WillowWood META® Flow: Built for Real-World Use
Reading Time: 5 minutes
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Summary:
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WillowWood launched META Flow, a high-performance prosthetic foot
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Designed for active users, with 95% energy return and 14° ankle motion
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Carbon fiber “Unibody” design removes hardware for low maintenance
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Features active dorsiflexion to reduce tripping on uneven terrain
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Ideal for K3-K4 amputees seeking durability, stability, and natural movement
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If you’re in search of a new prosthetic foot, you might want to consider the WillowWood META Flow. Developed, manufactured, and distributed by WillowWood, the META Flow was launched in 2024, completing the META family of high-performance, high-activity prosthetic feet. This model features several enhancements designed to provide a more natural, responsive, and durable walking experience across various terrains, making it well-suited for everyday use.
What Sets the META Flow Apart
The META Flow is designed to redefine expectations for prosthetic foot capabilities by addressing common trade-offs in traditional designs.
Less risk of tripping
Unlike most prosthetic feet that only flex down (platarflexion), the META Flow features active dorsiflexion during the swing phase (when the toes lift to clear the ground). This lowers trip risks and supports safer walking on uneven terrain.
Simpler maintenance
Instead of hydraulics, which can leak and dampen responsiveness, WillowWood uses a polycentric ankle mechanism driven by a carbon composite spring. This design makes maintenance simpler.
Dependable and reliable for real-world use
The META Flow is built with the boltless “Unibody” platform—a single-piece, hardware-free carbon fiber design. With fewer mechanical weak spots, the META Flow delivers a durable and reliable prosthetic foot that keeps up with real-world movement.
Generous ankle range of motion
The foot provides about 14° of total ankle movement: 9° of plantarflexion (downward) and 5° of dorsiflexion (upward), unlike many traditional carbon feet that offer little to no movement. This wider range of motion helps make walking more natural, stable, and energy-efficient, especially in real-world conditions.
High energy return
WillowWood reports an energy efficiency of about 95%, meaning the design reduces the energy-dampening effect common in traditional hydraulic feet, leading to smoother transitions and a more dynamic gait.
Key Specifications at a Glance
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WillowWood META Flow Specifications |
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Activity Level |
K3-K4 (active users) |
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Build Height |
112 mm (≈ 4.41 in, standard size 26 with shell and sock) |
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Product Weight |
~862 g (for standard size 26, with shell & sock) |
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User Weight Limit |
166 kg (≈ 365 lb) |
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Warranty |
36 months for the foot; 6 months for the foot shell |
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Trial Period |
60 days from the date of patient fitting |
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Heel Height |
10 mm (3/8 in) |
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PDAC / L-Codes |
L5981 + L5968 |
How META Flow Fits Into the META Line
Each prosthetic foot in WillowWood’s META line is engineered to meet the diverse mobility needs of K3 and K4 users, while sharing the same signature Unibody carbon-fiber design for strength, efficiency, and low maintenance. Here’s how each prosthetic foot compares to the others:
META Core: A lightweight, reliable everyday option that prioritizes smooth rollover and stability. Designed for users who want consistent performance without added complexity.
META Arc: Introduces multi-axial motion through controlled inversion and eversion, allowing the foot to better adapt to side slopes and uneven surfaces for improved balance and comfort.
META Shock/Shock X: Engineered for high-impact activity, these models incorporate vertical shock absorption and torsional rotation to reduce residual-limb stress and enhance comfort on rugged terrain.
META Flow: The newest member of the line, the Flow introduces active dorsiflexion and a spring-driven polycentric ankle, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid and complex seals. The result is a prosthetic foot that delivers natural movement, high energy return, and dependable durability—ideal for active users navigating varied terrain.
Potential Benefits and Considerations for Users
Potential Benefits
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Enhanced ground clearance during the swing phase reduces the risk of tripping or toe-dragging.
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Smoother transitions over uneven terrain, slopes, or changes in cadence, thanks to increased ankle motion and energy return.
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Lower risk of mechanical failures or leaks by eliminating hydraulic fluid.
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Supports users up to 166 kg.
Considerations and Caveats
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As a high-performance foot, the cost may be relatively high, and securing insurance or funding approval could require justification.
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The 112mm build height might present limitations in some prosthetic configurations or with certain shoe types.
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Even with advanced foot mechanics, comfort and function heavily depend on socket fit, alignment, liner condition, and the user’s residual limb health.
The bottom line
With the META Flow, WillowWood presents a strong option: a prosthetic foot that combines dynamic dorsiflexion, robust energy return, and a low-maintenance design. For users who walk on varied terrain or want a more active, natural-feeling gait—without the complexity of hydraulic systems—the Flow could be a valuable upgrade.
For more information about the WillowWood META Flow, please visit WillowWood’s website.
Related Reading:
The Battle for Mobility: Insurance Denials and Prosthetic Access
