New Launch of 'Lafoot Sole Knee' – Medical Doctor-Approved Insole Designed to Support Knees from the Sole of the Foot, Addressing Knee Discomfort Affecting 1 in 3 People Over 45

Meidai Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Kiyosu City, Aichi Prefecture; President and Representative Director: Yasutomo Ooguro) announces the launch of 'Lafoot Sole Knee' on June 16, 2026, under its 'Lafoot' brand, which operates under the concept of 'All health starts from the feet.' This new product focuses on reducing stress on the knees.

Rakuten RAKURASI: https://item.rakuten.co.jp/ra-kurasi/39033/

Meidai Rakuten Market Store: https://item.rakuten.co.jp/h-rescue/39033/

Meidai Yahoo! Store: https://store.shopping.yahoo.co.jp/meidai-y/39033.html

Development Background

Increasing 'Knee Discomfort' with Age

'I find climbing stairs painful.'

'My knees bother me after walking for long periods.'

'I can no longer fully enjoy traveling or going out.'

Many people face these concerns.

In fact, it is said that about one in three people aged 45 and above experience knee discomfort.

Knee issues can lead to reduced outdoor activities and lack of exercise, significantly affecting quality of life.

'We want to keep walking healthily and joyfully for as long as possible.'

To fulfill this wish, Lafoot has focused on the relationship between 'knees' and 'soles of the feet.'

The Key to Supporting the Knees Lies in the Soles of the Feet

When experiencing knee discomfort, most people focus on the knees themselves.

However, the soles of the feet are the first to absorb impact during walking.

The condition of the soles affects walking balance, and this force is transmitted to the ankles and knees.

Therefore, to support comfortable walking, we must start from the feet.

Improving the foot's contact environment is a crucial factor in reducing knee strain.

Supervised by Dr. Hiroshi Katsuno, Medical Doctor

Medical Doctor / Certified Sports Physician by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association / Certified Sports Doctor by the Japan Sports Association

Dr. Hiroshi Katsuno, a medical doctor with years of experience as an orthopedic surgeon, has treated numerous patients with knee issues and is active as a certified sports physician.

In clinical practice, he has long recognized that not only the knees but also the condition of the soles—the foundation of the body—greatly influence walking mechanics and knee strain.

This product was developed under Dr. Katsuno’s supervision, based on the insole theory he applies in clinical settings. It is designed as an insole that improves walking balance from the soles of the feet and helps reduce knee strain.

Features

Reduces Knee Strain by Approximately 13%※

A unique design focused on weight distribution balance during walking.

Supports body balance from the soles of the feet, reducing knee strain by approximately 13%.

※ Survey by BOKEN Germantec Co., Ltd.

Absorbs Approximately 93% of Walking Impact※

It is said that walking generates impact exceeding body weight on the feet and knees.

'Lafoot Sole Knee' features a cushioned structure with high impact absorption performance.

It absorbs walking impact, reducing stress on the feet and knees.

※ Survey by BOKEN Quality Evaluation Institute

Simple Care – Just Insert into Shoes

Before and after use

No special exercise or training required.

Simply insert into everyday shoes (sneakers, pumps, training shoes, etc.) to naturally guide body weight inward, correcting walking posture to a 'low-strain gait.'

Six Structures Supporting Knee Strain Reduction

'Lafoot Sole Knee' incorporates six functional structures to support walking balance from the soles of the feet:

① Honeycomb Base: Disperses foot sole impact and reduces upward shock to the knees.

② Step Cushion: Absorbs walking impact and blocks knee strain.

③ Heel Part: Prevents excessive sinking of body weight, stabilizes the heel, and reduces lateral knee movement.

④ Power Grip: Enables strong push-off without straining the knees.

⑤ Arch Support: Enhances overall foot stability and minimizes negative effects on the knees.

⑥ Approximately 7-degree Inward Tilt: Promotes correct posture by reducing stress on the knee joint through inward angling.

These structures work together to support comfortable daily walking.

Recommended for:

● Those concerned about climbing or descending stairs

● Those who walk for long periods

● Those who want to enjoy traveling more

● Those who wish to continue walking or jogging

● Those with standing-heavy jobs

● Those who want to stay active and walk energetically for life

New Products from the Lafoot Brand to Support Daily Walking

Alongside the launch of 'Lafoot Sole Knee,' we are also releasing the 'Lafoot Rakufuwa Sneaker.'

With a soft, comfortable fit and foot-friendly design, it supports comfortable walking in various scenarios such as daily walks, shopping, and travel. We will continue to expand our lineup to match different foot concerns and lifestyles.

Meidai Rakuten Market Store: https://item.rakuten.co.jp/h-rescue/39034/

About 'Lafoot®'

Lafoot is a foot care brand offering expert-supervised, health-focused footwear, sandals, and insoles, based on the concept of 'All health starts from the feet.'

Born from the desire to alleviate modern foot issues such as fatigue, swelling, O-shaped legs, and hallux valgus.

We are committed to creating footwear that fits the Japanese foot, pursuing a custom-made-like comfort. We offer a range of high-functionality foot care products that provide personalized care for individual concerns and support comfortable walking.

Product Overview

Lafoot Sole Knee: 3,278 JPY (tax included)

Sizes: M (22.5–23.5 cm), L (24.0–25.0 cm), 2L (25.5–26.5 cm), 3L (27.0–28.0 cm)

Materials: Fabric – Polyester, Synthetic Sole – Polyurethane

Country of Origin: China (Planning & Design: Japan)

Company Overview

Company Name: Meidai Co., Ltd. Representative: President and Representative Director Yasutomo Ooguro Address: 6-chome-7-2 Shin-Kiyosu, Kiyosu City, Aichi Prefecture 452-0943, Japan Established: April 1, 1983 Business Activities: Product planning, development, and wholesale Capital: 10 million JPY

◆ Where to Purchase

Rakuten RAKURASI: https://item.rakuten.co.jp/ra-kurasi/39033/

Meidai Rakuten Market Store: https://item.rakuten.co.jp/h-rescue/39033/

Meidai Yahoo! Store: https://store.shopping.yahoo.co.jp/meidai-y/39033.html

Meidai Online: https://www.meidai-net.com/SHOP/39033.html