In 2020, during Covid lockdown, while confined indoors for three weeks, Roger Zeino decided he was going to create his own running shoe: A high-performance shoe specifically affordable to South Africans.

It took a lot longer than he thought it would as the challenge of sourcing the right materials and compounds while being under the restrictions of travel, was tricky. After countless variations and changes, mainly to the midsole blend, a shoe was born that Zeino believed to be up to the standards of international premium brands.

The first road shoe, the Forge, has an 8mm drop, strong cushioning for the everyday neutral runner with high levels of durability for under just R2000.

Now Pivot has its second offering, the Quphoria.

What is the concept behind the Quphoria?
Derived from Coenzyme Q10 that assists in serotonin production and creating a feeling of euphoria. Quphoria is designed to elevate the heart rate through fast running, and in doing so, accelerate serotonin production to give the runner a post-run feeling of euphoria and joy. The packaging and upper has subtle design elements based on this chemical structure.

From concept to creation
Quphoria is designed as a neutral, fast, up-tempo running shoe suited to runners looking for a super lightweight marathon, or track workout shoe that offers exceptional energy return properties to allow for an easy and efficient running stride. Built on a full-layer PEBAX midsole and a 5mm drop that enhances forward propulsion, the Quphoria is a plateless speed shoe that offers a non-invasive and more natural option for fast and efficient running.

The upper features an engineered mesh design with minimal overlays to reduce weight and enhance breathability. The tongue is gusseted to assist in locking the foot down securely to avoid slippage when in lateral movements or sharp turns, and the inner forefoot CoolMax liner reduces friction and hotspots for hard fast runs in extreme temperatures. The outsole rounds the shoe off with a durable rubber surface in strike zones that enhance fast running workouts.

Specs:

• Neutral
• 5mm Drop
• Pebax Midsole
• Weight: 198g (UK Men’s 8)
• Retail Price: R1799

“We had a lot of guys running Comrades in the Quphoria. I’ve managed to get them onto disadvantaged runners’ feet. All of them are talented runners that have yet to catch the attention of the limited amount of sponsorships from the big brands out there,” says Zeino. “At this stage, I’m really focused on getting these guys the opportunity to run in the shoes, ahead of the commercial success. SA track and road legend Shadrack Hoff, who loves the shoes, is introducing us to great guys who love running, and I feel really good that I can support them with these high-performing shoes.”

For just R1799 you can shop the Pivot Quphoria HERE

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