Wilson of course has a very rich heritage when it comes to tennis rackets (and balls). In recent years, however, the brand has also been working hard in the field of tennis shoes. With this half-high Wilson Amplifeel shoe, the brand already attracted a lot of attention during Roland Garros 2017. Mike put it to the test and tested this shoe full of technological applications.
Specifications:
Technology:
- Amplifeel 'strap': Extra support around the ankle and midfoot for lateral stability
- DF1 (Dynamic Fit 1): For a low-to-the-ground playing feel and good maneuverability
- 3D-FS: Optimal forefoot support
- Endofit 'sock-fit': Ensures a close fit
- R-DST+: Provides good cushioning and energy return
- Pro Torque Chassis: Increases torsional stiffness and stability
- Duralast: Outsole for grip and durability
- 6mm 'heel to toe drop': Height difference from heel to forefoot
Tested by:
Name: Mike
Current shoe: ASICS Gel Solution Speed 3 Clay
Playing strength: 4/4
Test duration: 4+ hours
Judgement:
Review Wilson Amplifeel:
Fit
The Wilson Amplifeel tennis shoe has a fairly wide fit. This was immediately noticeable when I first put on the shoe with the basic sole in it. The shoe also has a lot of volume on the forefoot. I myself have a fairly narrow foot with a low instep. That is why I placed my own Footbalance insoles on the basic inlays of the shoe. This made the shoe fit much better around my foot. I also tried my own insoles 'loose' in the shoes. Even then, the shoe still had too much space in the forefoot. The option to place my own insoles on the standard insoles worked best for me. The 'sock-fit' of the shoe is great and feels very comfortable. The elastic 'Amplifeel' strap completes the whole and allows the shoe to fit wonderfully around the ankle and instep.
Stability
There are few 'mid' tennis shoes available these days. I even know players with ankle problems who sometimes use basketball shoes just to have/feel enough support around the ankle. In terms of stability, this Wilson Amplifeel is a must! Not only is the aforementioned support around the ankle and instep great thanks to the Amplifeel technology, the forefoot support is also excellent. The shoe has 2 plastic reinforcements on the outside of the forefoot, allowing you to use all your power without any problems when pushing off sideways. This was clearly noticeable despite the wide fit.
Damping
My current shoe is the ASICS Gel Solution Speed 3 Clay. This shoe has a clearly narrower fit. What I also really appreciate in this shoe is its speed, light weight and fine grip. In terms of cushioning, I think that this Wilson Amplifeel performs on par, perhaps even slightly better than my ASICS shoes. I experienced little shock load, something that I can sometimes be sensitive to on the heel. My longest session with the Wilson Amplifeel tennis shoe was 3 hours. After this, I had no problems with my heels at all. The cushioning of this shoe is therefore more than fine.
Grip
The Wilson Amplifeel does not have such a deep herringbone profile as my ASICS Gel Solution Speed 3, but that was not noticeable on the court. I did this full playtest on clay. In terms of grip, the shoe worked just as well as my current ASICS model, I really liked it.
Sustainability
This Wilson Amplifeel tennis shoe is quite strong. The reinforced toe and the PU reinforcement on the medial side do their job well. I would have preferred this last reinforcement to be a little bigger and wider for gliding. However, there has been no visible wear after almost 5 hours of intensive play. 