Tattooed Foot | Decorative Ankle Brace

When it comes to medical supplies and equipment that is attached or used by our bodies, we tend to wish they didn’t look so … medical. Which is why you hardly ever see a cast that hasn’t been signed or drawn upon. We want to add personality and uniqueness to an object that otherwise doesn’t have any. Braces for injured joints are another one of those medical objects. Available now are braces with shells that have decorative patterns and designs. Designer Chen Kai Jing made her own version that won a Red Dot Design Concept Award. Her gladiator and eastern design influenced Tattooed Foot ankle brace looks badass.

The Parts and Function
Lacquered  metal makes up the main parts while leather belts, straps, and a zipper are used to bring everything together. The user would slip their foot into the sole portion which has a toe strap and fabric section that covers the ankle. A zipper behind the calf brings the side sections together. Then the leather belts tighten everything up.

The Tattoos
The tattooed design is henna inspired. Henna is a plant native to Africa, southern Asia, and northern Australasia that’s traditionally been interpreted into art in the Mediterranean region. Usually as body art for young women. Together with the metal and leather straps, Tattooed Foot does look ready for combat.

Conclusion
As far as being functional as an ankle brace, I’m not sure how Tattooed Foot would do. I would recommend some sort of traction on the bottom to avoid slipping. Otherwise this is a nice piece of art. Chen Kai Jing’s pictures for the piece are very artistic also. Though if someone’s head was bandaged up that much, I think the ankle would be the least of the problems! For more on Tattooed Foot, visit this website.