Textile-Based Exoskeletons in 2025: How Smart Fabrics Are Transforming Assistive Mobility and Industrial Performance. Explore the Next Wave of Lightweight, Flexible Wearable Robotics.

• Executive Summary: Textile Exoskeletons Market Outlook 2025–2030
• Market Size, Growth Rate, and Forecasts (2025–2030)
• Key Players and Industry Initiatives (e.g., rewalk.com, myomo.com, suitx.com)
• Technological Innovations: Smart Fabrics, Sensors, and Actuators
• Applications: Healthcare, Industrial, Military, and Sports
• Regulatory Landscape and Standards (e.g., ieee.org, asme.org)
• Supply Chain and Manufacturing Trends
• Investment, Funding, and Strategic Partnerships
• Challenges: Durability, Comfort, and User Adoption
• Future Outlook: Emerging Opportunities and Market Drivers
• Sources & References

Executive Summary: Textile Exoskeletons Market Outlook 2025–2030

The textile-based exoskeleton sector is poised for significant evolution between 2025 and 2030, driven by advances in smart materials, wearable robotics, and the growing demand for lightweight, ergonomic assistive devices. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems utilize soft, flexible fabrics integrated with sensors, actuators, and control electronics, offering enhanced comfort and adaptability for users in medical, industrial, and military applications.

Key industry players are accelerating development and commercialization efforts. SUITX, now part of Ottobock, has been a pioneer in modular exoskeletons and is actively exploring textile-based solutions to expand their product line for industrial and rehabilitation markets. Samsung Electronics has demonstrated prototypes of soft wearable robots, leveraging its expertise in electronics and smart textiles, with expectations of pilot deployments in healthcare and eldercare settings by 2026. Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation is also investing in soft exosuit research, aiming to address fatigue and injury prevention in logistics and manufacturing.

In Europe, Ottobock continues to lead in wearable orthotics, with ongoing R&D into textile-integrated exosuits for both medical and workplace support. Meanwhile, Myomo is advancing soft orthotic devices for upper limb assistance, focusing on stroke rehabilitation and neuromuscular conditions. The company’s textile-based MyoPro line is expected to see further integration of smart fabrics and improved user interfaces by 2027.

The next few years will see increased collaboration between textile manufacturers and robotics firms. Companies such as Teijin Limited and Toray Industries are supplying advanced fibers and conductive textiles, enabling lighter, more durable, and washable exoskeleton components. These partnerships are crucial for scaling production and meeting the stringent requirements of medical and industrial end-users.

Looking ahead, the textile-based exoskeleton market is expected to benefit from regulatory support for workplace safety and rehabilitation technologies, as well as growing awareness of musculoskeletal health. By 2030, textile exoskeletons are projected to move from pilot programs to mainstream adoption, particularly in sectors where comfort, mobility, and unobtrusive design are paramount. The convergence of smart textiles, miniaturized electronics, and user-centric design will define the competitive landscape, with leading companies positioned to capture emerging opportunities in both established and new markets.

Market Size, Growth Rate, and Forecasts (2025–2030)

The textile-based exoskeleton market is poised for significant growth between 2025 and 2030, driven by advances in soft robotics, wearable technology, and the increasing demand for ergonomic solutions in healthcare, industrial, and military sectors. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems utilize flexible, lightweight fabrics integrated with sensors, actuators, and control electronics, offering enhanced comfort and adaptability for users.

As of 2025, the global exoskeleton market is estimated to surpass $1.5 billion, with textile-based solutions representing a rapidly expanding segment. Industry leaders such as SuitX (now part of Ottobock), Samsung Electronics, and Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation are actively developing and commercializing soft exosuits for both medical rehabilitation and industrial support. For example, SuitX has introduced modular exoskeletons with textile components aimed at reducing workplace injuries, while Samsung Electronics has showcased wearable robotic devices with fabric-based elements for mobility assistance.

