Nike Unveils Project Amplify: A Revolutionary Powered Footwear System

Nike has launched Project Amplify, a pioneering footwear system designed to enhance the running and walking experience for everyday athletes. According to the company, it is the world’s first powered footwear system aimed at helping users go faster and farther with less effort. This innovation merges technology with athletic performance, showcasing Nike’s commitment to enhancing the athletic experience.

Project Amplify utilizes advanced motion algorithms developed by the Nike Sport Research Lab (NSRL) to augment natural movement in the lower leg and ankle. The system comprises a lightweight motor, a drive belt, and a rechargeable cuff battery, all integrated into a carbon fiber-plated running shoe. Importantly, the shoe can be worn with or without the powered system, allowing flexibility for users.

Enhancing Everyday Movement

The goal of Project Amplify is to make running, jogging, and walking more enjoyable, enabling users to increase their activity levels. By providing a boost to movement, the system allows athletes to extend their walking commutes or enjoy an extra mile or two during a run. Michael Donaghu, Vice President of Create The Future, Emerging Sport and Innovation at Nike, emphasizes that the project began with a simple question: “What if we could find a way to help athletes move faster and farther with less energy and a lot more fun?”

Similar to the impact of electric bikes on urban commuting, Project Amplify is tailored for athletes running at a pace of 10 to 12 minutes per mile. It is designed not for competitive runners seeking to improve their race times, but for those looking to enhance their everyday movement. This innovation effectively acts as a second set of calf muscles, providing users with additional power for routine activities.

Extensive Testing and Insights

The development of Project Amplify has involved rigorous testing, with insights gathered from over 400 athletes who collectively covered more than 2.4 million steps. This testing has taken place over several years, both outdoors and within the NSRL, where participants reported that the system “feels like it’s part of their body.” Feedback suggested that using the powered footwear makes uphill movement feel as easy as running on flat ground.

Some participants have noted improvements in their pacing, with some going from a 12-minute mile to a 10-minute mile. These findings are indicative of the potential benefits that Project Amplify could offer to everyday athletes.

Donaghu reflects on Nike’s ongoing commitment to innovation, stating, “Is this new for Nike? Yes and no. It’s obviously a new innovation, but the day Bill Bowerman poured rubber into the family waffle iron was the start of a journey to augment movement and create the future of sport.” He adds that Project Amplify represents a significant leap forward in integrating technology into athletic performance.

As Project Amplify remains in the testing phase, Nike is focused on blending art and science to achieve performance readiness. The company plans to bring the footwear system to a broader consumer market in the coming years, solidifying its position at the forefront of athlete-centered innovation.

In summary, with Project Amplify, Nike is not only enhancing the experience of running and walking but is also setting a new standard for what is possible in athletic footwear. This initiative underscores the brand’s commitment to improving movement and making physical activity more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.