A 'Goldilocks Foot' Designed by CSU Students Offers New Prosthetic Options
Engineering students at Colorado State University have created a new type of prosthetic foot using 3D printing. This approach allows them to tailor each device to the specific needs of its wearer.
The design, nicknamed the “Goldilocks foot,” strikes a balance between comfort, cost, and functionality. It’s designed to be more comfortable than lower-cost prosthetics and more affordable than high-end running models, making it ideal for walking and light physical activity.
Garrison Hayes, who collaborated with a team of undergraduate engineers while completing dual degrees in biomedical and mechanical engineering, played a key role in the project. His motivation came from his own experience — he lost part of his leg to cancer as a child.
“Creating something that’s durable, accessible, and comfortable was the goal,” Hayes told In The NoCo’s Brad Turner earlier this year.
The student-led project has already received recognition for its innovative and practical design, opening the door to more accessible prosthetic solutions in the future.
Author’s Summary
CSU students engineered a 3D-printed prosthetic foot balancing comfort, affordability, and durability, inspired by personal experience and aimed at everyday mobility.