The sports giant Nike is pushing shoe innovation to new heights through two cutting-edge programs. The company recently launched the **"Project Amplify" robotic-assist initiative and the neuroscience-based Mind series of shoes**, aiming to enhance physical performance and mental focus through technological power.
Project Amplify, developed by Nike in collaboration with robotics company Dephy, aims to provide ordinary athletes with a "second set of calf muscles" experience. The first-generation product includes a carbon fiber sole, motor, rechargeable battery, and drive belt, providing power support while walking or running. Nike compares this experience to an "electric bicycle"—not replacing the ability to walk, but making exercise easier and more efficient. Test data shows that users wearing these shoes can increase their speed by about 20% when running uphill. Currently, the Nike Sports Research Laboratory (NSRL) has completed over 2.4 million steps of testing, and the product is expected to be available on the market in the coming years.
At the same time, Nike also released two neuroscience-based shoe models: Nike Mind001 and Mind002. The soles are embedded with foam nodes that simulate the texture of the ground underfoot, thereby enhancing the wearer's sensory feedback and attention. Nike states that this design helps eliminate external distractions and improve concentration. This series will be officially sold in January 2026.
Industry insiders believe that Nike's move marks that sports brands are accelerating the integration with robotics technology and neuroscience, exploring a new direction of "technology-driven body extension." Following Arc'teryx and Skip Robotics' robotic pants, Nike's dual-innovation approach may redefine the future of smart wearable devices.
