Stand up to your foot pain with ExoSOLS, custom 3D-printed orthotics

By Bruce Brown May 18, 2016

Do your feet hurt? If they do, you’re not alone. According to the American Podiatry Association, 77 percent of American adults report having foot pain. SOLS Systems’ ExoSOLS custom 3D-printed orthotics could be the answer. Designed just for you, ExoSOLS match your foot’s arch for best support at a fraction of the price of prescription orthotics.

Speaking of prescription orthotics, SOLS Systems also makes those, for podiatrists. From that background the company developed ExoSOLS. Combining design, technology, and biomechanics, the goal with ExoSOLS is to protect your joints, align your body, and propel you forward.

Three components make up ExoSOLS. The company refers to them as “relief,” “align,” and “propel.” The top layer is a 3mm foam cushion for comfort (the relief layer). It distributes pressure evenly across the foot bed, and reduces shock to the feet, ankles, and hips. The alignment layer is the 3D-printed shell, created with a proprietary polymer based on photos of your feet and information about your body, your lifestyle, and your goals. A deep, stabilizing heel cup provides propulsion.

After you order your ExoSOLS, you can then download an app and fill out a questionnaire about your body and your lifestyle. They call it your Fit Profile. Next, the app directs you to take three or four photos of each foot. According to the company, the combined process of doing the self-assessment and taking the photos shouldn’t take longer than 10 minutes. Once you’ve completed the process SOLS has what it needs to create your ExoSOLS, which are shipped in six days.

Placing your order isn’t the end of your involvement with the company. First, if you’re not totally satisfied with the ExoSOLS you can return them in 30 days for a refund. You also receive a series of self-care tips and support for your personal health and fitness goals. The company keeps a record of the program for your ExoSOLS, which they call your Fit Profile or ExoSOLS DNA. Later on if you want replacement or additional sets of ExoSOLS, they’ll already have your design ready to go.

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Digital Trends Contributing Editor Bruce Brown is a member of the Smart Homes and Commerce teams. Bruce uses smart devices…

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