Outdoor apparel innovator Arc’teryx, in partnership with the Google offshoot Skip, has introduced an innovative pair of hiking trousers that feature an integrated exoskeleton, providing an impressive 40 percent boost in power for uphill hikes. These MO/GO pants are designed specifically to tackle mobility challenges associated with aging, fatigue, and injuries. They incorporate motors at the knee to enhance leg strength during climbs and to support the knee joint while descending. The project originated at the Google X research lab, where a dedicated team later established Skip in 2023 to turn this ambitious idea into reality.
Founders Kathryn Zealand and Anna Roumiantseva were inspired by the mobility struggles faced by their loved ones, driving them to seek innovative solutions through wearable robotics and artificial intelligence. In partnership with Arc’teryx’s Advanced Concepts team, Skip has fused exoskeleton technology with functional hiking trousers, incorporating custom carbon fiber support structures that distribute the motor’s force evenly across the legs while trekking.
The product, aptly named MO/GO after the agile mountain goat, aims to serve as “the ultimate hiking guide,” encouraging adventurers to embrace outdoor activities that may have previously felt out of reach. The trousers house compact, battery-powered motors within an exoskeleton joint that attaches to lightweight carbon fiber cuffs worn inside the pants. These cuffs feature fixings that align with openings in the trouser legs, allowing for easy attachment and detachment of the external powered module as needed.
A convenient pocket at the back of the trousers stores a battery capable of providing over three hours of peak assistance for uphill walking, enhancing leg strength by up to 40 percent, and it recharges automatically during downhill walks. Users can control the device with three buttons to power it on or off and adjust the level of assistance. Additionally, a network of sensors connected to a computer module enables real-time adjustments based on the terrain and individual walking style.
MO/GO can now be reserved on the company’s website, with shipments anticipated for late 2025. Additionally, the product will be available for rent at various locations starting this autumn.