I got an email asking if I’d be interested in trying a revolutionary new running shoe. You know I said “YES” as fast as I could reply. Like most runners, I’m always willing to try the next new thing.
A world-renowned sports scientist and athletic industry innovators founded AMPLA. As the name suggests, they’re committed to engineering footwear that “amplifies athletic ability.” In the last eight years, sports scientist Dr. Marcus Elliott has tested and trained elite athletes and has captured more than 30,000 hours of athlete data. They used all of this information and some new ideas to shape AMPLA’s first offering – the AMPLA FLY.
The AMPLA FLY looks really different than any shoe I’ve tried. It has a full-length carbon fiber plate that “guides foot strike and releases stored energy” on push off. It uses the energy from your foot strike to propel you forward. The design is intended to help with stride efficiency and allows runners to focus on an upright form. The shoe has a seam free mesh and lightweight cushioning.
I watched a video of some people testing AMPLA Flys out and it seemed pretty straightforward. Just put them on and run. I was hoping for some guidance on breaking them in or how to use them. There wasn’t much information on use on the website– just on the design and science.
I tried them first on a 3 mile run on tired legs. I didn’t feel the automatic boost from the carbon fiber plate. I was expecting a springy bounce. This piece reminds me of prosthetic legs for running so I expected a springiness. I was a bit disappointed.
I gave them another try a few weeks later for a 4 mile run and they were great. I guess I just needed to break them in a little. I like the snug feel and my foot strike was much more natural that on the first run. I noticed that I was going faster than my usual pace with no extra effort. I tried them again on a tempo run on the treadmill and felt very strong. I noticed that I had a nice forward lean and my shoulders were back and relaxed, too.
I spoke to one of the marketing folks for AMPLA. Jayme indicated that many people are using the shoes like I am for tempo runs and speed work. I told her that I like to wear different shoes for different workouts. This this seems to be the case for most people using the shoes. There are a few stories of people using the AMPLY FLY all the time – even for marathons.
[Still working on my video blogging skills – I’ll try to get a better cut!]
The shoes fit differently than some of my other shoes. I like the narrow front. The heel cups the foot. The shoes are a bit higher in the back, too, so I wear higher socks with them to avoid chafing. I don’t wear orthotics, but Jayme says they typically work well in the shoe.
AMPLA has a 100% Direct to Consumer business model. What does this mean for runners? There are no added marketing or sales commissions adding to the price of the shoes. They allow people to try them at expos and events. They also have free shipping and free returns within 30 days, no questions asked. The shoes are a very reasonably priced given the technology. AMPLA FLYs are $120 and come in red and black in both men’s and women’s sizes.
These shoes are great for the road and treadmill. AMPLA will be introducing new shoes that will work better on trails and rough surfaces in the year ahead. I can’t wait to try them!
You can check out AMPLA online. You can also follow on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Have you ever tried new technology to improve your running?
Please note: I was provided the AMPLA FLY at no cost in exchange for an honest review. I was not otherwise compensated for this post. All opinions are my own