06/19/2013    

PODIATRIC INVENTORS IN THE NEWS

HI Podiatrist Invents "Energy Positive" Military Boots

A new type of combat boot designed by a Maui physician is claimed to be one of the first “energy positive” shoes that can also withstand up to 10 times the impact force of regular military boots. The inventor, Dr. Steven King, 44, quotes a Department of Defense document in which a test found that the “GUS” (gravity utilization system) was virtually inflammable, 25% lighter than standard issue boots, puncture-resistant, and more likely to prevent injuries such as stress fractures.

Dr. Steven King

The GUS has a spring-action sole – unlike most gel or foam-padded shoes – that absorbs step impact and reverses the energy back into the leg, making it “energy positive.” Most footwear, King says, is “energy negative” and takes away energy from the wearer with each step. The rest of the boot is made up of advanced composites such as carbon fiber and Kevlar to protect the feet from punctures and flame.

Source: David Kvasnicka, Maui Now [6/14/13]