Kaalcari’s USP lies in its personalized approach to footwear. It is not just about selling shoes; it is about providing customized healthcare solutions that enhance comfort, improve posture, and empower individuals to live a more active and pain-free life.”
– Tejaswini Raaj
How often do we stop to think about the impact our footwear has on our health? For many, it is just a matter of style or comfort, but the truth is, the shoes we wear play a much deeper role in our overall well-being. From posture to pain management, footwear affects the way we move, and ultimately, how we feel. In an industry dominated by mass-produced options, Tejaswini Raaj, Founder of Kaalcari, is reshaping our understanding of what shoes should truly be — tools for better health, not just fashion accessories.” Reports Keerthana Sundar of Clean India Journal
Tejaswini’s journey began with a simple yet profound frustration: the lack of shoe options for her size. This personal experience ignited a passion for footwear design, leading her to explore the deeper connection between footwear and human movement. “Heels were initially designed for men, yet today we see their impact on women’s posture,” she explains, underscoring disconnect between function and fashion.
This curiosity galvanised in a master’s degree in Footwear Design from the London College of Fashion, where she delved into the biomechanics of the foot and its impact on overall health. A pivotal moment arrived during a barefoot workshop: Tejaswini’s foot strength significantly surpassed others, a realization that connected her to India’s rich heritage of barefoot living and its potential for improving foot health.
Kaalcari quickly evolved to address the specific needs of its clientele. “Customers often shared their struggles with foot pain, from plantar fasciitis to knee pain,” explains Tejaswini. “This led us to integrate customized healthcare into our offerings, conducting gait analysis and creating footwear that addresses individual biomechanical needs.”
Gait analysis assesses how an individual walks or runs to determine the most suitable footwear. It helps identify potential problems with the walking style that could lead to injuries. Footwear plays a crucial role in posture by influencing how weight is distributed across the body. Improperly fitting shoes can lead to misalignment and strain in the spine, knees, and ankles. Conversely, well-designed shoes with adequate cushioning and support can promote good posture and reduce musculoskeletal discomfort. Factors like heel height and overall shoe design significantly influence these effects.
There are significant health challenges related to foot problems in India. A few of them include diabetic neuropathy, a common complication which affects nerve function in the feet, leading to decreased sensation and increased risk of injuries; flat feet and heel pain. These conditions, often exacerbated by improper footwear, can significantly impact quality of life.
Handmade craftsmanship is at the heart of Kaalcari, with skilled artisans playing a crucial role. However, retaining these artisans and ensuring consistent quality in a competitive market poses a significant challenge. “We are committed to preserving traditional crafts while providing sustainable livelihoods for our artisans.” Another hurdle lies in the dynamic nature of the human foot. “Foot measurements can change significantly, especially post-surgery or during certain phases of life.” To overcome this, Kaalcari offers post-production customization, ensuring the perfect fit for each individual.
While addressing existing foot problems is crucial, Tejaswini emphasizes the importance of prevention. “Many people wait until the pain becomes unbearable to seek solutions,” she observes. “We encourage proactive measures, such as gait analysis, to identify potential issues early on and prevent future problems.”
Sustainability is not merely a buzzword anymore. From minimal packaging to exploring plant-based leathers, the brand strives to minimize its environmental impact. “We are committed to reducing plastic waste and exploring innovative ways to upcycle waste materials.”
Exercise plays a vital role in foot health. Simple exercises can significantly improve posture and alleviate pain. It is important to encourage individuals to prioritize their foot health, seek professional guidance when needed, and embrace a more mindful approach to footwear.
Prevalence of Foot Problems in India
• General Population: A study published in the PCDS journal found that the most common foot complaints among the Indian population were:
o Painful heel: 18%
o Painful feet: 7.4%
o Ulceration: 16.1%
• Diabetic Individuals: Research indicates that poor knowledge of foot care and inadequate footwear practices are significant risk factors for foot problems among diabetics in India.
• Healthcare Professionals: A study on medical professionals revealed that 100% of doctors surveyed experienced musculoskeletal foot pain, highlighting the demanding nature of their profession and the critical need for appropriate footwear.
• Impact of Proper Footwear: While specific statistics on the direct impact of proper footwear on foot health in India are limited, globally, studies have shown that wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes can significantly reduce the risk of foot injuries and conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, and calluses.
• Footwear Practices: Unsafe footwear practices were prevalent in 46.9% of diabetics and 71% of non-diabetics outdoors, underscoring the widespread issue of inadequate footwear choices.
Sourced from published online articles