The healthcare sector is expected to be a primary driver, with textile-based exoskeletons facilitating post-stroke rehabilitation, mobility support for the elderly, and assistance for individuals with neuromuscular disorders. The industrial sector is also adopting these solutions to mitigate musculoskeletal injuries and enhance worker productivity, particularly in logistics, manufacturing, and construction. According to projections from industry participants, the textile-based exoskeleton segment is anticipated to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 25% through 2030, outpacing the broader exoskeleton market due to its cost-effectiveness, user comfort, and ease of integration.

Key players such as Ottobock (which acquired SuitX), Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation, and Samsung Electronics are investing in research and development to improve textile durability, sensor accuracy, and battery life. Additionally, companies like Ottobock are collaborating with research institutions to accelerate clinical validation and regulatory approvals, which are expected to further boost market adoption.

Looking ahead, the textile-based exoskeleton market is forecasted to reach multi-billion-dollar valuations by 2030, with Asia-Pacific and North America leading in adoption due to robust healthcare infrastructure and industrial automation trends. The next few years will likely see increased commercialization, broader insurance coverage for medical applications, and the emergence of new entrants leveraging advances in smart textiles and soft robotics.

Key Players and Industry Initiatives (e.g., rewalk.com, myomo.com, suitx.com)

The textile-based exoskeleton sector is experiencing rapid innovation, with established exoskeleton manufacturers and new entrants focusing on lightweight, flexible, and wearable solutions for rehabilitation, industrial, and assistive applications. As of 2025, several key players are driving advancements and commercialization efforts in this field.

ReWalk Robotics is a prominent name in wearable robotics, historically known for rigid exoskeletons for spinal cord injury rehabilitation. In recent years, the company has expanded its research and development to include soft, textile-based exosuits, particularly for stroke rehabilitation and mobility assistance. Their ReStore™ soft exo-suit, which utilizes fabric-based actuators and sensors, is designed to assist gait training in clinical settings. The company continues to invest in textile-based solutions, aiming to enhance comfort and usability for both clinical and home use (ReWalk Robotics).

Myomo, Inc. specializes in powered orthoses for upper limb mobility. Their MyoPro® device, while not fully textile-based, incorporates soft, wearable elements and is part of a broader industry trend toward integrating flexible materials for improved user comfort and adaptability. Myomo is actively exploring textile integration to further reduce device weight and increase wearability, with ongoing collaborations in the medical device sector (Myomo, Inc.).

SUITX, now part of Ottobock, has been a pioneer in modular exoskeletons for industrial and medical applications. The company has developed soft exoskeletons such as the ShoulderX and BackX, which use textile harnesses and flexible supports to reduce strain and fatigue in industrial workers. The integration with Ottobock, a global leader in prosthetics and orthotics, is expected to accelerate the development and deployment of textile-based exoskeletons, leveraging Ottobock’s expertise in advanced materials and wearable technologies (SUITX, Ottobock).

Other notable industry initiatives include collaborations between exoskeleton manufacturers and textile technology companies to develop smart fabrics with embedded sensors and actuators. These partnerships aim to create exosuits that are not only lightweight and unobtrusive but also capable of real-time biomechanical feedback and adaptive assistance. The next few years are expected to see increased commercialization of textile-based exoskeletons, particularly in rehabilitation and workplace ergonomics, as regulatory approvals and clinical validation progress.

Looking ahead, the textile-based exoskeleton market is poised for significant growth, driven by user demand for comfort, ease of use, and integration into daily life. Key players are expected to expand their product portfolios, while new entrants and cross-industry collaborations will likely accelerate innovation and adoption through 2025 and beyond.

Technological Innovations: Smart Fabrics, Sensors, and Actuators

Textile-based exoskeletons represent a transformative direction in wearable robotics, leveraging advances in smart fabrics, embedded sensors, and soft actuators to create lightweight, flexible, and user-friendly assistive devices. As of 2025, the field is witnessing rapid progress, with several companies and research groups moving from laboratory prototypes to early-stage commercialization and pilot deployments.

