At CES 2026, personal exoskeletons made a significant impact, showcasing a variety of ambitious designs from companies like WiRobotics, Sumbu, Ascentiz, and Dephy. Established brand Dnsys presented new launches, while Hypershell highlighted its top model. The growing presence of exoskeletons, which assist in human movement and performance, points to the increasing commercialization of this once-niche technology.
An exoskeleton is a wearable device designed to enhance mobility, strength, and physical activity. These devices have evolved from their initial medical rehabilitation applications to becoming consumer products in a rapidly developing market. Reports indicate potential growth in the exoskeleton industry, projecting a rise from over half a billion dollars in 2025 to more than $2 billion by 2030.
Currently, only Hypershell and Dnsys offer consumer-ready exoskeletons. The recent launch of the Hypershell X Ultra has sparked excitement, as it gives both companies a chance to showcase their flagship models. The two devices, priced at $1,999 for Hypershell X Ultra and $1,899 for Dnsys X1 Carbon Pro, were part of a testing event at Lea Valley Athletics Center, drawing attention with their innovative technology.
Competitive Testing
Marketing claims from these companies emphasize the potential physical benefits. For instance, Hypershell asserts that its devices can achieve a 42% reduction in heart rate and a 63% increase in hip flexor endurance. Meanwhile, Dnsys suggests that their exoskeletons can decrease power demand by up to 50%. However, verifying these claims involves challenges such as variability in user experiences and differences in tracking energy expenditure.
Testing involved participants completing a baseline 400-meter run unaided and then measuring the same distance in each exoskeleton. The expectation was to compare heart rates and perceived exertion to assess the technology’s efficacy. Different users, including a healthy 48-year-old and a 76-year-old man with mobility challenges, experienced varied results from the same exoskeletons. While the elderly participant found the device beneficial, his more athletic counterpart perceived it as a hindrance.
- The participating users observed that both exoskeletons offered significant propulsion and support.
- Variances in individual user characteristics heavily influenced the overall benefit derived from the devices.
- Testing conditions were controlled, focusing solely on pace and distance consistency.
The insights gained from the competitive nature of the tests highlighted the strengths and limitations of each exoskeleton. Users expressed a sense of futuristic innovation while they moved with a robotic enhancement. Nevertheless, their experiences reinforced that individual comfort and benefit could vary widely, demonstrating that technology does not always produce a universal improvement in performance.
This blend of increasing technology and user experience marks a pivotal moment for exoskeletons as they transition from experimental devices to practical consumer products. As the market evolves, anticipated growth in this sector could lead to more personalized innovations tailored to meet the demands of various physical needs. Whether assisting those with mobility issues or enhancing athletic performance, the future of exoskeleton technology appears bright.
Some details are limited in the source, so this summary focuses on what is confirmed. The latest developments and ongoing innovations promise to shape how we interact with this new category of wearable technology, heralding a shift in both personal health and athletic performance.
Original source: Open the source
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