Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL) is a Los Angeles-based athletic footwear and apparel company founded in March 2009 by identical twins Adam and Ryan Goldston. As former collegiate athletes in basketball and football at the University of Southern California, they aimed to create products that blend luxury and performance.
APL gained significant attention with the release of their Concept 1 basketball shoe, featuring the patented Load ‘N Launch® technology—a compression spring-based system in the forefoot designed to instantly increase vertical leap. This innovation led to the NBA banning the shoe in 2010 for providing players with an “undue competitive advantage.”
Expanding beyond basketball, APL introduced the Propelium® midsole compound in 2014, enhancing cushioning and energy return in their running and training shoes. Their TechLoom series features a 3D stretch knit upper, offering a seamless, sock-like fit that adapts to the foot’s movement.