University to host inaugural Fit not Frumpy shoe-fitting conference

The University of Northampton will welcome shoe retailers, industry professionals and clinicians to campus on September 19, for a conference jointly organised by the Society of Shoe Fitters and the Healthy Footwear Guide scheme.

Supported by the University of Salford, the ‘Fit not Frumpy’ conference will consider the importance of well-fitting shoes, and highlight recent research that supports the need for greater shoe fitting knowledge within the industry.

The event – to be opened by University of Northampton Vice Chancellor, Nick Petford – will provide guidance to inform the shoe fitting process and offer insights into developmental work in the footwear industry. The event will feature academics from across the University’s Science, Health and Arts disciplines; Dr Mike Curran, Associate Professor in Podiatry will discuss the Healthy Footwear Guide, Rachel Garwood, Director of the Institute for Creative Leather Technologies, will deliver a presentation on leather as a footwear material, and Chris Hill, Senior Lecturer in Footwear and Accessories, will discuss footwear design.

The conference will also feature presentations from expert shoe fitters, who will share their experience and explain why professional shoe fitting is so important for the health of the nation.

Dr Mike Curran is the current chair of the Healthy Footwear Guide. He explained: “This is the first joint conference we have held and we are hoping for a good response from people across all disciplines.”

Rachel Garwood added: “The conference is an excellent platform for the University of Northampton to share our unique combination of niche skills in both leather and footwear technology.”
To book your place click here.

The cost of the conference is £50 (full delegates) and £35 (students), with early bird rates of £42 (full delegates) and £30 (students) for those who sign up to attend before 1 July. Tea, coffee and a light lunch will be provided.