In an unexpected twist, Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard is making headlines not just for his skills on the basketball court, but also for his innovative business venture aimed at promoting foot health among athletes. Lillard’s company, Move Insoles, has quickly gained traction within the sporting community, proving to be a game-changer for players across various sports.
The inspiration behind Move Insoles came during the team’s preseason training camp when Lillard’s teammate, Ja Morant, expressed a need for more orthotics. Lillard, who has long struggled with foot issues, revealed that he co-founded the company, prompting a lighthearted disbelief from Morant.
Since its inception, Move Insoles has witnessed widespread adoption, with around 25 NBA teams reported to be using the product. Lillard’s co-founder, Nate Jones, emphasizes that the product’s popularity is largely due to word-of-mouth, rather than aggressive marketing strategies.
Jones has worked closely with Lillard since 2019 to develop the insoles, which cater to varying needs, from comfort-focused options to performance-oriented designs. Lillard’s personal experiences with foot injuries, including plantar fasciitis, have significantly influenced the product development process. He has rigorously tested each insole prototype, providing invaluable feedback to ensure they meet the demands of professional athletes.
While Lillard continues to prepare for his return to the NBA after a season-ending injury, he has taken the opportunity to invest time in growing Move. His vision extends beyond immediate success; he hopes to raise awareness of foot health among young athletes, aiming to be a supportive figure in their development.
As Lillard gears up for the upcoming season, he remains grounded about his business endeavors. When asked about potentially seeking investment on “Shark Tank,” he humorously noted the challenges of balancing his responsibilities as an active player.
In a world where sports and business often collide, Lillard’s journey with Move Insoles stands out as a testament to an athlete’s ability to leverage their platform for a greater purpose, ensuring that his fellow competitors enjoy the benefits of his innovations both on and off the court.
Photo credit: Ezra Shaw
