WaveSpring™ Technology
What is Energy Return?
WaveSpring™ returns energy with every step. Energy that is otherwise lost to the ground is recycled to the wearer, providing a remarkable combination of cushioning and energy return. Spira makes it easier to stand, walk, run and compete without stress associated with traditional shoe midsole materials. WaveSpring™ Technology is by far the most significant enhancement in shoe cushioning for many years.
Benefits of WaveSpring™ Technology
Most athletic shoes rely on compressive foams, air and viscous gel materials to cushion the feet. While these materials may initially provide a sense of comfort, they quickly break down. The WaveSpring™ is mechanical and will not break down, therefore not losing its extraordinary feel over time. In fact, the springs will most likely outlast the shoe.
WaveSpring™ returns up to 96% of energy otherwise lost to the ground. It also reduces peak impact forces by 20% to allow people to participate in running or walking activities for longer periods with less stress on the body. When engaged in high impact activity such as running, where peak impact is four to five times body weight, a reduction of 20% is quite significant. It is as if an 80 kg person suddenly weighs 65 kg for purposes of determining stress on the body.
Elite marathon runner David Cheruiyot, won three major marathons, Istanbul, Singapore and Houston in a four month period. He credits his Spira shoes for his performance:
"The shoes were great. They provide me with the opportunity to race more often with less recovery time between races. Likewise, the Spira training shoes allow me to train at a more intense effort level while protecting me from injury. Houston was my third marathon in less than four months. There is no way I could do that without Spira."
David Cheruiyot
WaveSpring™ technology is laterally stable, lightweight and compact. The technology is in the heel and/or forefoot of the shoe. As such, it has the appearance of a normal shoe, and does not need an elevated platform to provide full function. The WaveSpring™ technology, contained within the midsole of Spira's running and athletic walking shoe models, deflect and disperse impact forces.
WaveSpring™ Configurations
Heel and forefoot spring configurations are engineered for both specific activities and to meet your individual needs. Spring size and resilience are graded by average weight and size. For example, the Classic and Contemporary Leather walking shoes (available soon from spirafootwear.co.uk) have a "bouncier" feel because the intended activity, walking, allows for foot strike at one and a half to two times that of the body weight. The running shoe models have a "firmer" feel because running typically involves foot strike at higher impact forces - up to 3 to 4 times that of the body weight. The Stinger Elite is the exception to the main 3 spring configurations. It has a dual forefoot configuration.