You Have to Check Out These Arduino-Powered Ballet Slippers
Many of us probably dreamed of one day becoming a ballerina. But then we learned that ballet is an art made perfect by hours of grueling practice, sharp attention to detail and often the eyes of a dedicated teacher, ready to point out if your feet are even an inch out of place. And now, in a unique blend of tradition and new technology, these pointe shoes might help dancers perfect their craft even as they practice alone.
The Arduino-fitted pointe shoes are called Electric Traces. They were created by Lesia Trubat, a designer fascinated by the mechanics of dance. Where accuracy and perfection are prided above all else, the shoes alert ballerinas to their positioning, their foot curvature and their areas for improvement.
Sensors in the shoes act like a personal trainer. They send information back to an electronic device, such as a smart phone or computer, so the dancer can look at graphs and analytics. They’re then able to see where they’re off balance or if they can tighten up their moves even further.
This tool could be a big help for aspiring ballet dancers, especially those who want to improve on their own time.
What do you think of these tech-savvy shoes? Tell us in the comments below!
(h/t PSFK)