A key innovation driving this sector is the integration of conductive fibers and stretchable electronics directly into textiles, enabling real-time monitoring of body movements and physiological signals. For example, Smith+Nephew, a global medical technology company, has invested in textile-based wearable solutions for rehabilitation, focusing on soft exosuits that use embedded sensors to track joint angles and muscle activity. These systems provide feedback to both users and clinicians, supporting personalized therapy and improved outcomes.

Another notable player, SUITX (now part of Ottobock), has developed soft exoskeletons for industrial and medical applications. Their designs utilize textile harnesses combined with lightweight actuators to assist with lifting and repetitive tasks, reducing fatigue and injury risk. The company’s ongoing research focuses on enhancing comfort and adaptability through advanced fabric engineering and modular sensor arrays.

In Asia, CYBERDYNE Inc. continues to advance its HAL (Hybrid Assistive Limb) technology, with recent efforts exploring textile-based modules to improve wearability and user compliance. Their approach integrates soft robotics principles, using pneumatic or cable-driven actuators embedded in garments to provide assistive torque while maintaining a low profile.

The development of smart actuators is also central to textile exoskeleton innovation. Companies like SMC Corporation are supplying compact pneumatic components that can be integrated into wearable systems, enabling responsive and lightweight actuation. Meanwhile, collaborations between textile manufacturers and robotics firms are yielding new materials—such as shape-memory alloys and electroactive polymers—that can be woven into fabrics to create muscle-like movements.

Looking ahead to the next few years, the outlook for textile-based exoskeletons is promising. Industry analysts anticipate broader adoption in rehabilitation, eldercare, and workplace ergonomics, driven by the need for unobtrusive, comfortable support solutions. Ongoing miniaturization of sensors and actuators, coupled with advances in washable and durable smart textiles, are expected to further accelerate commercialization. Regulatory pathways are also becoming clearer, with standards bodies and medical device agencies working to define safety and efficacy benchmarks for these emerging technologies.

Applications: Healthcare, Industrial, Military, and Sports

Textile-based exoskeletons are rapidly emerging as a transformative technology across healthcare, industrial, military, and sports sectors. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems utilize soft, flexible fabrics integrated with sensors, actuators, and control electronics, offering enhanced comfort, wearability, and adaptability. As of 2025, several companies and research institutions are advancing the field, with commercial deployments and pilot programs expanding globally.

In healthcare, textile exoskeletons are being developed to assist rehabilitation and mobility for patients with neurological or musculoskeletal impairments. For example, SUITX (now part of Ottobock) has been exploring soft exosuit solutions for gait assistance and post-stroke rehabilitation. Similarly, Myomo focuses on wearable devices that support arm and hand movement, leveraging soft materials for improved patient compliance. These systems are increasingly being integrated into clinical practice, with ongoing trials aiming to validate their efficacy and long-term benefits.

In industrial settings, textile-based exoskeletons are being adopted to reduce worker fatigue and prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Samsung SDI and Ottobock have both demonstrated textile exosuits designed for logistics and manufacturing environments, providing back and shoulder support during repetitive lifting tasks. These solutions are valued for their lightweight design and ease of integration into existing workflows, with several large-scale pilot programs underway in automotive and warehousing sectors.

Military applications are also advancing, with organizations such as Lockheed Martin and Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation investing in soft exoskeletons to enhance soldier endurance and reduce injury risk. Textile-based systems are particularly attractive for their low profile and compatibility with standard uniforms, enabling extended wear during field operations. Prototypes are currently being evaluated for load carriage and mobility enhancement, with field trials expected to expand through 2025 and beyond.

In sports, textile exoskeletons are being explored for performance augmentation and injury prevention. Companies like Reebok and Nike have shown interest in smart apparel that incorporates exoskeletal elements, aiming to support athletes during training and recovery. While most products remain in the research or prototype phase, collaborations with sports science institutes are accelerating development, with commercial launches anticipated in the next few years.

