Founded in 1989, Arc’teryx has long been a leader in technical outdoor clothing, consistently pushing the boundaries of material science and construction techniques. However, the Canadian company is now taking innovation to a new level with a groundbreaking productββArc’teryx x Skip MO/GO Pants.β
Developed in collaboration with San Francisco-based robotics startup Skip, these pants represent the future of outdoor gear, leveraging robotics to create the worldβs first powered exoskeleton pants. Branded as MO/GO (short for “Mountain Goat”), this movewear product is designed to help wearers ascend hills more easily, reduce fatigue, and prevent injury.
MO/GO Pants: The Future of Hiking
The MO/GO Pants are not your typical hiking gear. They are equipped with wearable robotsβan exoskeleton that runs along the exterior of the pant leg.
This exoskeleton works to reduce fatigue and prevent injury during strenuous hikes. Additionally, the MO/GO Pants offer an alternative for individuals with mobility challenges, providing extra support in rugged terrain.
Powered Assistance for Your Next Adventure
The MO/GO Pants feature a battery-operated motor that boosts leg muscles by 40% during uphill climbs. As you descend, the pants support your legs, minimizing strain and reducing the risk of injury. This combination of power and protection makes MO/GO ideal for hikers looking to push their limits without overexerting themselves.
Designed for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Developed over a four-year period, the MO/GO Pants are the result of a collaboration between Arc’teryxβs Advanced Concepts team and Skip. Originally part of Google X, Skip became an independent company last year and has been working closely with Arc’teryx ever since.
The design of the MO/GO Pants is inspired by the mountain goat, known for its ease in handling steep elevations. The exoskeleton attachment, which spans from the mid-calf to mid-thigh, is built into Arc’teryx’s flagship Gamma Pant. This combination offers hikers the durability of a premium softshell pant along with the power of robotics.
MO/GO Pants Are a Game-Changer for Hikers
The MO/GO Pants aren’t just for seasoned adventurers. They also provide an opportunity for those with mobility issues to enjoy hiking without fear of fatigue or injury. By reducing the strain on the legs, these pants allow hikers to extend their range and take on more challenging terrain.
High-Performance Features of MO/GO Pants
Letβs take a look at a few of the high-performance features of the MO/GO Pants that have made them a revolutionary development for hiking enthusiasts:
1. Wearable Robotics: The built-in exoskeleton provides uphill assistance and downhill support, making hikes less strenuous.
2. Battery-Powered Boost: The pants deliver a 40% boost to your leg muscles during climbs, reducing fatigue.
3. Durability: MO/GO Pants combine robotics with the rugged Gamma Pant for long-lasting wear in all conditions.
4. Comfort and Protection: Designed to prevent strain and injury, these pants support a wider range of outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Inspired by Nature: The concept is modeled after the mountain goatβs ability to tackle steep terrains effortlessly.
These features and more have created quite a buzz around the upcoming MO/GO Pants, causing the world to consider if robotics could be a vital part of the future of outdoor wear and fashion.
Availability and Price
The MO/GO Pants are now available for reservation with the first shipments expected in late 2025. As you might expect from cutting-edge technology, these robotic hiking pants come with a hefty price tagβ$5,000 USD. While they may not be accessible to everyone, they represent a significant leap forward in hiking gear innovation.
What Arc’teryx and Skip Have to Say About MO/GO Pants
Arc’teryx has always been a brand deeply rooted in the love of the outdoors, and their latest collaboration with Skip aligns perfectly with their mission to push the boundaries of whatβs possible in outdoor gear. Speaking about the MO/GO Pants, Katie Becker, Chief Creative Officer at Arc’teryx, highlighted the company’s passion for empowering people to explore the mountains:
βArcβteryx was founded on a love for the mountains, and creating products which enable people to push themselves and reach new heights. When the Skip team reached out with their early MO/GO prototype, we were immediately intrigued. Through extensive testing, prototyping, and pushing the boundaries of design, weβve seen testers get back out in the mountains they love β scaling summits and challenges they thought were lost to them. Thatβs what itβs all about to us β creating space to share our love of the mountains β and weβre so excited to see the MO/GO out in the world.β
This sentiment is echoed by Kathryn Zealand, Co-Founder of Skip, who emphasized how the collaboration has redefined whatβs possible in outdoor gear by blending robotics with innovative apparel design:
βBy bringing together Skipβs expertise in artificial intelligence and powered wearable technology and Arcβteryxβs renowned product design and engineering excellence, weβve created a product that truly transforms the outdoor experience.β
Both companies share a vision of creating gear that not only enhances physical performance but also enables people to reconnect with the outdoors in new and exciting ways.
Robotics in Fashion: The Future of Wearable Technology
The MO/GO Pants are just the beginning of the intersection between robotics and apparel. As robotics technology advances, more companies are exploring ways to integrate this innovation into wearable clothing. Wearable robots have the potential to revolutionize various industries, from outdoor wear to healthcare and beyond.
Industrial designer Andrea Locatelli is developing powered clothing that aids users with mobility challenges, providing core support for everyday tasks. Similarly, SRI has created a powered suit designed to assist elderly individuals or those recovering from injury. These innovations show that robotic integration in clothing can offer enhanced mobility, strength, and endurance for users across a wide range of applications.
The fashion industry is also beginning to embrace smart textiles, with companies like CuteCircuit leading the charge by incorporating sensors and electronics into clothing for real-time monitoring and interactive experiences. Nike and Under Armour have experimented with clothing that offers smart tracking for athletic performance, further blurring the lines between fashion and technology.
The Future of Robotic Apparel
As wearable robotics evolve, we can expect to see more partnerships like that of Arc’teryx and Skip, combining technical apparel with cutting-edge technology. These advancements will make outdoor activities more accessible and safer while also benefiting individuals with physical challenges. Robotic clothing may soon become a standard in the worlds of adventure, healthcare, and athletic performance, offering both functional and fashion-forward solutions to modern challenges.
Conclusion: MO/GO Pants by Arc’teryx and Skip
The Arc’teryx x Skip MO/GO Pants represent a significant leap forward in the world of technical outdoor clothing. By combining the power of robotics with Arc’teryxβs established expertise, these exoskeleton pants push the boundaries of what outdoor gear can do.
Whether youβre an experienced hiker looking to reduce fatigue, or someone with mobility challenges wanting to enjoy the great outdoors, the MO/GO Pants are a glimpse into the future of wearable technology. As robotics continue to influence fashion, weβre only at the beginning of a new era in functional, powered clothing.
