Nike launches powered exoskeleton shoes to boost everyday movement

Nike has launched Project Amplify, the world’s first powered footwear system designed to assist with everyday movement from walking to light running. Developed in partnership with Dephy, a robotics firm, the exoskeleton-like system augments natural lower leg and ankle movement, with some testers reducing their 12-minute mile times to 10 minutes while expending less energy.

What you should know: Project Amplify functions as a supplementary power system rather than a competitive performance enhancer.

• The system is explicitly not designed for competitive running or record-breaking attempts on the track.
• Instead, it targets individuals who want to move faster and farther with less physical effort during recreational activities.
• Nike’s Sport Research Lab conducted extensive testing over several years with more than 400 athletes in both indoor and outdoor environments.

How it works: The first-generation system combines lightweight robotics with traditional footwear design.

• A lightweight motor, drive belt, and rechargeable cuff battery integrate with a carbon fiber-plated running shoe.
• The sneaker can be worn independently without the robotics system attached.
• The technology essentially functions “as a second set of calf muscles,” alleviating energy expenditure during slow runs, jogs, and walking.

Why this matters: Nike’s entry into powered footwear represents a significant expansion beyond traditional athletic gear into assistive technology.

• The project builds on Nike’s previous forays into futuristic footwear, including the self-lacing shoes inspired by “Back to the Future” that became reality in the 2010s.
• Unlike purely mechanical innovations, Project Amplify introduces active power assistance to human movement, positioning Nike at the intersection of athletics and robotics.

What they’re saying: Nike executives frame the project as expanding human potential through seamless technology integration.

• “Project Amplify started with a single question: What if we could find a way to help athletes move faster and farther with less energy and a lot more fun?” says Michael Donaghu, VP of Create The Future, Emerging Sport and Innovation.
• “At its core, Project Amplify is about seamlessly adding a little more power to your stride. The fun comes from realizing you can do more than you thought you could — whatever ‘more’ means to you.”

Timeline: Project Amplify remains in testing phases but Nike expects to bring the powered footwear system to retail within the next few years.