Nike Introduces the First-Ever Powered Footwear Created to Improve Walking Speed and Range
As a leader in activewear, Nike has been pioneering athletic clothing and footwear for many years, continuously pushing the envelope as technology evolves. Their newest initiative, called Project Amplify, advances this vision. Integrating robotics, Project Amplify is recognized as the first powered footwear system globally for running and walking, enabling users to travel faster and farther with reduced exertion.
In collaboration with the bionic footwear and apparel company Dephy, this device enhances natural movement of the lower leg and ankle. Nike refers to it as “a supplementary set of calf muscles.” Designed similarly to an ankle brace, it includes a lightweight yet powerful motor, a drive belt, and a rechargeable cuff battery. The complete system easily fits with a running shoe that can be utilized both with and without the brace.
Although this represents cutting-edge sports technology, Nike developed Project Amplify not specifically for elite athletes. Instead, the aim is to enhance the experiences of countless everyday users of their products. For Nike, there’s no distinction between who qualifies as an athlete—if you have a body, you’re included. That’s why Nike trialed it with 400 athletes across various skill levels and intensities.
“Similar to how electric bikes have simplified longer and more frequent rides, transforming city commuting,” the company states, “Nike is creating Project Amplify to facilitate slower running, jogging, and walking, making it easier and more enjoyable, particularly for those running at a 10- to 12-minute mile pace.”
As Project Amplify progresses through testing, Nike is also exploring advancements in areas like superior cooling and cognitive science. “We’ve always held the belief that movement is therapeutic, and Project Amplify marks the next phase of that narrative. It’s an exciting breakthrough, crossing a new frontier of injecting power directly into your pace,” remarks Michael Donaghu, VP of Create The Future, Emerging Sport and Innovation at Nike. “The excitement lies in discovering that you can achieve more than you previously believed—whatever that ‘more’ signifies for you.”
Nike’s innovative effort, Project Amplify, is celebrated as the first powered footwear system globally for running and walking.
Created in partnership with bionic footwear and apparel brand Dephy, it enhances natural movements of the lower leg and ankle.
Rather than prioritizing professional athletes, Nike engineered this groundbreaking system with everyday users in mind, enabling them to move faster and farther with less energy.
Sources: Nike Unveils Project Amplify, the World’s First Powered Footwear System for Running and Walking
All images via Nike.
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