Powered Shoes: The Future of Footwear

Powered shoes are footwear or strap-on devices that use motors, sensors, batteries, and software to assist walking — making you move faster, cover more distance with less effort, or reduce fatigue. They are also called robotic shoes, electric shoes, or powered footwear.

Most powered shoes detect your walking gait with sensors, then use electric motors to add propulsion — often via wheels or actuators. Control software adjusts assistance in real time so movement feels like faster walking rather than skating.

Shift Robotics Moonwalkers are among the most established consumer powered shoes available for purchase. Other products such as Moonwalkers Aero, Dephy Sidekick, and Nike Project Amplify are coming soon, in development, or research-stage. Browse the PoweredShoes.com product database for current status.

Speed varies by product. Shift Robotics Moonwalkers claim up to about 7 mph on flat surfaces — significantly faster than typical walking (3–4 mph), but generally slower than electric scooters.

Early consumer powered shoes typically cost $1,000–$2,000+. Moonwalkers launched around $1,399 MSRP. Business and research products often require direct manufacturer pricing.

Like any mobility device, powered shoes require a learning curve, suitable terrain (often flat and smooth), and attention to battery and braking safety. Follow manufacturer guidelines and practice in controlled environments first.