New Data on Forefoot Offloading

The therapeutic comfort shoe Movilo® by DARCO was part of a current biomechanical comparative study published in the journal Gait & Posture (Volume 128, July 2026). The study was authored by Thomas Stief and Prof. Dr. Markus Walther.

The publication investigated how different footwear concepts affect foot loading during walking. For this purpose, Movilo® was compared with an everyday shoe and a comparable therapeutic shoe in a randomized controlled study.

In 13 healthy participants, Movilo® showed reduced loading in the forefoot area in the parameters examined. Particularly relevant findings included:

• Up to 26% less dorsiflexion-related loading at the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP1)
• Up to 33% less pressure loading in the medial toe area (T1)

The results also show that the stiff rocker design of Movilo® can shift plantar pressure away from the forefoot toward the midfoot. The data therefore support the mechanical basis of the Movilo® offloading concept as a therapeutic comfort shoe with a rocker sole and increased sole stiffness.

For specialist retailers, orthopedic shoe technology professionals, and medical care providers, the publication offers a factual basis for better assessing the functional properties of therapeutic comfort shoes and explaining them clearly in consultation. The observed biomechanical effects may be particularly relevant when mechanical offloading of the forefoot or midfoot is the Focus.

View the publication on ScienceDirect
To the Movilo® comfort shoes from DARCO
More about Thomas Stief
More about Prof Markus Walther, MD