All three models in the Hypershell range share the same major update, HyperIntuition. This replaces the previous basic rule-based software (you walk, it adds power) with a system that processes movement continuously and adjusts torque in real time. The argument is that real-world movement is irregular, and the exoskeleton needs to adapt to an ever-changing range of movement. We naturally stop and start, slow down, speed up, stride, mooch, climb, and adapt to uneven ground, but traditional exoskeleton systems were rubbish at this. They only really worked by recognizing repeatable gait patterns and, as a result, made me feel more like a robot than like a human being assisted by one.

Hypershell claims a response time of 0.31 seconds and a “human-machine synchronization rate of 97.5 percent” across varied terrain, whatever that means. Hypershell tells me that the aim was not simply to add power but to deliver it at the right moment, so that support feels aligned with your movement rather than imposed on it. In theory, that means assistance engages fluidly, ramps up as you work hard, and backs off as soon as you stop. It’s a bold claim, and one I’ve been testing for the past couple of weeks.

Setting up the Hypershell X Ultra S remains mercifully simple, with excellent step-by-step fitting instructions via the app. I was testing with a prelaunch iOS app version but was told the final version would be basically identical. Getting the fit right is very important, something I’ve learned with previous models. Making sure the motors are properly aligned and not too tight to your hips is key.

Compared to previous Hypershell generations, the X Ultra S has far superior padding around the hips that I appreciated immediately. The straps are easy to adjust, and once you’re clipped in, the system feels balanced. Please don’t think for a second, however, that the 5.5-pound weight will magically melt away when you start using it. No matter how many times I went walking with it on, I never once forgot it was there.

It does suffer some of the same issues I’ve had with all exoskeletons, notably the fact that your front pant pockets become completely useless, and backpacks tend to sit on top of the battery, but not in a good way. This issue is made worse if you’re carrying a loaded pack and need the hip strap support. You’re fine if you opt for a smaller, higher-mounted daypack.

To control the exoskeleton, you can either delve into the app or use the single button on your right hip motor. I’m fairly used to Hypershell’s long-press-short-press control system, but it isn’t especially intuitive. I won’t be the only person to have switched on Hyper at an inopportune moment or turned the whole thing off by accident. The app offers a much greater level of control, enabling you to easily select modes, tweak power percentages, and check battery life.

Power Up

Having something else move your legs, or at least help you move them, is not a natural sensation, and no matter how many times I wore the X Ultra S, it took a good few minutes for me to adjust. But compared to previous generations, this exoskeleton feels better in almost every way. With the older models, when I started to walk, my legs would be jerked about unnaturally, and only really be of assistance once I found a stride. Here, however, assuming you don’t try to walk in the Hyper Running mode—which will see you can-canning like a loon—there’s a progression to the power assistance.

Walking does not feel totally natural, but the way the X Ultra S delivers power is far more intuitive. Stopping and starting feels nicer, and when I was aimlessly ambling about waiting for someone, the system noticed immediately and backed off the power. As I found my stride, the assistance increased accordingly, but for the first time, I felt in control rather than feeling like a beta-testing passenger.