I Tested a Running Exoskeleton to Boost My Pace

The Hypershell X Ultra introduces a completely new way to experience running, cycling, and hiking by providing tangible mechanical assistance. This isn’t just another gadget; it’s a wearable exoskeleton designed to reduce strain on your legs and significantly extend your endurance. For those willing to invest, it delivers an augmented workout that genuinely changes how you move outdoors.

Running is often called one of the most accessible sports. In theory, you only need a decent pair of shoes and enough willpower to head outside. Finding the right shoes is straightforward, but maintaining motivation can be a constant battle. That’s why the market is flooded with recovery tools like massage guns and advanced footwear featuring carbon plates and specialized foam. Sometimes, however, even those aren’t enough to keep you going.

When standard gear falls short, many athletes look for more extreme solutions. They might try shoes with non-regulation stack heights, use pneumatic compression boots, or, in the most advanced cases, strap on an exoskeleton to lighten the load with every step. I had only ever read about that last option until recently, when I started testing the Hypershell X Ultra over several months to supplement my regular running routine. As the company’s flagship outdoor exoskeleton, it represents one of the most unusual pieces of athletic equipment I’ve ever used.

Unboxing the Hypershell X Ultra immediately signals that you’re handling a high-end product. It arrives in a substantial foam case inside a larger shipping box. Pulling it out gave me the distinct feeling of gearing up for a secret mission. Faced with the actual device, I felt a bit intimidated. As someone used to just tying my shoes and heading out, the array of buckles, straps, and the prominent M-One Ultra motor system suggested a much longer preparation process. My first move was to plug it in via the rear USB-C port, delaying the moment I had to figure out how to wear the futuristic apparatus.

I once believed carbon-plated shoes were the peak of performance technology. Now I’m effectively running with carbon fiber legs.

My hesitation wasn’t due to any doubt about the build quality. The SpiralTwill 3000 carbon fiber arms and titanium alloy frame feel incredibly robust, like they could handle any stumble while I adjusted to the side-mounted motors on trail runs. Fortunately, I never actually fell while wearing it. The exoskeleton is rated for extreme temperatures, from -20°C to 60°C, and features an IP54 rating for weather resistance. While I likely won’t encounter those temperature extremes, the water and dust protection is welcome on most runs. The Hypershell is well-padded around the lower back and waist, and I achieved a secure, comfortable fit using the adjustable waist and thigh straps. The adjustable arms are particularly useful for navigating uneven trails.

Given its conspicuous appearance, I decided against wearing the Hypershell X Ultra for city runs. I didn’t want to become a spectacle, so I drove to more secluded trails for testing.

Thankfully, the accompanying Hypershell app made the setup process much less daunting. After downloading it, I created a login and paired the exoskeleton with my phone. The app provided a clear, step-by-step fitting guide, starting with the waistband, then moving to the adjustable titanium arms, and finally the thigh straps. It advises positioning the thigh straps about two finger widths above the knees.

Take your time in the Hypershell app before heading out. It’s essential for a proper fit.

I eventually tweaked some of the fit settings to better match my body, but the app’s initial recommendations were quite accurate. Once securely fastened, the app walked me through powering on the device, switching between Eco, Hyper, and Transparent modes, and adjusting the power level. I spent additional time exploring the Adaptive Motion Recognition modes, which cover activities from race walking to bootpacking, as well as standard walking and cycling. The app also displays battery life, distance, and speed, though I found it challenging to check these metrics while running on technical terrain.

For my first run, I began in Transparent mode, which provides no assistance, to get accustomed to the sensation of wearing the exoskeleton on a familiar four-mile trail loop. After about half a mile, I switched to Eco mode. The difference was immediate. I felt a gentle pull with each stride, helping my legs move forward without making the four-pound weight on my lower back feel burdensome. Eco mode offers the longest battery life, supporting up to 18 miles or seven and a half hours on a single charge with the removable cold-resistant battery.

Switching to Hyper mode delivers a noticeable surge in power, making it easier to pick up the pace.

Curious to test its limits, I then engaged Hyper mode. The assistance became much more pronounced, especially on uphill sections. It felt like the exoskeleton was actively launching my legs forward, almost challenging me to run faster. I was initially concerned that the aggressive assistance would continue uncontrollably downhill, but the system intelligently reduced support on descents, allowing gravity to take over. As I started climbing again, the power seamlessly returned. Hyper mode consumes battery faster, providing roughly 80 minutes or three and a half miles of support.

I did encounter one issue in Hyper mode: the leg straps began to chafe. They felt secure initially, but dynamic movement caused them to shift slightly, irritating the back of my legs. This likely wouldn’t have happened had I been wearing full-length pants instead of half tights.

I continued my run, carefully crossing streams without submerging the device. I attempted one particularly steep hill in Eco mode, but even with mechanical aid, it was too challenging to run. Returning to my car, I felt both impressed and conflicted about the Hypershell X Ultra.

The exoskeleton works almost too well. I could feel it reducing the effort in my legs, helping propel me uphill and potentially lessening post-run soreness. It’s easy to understand why runners, hikers, or cyclists would appreciate this kind of support. Personally, I struggle with the idea that it feels like cheating. I would never use it in a race, and I prefer to train under conditions similar to race day. Introducing an exoskeleton intermittently could create a false sense of preparedness.

The sheer enjoyment of supercharged movement is difficult to ignore.

Despite my reservations, the experience was incredibly fun. It provided a mental boost, making me feel like a character from a sci-fi movie, effortlessly tackling the trails. A little chafing seemed a minor trade-off for that sensation. The Hypershell X Ultra could be especially beneficial for individuals with limited mobility, those recovering from injury, or anyone who feels their body isn’t quite ready for demanding endurance activities. It serves as a high-tech, though expensive, alternative to trekking poles and similar aids. I fully intend to use it again for future outdoor adventures.

(Source: Android Authority)