Foot-stiffening socks reduce metabolic walking costs
Wearing custom-built socks that apply pressure to the forefoot can lower a person’s whole-body metabolic rate by 2% during walking. Researchers at the University of Texas published these findings in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, Medical Republic reported.
The study suggests that this reduction in effort is comparable to losing two kilograms of weight from the waist. The socks achieve this by mitigating forefoot splay and stiffening the medial longitudinal arch, which leads to more economical ankle extensor muscle contractions.
Evolutionary origins of human foot structure
The research findings support the hypothesis that humans evolved stiffer feet to facilitate upright walking. This structural difference may explain why human feet are stiffer than those of other primates.
According to the study authors, the custom-built socks successfully achieved a goal that standard footwear has yet to reach: reducing the metabolic cost of walking at common speeds. By applying pressure to specific regions, the researchers suggest that well-designed clothing could provide a practical method for reducing the effort required for everyday movement.
Frequently asked questions
How do these socks change walking mechanics?
The socks function by applying extra pressure to the front of the foot. This pressure mitigates forefoot splay and stiffens the medial longitudinal arch, resulting in more efficient ankle extensor muscle contractions.
Could this technology reach the consumer market?
The researchers indicated that their discovery presents a clear opportunity for future clothing manufacturers. They concluded that applying pressure to specific body regions via apparel offers a practical way to make walking less effortful in daily life.
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