Engineering Comfort:
The Making of Our First Insole
Precision, Performance, Possibility
When NAT’S set out to design its first technical insole, we wanted to create more than just a supportive layer underfoot. We wanted to solve a real-world problem: how to deliver comfort, support, and motion control in one intelligent design—especially for people who love moving outdoors. That mission led us to a unique collaborator: Thomas Law, a certified orthotist, clinical educator, and elite marathoner with over 20 years of experience in custom insole development and biomechanical correction.
From Medical Curiosity to Craftsmanship
Thomas holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Prosthetics and Orthotics from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and is a Certified Pedorthist (USA). He has also completed advanced orthotic training in the U.S. and Ireland, including the Boston Brace spinal orthosis program, and was accredited by the RMPI Institute (Indiana) to deliver certified foot orthotics courses across Asia.
His career spans both clinical and manufacturing roles. From 1999 to 2007, he helped build the medical and retail business, establishing foot orthotic manufacturing in mainland China and launching Hong Kong’s first custom insole center.
In 2008, he founded the Foot & Spine Health Assessment Centre, which today serves clients with a wide range of orthotic products—from footbeds to scoliosis bracing.
“I’ve always loved the intersection between science and craftsmanship,” Thomas says. “Orthotics lets me work with people hands-on while applying deep biomechanical knowledge.”
Thomas doesn’t just work with runners—he is one. A passionate endurance athlete, he has competed in dozens of 10K, half-marathon, and full marathon events, including a 2:56:42 finish at the 2013 Hong Kong Standard Chartered Marathon—one of his personal bests.
With coaching and consistent training, running evolved into both a lifestyle and a living laboratory. Today, Thomas logs over 100 kilometers per week during race season, and channels every footstrike into better insight for his clinical work.
“I’ve dealt with plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, back pain, knee issues—you name it. And I know how much of it can be prevented with better design.”
One of Thomas’s proudest moments came when he helped a runner return to competition after a severe injury. Over nine months of custom treatment and training, they rebuilt not just his physical form, but his confidence.
“That’s when you understand what proper support really means,” Thomas reflects. “It’s not just about comfort. It’s about helping someone believe they can move again.”
The NAT’S Connection: Shared Values, Shared Vision
Thomas was introduced to NAT’S through a mutual connection in the footwear industry. As soon as he learned about the brand’s philosophy, he saw alignment.
“They weren’t just trying to make another shoe—they were ready to invest in proper assessment tools, design multiple arch profiles, and rethink insole construction. That level of commitment was refreshing.”
This shared vision led to a collaboration to create NAT’S first adaptive performance insole.
What's Unique about NAT'S Insole Design?
Using a full gait cycle model as the design foundation, the team broke down the foot’s movement into three primary zones:
1、Heel Zone – absorbs shock upon landing
2、Midfoot – stabilizes posture and corrects alignment
3、Forefoot – provides propulsion and energy return
The insole’s final composition includes:
「ACF 」Artificial Cartilage Foam) – a lightweight, elastic compound that mimics cartilage for springy resilience
「EVA Shell」 – provides wraparound structural control and side-to-side stability
「PU Base Layer」 – offers plush, long-lasting cushioning for longer outings
「Multiple Arch Height Options」 – allow for tailored fit across foot types
“Most insoles only focus on arch support,” says Thomas. “NAT’S took a full gait-based approach. That’s what sets it apart.”
In practice, the EVA shell gave a sense of “wraparound stability,” especially when paired with NAT’S hiking footwear. The combination of midfoot security and forefoot room allowed for both support and natural expansion over long hikes.
That said, innovation never stops.
“I’d like to enhance the forefoot rebound even more,” he says. “And extend the insole’s lifespan under heavy use. There’s also potential to reduce shoe weight while maintaining support.”
For individuals with mild foot structure issues—not severe enough to require full custom orthotics—this insole provides just the right level of guided correction. It’s especially helpful in outdoor settings, where uneven ground challenges both stability and foot fatigue.
From a materials standpoint, Thomas sums it up simply:
「PU 」= excellent for impact absorption in high-motion activities like running
「EVA」 = great for lateral support and torsional stability in trail conditions
Together, they deliver a balance of protection, flexibility, and all-day comfort.
A Vision for the Future
Ultimately, he sees NAT’S as more than a shoe brand. He hopes it becomes a go-to choice for not only outdoor lovers, but also working professionals and older adults who want safe, healthy, and supportive footwear in daily life.
“There’s huge potential,” he says. “If we continue to design with intention and invest in smart biomechanics, NAT’S can become a trusted name—not just for outdoor style, but for real, lasting comfort.”
At NAT’S, we don’t believe in generic comfort.
We believe in intelligent support—for every foot, every stride, and every journey.
