Back to the Future’s self-lacing Nikes look real lame compared to Digitsole’s Smartshoe — at least when it comes to amount of tech inside.
The “word’s first intelligent footwear” made its world debut at CES on Monday.
Resembling a futuristic car, the Smartshoes are controlled with a smartphone app and have have a built-in heating system to keep your feet toasty during those cold winter days. A company spokesperson told Mashable the shoes can be heated up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll never have to wear a second pair of socks over your first pair again.
The Smartshoes also have an automatic tightening and loosening system controlled via an app. It’s no self-lacing system like Marty McFly’s Nikes in Back to the Future, but they’re still pretty neat. You can see it in action below:
Sensors in the sole send data on distance, calories and steps to a connected smartphone app. The sensors can even tell you how “fresh” the soles are and if you need to replace them or not.
On the front of the sneaker is a projector light. When we asked what its purpose was, a company spokesperson said it was purely decorative. If you ask us, it feels like a wasted opportunity.
If the Smartshoes’ style isn’t to your liking, the company’s planning to release a more casual — and more fashionable — smart sneaker called the Harrison Warm Sneaker as well. These kicks will also have the warming system feature and the tracking sensors.
For women, there’s the Warm Pumps. The Bluetooth-equipped pump isn’t as spiffy as the Smartshoe, but it does have a built-in heating system and can track your steps and calories.
Digitsole’s Smartshoes will launch in the U.S. in September for about $450, which is on the steep end. For that kind of money, you could easily buy a pair of coveted Jordans, or two. You won’t get any of the smart tech, but you’ll get plenty more street cred.