Clinical origins (our story)
ZeroSole was developed by myself David Barton (podiatrist) and Heather Smart (podiatrist), after we recognised a significant gap in offloading therapy during our studies at Cardiff Metropolitan University (2014-2017). Witnessing the limitations of existing modular devices in clinical practice, we were particularly motivated by our dissertation research projects on diabetic foot ulcers, which highlighted the urgent need for accessible offloading solutions given the UK's 4.5 million diabetics and mounting NHS pressures.
Rather than accepting the status quo, we invested our own resources into developing a solution that would solve these limitations. So we set up our own 3D printing and CAD operation at home, and developed our first ZeroSole prototype. Between 2021-2024, after overcoming the odds - which included: numerous rounds of prototyping; problem solving; and learning how to pitch to raise money, we managed to secure the essential funds to support the technical and clinical studies we needed to bring our ZeroSole vision to market: a precise yet durable offloading solution, without the need for specialised equipment or time consuming manufacturing/modification procedures.
Evidence-based design
ZeroSole represents the first patented, silicone offloading insole specifically engineered for pressure-induced foot lesions. The durable, hexagonal grid design enables practitioners to remove individual segments (without scissors) directly beneath problematic areas, redistributing pressure away from any corn, callus, or pressure point/pain point.
Independent pressure-mapping and clinical-based studies at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and Cardiff Metropolitan University podiatry school, validated ZeroSole's clinical effectiveness. When segments were removed beneath the second metatarsal head (ball of the foot), sensors confirmed significant pressure reduction at the target site without peripheral pressure (ring oedema) - exactly what we need for effective offloading therapy. When segments were removed directly beneath the participants corns, there was also significant reduction in VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) pain scores before debridement, and improved comfort between podiatry appointments. One of the participants pain scores reduced from 8/10 (severe pain) - 0/10 (no pain) immediately after wearing ZeroSole insoles within their shoes.
Clinical applications and professional benefits
Targeted pain relief: The modular design allows precise customisation based on individual patient needs, supporting both treatment of existing lesions/pain points and prevention of pressure-induced complications.
Quick customisation: No specialist equipment or manufacturing is required so ZeroSole can be instantly customised in any clinical or domiciliary environment.
Cost-effective solution: ZeroSole provides durable, professional-grade therapeutic benefits at an affordable price point, addressing real clinical needs without financial barriers.
Easy to fit: ZeroSole can be worn within most enclosed footwear. Perfect for work boots, trainers and everyday footwear. TIP: remove any pre-existing shoe inserts before fitting ZeroSole for additional space.
Professional recognition and validation
Since founding Kaydiar Ltd in 2018, we have been fortunate to have secured substantial professional validation, including the Welsh ESTnet Technology Prize and significant funding through Innovate UK and Smart Cymru grants, and with ZeroSole now available on the NHS supply chain via DLT. The £1.2M funding round we secured in 2024 enabled us to transition from university research to clinical availability.
Ongoing collaborations with university research partners ensure continuous refinement of our products, with a new custom-orthotic material currently in development through additional Innovate UK SMART Grant funding.
Integration into clinical practice
ZeroSole is the perfect treatment option for practitioners and patients who need superior offloading therapy without complexity. It offers a clinically-validated, podiatrist-developed solution that can be easily customised and prescribed in any clinical or at-home setting.