Inventor pitches Slide String to stabilize slide-on footwear

Elizabeth G. of Webster, N.Y., has developed Slide String, a footwear accessory designed to add retention and stability to slides, flip-flops, mules, clogs and salon sandals. The invention is now being marketed for licensing as the inventor seeks manufacturers or distributors to take it further.

Why it matters: - Slide-on footwear can shift during normal walking, which can affect comfort, gait and stability. - Slide String is designed to add an extra retention point without permanently modifying the shoe. - The invention targets both everyday users and commercial footwear makers looking for a simple add-on.

What happened: - Elizabeth G. of Webster, N.Y., created Slide String, a footwear security accessory for slide-on styles. - The inventor filed a utility patent with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. - InventionHome is helping market the patent rights for sale or license. - The company is seeking U.S.-based manufacturers or distributors interested in developing and distributing the product.

The details: - Slide String is intended for slides, flip-flops, mules, clogs and salon pedicure sandals. - The accessory uses a stretchable leather or vegan leather band that sits beneath the footwear and extends around the ankle. - The design can use a spring-loaded cord lock, a silicone connector or a tied closure to join the ends. - The device can be worn as a simple ankle loop or in a crisscross pattern across the foot and ankle. - The crisscross option is intended to create more contact points and a distinct look. - The product can be made for children and adults. - The design can vary by thickness, color, decorative elements and connector style. - Sport-focused versions may use rugged connectors and athletic styling. - Fashion-focused versions may include metallic accents, decorative charms or color-matched components.

Between the lines: - The product is aimed at a familiar problem: wearers often grip loose slide-on footwear with their toes, which can add discomfort and foot fatigue. - The patent pitch suggests the accessory could bridge utility and fashion, giving manufacturers room to adapt the same core concept to different markets. - The licensing push indicates the inventor is seeking commercialization partners rather than bringing the product to market alone.

What's next: - InventionHome is inviting companies interested in Slide String to contact member@inventionhome.com. - Inventors seeking help with patenting, marketing or licensing can contact info@inventionhome.com or call 1-866-844-6512. - More information about InventionHome is available at the company website. - Additional inventor resources are available at the articles library.

The bottom line: - Slide String is being positioned as a simple add-on that could make open-back footwear more stable without sacrificing slide-on convenience.