At Tempo Sport in Horgen, we rely on cutting-edge technology to guide our customers in choosing the right running shoes: A highly sensitive pressure plate, combined with AI-powered software, provides data that our experienced running shoe consultants use to find the best possible fit. But what exactly can this technology do? And what role does the human factor play?
The Technology
At the heart of the system is a highly sensitive pressure measurement plate featuring a matrix of nearly 5,500 sensors spread across a length of approximately 1 meter and a width of 40 cm. Customers walk across this plate several times, which creates a dynamic image of the foot at a rate of approximately 100 measurements per second. This allows for the precise identification of pressure points on the foot as well as a detailed analysis of the foot’s rolling motion. An HD camera is also used to monitor the leg axis and hip position.
Software
The AI-powered software concisely summarizes the measurement results and presents them clearly. Specifically, it displays the following results:
- Rolling behavior of the gear
- Stability of movement
- Pressure distribution across both feet
- the foot's natural cushioning properties
All of these factors provide important clues for choosing the right running shoe and form the basis for your final decision.
Consulting expertise
The pressure analysis platform and software form the foundation for finding the ideal running shoe from our extensive selection. However, the measurement is just one aspect. A running shoe consultation doesn’t end with the pressure analysis platform; rather, it begins here. This is where the human factor—with its experience and expertise—comes into play. In fact, many other crucial factors come into play for the right selection, which we carefully consider: the distances the running shoe will be used for, the runner’s skill level, weight, running style, surface, etc. An experienced running shoe consultant then draws the right conclusions from the combination of the pressure plate analysis and their experience and suggests appropriate models. These running shoes are then tested immediately on our indoor track and evaluated together with the customer until the final selection is made.
