Customized Segmentation of Footwear based on Functional Biomechanical Variables

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Finding the right shoe for the right person is an important task because having the correct footwear for a person is thought to lead to reduced risk of injury, increased comfort, and improved performance. Current shoe manufacturers produce minimal models of footwear that are thought to meet the requirements of the entire population, but anyone who has ever bought a pair of shoes knows this is not the case. In an ideal world, we would be able to customize a person's footwear to their needs. In fact, just as a tailor can customize a suit, footwear companies now have the technology to customize shoes. For example, manufacturers can leverage the use of 3D printing to design material and construct a shoe that is perfect for an individual. Although the technology is available, the knowledge of what shoe construction features are optimal for an individual are not known. Further, it is unknown what essential variables measured from an individual are needed for customized shoes. The ability to customize footwear is at our fingertips, but the void in knowledge of how to effectively use technologies, such as 3D printing, is preventing this exciting individualization of footwear from becoming a reality.******In a new shoe, each person will stand and move differently. Our group can use advanced biomechanical tools to determine these differences. However, there are groups of individuals that respond similarly, for example, while running. These groups of individuals are named “functional groups”. The first part of this research will determine the key characteristics of these functional groups (e.g. shape of a foot, total energy cost needed to run). These functional groups will likely have different footwear requirements. In the second part of this research program, we will determine the shoe construction features that are the best for these functional groups using subjective and objective methods. Lastly, we will determine the processes that underlie footwear customization for an individual. ******Based on the important variables needed to define functional groups, we will later explore which simple tests can be used in retail stores to define functional groups. These tests will allow retail stores to group people into functional groups and to provide them with the corresponding proper footwear.******The people of Canada will reap remarkable benefits from this research program. Footwear is an essential part of our society. We wear different shoes whether we are at work, playing a sport, or out running errands. Having the right shoe for the right person is critical for the prevention of injuries, performing better at a sport, or simply improving your day to day comfort. The knowledge from our research will inform manufacturers of how to customize shoes for running and in the long term, for other sport or leisure activities. Once shoe companies have this knowledge, the process of bringing mass customization of footwear to the public will be expedited.