At first glance, InnoMake shoes look like any stylish pair of sneakers, but these shoes hide a groundbreaking innovation in the toe: a tiny ultrasonic sensor designed to help visually impaired people navigate safely and independently. Developed by Tec-Innovation in Austria in collaboration with Graz University of Technology, the shoes detect obstacles up to 13 feet away.
When something like a wall, staircase, or moving vehicle is nearby, the shoes send gentle vibrations or sound alerts, guiding users in real time. It’s often described as a “parking sensor for people,” providing awareness with every step. For convenience, users can buy a full pair or simply attach the small waterproof sensor to their own shoes.
The concept was co-created by Markus Raffer, who is visually impaired himself. His personal experience inspired a design that blends cutting-edge technology with empathy, empowering thousands of people to move more confidently and independently. Tec-Innovation continues to push boundaries, incorporating AI and camera-based recognition to create a “foot-level street view” that maps surroundings in real time.
This advancement promises to make walking not only safer but smarter. InnoMake shoes are more than just footwear—they symbolize hope, inclusion, and freedom. By combining technology with human-centered design, these smart shoes demonstrate how innovation can transform everyday life, restoring independence to those who need it most. Every step becomes safer, more confident, and full of possibility.
