We conducted a Forces in Running study which looked at the timing, location, and intensity of forces generated while running. The research included a variety of paces and footstrike patterns. Based on the study, we know the exact forces generated at different paces in the heel, arch, forefoot, and big toe.
Two key findings: One, while running, we generate a dramatic range of both impact forces and propulsion forces. Those forces are intense at 5 minutes per mile (3:06 min/km), less so at 8 minutes per mile (5:00 min/km), and even more gentle at 12 minutes per mile (7:27 min/km). Two, the impact force at any given pace is much different than the push-off force.
We also found that midsole foam (it doesn’t matter what type) isn’t nearly as adaptable as we’ve all been led to believe by running shoe brands. In fact, it’s physically impossible for one midsole foam to respond appropriately at all running speeds. Your midsole might be way too soft and inefficient or way too hard and devoid of proper cushioning. If you want a midsole that responds correctly to the pace you run, the foam density needs to be adjusted to address the forces at that pace. We call that density adjustment “tuning.”
All this means two fundamental things. First, the heel and midfoot need to be tuned differently from the forefoot to accommodate the differing forces. Second, midsole foam needs to be tuned for specific pace zones in order to respond appropriately.
By tuning midsole foam density between heel and forefoot and by pace zone for each of our models, we’re able to optimize cushioning and maximize push-off efficiency for every runner. The only way to get the best cushioning and the most energy out of your shoes is if they’re tuned for the pace you run.
The data from our Forces in Running study clearly shows that when tuned correctly, pace-tuned shoes give you optimized cushioning and maximized propulsion efficiency. Vimazi CEO Scott Tucker published three research papers using our study data, and we have a patent pending on the technology.
What’s your pace range for the majority of miles you run? Use that range to select your first pair of Vimazi pace-tuned shoes. If you love them, you may want to add a second pair that works for an adjacent pace zone.
Here's an alternative way to think about it. If you have an upcoming event and really want to rock your pace zone, then you could select the model that works best for your target race pace.
We’re a small startup and don’t have the resources to produce multiple shoe variations. That said, the fit of our shoes is superb. We’ve spent years perfecting footwear fit at other brands. Plus, we're life-long runners, so we know how important fit is for running shoes. The snug heel and wide toe box of our shoes should feel great for the majority of runners. Also, the fit is the same for each of our models, so if one works for you then another model will give you the same fit.
For many, many reasons there are lots of pressures on shoe suppliers and their partners right now. As a small startup, we’ve unfortunately been pushed to the back of the line a few times. Additionally, covid has fouled up supply chains worldwide, including footwear. Most importantly, however, we’re not going to churn out shoes to make quick sales. We love running and we know you love running, so we’re going to release the shoes when they’re awesome, and not before.
We know you want to express yourself to the world, so we definitely plan to offer color options for each of our shoes. For 2022 and 2023, however, there will only be one color available for each model. That's the way it goes with a startup. We'll get the color wheel out after we get a little bigger.
