Sensoria, the folks who gave you smart socks, recently introduced the Sensoria Smart Running Shoe. It. Tracks. Your. Every. Step through embedded textile pressure sensors and a detachable electronic device. The Bluetooth-enabled device relays data to the Sensoria Run v2.0 app on your smartphone. The app allows you to monitor your pace, speed, ascent/descent, cadence, contact time and foot-landing technique and impact. The desired results, of course, are improved performance and reduced risk of injuries. The companion app features an artificial intelligence coach. It understands where and how you run, and provides real-time audio and visual feedback. The app and web dashboard allow you to compare you against your best self.
Once you’ve worn out your $199 ($99 in pre-order) smart running shoes, the included Sensoria Core electronic device can be reused in a new pair.
Earlier this year, Sensoria announced a partnership with Genesis Rehab Services (GRS), a provider of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, respiratory therapy, and wellness services for older adults. The two companies will collaborate to deliver smart aging solutions that can be used for post-acute care in a clinical setting and the direct to consumer market. Sensoria’s microelectronic device can be used as a stand-alone wearable or connected to the company’s digitally enhanced footwear to detect and prevent falls. The sensors in the footwear (smart socks and smart shoes) allow caregivers to monitor motion and other factors to analyze a patient’s condition and direct treatment and rehabilitation therapies. Sensoria’s wearable smart aging products and services will leverage clinical knowledge and data from Genesis Rehab Services therapy environments, combining the clinical strength of Genesis with the technology and intellectual property that Sensoria has developed. The new company will be called Sensoria Health.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an older adult dies from a fall every 19 minutes. Falls are the number one cause of injuries and death from injury among older Americans and result in more than $31 billion in annual Medicare costs. Without prevention, this cost will increase as the number of Americans 65 and older is projected to double by 2060. Smart shoes based on the same technology as Sensoria’s new running shoe could go a long way toward preventing these injuries by providing early detection of at-risk individuals.