Looking ahead, the outlook for textile-based exoskeletons is highly promising. Advances in smart textiles, miniaturized actuators, and AI-driven control systems are expected to drive broader adoption across all sectors. Regulatory approvals and real-world validation will be key milestones, with industry leaders and new entrants alike poised to shape the market landscape through 2025 and beyond.

Regulatory Landscape and Standards (e.g., ieee.org, asme.org)

The regulatory landscape for textile-based exoskeletons is rapidly evolving as these devices transition from research prototypes to commercial products in healthcare, industrial, and consumer markets. As of 2025, the sector is witnessing increased attention from standards organizations and regulatory bodies, aiming to ensure safety, efficacy, and interoperability of these wearable technologies.

A key player in the development of standards for exoskeletons, including textile-based variants, is the IEEE. The IEEE has established the P2869 working group, which focuses on the terminology and classification of exoskeletons and exosuits, providing a foundational framework for further regulatory efforts. This standardization is crucial for textile-based systems, which differ significantly from rigid exoskeletons in terms of materials, actuation, and user interaction.

The ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) is also active in this space, with its Committee on Exoskeletons and Exosuits working on guidelines that address performance metrics, safety testing, and human factors. These guidelines are expected to be increasingly referenced by manufacturers and regulatory agencies as textile-based exoskeletons enter broader markets.

In the United States, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has begun to clarify its regulatory approach to wearable exoskeletons, including textile-based devices intended for medical rehabilitation or mobility assistance. The FDA classifies most exoskeletons as Class II medical devices, requiring premarket notification and demonstration of safety and effectiveness. Textile-based exoskeleton developers are engaging with the FDA through its pre-submission process to address unique challenges such as material biocompatibility, durability, and cleaning protocols.

On the international front, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is developing standards under the ISO/TC 173/SC 1 committee, which covers assistive products for personal mobility. These standards are expected to influence regulatory requirements in Europe and Asia, where textile-based exoskeletons are gaining traction in both medical and industrial applications.

Looking ahead, the next few years will likely see the publication of more detailed standards specific to textile-based exoskeletons, addressing issues such as sensor integration, soft actuator reliability, and user comfort. Industry leaders and startups are expected to collaborate closely with standards bodies to ensure that regulatory frameworks keep pace with rapid technological advancements, facilitating safer and more effective adoption of textile-based exoskeletons worldwide.

Supply Chain and Manufacturing Trends

The supply chain and manufacturing landscape for textile-based exoskeletons is undergoing significant transformation as the sector matures in 2025. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems rely on advanced fabrics, smart textiles, and flexible actuators, which has led to the emergence of new suppliers and manufacturing partnerships. Key players such as SuitX (now part of Ottobock), Ottobock, and Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation are actively investing in textile-based solutions, leveraging their expertise in wearable robotics and orthotics to scale up production and streamline supply chains.

In 2025, the integration of smart textiles—fabrics embedded with sensors, conductive threads, and soft actuators—has become a focal point for manufacturers. Companies like Myant are pioneering the development of textile computing platforms, enabling real-time physiological monitoring and responsive actuation within exoskeleton garments. This has necessitated close collaboration with textile mills, electronics suppliers, and assembly partners, often requiring vertically integrated manufacturing or strategic alliances to ensure quality and scalability.

Supply chain resilience is a top priority, especially after disruptions experienced in previous years. Manufacturers are increasingly sourcing materials domestically or from trusted regional partners to mitigate risks. For example, Ottobock has expanded its European manufacturing footprint, while North American firms are investing in local textile innovation hubs. The adoption of digital supply chain management tools and real-time inventory tracking is also accelerating, allowing for more agile responses to demand fluctuations and component shortages.

