Dino Stride: Empowering Kids with Adaptive Sneakers

Eric Paskach’s playful design redefines orthotics-friendly footwear for children

Children with disabilities often encounter products that are simply scaled-down versions of adult designs, failing to address their unique needs and preferences. Eric Paskach recognized this gap in the orthotics-friendly footwear market and set out to create Dino Stride—a shoe that is not only functional but also engaging and stylish for young users. This innovative approach challenges the status quo, ensuring that children are not an afterthought in design but the central focus.

Statistics reveal that 1 in 345 children are born with cerebral palsy, highlighting the significant demand for specialized footwear that accommodates lower-limb orthotics. Traditional options often neglect the user’s comfort and self-esteem, resulting in products that are neither practical nor appealing. Dino Stride addresses these issues by combining orthotics compatibility with playful aesthetics, such as dinosaur details and camouflage patterns, making the shoes both supportive and fun to wear.

The design process behind Dino Stride was rooted in empathic research. Eric Paskach immersed himself in the experiences of children who rely on orthotic-friendly footwear, gathering insights through interviews, surveys, and firsthand role-play. This approach ensured that every design decision was informed by real user needs, from breathable mesh uppers that reduce heat to deep soles that accommodate orthotics without compromising the familiar silhouette of kids’ shoes. Side zippers allow for easy donning and doffing, a feature especially valued by caregivers and children alike.

Technical specifications were carefully considered to fit the average three to four-year-old boy using an ankle-foot orthosis. The shoe measures approximately 100mm x 200mm x 125mm, prioritizing both fit and comfort. The result is a product that supports rehabilitation and boosts self-confidence, empowering children to move freely and participate fully in daily activities.

Dino Stride’s impact has been recognized with the Iron A' Social Design Award in 2025, celebrating its blend of practicality, innovation, and user-centered design. By prioritizing empathy and inclusivity, this adaptive sneaker sets a new standard in the industry, offering children with orthotics not just a shoe, but a step toward greater independence and self-assurance.

As the orthotic-friendly footwear market continues to evolve, Dino Stride stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful, child-focused design—inviting the industry to reimagine what is possible for young users everywhere.