Helena Frye
Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) is a shoe company that focuses on athletic performance. Their Load 'N Launch technology, located in the forefoot of the shoe, is designed to increase the wearer's vertical leap. APL's basketball shoes have been banned by the NBA for providing wearers with an unfair competitive advantage. While results may vary depending on the wearer's height, weight, athletic ability, and physical condition, tests have shown that the shoes do increase the vertical leap of the majority of people who use them.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand | Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) |
| Model | Concept 1, Concept 3, Concept X, SUPERFUTURE |
| Technology | Load 'N Launch |
| Function | Increases vertical leap by several inches |
| Testing | Tested at a leading West Coast University Biomechanical Lab |
| Results | Increase in vertical leap for the majority of people |
| Individual Results | Dependent on height, weight, athletic ability, technique, and physical condition |
| Traction | Excellent on clean courts |
| Cushioning | Future-foam cushioning |
| Material | Full-on knit material |
| Fit | Secure fit improves performance |
| Use Case | Performance basketball shoes |
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What You'll Learn
The Load 'N Launch technology
The Athletic Propulsion Labs' Load 'N Launch technology is a patented device embedded in the forefoot of the basketball shoe, just in front of the flex zone and the ball of the foot. The device is designed to provide an instant rebound effect that enhances an athlete's vertical leap. The technology works in tandem with the rest of the shoe, ensuring uniformity in compression or pressure.
The Load 'N Launch system features a unique "launch pad" housed inside a cavity at the front of the shoe. This "launch pad" compresses and stores energy when an athlete exerts force on the forefoot (the "Load" phase) and then releases this energy to propel the athlete upwards (the "Launch" phase). The compression and release of energy result in an explosive "launch" cycle, providing an instant increase in vertical leap.
The Load 'N Launch device is designed to be undetectable to the wearer, with no sensation of the device against the foot. Additionally, the shoe incorporates extremely high-rebound EVA in the midsole and insole, maximising cushioning, comfort, and energy return during the jumping or liftoff phase. The system also utilises a high-pressure Thermoplastic Urethane shank that extends through the arch of the foot.
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Banned by the NBA
Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) basketball shoes were banned by the NBA for the 2010-2011 season. The ban was due to the competitive advantage provided by the shoes' Load 'N Launch technology, which increases the wearer's vertical leap. APL's Load 'N Launch technology has been extensively tested and shown to provide an instant increase in vertical leap for most people. The technology is designed to capture the maximum amount of energy through compression in the forefoot and then release it through the propulsion and liftoff stage, resulting in an increased vertical leap.
The APL Concept 1 shoes, released in 2010, were the first to be banned by the NBA. The ban sparked interest in the shoes, with many players curious about their performance-enhancing capabilities. APL's Load 'N Launch technology has been described as a “launch pad” housed inside a cavity at the front of the shoe. The unique device compresses and then releases, providing an extra boost during take-off.
While the NBA ban only applied to the 2010-2011 season, the NFHS initially banned APL basketball shoes for high school play. However, the NFHS lifted its ban on February 3, 2011, after discussions with Athletic Propulsion Labs and an examination of pertinent research. The NFHS concluded that the Concept 1 shoes did not violate the rules and could be used in competitive play.
The APL Concept 3, released later, also gained attention for its ability to improve a player's vertical leap. Reviews suggest that the shoes provide an extra lift, making them a popular choice for players despite their expensive price tag and less refined external appearance. The Concept 3 features a thick sole and utilizes spring coils in its Load'n'Launch technology, contributing to the increased vertical leap experienced by wearers.
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Increase in vertical leap
Athletic Propulsion Labs APL basketball shoes are designed to increase an athlete's vertical leap. APL's Load 'N Launch™ technology is a spring-like mechanism embedded in the forefoot of the shoe's sole. The mechanism is made of hard plastic and is intended to increase responsiveness and bounce, providing a turbo-boost to the wearer and improving their jumping ability.
APL claims that its Load 'N Launch™ technology can increase a wearer's vertical leap by up to 3.5 inches. The shoes were banned by the NBA in 2010 due to this claim. However, the effectiveness of the technology has been questioned, with some reviews suggesting the increase in vertical leap is marginal and may not be solely due to the shoes.
