Textile-Based Exoskeletons in 2025: The Next Leap in Wearable Robotics. Explore How Soft, Flexible Exosuits Are Transforming Mobility, Healthcare, and Industry—And What’s Ahead for This Rapidly Expanding Sector.

• Executive Summary & Key Findings
• Market Size, Growth Rate & 2025–2030 Forecasts
• Core Technologies: Smart Textiles, Sensors, and Actuators
• Leading Companies & Industry Initiatives
• Applications: Healthcare, Industrial, Military, and Consumer
• Regulatory Landscape & Standards (e.g., IEEE, ASTM)
• Supply Chain & Manufacturing Innovations
• Investment Trends & Funding Landscape
• Challenges: Durability, Comfort, and User Adoption
• Future Outlook: Emerging Trends and Strategic Opportunities
• Sources & References

Executive Summary & Key Findings

Textile-based exoskeletons represent a transformative direction in wearable robotics, leveraging advances in smart fabrics, soft actuators, and ergonomic design to deliver lightweight, flexible, and user-friendly assistive devices. As of 2025, the sector is experiencing rapid growth, driven by demand in healthcare, industrial ergonomics, and personal mobility. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems prioritize comfort, adaptability, and unobtrusive integration with the human body, making them suitable for prolonged daily use.

Key industry players are accelerating development and commercialization. SUITX, now part of Ottobock, has expanded its portfolio to include soft exosuits for industrial and rehabilitation applications, focusing on reducing musculoskeletal strain. Samsung Electronics has invested in wearable robotics, with ongoing research into textile-integrated exosuits for mobility assistance. Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation is exploring soft exoskeletons for industrial support, complementing its established powered exoskeletons. In Europe, Ottobock continues to develop textile-based solutions for both medical and workplace use, leveraging its expertise in orthotics and prosthetics.

Recent years have seen significant technical milestones. Textile exoskeletons now incorporate advanced materials such as high-strength elastomers, conductive yarns, and shape-memory alloys, enabling responsive actuation and real-time sensing. Integration of sensors and AI-driven control algorithms allows for adaptive assistance tailored to individual users. Pilot deployments in logistics, manufacturing, and eldercare settings have demonstrated reductions in fatigue and injury risk, with user compliance rates notably higher than with rigid alternatives.

The outlook for 2025 and the next few years is highly positive. Industry analysts anticipate double-digit annual growth in textile-based exoskeleton adoption, particularly in sectors facing labor shortages and aging workforces. Regulatory bodies in North America, Europe, and Asia are beginning to establish standards for wearable robotics, which is expected to accelerate market entry and user trust. Strategic partnerships between textile manufacturers, robotics firms, and healthcare providers are fostering innovation and scaling production.

• Textile-based exoskeletons are shifting the paradigm from rigid, heavy devices to soft, ergonomic wearables.
• Major companies such as SUITX, Ottobock, and Samsung Electronics are leading development and commercialization.
• Technical advances in smart textiles and AI-driven control are enabling more effective, user-friendly solutions.
• Market growth is driven by industrial, healthcare, and personal mobility applications, with strong outlook through 2025 and beyond.

Market Size, Growth Rate & 2025–2030 Forecasts

The textile-based exoskeleton market is poised for significant expansion between 2025 and 2030, driven by advances in soft robotics, wearable technology, and the growing 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 smart materials, offering improved comfort and adaptability for users.

As of 2025, the global market for textile-based exoskeletons remains in an early commercialization phase, with pilot deployments and limited-scale sales primarily in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. The sector is led by a handful of pioneering companies and research spin-offs. SUITX (now part of Ottobock), for example, has developed soft exosuits for industrial and medical applications, focusing on reducing musculoskeletal injuries and supporting rehabilitation. Samsung Electronics has demonstrated textile-integrated wearable robotics concepts, signaling interest from major electronics manufacturers. Sensory Motors and Myant are also active in developing textile-based assistive wearables, leveraging advances in smart textiles and embedded electronics.

Market size estimates for 2025 suggest a global valuation in the low hundreds of millions USD, with annual growth rates projected in the 25–35% range through 2030 as technology matures and adoption widens. Growth is expected to accelerate as textile-based exoskeletons move from research prototypes to certified commercial products, particularly in rehabilitation, eldercare, and workplace injury prevention. The healthcare sector is anticipated to be the largest early adopter, with hospitals and rehabilitation centers integrating soft exosuits for post-stroke therapy and mobility assistance. Industrial adoption is also rising, with companies such as Ottobock and SUITX targeting logistics, manufacturing, and construction workers.

Looking ahead to 2030, the market outlook is shaped by ongoing R&D in materials science, miniaturized actuators, and textile-integrated sensors. The entry of large apparel and electronics firms is expected to drive down costs and expand distribution. Regulatory pathways are also clarifying, with standards for wearable robotics under development by organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). By 2030, the textile-based exoskeleton market is forecast to reach several billion USD in annual revenues, with widespread adoption in healthcare, industry, and consumer wellness applications.

