The World’s Most Gripping Shoes

Every year some 100,000 pedestrians in Northern Europe suffer injuries due to slipping in snowy or icy conditions. The fear of falling, in particular among older people, leads to reduced mobility, poorer health and social isolation. Existing anti-slip solutions are add-on attachments with several disadvantages. They do not fit all types of shoes and boots, they are not easy to put on and take off, and they cannot be used indoors (while visiting shopping malls for example).

Three designers at Ergonomidesign have developed a shoe concept called Gecco with integrated anti-skid studs in the sole. Users can easily change the status from active (exposed studs) to passive (hidden studs) without bending down or using their hands. Gecco shoes are easy to put on (large openings for the feet), comfortable to wear (nice and secure fit), comfortable to walk around with (shock absorbing material), and easy to use (no instructions necessary).

Gecco stands for safety, freedom of movement, and usability. The lizard with its suction feet doubles as symbol and metaphor. The Gecco concept can be applied to all types of shoes such as leisure shoes, work shoes, sport shoes and hiking shoes. The shoes shown here are specifically designed for the consumer market but can be easily redesigned to suit other market segments based on application areas, lifestyles and age groups.

The Gecco concept has a huge market potential. Anyone visiting or living in countries with wintry climates is a potential user; over 25 million people live in Scandinavia alone. Ergonomidesign is currently applying for a worldwide patent and is looking for investors.