One review found that the APL Concept 3 shoes provided an increase in vertical leap of around 1.5 inches when jumping off two feet. The same review also found no difference in vertical leap when performing standing jumps, indicating that the extra height may be due to the thick sole of the shoe.
Another review found that the APL Concept 3 shoes felt bulky but provided a slight increase in jumping ability. The reviewers noted that the shoes felt comfortable and extremely responsive, making it easier to jump.
While APL basketball shoes may provide a slight increase in vertical leap, it is important to note that individual results may vary. Factors such as athletic ability, physical condition, body weight, and muscle fiber response can influence the effectiveness of the shoes. Additionally, there are other ways to improve vertical leap, such as dedicated training programs and exercises.
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APL Concept 3
The Load ‘N Launch® technology has been extensively tested in a leading West Coast University Biomechanical Lab, and the results show that the shoes provide an instant increase in vertical leap for the majority of people. The increase in vertical leap depends on the height, weight, athletic ability, technique, and physical condition of the individual. The shoes have been found to be particularly beneficial for two-legged jumpers and may not provide the same advantage for one-legged jumpers.
The APL Concept 3 shoes have received positive reviews for their traction, with testers noting that the shoes provided excellent grip on clean courts. The dense rubber outsole features translucent sections, and the no-slip rubber works effectively on a variety of surfaces. However, some users have noted that the traction may not be as suitable for outdoor players due to its shallowness, which could lead to faster wear and tear.
The Concept 3 shoes are also known for their comfort and design. The Future-foam cushioning provides a soft and comfortable feel, while the full-on knit material is super-premium. The shoes have a dense rubber outsole and feature a mix of shallow herringbone and translucent sections. The overall design and performance of the Concept 3 shoes make them a reliable choice for basketball players, although they may come with a higher price tag.
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APL Concept X
Load 'N Launch Carbon 10 features a full-length carbon fibre plate that acts as a springboard, efficiently transferring energy with every step. The plate sits above a larger device with 10 larger coil springs, which are positioned throughout the forefoot. Each spring is tuned to work in conjunction with one another to provide maximum energy return and enhanced elevation. The forefoot is the most critical part of a basketball shoe for vertical leaping.
The shoe also features a newly developed APL FutureFoam midsole that is lighter and provides more rebound. This helps to cushion the landing and makes it softer. The outsole of the shoe features a high-traction clear rubber compound that displays the Load 'N Launch Carbon 10 device. The heel area of the outsole is carved out to reduce weight and expose the carbon fibre plate.
The Upper of the Concept X also features new technologies, including a full-length stretch TechLoom bootie supported by APL Exolock overlays. APL Exolock technology uses various embroidery techniques, thread materials, and cord to create enhanced support while maintaining a low weight. The upper is also highly breathable and can be tuned to provide the right amount of support, lockdown, and breathability.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, APL basketball shoes are effective in improving a player's vertical leap. The shoes feature Load 'N Launch technology, which provides an "instant rebound effect" that enhances the user's jumping ability. Testing has shown that athletes experience an increase of several inches in their vertical leap when wearing APL basketball shoes.
The Load 'N Launch technology is located in the forefoot of the basketball shoe, which is the most critical part of the shoe for vertical leaping. This technology features a unique device that serves as a "launch pad." During the "Load" phase, the device compresses as the athlete exerts force on the front of the foot. Then, during the "Launch" phase, the compressed energy is released, propelling the athlete upward and increasing their vertical leap.
While APL basketball shoes can provide a significant advantage in terms of vertical leap, they may have some disadvantages for certain users. Some users have noted that the shoes can feel slightly cheap on the outside and lack the refined good looks of modern Nike or Adidas designs. Additionally, the shoes are known to be quite expensive, which may be a factor for those on a budget.
Yes, the APL Concept 1 shoes were banned by the NBA for the 2010-2011 season due to the competitive advantage provided by their Load 'N Launch technology. However, the ban was lifted by the NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) on February 3, 2011, after further examination and discussions with Athletic Propulsion Labs. The use of APL basketball shoes may vary depending on the specific league and its regulations.
