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Photos: Google’s X Labs ‘powered pants’ can boost leg strength by 40%

The powered pant gives a 40% boost in leg strength during ascending.

Published: Jul 29, 2024 08:52 AM EST

Mrigakshi Dixit

a month ago

MO/GO powered pant.

Skip

While hiking is a passion for some, others find it challenging. Steep inclines, rough terrain, and the relentless pull of gravity can make it a daunting endeavor.

Experts have now devised a unique tech that offers a way to conquer these challenges and experience the thrill of the hike without the physical strain.

Introducing MO/GO, a “powered pant” with an integrated hybrid soft and stiff exoskeleton. MO/GO name has been derived from “mountain goat.”

Arc’teryx, a Canadian apparel firm, created the rugged-looking trousers, while Skip, a Google X Labs spinout in California, developed the unique carbon fiber exoskeleton technology.

Skip’s website mentioned that the wearable tech has been “designed to feel like your favorite pair of hiking pants, but with a powerful boost when you need it most.”

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Increases leg strength
This powered exoskeleton is designed to elevate your hiking experience by overcoming physical barriers. The in-built exoskeleton minimizes muscle strain and joint stress while optimizing performance. It gives a 40% boost in leg strength during a hike, making you feel like you've lost 30 pounds (14 kg).
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Joint motors
MO/GO targets muscle relief by supporting the leg muscles through its knee joint motors. Essentially, the knee joint servo motors provide extra power to the hiker's leg muscles, specifically the quadriceps and hamstrings. Moreover, the intelligent software analyzes the hiker's gait in real time, customizing support for any terrain.
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Support for up and down the hill
MO/GO empowers hikers to conquer hills and mountains with ease, providing an extra boost uphill. On the descent, the pants offer gentle knee support, preventing slips and reducing exertion. MO/GO's motors are integrated into a concealed wheel that senses the hiker's motion and delivers the required power accordingly. The website described it as: “Light, adjustable carbon fiber cuffs that gently hug your leg inside the pant, transferring power from the motor to your leg as you hike.”
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Beneficial for individuals with muscle weakness
Skip Innovations envisions its technology as a boon for individuals facing physical limitations such as knee pain, muscle weakness, or cardiovascular issues, enabling them to enjoy hiking and trekking. “Designed to help you tackle any elevation with less exertion, muscle fatigue & joint discomfort,” Skip’s website noted.
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It is not a medical device
While MO/GO is not classified as a medical device, the technology team is exploring its potential applications in healthcare. They are collaborating with medical institutions to develop products tailored for patients with neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease. It may take years, if ever, for MO/GO to gain medical device approval.
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Can be pre-ordered
The MO/GO powered exoskeleton pants are currently unavailable for purchase but can be pre-ordered for a 2025 delivery. The product comes in ten sizes, and the company is actively working to expand size options for broader accessibility.
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Priced at $5000
From rugged trails to gentle slopes, MO/GO adapts to your environment. Its minimalist design and comfortable fit make it feel like a natural extension of your body. MO/GO is coming soon. Pre-order now and be part of the future of outdoor exploration. Priced at $5000, the MO/GO starter pack comes complete with a pair of nylon and elastane pants, adjustable carbon fiber cuffs, high-performance motors and electronics, two batteries, and a convenient charger.