How are foot scanners used in custom shoes? What are the advantages?

The application of foot scanners in the custom shoe industry is mainly reflected in obtaining accurate foot data, so as to create footwear products that fully conform to the individual’s foot shape. Its application process usually includes the following steps:

1. Foot 3D scanning

Through laser scanning, structured light scanning or optical measurement technology, quickly capture the 3D shape of the foot and generate a high-precision digital model.

Record key data such as foot length, foot width, arch height, foot curve, toe bone structure, etc.

2. Gait and pressure analysis (optional)

Combined with the plantar pressure distribution system, analyze the foot pressure situation and optimize the support design of the insole and sole. Suitable for personalized customization of corrective shoes, sports shoes and medical shoes.

3. Digital modeling and shoe last design

Import 3D scanning data into CAD/CAM software to design a shoe last (internal support structure of the shoe) that conforms to the individual’s foot shape.

Adjust the size, curvature, support point and other parameters of the shoe based on the scanning data.

3. 3D printing or CNC processing

Use 3D printing or CNC engraving technology to make shoe lasts or soles to achieve higher precision customization.

Can be used to customize insoles, orthopedic soles or special functional shoes (such as corrective shoes, sports rehabilitation shoes).

Production and fitting optimization

4. Make shoes based on scan data and make fitting adjustments to ensure that the final product is comfortable and fits.

Can be used for high-end customized shoes, corrective shoes, sports shoes, leather shoes, etc.

Advantages of foot scanners in customized shoes

1. High accuracy

Traditional manual measurement has large errors, while 3D scanning can be accurate to 0.1mm level, providing data that is more in line with personal foot shape.

2. Personalized customization

For special foot shapes such as flat feet, high arches, hallux valgus, inversion and inversion, customize shoes that meet biomechanical requirements.

Improve comfort and health protection

By scanning and analyzing the pressure distribution of the foot, optimize the sole support point, relieve foot fatigue, and reduce sports injuries.

Suitable for people with diabetic foot, plantar fasciitis, and orthopedic needs, improving walking comfort.

3. Shorten the customization cycle

Traditional handmade shoes require multiple trials and adjustments, while 3D scanning combined with digital design + 3D printing can speed up production progress and reduce rework rate.

4. Intelligence and data storage

Scanning data can be stored and reused, and users can customize more shoes that suit them in the future without re-measuring each time.

5. Improve brand competitiveness

High-end customized brands, sports shoe brands, and corrective shoe brands can use foot scanning technology to provide differentiated services and improve market competitiveness.

The introduction of foot scanners makes customized shoes more accurate, efficient, and ergonomic, greatly improving the comfort and functionality of footwear products.