Shoe Mate
About this project
A secure, comfortable, and easy-to-use shoe retention system that prevents shoes from being kicked or pulled off, even during wild or repetitive movements.
The challenge
The primary goal is to secure the shoes comfortably, ensuring they remain on the wearer during active movement while allowing a full range of motion. It's important that the design enables caregivers to put them on quickly and without hassle.
Who it helps
This project is primarily designed for individuals who have difficulty keeping their shoes on due to involuntary or intentional movements. It also benefits caregivers who need a secure, easy-to-use solution for assisting individuals with sensory needs.
How it works
The solution securely fastens the shoes to the feet using a comfortable, movement-friendly design that prevents removal through kicking. It is easy for caregivers to put on and take off, while being difficult for the wearer to remove on their own.
The solution is a secure, comfortable, and easy-to-use shoe retention system that prevents shoes from being kicked or pulled off, even during wild or repetitive movements.
Tools needed
Measurement tool
scissors
sewing machine
set of needles
Project details
- Stage: Prototype
- Built by the Miami Dade College community, Miami Beach, FL, United States of America
- Team: The Need-Knower is a lively 12 year old boy named Emett, who also is autistic, nonverbal, physically strong, and prone to wild, uncontrollable movements that cause his shoes to come off, both inadvertently and intentionally. Past attempts to secure the shoes (laces, straps, tape) have been messy, uncomfortable, or ineffective.
- Category: Daily Living
- 3 downloads
The build files for Shoe Mate are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.
Related projects
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- Shoe Applicator
- JDT Designs: Dexterity Mate
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