Friendly Shoes
Friendly Shoes designs adaptive footwear that makes putting on and taking off shoes easier for people with mobility, dexterity, or medical needs. The shoes feature a patented zipper system for easy access and custom outsoles for stability, accommodating AFO users, the elderly, and people with diabetes without sacrificing style. The company offers men's, women's, and kids' styles through its direct-to-consumer e-commerce site.
- Consumer Goods
- Fashion Technology
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Founder details are not available yet.
Product
Problem
Individuals with limited mobility, dexterity issues, or adaptive needs such as AFO users, the elderly, and people with diabetes often struggle with traditional laced shoes, making it difficult to put on and take off footwear independently. This challenge reduces mobility and independence, and can lead to unsafe footwear choices that lack proper support.
Solution
Friendly Shoes provides adaptive footwear that makes putting on and taking off shoes easier for people with a wide range of needs, including AFO users, the elderly, and those with diabetes. The shoes combine fashion, comfort, and support while discreetly accommodating adaptive needs to promote mobility and independence. A patented zipper system ensures easy shoe access, and custom outsoles promote safer mobility and independence. The designs are developed in collaboration with master shoemakers and American medical professionals to ensure both style and function.
Target Audience
Primary customers are individuals with adaptive footwear needs, including AFO users, the elderly, people with diabetes, pregnant individuals, and others with mobility challenges, as well as caregivers and occupational therapists seeking functional yet stylish footwear options.
Features
- Patented zipper system for easy shoe access without laces
- Custom outsoles designed for safer mobility and stability
- AFO-friendly design accommodating ankle-foot orthosis users
- Discreet adaptive design that does not sacrifice fashion or style
- Available in men's, women's, and kids' styles including wide-fit options
- Developed in collaboration with master shoemakers and American medical professionals