# Nerve-Stimulating Sneakers BioPods Stimsoles Activate Optimal Muscle Function With a Barefoot Feel By Elena Rahman | Published 2021-05-31 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/biopods-stimsoles References: [yankodesign](https://www.yankodesign.com/2021/05/30/your-sneakers-are-preventing-your-feet-from-performing-optimally-biopods-want-to-change-that/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+yankodesign) & [kickstarter](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/biopods/biopods-step-into-science-and-healthy-foot-function-now?ref=nav_search&result=project&term=biopods) BioPods Stimsoles sneakers, designed by Roy Gardiner and Steve Horvath, activate the 100,000 sensory receptors in the foot for more optimal muscle function. The footwear's functionality comes from its Stimsole, a stimulating sole technology. The hybrid outsole and midsole use multiple pressure points to promote [healthy posture and muscle function](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mineral-state). Ideal for [rehabilitative and athletic use](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gait-rehabilitation-system), the BioPods Stimsoles work with midsole pins that apply gentle pressure to the foot. The nervous system then receives signals from the sensation and adjusts the muscle function accordingly. The [barefoot-like shoe](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vivobarefoot-motus-strength-ii) is customizable in size, width, and volume. Even soles boast a customizable arch stimulus mechanism to promote comfort and maximum foot function for specific activities. Made from eco-friendly materials, the sneakers come in three standard sizes in various colors. Image Credit: Yanko Design ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.5/10 - Popularity: 36% | Activity: 29% | Freshness: 10% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Sensory Footwear:** The incorporation of sensory technology in footwear to activate muscle function. - **Customizable Sneakers:** The availability of sneakers that can be adjusted in size, width, and volume for optimal comfort and function. - **Pressure Point Technology:** The use of pressure points to promote healthy posture and muscle function in footwear. ### Who This Affects Most - **Athleticwear:** Developing innovative footwear for sports and athletic activities that activate optimal muscle function. - **Rehabilitation:** Providing customizable footwear equipped with sensory technology that aids in muscle rehabilitation. - **Eco-friendly Fashion:** Growing sustainable fashion by incorporating eco-friendly materials into customizable and sensory footwear. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Mind-Activating Performance Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/Mind-001-And-002.md) - [Sensory Performance Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mind-001-1.md) - [Sensory Recovery Mules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mind-001-light-bone.md) - [Flexible Grounding Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/terra-grounding-shoes.md) - [Robotic Brace Walking Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-project-amplify.md) - [Nerve-Stimulating Diabetic Socks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mynerva-leia-sock.md) - [Smart Posture Insoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/esteps-health.md) - [Balance-Improving Workout Pads](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balance-pods.md) - [RFID-Enabled Sport Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/banbroken-artdesign-sport-shoes.md)