KNOW YOUR TECH: Under Armour MagZip

KNOW YOUR TECH breaks down the scientific technology used in your favorite sneakers and activewear. Let’s demystify your next purchase: today’s technology is Under Armour MagZip. If you've ever dealt with the struggle of a zipper that gets snagged or misaligned, you'll want to pay close attention to this one. With just one hand, Under Armour MagZip's open-ended zipper aligns and locks itself into place effortlessly. That means you'll no longer be stuck trying to carefully piece together zipper closures as you venture out this winter, saving you both time and headaches.

What is it? Under Armour MagZip is an open-ended that uses magnets to automatically align and close. It was developed by Scott Peters, an engineer who originally came up with the concept as way to help his uncle, who has a rare muscular disorder that makes it difficult to use zippers and buttons. It submitted to Under Armour's Future Show / Innovation Challenge, and Peters' invention was chosen by UA as their next outerwear breakthrough.

How does it work? Through the use of magnets, Under Armour MagZip goes to work by locking into place at the bottom rungs of the zipper. By pressing a button to lock Under Armour MagZip into place, the zipper automatically connects and is ready to be pulled up. For runners or anyone who's struggled with the annoyance of tangled zippers in the past, this easy fastening technology is here to make life easier.

Notable products: Under Armour ColdGear Infrared Softershell (Releases 8/1)

Bottom line: If your zippers are unreliable or worn out, you'll want to try Under Armour MagZip when it debuts on August 1st.

Riley Jones is a freelance writer from Charlottesville, VA and a contributor to Sneaker Report. With an unshakable affinity for basketball and all things ’90s, he can be found on Twitter @rchrstphr.

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