On the manufacturing side, automation and advanced textile fabrication techniques—such as 3D knitting, ultrasonic welding, and laser cutting—are being adopted to improve consistency and reduce labor costs. These methods enable the production of complex, form-fitting exoskeleton garments at scale, while maintaining the flexibility and comfort required for long-term wear. Companies like Myant are at the forefront of integrating electronics directly into textiles during the manufacturing process, reducing assembly steps and enhancing product reliability.

Looking ahead, the outlook for textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing is positive, with continued investment in R&D and supply chain optimization expected over the next few years. As regulatory standards for wearable robotics evolve, manufacturers are also focusing on traceability and quality assurance throughout the supply chain. The convergence of textile innovation, robotics, and digital manufacturing is set to drive further growth and adoption, positioning textile-based exoskeletons as a key segment within the broader wearable robotics industry.

Investment, Funding, and Strategic Partnerships

Investment and strategic partnerships in textile-based exoskeleton development have accelerated notably as the sector matures and wearable robotics gain traction in healthcare, industrial, and consumer markets. In 2025, the convergence of soft robotics, advanced textiles, and sensor integration is attracting both established players and startups, with funding rounds and collaborations reflecting the growing confidence in the commercial viability of textile exoskeletons.

Key industry leaders such as SuitX (now part of Ottobock), and Samsung have continued to invest in research and development of soft, textile-based exosuits. Ottobock has expanded its exoskeleton portfolio, leveraging its expertise in prosthetics and orthotics to develop lighter, more flexible wearable support systems for industrial and medical applications. Meanwhile, Samsung has been advancing its GEMS (Gait Enhancing and Motivating System) exosuit, which incorporates textile elements for improved comfort and mobility, and has signaled ongoing investment in this area through public demonstrations and patent activity.

Startups are also drawing significant venture capital and strategic backing. SuitX has historically attracted funding from both private investors and government grants, and its acquisition by Ottobock in 2021 has led to further resource allocation for textile-based exoskeleton R&D. Myomo, a developer of wearable medical robotics, has been expanding its product line to include more textile-integrated solutions, supported by a mix of public offerings and private investment.

Strategic partnerships are a hallmark of the sector’s current phase. Collaborations between textile manufacturers and robotics firms are increasingly common, as seen in alliances between DuPont (a leader in advanced fibers) and exoskeleton developers to co-develop high-strength, lightweight fabrics for wearable robotics. Additionally, Bayer has shown interest in the intersection of smart textiles and healthcare, exploring partnerships to integrate sensor-laden fabrics into rehabilitation exosuits.

Looking ahead, the next few years are expected to see continued inflows of capital, particularly as pilot programs in hospitals, elder care, and logistics demonstrate the efficacy and user acceptance of textile-based exoskeletons. The sector is also likely to benefit from public-private partnerships, with government agencies in the US, EU, and Asia funding initiatives to address workforce aging and injury prevention. As textile-based exoskeletons move from prototype to scalable production, investment is anticipated to shift toward manufacturing scale-up, supply chain integration, and regulatory compliance, further solidifying the sector’s growth trajectory.

Challenges: Durability, Comfort, and User Adoption

Textile-based exoskeletons represent a promising evolution in wearable assistive technology, offering lightweight, flexible alternatives to traditional rigid exoskeletons. However, as the sector moves into 2025, several challenges remain at the forefront—particularly regarding durability, comfort, and user adoption.

Durability is a critical concern for textile-based exoskeletons, as these devices must withstand repeated mechanical stresses, laundering, and environmental exposure without significant degradation. Unlike rigid exoskeletons, which rely on metal or composite frames, textile exoskeletons use advanced fabrics, integrated sensors, and actuators that are more susceptible to wear and tear. Companies such as SUITX (now part of Ottobock), Samsung Electronics, and Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation are actively developing textile-based solutions, but ensuring long-term reliability remains a technical hurdle. For example, the integration of conductive threads and soft actuators must balance flexibility with resistance to fatigue and moisture, a challenge that is being addressed through the development of new materials and encapsulation techniques.

