Nike’s Project Amplify Powers a New Era of Running Technology

Nike has once again redefined the future of sport and movement with the debut of Project Amplify, the world’s first powered footwear system designed to help everyday runners and walkers move faster, farther, and with less effort.

This groundbreaking innovation signals Nike’s next evolution in performance design, blending robotics, motion science, and human-centered engineering to make high-performance movement accessible to everyone, not just elite athletes.

A New Era in Movement Technology

Unlike traditional running innovations focused on energy return or cushioning, Project Amplify introduces an active power-assist system built directly into the shoe. The design integrates a lightweight motor, drive belt, and rechargeable cuff battery, all housed seamlessly within a carbon fiber–plated running platform.

But Amplify isn’t built for world-record chasers; it’s designed for everyday movers. Whether you run a 10–12 minute mile, commute across the city, or simply walk for fitness, Nike’s goal is to make motion more efficient, enjoyable, and sustainable.

The shoe effectively acts as a “second set of calf muscles”, assisting with propulsion and reducing fatigue during long sessions. It’s a blend of power and play, helping wearers push through boundaries that once felt limiting.

From Concept to Reality: The Science Behind Project Amplify

The foundation of Project Amplify lies in years of biomechanical research conducted at the Nike Sport Research Lab (NSRL) and through close collaboration with Dephy, a robotics company specializing in bionic mobility systems.

Over 400 testers, logging more than 2.4 million steps, contributed to the shoe’s evolution across nine working prototypes. Each iteration refined the balance between mechanical power and natural motion, ensuring the technology enhances movement rather than interferes with it.

According to Michael Donaghu, Nike’s Vice President of Emerging Sport and Innovation, the idea began with a simple yet transformative question:

“What if we could help athletes move faster and farther with less energy and a lot more fun? Project Amplify is about adding power to your stride without taking control away, it’s seamless, natural, and joyful.”

Inside the Amplify System: Power You Can Feel

At the core of Project Amplify is a detachable motorized cuff worn around the calf. It connects to the heel via a precision drive system that synchronizes with the wearer’s stride.

During push-off, sensors detect timing and apply adaptive power assistance, effectively giving a gentle, controlled boost. The carbon-fiber plate provides additional stiffness and snap, amplifying, but not replacing, the runner’s own propulsion.

Importantly, the system is modular and user-friendly. It can be used with or without the motorized cuff, functioning as both a high-performance running shoe and a powered mobility device.

Nike describes the feeling as “like running with a tailwind”, while early testers compared it to “having energy to spare” even after long walks or runs.

Who It’s For: Movement Made More Accessible

While professional athletes have long benefited from cutting-edge footwear, Project Amplify democratizes performance enhancement for everyone. It’s ideal for:

• Recreational runners want to extend endurance.

• Casual walkers seeking comfort and reduced fatigue.

• Urban commuters face long daily distances.

• Anyone overcoming physical limitations or looking to rediscover joy in movement.

Nike envisions Amplify as part of a broader wellness revolution, where assistive sports technology helps people of all ages and abilities stay active, similar to how e-bikes transformed cycling culture by expanding participation.

A Glimpse at the Future of Nike Innovation

Project Amplify is one of four key technological breakthroughs Nike is launching this season, joining:

• Air Apparel innovations for adaptive performance.

• Aero-Fit Cooling Systems for temperature regulation.

• Mind Science, a neuroscience-inspired design philosophy that enhances both comfort and focus.

Together, these mark Nike’s boldest innovation wave in years, reaffirming the company’s mission to “dream big while keeping athletes at the center.”

While still in advanced testing, the consumer version of Amplify is expected to debut in the coming years, pending further refinement and accessibility research. Nike has not confirmed retail pricing but has hinted at multiple tiers for different use cases, from recreational assistance to adaptive performance.

Innovation as Nike’s Legacy

For Nike, Project Amplify is more than a product launch; it’s a symbolic continuation of the company’s storied history of innovation. From Bill Bowerman’s waffle-iron sole to carbon-plated racing shoes, Nike’s legacy has always been about amplifying human potential.

“Amplify represents that same DNA of curiosity and courage,” said Donaghu. “It’s about helping people discover new possibilities through movement, because movement, in the end, is medicine.”

With Project Amplify, Nike takes another step toward merging science and sport, technology and humanity, reminding the world that the future of fitness lies not in competition, but in empowerment, inclusivity, and joyful motion.