UPnGO Shoe
Designed with you, for you.
A comfortable, discreet solution for foot drop
The UPnGO shoe is a footwear range for people affected by foot drop from different health conditions. It consists of an initial all-season, every-day shoe design that incorporates an aesthetically pleasing and affordable design which is comfortable and supports the foot during walking. The shoe keeps the feet in an optimal position when walking, enhancing their remaining function, enabling movement at the ankle and acting as an assistive device by holding the feet up.
The Story Behind Our Shoe
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Why We Created It
Inspired by conversations at the MS Therapy Centre in Edinburgh.
People kept saying: 'If only there was a product that helped…'
We listened—and we built it
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The Problem with Current Solutions
AFOs (Ankle Foot Orthoses): rigid and uncomfortable.
Functional Electrical Stimulators: costly and complex.
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Our Solution: Smart Strap Technology
Acts like an extra shin muscle to lift your toes.
Encourages ankle movement—not restriction.
Discreet, comfortable, and wearable all day.
How the UPnGo shoe was designed and developed
Real Testing with Real People
Developed through 3 versions and 4 prototypes.
Tested with people who have foot drop.
Gait lab comparisons with AFOs and other aids.
Patent application submitted.
Style Meets Function
Looks like a regular shoe, not a medical device.
Built to blend in with your everyday life.
Confidence in every step.
Not Just a Product
We are a social enterprise.
Co-designed with people living with foot drop.
Profits go back into designing better, inclusive products.
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Stay Connected
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Check Out Our Latest Resource!
Your Hub for Understanding and Managing Foot Drop
Get Involved
Find out how to take part in HDC’s projects! We value the contributions of our end-user community and we actively seek people’s views on what products to prioritise and generate ideas to ensure that we help them overcome the challenges they experience in their everyday life due to long-term health conditions.
