Nike Project Amplify: The Future of Movement

Nike has officially unveiled Project Amplify, a groundbreaking prototype in designed to give walkers and runners an extra push with every step. Still in development, the system marks a huge step toward (excuse the pun) to a future where sneakers don’t just support movement — they enhance it.

At its core, Project Amplify pairs advanced robotics to what Nike does best, sport innovation. A battery-powered cuff wraps around the calf, connected to a mechanical arm that links to the heel of a running shoe.

Here’s where it gets crazy – The small motor inside this arm synchronises with the natural movement of your leg, providing a light lift and spring effect during each stride. The result feels like an invisible boost that propels you forward while easing the strain on muscles and joints.

The detachable running shoe itself is built with a carbon-fibre plate and Nike ZoomX cushioning, maintaining the comfort and responsiveness you’d expect from Nike’s running shoes. When disconnected from the motor, the shoe functions as a standard runner. Nike engineers say the target users aren’t elite athletes, but rather everyday runners and walkers, particularly those in the 10- to 12-minute-mile range or anyone who spends long hours on their feet.

Testing has already been extensive. Over 400 athletes have clocked millions of steps in different prototypes under the supervision of the Nike Sport Research Lab. Many testers describe the sensation as if their legs were working on autopilot, uphill running feels like level ground, and longer sessions become noticeably easier. Some have even improved their mile times by up to two minutes with the assistance active.

Developed in collaboration with Massachusetts-based robotics company Dephy, Project Amplify is Nike’s most ambitious step yet into wearable tech that directly interacts with the human body. The concept takes inspiration from the same philosophy that once birthed the waffle sole: helping people move better through design.

Project Amplify is currently undergoing field testing, with early consumer versions projected for release later this decade. While there’s still time before you can try one yourself, Nike has hinted that related performance innovations will appear much sooner, setting the stage for a new generation of footwear that quite literally helps you move forward.