Exoskeletons Take Center Stage at CES 2026: A Competitive Showdown

At CES 2026, personal exoskeletons emerged as a focal point, showcasing advancements from various companies, including WiRobotics, Sumbu, Ascentiz, and Dephy. Established brands like Dnsys and Hypershell also unveiled their latest models, reflecting a growing interest in wearable technology designed to enhance human movement. Exoskeletons, which were once primarily used in medical rehabilitation and industrial settings, are now entering the consumer market, with projections indicating growth from over $500 million in 2025 to more than $2 billion by 2030.

Exoskeleton Race Yields a Clear Winner

The competitive landscape was highlighted by the launch of the Hypershell X Ultra and the Dnsys X1 Carbon Pro, priced at $1,999 and $1,899 respectively. Both devices were tested in a series of races at London’s Lea Valley Athletics Center, allowing for direct performance comparisons. These exoskeletons are designed to assist with physical activities such as walking, running, and squatting by providing robotic support through mechanized splints that extend over the hips and thighs.

We Strapped on Exoskeletons and Raced. There’s One Clear Winner

Both Dnsys and Hypershell heavily market the health benefits of their devices. Hypershell claims its exoskeleton can lead to a 42% reduction in heart rate, a 20% decrease in exertion while walking, and a 63% increase in hip flexor endurance. Dnsys asserts that its device can decrease power demand by up to 50%. However, testing revealed mixed results. Participants completed a baseline 400-meter run unaided before repeating the distance with each exoskeleton. While some users reported increased effort when using the devices, individual experiences varied significantly.

Exoskeleton Race Yields a Clear WinnerWe Strapped on Exoskeletons and Raced. There’s One Clear Winner

Chris Haslam, a product reviewer for WIRED, noted contrasting experiences between users. His 76-year-old father, who has a titanium hip, found the exoskeleton helpful for climbing a hill without needing a break. In contrast, Chris, a healthy 48-year-old, experienced the devices as more of a hindrance than a help. This disparity underscores the importance of individual fitness levels in determining the effectiveness of exoskeletons.

We Strapped on Exoskeletons and Raced. There’s One Clear Winner

While both companies promote their products' benefits, the practical advantages of exoskeletons may depend on the user's physical condition. The testing at CES 2026 provided insights into how these devices can impact physical activities, suggesting that as technology evolves, user experiences will play a critical role in shaping the future of exoskeletons in everyday life.

Exoskeleton Race Yields a Clear Winner

• “They put a robotic spring in your step and positively propel you along.” — Chris Haslam, Product Reviewer, WIRED

We Strapped on Exoskeletons and Raced. There’s One Clear Winner

• “Having two different exoskeletons allowed us to compare performance and discuss perceived effort.” — Chris Haslam, Product Reviewer, WIRED

We Strapped on Exoskeletons and Raced. There’s One Clear Winner

As the market for personal exoskeletons continues to expand, further innovations and user feedback will likely influence future designs and applications, potentially leading to broader acceptance and integration into daily life.

Exoskeleton Race Yields a Clear Winner