Insoles with different arrangements of spacer fabrics allow changes in pressure patterns across the plantar foot and perception of comfort while walking. The findings enhance current understanding on the use of textile-fabricated materials, which provide alternative solutions for modifying insoles. Clinical relevance The key features of spacer fabric offer a viable option for different orthotic insole applications. The results will greatly contribute toward insole prescription, potentially enhancing the efficacy of orthotic performance and increasing the range of insole materials.

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Indoor slippers with a strap across the dorsal forefoot are popular with older women. However, their influence on the foot motion has not been reported. This study evaluated the range of movement in the knee and ankle joints during walking and changes in trunk displacement during sit-to-stand when 10 healthy older women wore two types of slippers and were barefoot. Compared to barefeet, walking in slippers results in significant increases in the knee flexion angle in the swing phase. However, there is nonsignificant differences in the ankle angle in any phase across all conditions. During the sit-stand transition when slippers are worn, there is a significant reduction in the peak trunk tilt angle and range, as well as the duration of the weight shift when motion is initiated. The findings therefore provide a better understanding of slipper features and designs associated with changes in foot kinematics in older women.