New 'innovative' insole by Podfo Partners launches at Newcastle's Hancock Museum

A bespoke biometric insole has been launched by Newcastle-based Podfo Limited at the Great North Museum: Hancock.

Podfo was launched following consultation with hundreds of orthotists, podiatrists, collaborators, businesses and industry experts.

It is a biometric insole designed for the closest fit to the foot, supporting the foot’s natural movement to enhance biomechanical performance and improve comfort.

Designed using their exclusive Geometric Hole Orthotic Support Technology (GHOST), Podfo is said to meet consumer needs for a highly durable, hygienic and comfortable orthotic that enables the wearer to return to an active lifestyle.

Podfo is distributed through a network of Podfo Partners located throughout the UK.

All partners are qualified podiatrists with specialist interests in MSK conditions, sports injury, treatment and sports performance.

Podfo Partners conduct assessments, which includes soft tissue analysis and a gait analysis, to identify any underlying issues and to tailor the insole to the wearer’s individual foot shape and support requirements.

Elaine Hall, managing director at Podfo, said: “It’s a very exciting time for Podfo, by 2020 it is estimated that the global foot orthotic market will grow by 40 per cent.

“Over the next 12 months, we will be implementing our growth strategy and we feel that we are well placed to strengthen our position in the marketplace.

“Everyday life involves standing, walking, running or for some, taking part in even more strenuous activities. With Podfo, we are offering a product that can benefit anyone who requires an orthotic and this will ultimately enhance their health and wellbeing.

“It’s hygienic, machine washable; and our trials show its seamless lightweight structure can provide improved comfort. We have already received great feedback from wearers.”

Jacqueline Etherington, winner of the Great North 5k 2017 and the British Masters Steeplechase Championships 2017, added: “Wearing my Podfo in training, I could instantly tell the difference in my gait during running.

“My movement was far less restricted then had previously been. Post-training fatigue and recovery times improved but most importantly I stopped feeling any discomfort.”

Podfo was developed by the innovation division of Peacocks Medical Group, which has been supplying medical equipment and services for over 115 years.

In 2017, Podfo Ltd was established to take the product to the consumer market.