The Biology Of It All

Understanding The Anatomy

The human foot is a complex mix of 26 bones, 19 muscles and tendons, 33 joints, and 107 ligaments. The foot contains a total of 25% of all the bones in the human body and they all act in unison to provide us with support, balance, and mobility.

You do not need to have any specific qualifications in science to become a shoe designer, however, I find it crucial to understand the anatomy of the foot to maximise innovation and to minimise costs. The shoe has to cover the foot and therefore mimic its movement with only a few main parts, so if you don't take this in to account  you may find yourself spending money and time on samples that end up unsuitable for wear. 

The foot is also the most used part of the body and is responsible for the well-being of the rest of the body, therefore a shoe must support the body with its comfort, efficient mobility, and support. The non-aesthetic components of a shoe should be seen as just as important as its aesthetics. 

The foot is made up of seven Tarsal bones, five Metatarsal bones, and fourteen Phalanges. (Yes, Phalanges do exist).

Tarsal Bones -  These are the bones included in the Tarsus. These include: 

• Calcaneus - the top of the foot toward the ankle
• Talus
• Navicular
• Cuniforms - medical/intermediate/lateral 
• Cuboid

Metatarsal Bones - These are the bones included in the Metatarsus  and make up the mid section of the foot

Phalanges - These are the bones of the toes and each toe has three Phalanges:

• Proximal Phalanges - base of the toes
• Middle Phalanges - middle bone of the toes
• Distal Phalanges - the smallest top bone of toes

EXCEPT The Hallux - The big toes only has two Phalanges (Proximal and Distal).

A more detailed look:

Standard Allowances

There are a few standard procedures that need to be built in to the shoes to ensure comfort and support:

Toe Spring - mentioned before; this is the essential allowance between the bottom of the shoe and the ground. This accommodates the rocking motion needed when walking. 

Overmeasure - If you have ever wondered why shoe sales assistants press the toe area when wearing a shoe, this is why! The space between the toes and the end of the shoe allows room for the foot to move slightly within the shoe, also crucial for mobility.

Heel Enclosure - Again ensuring maximum mobility and comfort, a shoes heel enclosure must be adjusted to the right height and width (too loose or too tight may cause blisters and pain).

Sole - The sole should be flexible enough for walking. 

Shoes are tested to function not only standing but, more importantly, walking.