Have you ever wished you could hike with less effort, muscle fatigue, and joint discomfort?
Your dreams may come true.
Skip, a startup born out of Google’s secretive X Labs, has partnered with outdoor clothing giant Arc’teryx to develop MO/GO, a high-tech exoskeleton disguised as a pair of rugged hiking pants.
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A man wearing MO/GO pants (skip)
What’s special about these pants?
Imagine what it would be like to feel 30 pounds lighter while climbing a steep hill. MO/GO System You’ll improve your leg strength by up to 40% and make climbing easier. But that’s not all: these smart pants also support your knees on the descents, which might save you from dreaded post-hike pain.
MO/GO stands for Mountain/Goat and is a hybrid soft/rigid exoskeleton built into a rugged looking outdoor pant. Knee motors support the quads and hamstrings while walking or hiking uphill or downhill, significantly reducing muscle fatigue.
People wearing MO/GO pants (skip)
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Outer pants: Comfort meets robust design
MO/GO isn’t just about technology. It’s also about looking good on the trail. The outer pants are designed for both comfort and style, keeping all the elements of your device neatly organized and close to your body. Built to withstand the toughest adventures, these pants are ready for whatever nature throws at you.
People wearing MO/GO pants (skip)
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Ultra-lightweight carbon fibre cuffs
At the heart of the MO/GO system is an ultra-lightweight carbon fiber cuff. It’s not just for looks; it efficiently transfers the motor’s power to your legs, maximizing the benefits as you walk. Designed for breathability and comfort, the cuff fits snugly around your legs, yet is adjustable so you can find the perfect fit.
People wearing MO/GO pants (skip)
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Powerful and compact knee motor
The real heroes are the compact motors in your knees. These powerhouses strengthen your quadriceps and hamstring muscles to assist you in walking. Not only do they provide extra “horsepower,” but they also absorb the shock your knee joint takes with every step. The best part is that they can be instantly attached when you need the support and removed when you don’t.
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MO/GO pants on the table (skip)
Long-lasting battery life
Worried about running out of battery in the middle of a hike? Don’t worry. MO/GO’s battery can last for over 3 hours of continuous uphill walking at maximum assist. Plus, it automatically charges when walking downhill for maximum efficiency. On longer adventures, you can quickly swap batteries on the go to extend your range.
User-friendly interface
MO/GO keeps it simple with a minimalist interface. You have full control over your support level without any complicated settings. Just remember three buttons: On/Off, More Assist, Less Assist. That’s all you need to conquer any trail.
Smart movement software: learning every step of the way
Perhaps the most impressive feature is MO/GO’s operational software. Trained on the world’s greatest mountains, it can handle any terrain it encounters. It adapts in real time to changes in your activity and walking style, learning your preferences over time and becoming more and more helpful with every step.
The brains behind the power
The story behind Skip is as interesting as the technology itself: The project’s creator, Katherine Zealand, faced a difficult decision when Google’s parent company, Alphabet, began cutting corners. Rather than kill her passion project, she spun Skip off as an independent startup.
Zealand’s journey wasn’t easy. When Alphabet began reducing resources at X Labs, she realized her project wouldn’t succeed internally. Determined to realize her vision, she secured $6 million in funding and founded Skip Innovations Inc. as an independent startup, which included purchasing intellectual property rights from Google. Zealand raised funds through outside investors and grants, allowing her project to develop independently and continue to innovate.
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A man wearing MO/GO pants (skip)
Not just for hardcore hikers
While the MO/GO Pants are great for outdoor enthusiasts, Zealand sees a much broader future for the technology. In development, it’s already helping people with mobility issues accomplish feats they never thought possible, like a woman who couldn’t climb a flight of stairs for 25 years, now able to do so twice in a row. Skip is also conducting clinical trials for diseases like Parkinson’s, hinting at potential medical uses down the line.
Woman wearing MO/GO pants (skip)
Important Note: Not a medical device
However, despite its potential, it’s important to note that the MO/GO is not currently classified as a medical device. Skip’s website states that “MO/GO™ is not a medical device and has not yet been cleared by the FDA.” As with any new technology, potential users should consult with a medical professional if they have any concerns about using such a device.
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The price of innovation
Now, here’s the thing: cutting-edge technology doesn’t come cheap. At launch, a pair of MO/GO pants will cost $4,500. But don’t worry: If you just want to try them out, Skip plans to rent them out for around $80 a day at popular hiking spots like the Grand Canyon.
It’s worth noting that there are cheaper alternatives available, especially from Chinese manufacturers. While Skip focuses on assisting the knee joint in activities like climbing stairs and slopes, Chinese manufacturers such as Dnsys offer more affordable alternatives. Dnsys X1 ExoskeletonFor example, they are intended to support the hip joint and are available for under $1,000.
Skip says it focuses on knee assistance because users most commonly report discomfort with knee-related activities such as climbing stairs, slopes, etc. The price difference reflects the different design philosophies and target applications in the growing field of assistive wearable technology.
People wearing MO/GO pants (skip)
What people are saying about MO/GO pants
Skip’s website features testimonials from users like Beth, 65, who says, “It’s not just about getting where you want to go, but the confidence that you’ll get back,” and Peter, 71, who says, “I can’t remember the last time my knees felt this good.”
Important points about the cart
The MO/GO Powered Pants are shaking up the world of wearable technology and may just change the way we think about hiking gear. By combining tech startup expertise with Arc’teryx outdoor know-how, Skip has created a product that could truly change the game for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. While the current price point may be a barrier for many, it’s worth remembering that new technology often becomes expensive before it becomes more accessible. If Skip can deliver on the promise of increased mobility and reduced fatigue, we may see these Powered Pants become a common sight on the trails in the coming years.
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