Comfort is another major factor influencing the adoption of textile-based exoskeletons. The devices must conform to diverse body shapes, allow for natural movement, and minimize heat buildup or skin irritation during prolonged use. Ottobock, a leader in wearable orthotics, emphasizes ergonomic design and breathable materials in its soft exosuit prototypes. Similarly, Myomo focuses on user-centric design, incorporating feedback from clinical trials to refine fit and usability. Despite these efforts, achieving a universally comfortable solution is complicated by the need to balance support with unobtrusiveness, especially for users with mobility impairments or those in industrial settings.

User adoption is closely tied to both durability and comfort, but also hinges on factors such as ease of donning/doffing, device weight, and perceived benefit. Industrial partners like Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation and SUITX are piloting textile-based exoskeletons in logistics and manufacturing, where user feedback is shaping iterative improvements. However, widespread adoption will require robust evidence of efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and integration with existing workflows. Regulatory approval and insurance reimbursement are additional hurdles, particularly in healthcare applications.

Looking ahead, ongoing advances in smart textiles, sensor miniaturization, and machine learning-driven control algorithms are expected to address many of these challenges. As companies continue to collaborate with end-users and clinical partners, the next few years will likely see textile-based exoskeletons become more durable, comfortable, and accepted across both medical and industrial domains.

Future Outlook: Emerging Opportunities and Market Drivers

The future outlook for textile-based exoskeleton development in 2025 and the coming years is marked by rapid technological advancements, expanding application domains, and growing industry collaboration. Textile-based exoskeletons—wearable assistive devices that integrate soft, flexible fabrics with actuation and sensing technologies—are increasingly recognized for their potential to deliver ergonomic support, injury prevention, and enhanced mobility without the bulk and rigidity of traditional exoskeletons.

Key market drivers include the rising demand for worker safety and productivity in sectors such as logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare. As global labor shortages persist and workplace injury costs escalate, companies are seeking lightweight, comfortable solutions that can be worn for extended periods. Textile-based exoskeletons, with their unobtrusive design and adaptability, are well-positioned to meet these needs.

Several industry leaders are actively shaping the landscape. SUITX, now part of Ottobock, has been developing soft exosuits for industrial and medical use, focusing on reducing musculoskeletal strain. Samsung Electronics has demonstrated prototypes of wearable robots with textile components, targeting both rehabilitation and workplace assistance. Ottobock itself is investing in textile-integrated exoskeletons, leveraging its expertise in orthotics and prosthetics to create user-friendly, modular systems. Meanwhile, Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation is exploring hybrid exoskeletons that combine soft and rigid elements for optimized performance in industrial settings.

Academic-industry partnerships are accelerating innovation. For example, collaborations between research institutions and companies are yielding advances in smart textiles—fabrics embedded with sensors and actuators that enable real-time monitoring and adaptive support. These developments are expected to drive commercialization, with pilot programs and field trials expanding in 2025 across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Looking ahead, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning will further enhance the responsiveness and personalization of textile-based exoskeletons. The adoption of sustainable, washable, and durable materials is also anticipated, addressing user comfort and environmental concerns. Regulatory frameworks are evolving to support safe deployment, particularly in healthcare and industrial environments.

Overall, the next few years are likely to see textile-based exoskeletons transition from pilot projects to broader market adoption, propelled by ergonomic benefits, technological maturity, and a growing emphasis on worker well-being. As leading manufacturers and new entrants invest in R&D and commercialization, the sector is poised for significant growth and diversification.

Sources & References

• SUITX
• Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation
• Ottobock
• Teijin Limited
• ReWalk Robotics
• SUITX
• Ottobock
• CYBERDYNE Inc.
• SMC Corporation
• Lockheed Martin
• Nike
• IEEE
• ASME
• International Organization for Standardization
• Myant
• DuPont