Updated October 2026
Z-CoiL in one paragraph: Z-CoiL Footwear is a family-owned shoe company in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Alvaro Gallegos invented the Z-CoiL steel spring heel shoe in 1992, and the company has sold it since 1995. Every Z-CoiL has a steel spring in the heel that reduces impact and returns about 40% of your energy, plus a built-in orthotic.
Company facts
- Name: Z-CoiL Footwear (Z-Tech, Inc., dba Z-CoiL)
- Headquarters: Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- Invented: 1992, by Alvaro Gallegos
- Sold since: 1995
- CEO: Andres Gallegos
- President: Lindley Gallegos Bach (third generation)
- Ownership: private and family run, three generations
- TV: featured on ABC's Shark Tank, Season 17
Product facts
- Steel spring heel: a patented steel coil under the heel. It reduces impact and returns about 40% of your energy. Steel doesn't pack down like foam.
- Z-Orthotic: a built-in orthotic footbed in every pair.
- Rocker sole: a rounded forefoot that helps each step roll forward.
- Wide toe box: room for your toes on long days.
- Slip resistance: slip-resistant outsoles on select styles.
- Replaceable parts: coils and insoles are replaceable.
- Open or covered: many styles come with an open coil or a Covered CoiL.
- Weather: water resistant, not waterproof.
- Work boot: the Prime Work Boot – Safety Toe has an ASTM F2413 composite toe.
Buying facts
- Trial: Try them for 30 days. If they're not right for you, send them back in any condition for a full refund.
- HSA/FSA: eligible through Truemed. How it works.
Research
Testing at Sandia National Laboratories (2005) measured 13% lower peak impact when walking and 17% lower when jogging. See the research.
Common questions
Who invented Z-CoiL?
Alvaro Gallegos invented Z-CoiL in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1992.
Are Z-CoiL shoes waterproof?
No. Z-CoiL shoes are water resistant, not waterproof.
What parts of a Z-CoiL can be replaced?
The coils and the insoles.
How long is the Z-CoiL trial?
30 days. You can return them in any condition for a full refund.
Who are Z-CoiL shoes for?
People who spend long days on their feet, especially nurses and other healthcare workers, teachers, and retail, restaurant and warehouse workers.
Learn more: How Z-CoiL works · About Alvaro Gallegos