Core Technologies: Smart Textiles, Sensors, and Actuators

Textile-based exoskeletons represent a transformative direction in wearable robotics, leveraging advances in smart textiles, integrated sensors, and soft actuators to deliver 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 commercial products.

A core technology underpinning these systems is the development of smart textiles—fabrics embedded with conductive fibers, stretchable electronics, and responsive materials. These textiles serve as both the structural backbone and the interface for sensing and actuation. For example, Softeq Development Corporation is actively involved in integrating flexible sensors and conductive threads into garments, enabling real-time monitoring of body movements and physiological signals. Similarly, Smartex, an Italian company, specializes in textile-based sensor systems for health and performance monitoring, which are increasingly being adapted for exoskeleton applications.

Sensor integration is a critical aspect, with textile-based exoskeletons relying on arrays of strain gauges, inertial measurement units (IMUs), and pressure sensors woven or printed directly into the fabric. These sensors provide high-resolution data on joint angles, muscle activity, and user intent, allowing for precise control of assistive functions. Companies like Myant are at the forefront of developing textile platforms that seamlessly incorporate biosensors for continuous, unobtrusive monitoring.

Actuation in textile exoskeletons is shifting from rigid motors to soft, compliant mechanisms. Pneumatic artificial muscles (PAMs), shape memory alloys, and electroactive polymers are being integrated into garments to provide assistive force while maintaining comfort and mobility. SuitX (now part of Ottobock) has demonstrated soft exosuits that use cable-driven and pneumatic actuation, targeting industrial and rehabilitation markets. Meanwhile, Sensoria Health is developing textile-based actuation and feedback systems for rehabilitation and gait assistance.

Looking ahead, the next few years are expected to bring further miniaturization of components, improved washability and durability of smart textiles, and enhanced energy efficiency for wearable actuators. Industry collaborations and standardization efforts are likely to accelerate commercialization, with textile-based exoskeletons poised to expand from medical and industrial use to broader consumer wellness and workplace ergonomics. As the ecosystem matures, partnerships between textile manufacturers, electronics specialists, and robotics firms will be crucial in overcoming technical and regulatory challenges, paving the way for widespread adoption of these next-generation wearable systems.

Leading Companies & Industry Initiatives

The textile-based exoskeleton sector is experiencing rapid evolution, with several leading companies and industry initiatives shaping the landscape as of 2025. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based solutions leverage soft, flexible materials to deliver ergonomic support, enhanced mobility, and wearer comfort. This approach is particularly attractive for applications in healthcare, rehabilitation, industrial ergonomics, and even military settings.

One of the most prominent players is SUITX, a company that has pioneered modular exoskeletons and is actively developing textile-integrated systems. Their focus on lightweight, wearable assistive devices has led to collaborations with research institutions and industrial partners to create exosuits that reduce musculoskeletal strain for workers in logistics and manufacturing. SUITX’s acquisition by Ottobock, a global leader in prosthetics and orthotics, has further accelerated the integration of textile-based technologies into commercial exoskeleton products.

Another key innovator is Samsung Electronics, which has invested in soft robotics and wearable assistive devices. Samsung’s research into smart textiles and sensor-embedded fabrics is expected to yield commercial textile-based exoskeletons for both medical and consumer markets in the coming years. Their work is complemented by partnerships with academic institutions and startups focused on human augmentation.

In Europe, SUITX and Ottobock are joined by Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation, which is expanding its portfolio to include soft exosuits for industrial and defense applications. Sarcos is leveraging its expertise in robotics to develop textile-based systems that offer both strength augmentation and user comfort.

Industry initiatives are also being driven by collaborative projects such as the euRobotics platform, which brings together manufacturers, research organizations, and end-users to advance the development and standardization of soft exoskeletons. These efforts are supported by European Union funding and are expected to result in new prototypes and pilot deployments by 2026.

Looking ahead, the textile-based exoskeleton market is poised for significant growth, with major players investing in R&D, strategic partnerships, and pilot programs. The convergence of smart textiles, soft robotics, and wearable sensors is expected to yield commercially viable products that address the needs of aging populations, injured workers, and individuals with mobility impairments. As regulatory frameworks and industry standards mature, textile-based exoskeletons are likely to become a mainstream solution across multiple sectors.

Applications: Healthcare, Industrial, Military, and Consumer

Textile-based exoskeletons are rapidly emerging as a transformative technology across healthcare, industrial, military, and consumer sectors. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems leverage soft, flexible materials—such as high-strength fabrics, smart textiles, and integrated sensors—to deliver lightweight, comfortable, and unobtrusive support. As of 2025, several companies and research institutions are advancing the field, with prototypes and early commercial products demonstrating significant potential.

