Cadense Research: Improving Mobility with Science-Backed Insights

The Science Behind Cadense Adaptive Shoes

Explore the research and innovations that shape our approach to better mobility.

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12+ Years of Research

The development of Cadense Adaptive Shoes began with groundbreaking research at MIT's Skywalker project and continued through years of innovation at UCSB. Our goal: bringing advanced gait support from the lab to everyday life.

Proven in Real-World Testing

Beta tests showed that some participants, including those with foot drop and multiple sclerosis, experienced increased walking speed and comfort with just a few minutes of use. Our shoes adapt to your movement, making walking feel more natural.

Validated by Experts

Our research has been guided by collaborations with leading institutions, including the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. Physical therapists and clinicians have provided valuable feedback, helping us refine our technology for real-world use.

Research Behind Cadense Adaptive Shoes: A 12-Year Journey

Cadense Adaptive Shoes are built on over a decade of research, starting with the MIT Skywalker project, a robotic gait rehabilitation tool aimed at improving walking rhythm. This work evolved at UCSB, where researchers sought to create a practical, everyday solution through Variable Friction Technology. The result? A shoe that adjusts to your stride, providing support where you need it most, whether on carpet, hardwood, or pavement.

MIT Skywalker Rehabilitation Robot (2013-2016)

Originally developed using a split-belt treadmill designed to reduce interaction forces, our early research focused on helping patients achieve a more rhythmic and natural walking pattern.

Studies showed that reducing ground contact during the swing phase could enhance gait rhythm and make walking feel easier—a principle that has been integral to Cadense's variable friction technology, now embedded in every pair of our shoes.

Transition to Variable Friction Shoes at UCSB (2017-2019)

Partnering with Dr. Elliot Hawkes from Stanford, the team developed over 30 prototypes designed to replicate reduced ground interaction forces during the swing phase. This led to the creation of the variable friction concept.

In testing with individuals managing conditions like multiple sclerosis, brain tumor recovery, and cerebral palsy, the variable friction shoes showed promising results, including reduced hip circumduction and improved walking speed—sometimes within just two minutes of use.

Commercialization and Beta Testing (2021-2022)

In 2022, Cadense conducted a beta test with individuals experiencing foot drop, stroke recovery, and other mobility challenges. Participants used the shoes daily and shared their experiences over a month-long period.

Key Insights:

Comfort: Most participants found the shoes comfortable, even if the low-friction feel took some getting used to.
Safety: Coaching tips, like taking small steps initially, helped users gain confidence, making walking feel smoother and safer.
Durability: Our shoes withstood up to 170,000 steps during testing, demonstrating their durability for everyday use.

Dr. Tyler Susko & Dr. Elliot Hawkes prototyping the Cadense Adaptive Shoes

Ongoing Clinical Testing and Future Research (2022-Present)

Cadense is committed to advancing our understanding of adaptive footwear through ongoing studies. A recent NIH-funded clinical trial at the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab is examining how Cadense shoes compare to traditional AFOs in supporting walking and gait improvement.

Our research continues to explore the effects of variable friction technology for conditions like Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis, ensuring that our designs evolve with the needs of our users.