In a fusion of outdoor gear and robotics, Arc'teryx and Skip have unveiled MO/GO, the world's first pair of AI-powered pants designed to enhance human movement. Set to hit the market in late 2025, these high-tech hiking pants aim to tackle mobility challenges stemming from aging, fatigue and injury.
The system combines a pair of cuffs worn under pants, one on the lower and another on the upper leg, with a motorized, external joint that clips onto the outside of a pair of Arc'teryx Gamma pants. A suite of sensors and a computer module predict and assist the wearer's movements — that's where the artificial intelligence comes in — and is said to provide a 40% boost to leg muscles during ascents while supporting knees on descents. Skip compares MO/GO to an electric bicycle: "It makes pedalling a lot easier, but you still have to turn the pedals yourself."
Skip, which spun off after starting at Google X, brings its expertise in artificial intelligence and powered wearable technology to the collaboration. Arc'teryx contributes its outdoor product design skills and understanding of movement in challenging environments. The result is a sleek design that feels like a natural extension of the body, setting it apart from existing medicalized mobility devices. MO/GO is priced at USD 5,000 for the full system, including pants and external joints for both legs.
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Technology is blurring the line between assistance and enhancement and transforming people's perceptions and expectations of 'natural' human experiences. MO/GO highlights the potential of designing power-up products that cater to a broad spectrum of abilities without stigmatization. How could your brand reimagine its offerings to offer augmentation that's also universally accessible and appealing?
