Vivobarefoot and Sensoria, Debut First Internet Connected Barefoot Running Shoe

by Mark Ranum · Published January 31, 2018 , 8:36 am · Updated January 4, 2023 , 9:59 am

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Leading global barefoot shoe company Vivobarefoot and Sensoria, a premier wearable smart technology company, announced the debut of the Vivobarefoot Smart Shoe, powered by Sensoria, the first IoT-enabled shoe with an ultra thin sole that allows the foot to do its natural thing. The companies previewed this connected shoe concept at CES 2017 and spent the past year bringing the concept to reality. As a result, the new shoe, with one layer of fabric thin pressure sensors, enables users to record natural movement without any underfoot padding or interference.

The new Vivobarefoot Smart Shoe, powered by Sensoria, comes with embedded Sensoria technology in the form of the thinnest pressure sensors in the world, localized in the plantar area, and detachable, rechargeable and reusable Sensoria Core hardware, which collects data and streams to the user’s mobile phone. The connected devices detect forces, such as impact score, foot landing and contact time metrics with extreme precision.

From there, a step-by-step natural running transition training plan with artificial intelligence technology delivers real-time audio and visual feedback via both a mobile app and web dashboard. The system monitors speed, pace, cadence, GPS track, foot landing technique, ground time, impact score and eventually, asymmetry and toe engagement, which are important metrics to monitor natural running technique and reduce the risk of injury.

“Our new connected smart shoe will play a pivotal role in educating people about natural movement,” said Galahad Clark, Vivobarefoot founder and MD. “Through our partnership with Sensoria, we’re able to offer real-time transition advice and visual proof of the incredible sensory feedback loop between feet and brain.”

“With the new Vivobarefoot Smart Shoe, natural runners are empowered with real-time feedback to help them run faster, farther and healthier,” said CEO and co-founder Davide Vigano. “Sensoria’s proprietary sensors, microelectronics and the new Sensoria Run 2.0 app make it easy for runners to identify bad habits and correct them, helping to improve running form and minimize the risk of injuries.”

The Vivobarefoot Smart Shoe will be available later in 2018.

About Vivobarefoot

Vivobarefoot launched in 2012 as a standalone brand, and is based in London, England. Vivobarefoot is on a mission to change the footwear industry based on one simple insight—shoes should let your feet do their natural thing. The shoes feature a patented, ultra-thin, puncture-resistant sole in every shoe that protects the foot and allows maximum sensory feedback. Designed using ancient wisdom with modern technology Vivobarefoot is a complete shoe collection for off road, exercise and everyday wear, as well as a line for kids. Created by two cousins from a long line of cobblers, Galahad and Asher Clark are on a quest to make the perfect shoe—perfect for feet. Vivobarefoot footwear is produced sustainably using recycled, locally sourced materials in independently monitored factories. For more information on Vivobarefoot, visit vivobarefoot.com.

About Sensoria Inc.

Our vision is The Garment is The Computer®. Headquartered in Redmond, WA, Sensoria Inc. is a leading developer of IoMe (Internet of Me) wearables and artificial intelligence software solutions that improve people’s lives. Sensoria’s proprietary sensor infused smart garments, Sensoria Core microelectronics and cloud system enable smart footwear and clothing products to convert data into actionable information for health and fitness users in real-time. Sensoria® is a registered trademark of Sensoria Inc. For more information, visit: www.sensoriafitness.com/footwear