The retractable foot gear 10 includes a sole 12 and a retractable
wheel, ball, blade, or similar low friction element 16 which normally projects
from a recess formed into the shoe's sole 12. The low friction element 16
retracts into a recess 14 when a predetermined amount of force is exerted
on the low friction element 16. The low friction element 16 is additionally
biased so as to automatically return to an extended position when the predetermined
force is relieved. The retractable foot gear 10 assists persons with difficulty
in walking, standing, or maneuvering. Moreover, the protruding low friction element
enables one to slide one foot along a walking surface while minimizing the tendency
of one to slip and fall.
