How Research Shapes Our Design

Most performance footwear has been designed from male data, tested on male bodies, and then resized.

Our research began with a simple question: what changes when you design from the female foot up?

The answer shaped every element of our shoe system.

A True Female-Specific Last

Female feet are not just scaled-down male feet. On average, women have narrower heels, lower ankle heights, smaller instep circumference, and different forefoot proportions — especially around the fifth metatarsal.

So we built a last from scratch.

Narrower heel: We reduced the heel width at its base and adjusted the back angle to reduce pressure on the Achilles. Instead of traditional foam that compresses over time, we use discreet nitrogen-infused pockets for secure lockdown without bulk or overtightening.

Ankle collar: We also utilize a unique design in our heel collar to accommodate the lower ankle height of women, resulting in a more comfortable wear over time. 

Refined instep: The instep height and girth are shaped to match female anatomy, preventing lace pressure and slippage. A low-stretch TPU internal structure connects into the lacing system to hold the foot securely without over-compression.

Roomier toe box: We expanded both width and height in the toe box to allow natural toe splay, accommodate changes over time, and reduce pressure at the outer forefoot. A breathable TPU mesh upper stretches where needed while maintaining structure.

The VeloPropulsion System: Tuned for Female Mechanics

Lower body structure, Q-angle differences, and mass distribution influence how women absorb and generate force. Add hormonal fluctuations that can increase joint laxity, and stability becomes even more critical.

Our VeloPropulsion system was engineered with these factors in mind.

At its core is an Akema Pebax plate positioned between two layers of supercritical foam.

Why Pebax Instead of Carbon?

Most carbon-plated shoes were developed and tested primarily on male athletes. Their stiffness profiles often reflect male mass and force production.

Our pebax plate works within our midsole system to:

• Slow down compression of the top foam

• Evenly disperse pressure across the lower layer

• Enhance heel stability

• Accelerate rebound

This creates a smoother landing, controlled deceleration, and efficient propulsion without excessive rigidity through the metatarsals.

For female runners, that means forward momentum without harsh loading.

Adjustable Fit Through Insoles

Because comfort directly influences performance, we include two insole options:

• A thicker, supercritical vented insole for greater energy return and a snugger fit

• A thinner EVA/TPU blend insole for a slightly wider fit and firmer underfoot feel

This allows runners to fine-tune fit and ride without altering the integrity of the shoe’s structure.

Why It Matters

Women remain the most injury-prone group in running, and much of sports science research has historically underrepresented them. Comfort, stability, and propulsion aren’t marketing terms — they are structural requirements when you design for real female anatomy.

We didn’t shrink a men’s shoe.

We built a performance system around the female runner.