It appears the 81-year-old incumbent President Joe Biden may have taken measures to restore the public's confidence in his physical health with a new pair of shoes for extra stability following a series of falls and stumbles.
The aged President Biden has recently been photographed sporting a black pair of Hoka Transport trainers with his formal suits rather than more traditional dress shoes that many had grown used to. The trainers are far more frequently associated with hiking and sports than they are with presidential commitments.
The Hokas boast a “quick-toggle lace … designed for easy on and off,” according to the product website — which offers the shoes for around £130 per pair and also advertises “neutral” stability for wearers who want “a symmetrical bed of cushion," something which may be particularly helpful for a President who has taken his fair share of tumbles in recent months.
READ MORE: Laken Riley's heartbroken dad slams politicians as he claims murdered daughter is 'being used'
Approved by the American Podiatric Association as being good for foot health, these trainers could benefit Biden after his recent physical evaluation revealed he suffers from a “stiffened gait.” The trainers made their first appearances around the end of February, about the same time the president received his annual physical exam.
New Year resolutions you should make for 2023 based on your star signAppearing unsteady on his feet several times, President Biden has especially struggled going up and down the steps of Air Force One, repeatedly slipping and stumbling while ascending to and descending from his official plane — leading to mockery from political opponents and concern from within his own faction.
The president has now opted to use retractable stairs at the back of the plane for boarding — rather than the regular longer steps at the front of the aircraft, yet another measure being taken to protect his health, safety and reputation.
Biden’s worrying falls peaked when he took an alarming tumble at the Air Force Academy commencement exercises in June last year. He appeared to trip on a sandbag and land heavily on the stage.
White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates claimed Wednesday that Biden merely uses the sporty trainers to help him stay fit. "I know y’all aren’t partial to presidents who exercise, but don’t worry — you’ll get used to it,” Bates said to the New York Post, seemingly slighting former President Donald Trump, 77.
Following concerns for the President's health and well-being, it has been reported that Biden participates in physical therapy to increase his “core stability” at least “four to five times a week,” his physical explained.