NBA bans jumping shoes


Basketball - In a strategic move that could shape how the game of basketball is played around the world, the National Basketball Association (NBA) is banning a new line of shoes designed to increase the vertical leap of players.

The APL Concept 1 is a new line of sneakers that claims to increase the aerial lift of anyone wearing it. Whether or not the maker's claims are valid, the NBA seems to be discouraging the proliferation of apparel that may give its wearer an unfair competitive advantage on the basketball court. The decision could be followed by national and international basketball leagues around the world.

"Under league rules, players may not wear any shoe during a game that creates an undue competitive advantage," the NBA said in a statement on Tuesday.

Los Angeles-based Athletic Propulsion Labs' $300 Concept 1 shoe employs a spring-based system designed to increase lift.

In a slam dunk contest in the 1990's, Boston Celtics guard Dee Brown famously "pumped" his Reebok shoes, by pumping air into its bottom consoles, prior to one of his dunks. Brown would win that year's competition, but the stunt appears mroe to be for showmanship than actual significant physical advantage on the move.

Post a Comment

0 Comments