APL Concept 1[Performance Review]

“The patent-pending Load ‘N Launch™ technology is implanted in a cavity in the forefoot of the basketball shoe and is designed to provide an instant improvement in vertical leap.* The device works in conjunction with the high-performance materials of the outsole, midsole, insole and sock liner to create a performance experience unlike any other basketball shoe.” - athleticpropulsionlabs

I had to buy this shoe, especially after it was banned by the NBA, I dreamed of tomahawking like my boy D.Rose on some poor schmuck at the local rec center.

FIT 6/10
Has to be broken in, because of EVA Mid sole, shoe feels soft and a little narrow in the front causing slight discomfort to the toes, but once broken in feeling goes away. True to its size

Cushioning 8/10

Shoe gave me a tight snug feeling first couple of times wearing it, but once it molded to my foot it was pretty comfortable. I felt bouncier than normal, maybe because of the Loud and launch technology.

Traction 7/10
Surprisingly, this shoe held up pretty nicely. Does not utilize any type of traditional pattern like herringbone but the high grade Crystal rubber outsole held up pretty nicely.

Durability 8/10
This shoe is built like a tank. After about 20 full court games they still look new. They used a full synthetic leather upper, carbon fiber look made great for its durability.

Breath-ability 0/10
No air flow what so ever, but like my other reviews I don’t care much for that.

Responsiveness 5/10
This shoe is designed, I feel for bigger players, who will look to go up strong in the paint mostly and this shoes will do them do that job. If you’re a guard or slashing forward this shoe is not the best, I had trouble gathering myself in situations that normally are a breeze, like cutting around screens, drop steps, and crossing over.

Ankle support 2/10
No matter how tight I fastened the laces the shoe still felt loose around my ankles.

Vertical jump increase 5/10

So the master claim will this increase my vertical leap? I have a 32-inch vertical leap, this increased my vertical to 32.5. I felt the propulsion system helped with exploding because you felt a little bounce to your step, but it did not increase my vertical by very much.

Overall 5/10
 For its claims of increasing my verticle it sure disappointed me, but I was actually surprised on the other aspects of the shoe, Like its durability and traction, however for a price of $150, I can think of many shoes that will give you much better performance.