable ankle support without adding bulky weight (The Gorky, Cleats Report, FootballRS Network, Sports Unlimited, Footballrs).

Reviewers say the collar is a good trade-off for players who need ankle stability while staying mobile, such as linebackers or tight ends who change direction often.

The super-high cut design gave me ankle support without weighing me down. The Gorky

Lockdown

Reviewers say the locked-in feeling comes from the IntelliKnit upper working with the lacing and strap system. Multiple outlets describe a snug, secure hold that keeps the foot planted (The Gorky, Cleats Report, FootballRS Network, Sports Unlimited, Footballrs).

That same system can make the overall fit feel tighter for some users.

The UA IntelliKnit Upper hugged my feet just right. The Gorky
Planting to cut
Planting to cut

Traction

Reviewers report the UA Scatter Traction molded plate gives reliable grip on firm grass and common turf. They say it inspires confidence in cuts and starts (The Gorky, Cleats Report, FootballRS Network).

Not every reviewer ranked this plate above competitors. One outlet called the traction acceptable but not as grippy as some Nike and Adidas plates, which matters for players who want maximum grip on many surfaces.

Comfort

Most reviewers describe the cleat as comfortable for extended practices and games. They point to the SuperFoam® insole and the knit upper that conforms to the foot (The Gorky, FootballRS Network, Sports Unlimited, Cleats Report).

A minority say the Highlight 2 is not the plushest speed cleat, so players wanting maximum cushioning may find it merely adequate.

Accelerating downfield
Accelerating downfield

Fit

Under Armour lists this model as Regular fit, and multiple outlets say many athletes will find them true to size. Several reviews call the feel snug or narrow and note the tall collar affects perceived fit (The Gorky, Cleats Report, FootballRS Network, Sports Unlimited, Footballrs).

The practical advice is to try them on before buying, especially for wide feet or unusual insteps. Some users relied on the three-step lacing and strap system to get a comfortable fit.

Durability

Most reviewers say the Highlight 2 holds up through months of use and expect the synthetic IntelliKnit upper and the plate to withstand regular play (The Gorky, Cleats Report, FootballRS Network, Sports Unlimited).

One reviewer reported early wear after only a short trial, which creates uncertainty. Teams or players who play on abrasive surfaces often should watch how long they last.

In hand
In hand

Value

At an MSRP of 140 reviewers place the Highlight 2 in a mid-to-upper price bracket for high-cut cleats. Reviewers generally see the features as matching that price (FootballRS Network, Cleats Report, The Gorky, Sports Unlimited, Footballrs).

Whether it is a good value depends on if a buyer prefers the cleat's light weight and ankle support enough to accept the fit and durability caveats.

Frequently asked questions

Do the Highlight 2 MC Knit run true to size?

Reviews are mixed but lean toward true to size for many players. Cleats Report and Sports Unlimited call them true to size or regular, while Footballrs and some users report a snug, narrow feel, so trying them on is advised.

Are the studs molded or detachable?

The plate uses molded studs (MC) made for firm natural grass and common synthetic turf. Reviewers say the UA Scatter Traction plate works well on those surfaces.

Are these cleats for grass or turf?

Yes. The MC designation and reviewer comments identify these as molded-stud cleats meant for firm ground and typical synthetic turf. They are not for soft ground or specialized turf-only studs.

How durable are the Highlight 2 MC Knit?

Most reviewers say the cleats hold up through months of use, and Cleats Report and The Gorky note solid abrasion resistance. However one reviewer reported early wear after only a few hours, so durability reports are not uniform.

What position are the Under Armour Highlight 2 MC Knit best for?

The cleat is reviewed as best for mid-cut, versatile roles. Specifically it suits linebackers, tight ends, safeties and running backs who want ankle support with agility. It is also aimed at quarterbacks and some defensive ends who value support.

Are the Highlight 2 MC Knit good for wide feet?

Players with wider feet should be cautious. Multiple reviews report a narrow or snug fit, so wide-footed players should try them on and consider sizing up or looking at wider models.

Bottom line, The Highlight 2 MC Knit is a lightweight, high-cut molded-stud cleat that suits versatile, big-skill players who want ankle support and responsiveness; players with wide feet or those who prioritize long-term durability should shop around.

The breakdown

02 / RATINGS
8.0
SupportStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
The Gorky8.0
The super-high cut design gave me ankle support without weighing me down
Cleats Report8.0
Support is the primary promise of a super-high cut cleat, and the Highlight delivers a firm, structured sensation around the ankle.
7.9
LockdownStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
The Gorky8.0
The UA IntelliKnit Upper hugged my feet just right
Cleats Report8.0
the Highlight tends to favor a snug, secure fit that rewards players who prefer a locked-in sensation.
7.7
TractionStrong consensus · 4 sources
See the evidence
The Gorky8.0
It gripped the turf like a champ, making quick cuts feel effortless.
Cleats Report8.0
Traction is a standout area where the Highlight makes a difference.
7.3
ComfortStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
The Gorky9.0
I forgot I was even wearing cleats during those long practices.
Cleats Report7.0
Comfort is where good cleats win long-term loyalty, and the Highlight tries to balance cushioning and responsiveness.
7.3
DurabilityStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
The Gorky8.0
I’ve been using the Highlight Cleats for several months now, and they’ve held up impressively.
Cleats Report8.0
The synthetic upper resists abrasion from contact with turf, cleats, and protection gear.
7.2
WeightStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
The Gorky8.0
the lightweight design helps me stay fast and agile throughout the entire game
Cleats Report6.0
the manufacturer didn’t specify an exact weight for the Highlight in the provided details
7.2
ValueStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
The Gorky7.0
While the Highlight Cleats aren’t the cheapest on the market, I found that the quality and performance justify the price.
Cleats Report7.0
typically sits in a mid-to-upper price bracket for high-cut cleats, offering features that justify the cost for players seeking both protection and agility.
6.6
FitStrong consensus · 5 sources
See the evidence
The Gorky8.0
The Under Armor Highlight Cleats have a snug fit that feels secure without being too tight.
Cleats Report6.0
Many athletes will find the Highlight true to size, but the high-cut design can change how a size feels compared to low-profile cleats.

The sources

03 / EVIDENCE

The Cleats Hub Score is a weighted aggregate of these independent reviews, normalised to 0–10 and weighted by source authority, recency and sample size. We don't sell or physically test products. Read the full methodology.

The verdict, split

04 / PROS & CONS

◤ What reviewers love

  • +Lightweight for acceleration and endurance
  • +Strong ankle support from high collar
  • +Secure, locked-in lockdown
  • +Effective molded-plate traction

◢ Where it falls short

  • Runs narrow for some reviewers
  • Durability reports are mixed
  • Traction not class-leading versus some rivals

How it stacks up

05 / COMPARE

Put the Under Armour Highlight 2 MC Knit head-to-head against another cleat on every aggregated characteristic.

Compare with any product ↗

More cleats to consider

06 / SUGGESTED