Nike Unveils Project Amplify: The World's First Powered Footwear System for Running and Walking
Nike is revolutionizing the way we move with the unveiling of Project Amplify, the world's first powered footwear system designed to enhance the running and walking experience for everyday athletes. This innovative system aims to make athletes go faster and farther with less effort, all while adding an element of fun to their daily routines.
Project Amplify is an engineering marvel, built on motion algorithms developed by the Nike Sport Research Lab. It consists of a lightweight, powerful motor, drive belt, and rechargeable cuff battery that seamlessly integrate with a carbon fiber-plated running shoe. This shoe can be worn with or without the robotics system, making it accessible and adaptable for various athletes.
The system is tailored to athletes who run between a 10- and 12-minute mile pace, providing them with an extra boost of power for their everyday movements. It's like having an extra set of calf muscles, making walking or running uphill feel like moving on flat ground. For some, this means going from a 12-minute mile to a 10-minute mile, all with less effort.
The development of Project Amplify is rooted in extensive testing involving over 400 athletes who have covered more than 2.4 million steps, equivalent to roughly 12,000 laps around the NSRL's 200-meter track. Each iteration of the hardware focused on refining a different element of the system, ensuring it feels like an extension of the athlete's body.
Nike's commitment to innovation is evident in Project Amplify, which is just one of four major technological advances unveiled this month. The company is also showcasing advancements in Air apparel, advanced cooling, and mind science, demonstrating its dedication to athlete-centered innovation.
Michael Donaghu, VP of Create The Future, Emerging Sport and Innovation, emphasizes the core idea behind Project Amplify: "Our job is to dream big while keeping athletes at the center. Project Amplify started with a single question: What if we could find a way to help athletes move faster and farther with less energy and a lot more fun?" This system is about seamlessly adding power to your stride, allowing athletes to push their limits and enjoy the process.
Nike's approach is reminiscent of how electric bikes have revolutionized urban commuting, making it easier to ride farther and more frequently. Project Amplify aims to do the same for running, jogging, and walking, making it easier and more enjoyable for athletes of all levels.
As Project Amplify continues to undergo testing, Nike is blending art and science to reach performance readiness. The goal is to bring this groundbreaking footwear system to a broad consumer launch in the coming years, empowering athletes to unlock their full potential and embrace the joy of movement.
