A prosthetic hard socket has a modified curvature and/or shape that improves rotational control, comfort, and range of motion including even full extension or hyperextension. The hard socket eliminates or de-emphasizes the patellar bar, to eliminate or reduce pressure on the wearers patellar tendon, and enhances support of the anterior tibial condyle and/or tibial tubercle. Thus, the patellar tendon preferably is not weight-bearing. A lowered socket edge and/or a gap in the socket wall in the region of the patellar tendon prevents the hard structure of the socket from directly supporting or pressing upon the patellar tendon. Inwardly-protruding regions on each side of the lowered edge/gap help “capture” or otherwise press on a portion of the tibia. A flexible and/or cushioning member may be placed in the gap/trough.
