Wahu Italian company has developed an electro-pneumatic adaptable sole, which is suitable for any Shoe. And thanks to this won the prestigious innovation award in the category of “Wearable technology” at CES 2020. The technology is not intended for commercial use, but can change the whole industry of Shoe making.
The idea is that when driving on a good surface is better when the topography of the sole is minimal, but moving on loose or slippery surfaces better is spikes. In the system from Wahu they are made of shock absorbing material and can change its shape. Either to move forward, expanding to a maximum size, or to get involved, almost blending with the base of the soles.
For the control of pneumatic spikes kit is used microcompression, which can increase the pressure in the cavities of the soles to 2.5 bar, and then gently off him. To control the compressors used by the app on the smartphone, which also receives information from sensors in the sole. They analyze the nature of moving feet, the effectiveness of the grip, creating a “digital signature” walk of its owner and can even prevent a fall, automatically changing the configuration of the spikes.
If the user does not trust the automation, he can just ask a specific mode of application of thorns. Battery for operation of the compressors is enough for 24 hours of operation. An added bonus with this sole man gets 8 mm above. The company Wahu is going to offer the development of major Shoe manufacturers like Nike, Reebok and Adidas.
Source — Wahu