In healthcare, textile exoskeletons are being developed to assist with rehabilitation, mobility support, and injury prevention. For example, SUITX (now part of Ottobock) has explored soft exosuits for gait assistance and post-stroke rehabilitation. Similarly, Myomo offers wearable devices that use soft actuators to aid arm and hand movement in patients with neuromuscular disorders. These systems are designed to be worn for extended periods, providing assistance without restricting natural movement, and are increasingly being integrated into clinical practice and home care.

In industrial settings, textile-based exoskeletons are being adopted to reduce worker fatigue and the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Companies such as SUITX and Ottobock have developed soft exosuits that support the back and shoulders during lifting or repetitive tasks. Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation is also exploring soft exosuit technologies for logistics and manufacturing environments, aiming to enhance worker safety and productivity. Early deployments in automotive and warehousing sectors are being closely monitored for ergonomic benefits and return on investment.

Military applications are a key driver for textile-based exoskeleton innovation. The U.S. Army and allied defense organizations are funding research into soft exosuits that can augment soldier endurance, reduce injury, and improve load carriage. Harvard University’s Wyss Institute, in collaboration with industry partners, has developed soft exosuits for lower-body assistance, which have undergone field trials with military personnel. These systems prioritize low weight, flexibility, and compatibility with standard uniforms and gear.

In the consumer market, textile-based exoskeletons are beginning to appear in sports, fitness, and wellness applications. Startups and established brands are experimenting with smart garments that provide posture correction, joint support, or enhanced athletic performance. While most products remain in the prototype or pilot phase, the convergence of wearable electronics and advanced textiles is expected to drive broader adoption in the coming years.

Looking ahead, the outlook for textile-based exoskeletons is highly promising. Advances in materials science, miniaturized actuators, and sensor integration are expected to yield lighter, more effective, and affordable solutions. As regulatory pathways clarify and user acceptance grows, textile exoskeletons are poised to become a mainstream tool for enhancing human capability across multiple domains.

Regulatory Landscape & Standards (e.g., IEEE, ASTM)

The regulatory landscape for textile-based exoskeletons is rapidly evolving as these devices transition from research prototypes to commercial products in medical, 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 soft wearable robotics.

Key international standards bodies such as the IEEE and ASTM International are at the forefront of developing guidelines specific to exoskeletons, including textile-based systems. The IEEE has established the P2869 working group, which is focused on developing standards for performance, safety, and terminology for exoskeletons and exosuits, with a particular emphasis on soft, textile-integrated devices. These standards are expected to address critical aspects such as biomechanical compatibility, user comfort, and data security, and are anticipated to be published in the next few years.

Similarly, ASTM International’s Committee F48 on Exoskeletons and Exosuits has been active in publishing standards that cover safety, ergonomics, and testing protocols for wearable robotics. The F48.03 subcommittee, in particular, is working on standards that are directly relevant to textile-based exoskeletons, including test methods for evaluating the durability and washability of textile components, as well as protocols for assessing the mechanical assistance provided by soft actuators. These standards are being developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders, including leading manufacturers and research institutions.

On the regulatory side, agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are increasingly involved in the oversight of medical exoskeletons, including those with textile-based architectures. The FDA has issued guidance documents outlining the requirements for premarket notification (510(k)) and de novo classification for powered exoskeletons, and is expected to refine these guidelines as textile-based systems become more prevalent. In Europe, the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) framework applies to wearable exoskeletons intended for medical use, requiring conformity assessment and CE marking.

Industry players such as SUITX (now part of Ottobock), Ottobock, and Samsung are actively participating in standards development and regulatory discussions, recognizing that harmonized standards are essential for market access and user trust. The next few years are expected to see the publication of comprehensive standards tailored to textile-based exoskeletons, facilitating broader adoption and integration into healthcare, workplace safety, and personal mobility applications.

Supply Chain & Manufacturing Innovations

The development of textile-based exoskeletons is rapidly advancing, with 2025 marking a pivotal year for supply chain and manufacturing innovations in this sector. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems leverage soft, flexible materials—such as high-strength fabrics, smart textiles, and integrated sensors—to deliver ergonomic support and assistive functions while maximizing user comfort and wearability. This shift is driving significant changes in sourcing, production processes, and industry partnerships.

Key players in the textile-based exoskeleton market are increasingly collaborating with established textile manufacturers to access advanced materials and scalable production capabilities. For example, SUITX (now part of Ottobock) has integrated textile elements into its exoskeletons, focusing on lightweight, modular designs for industrial and medical applications. Ottobock itself, a global leader in orthotics and prosthetics, is investing in textile-based wearable robotics, leveraging its expertise in medical-grade fabrics and supply chain management to accelerate commercialization.

Another notable company, Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation, is developing soft exosuits that utilize advanced textiles and embedded actuation systems. Their approach emphasizes manufacturability and ease of integration into existing workwear, which is crucial for large-scale adoption in sectors such as logistics, construction, and healthcare. Meanwhile, SUITX and Ottobock are also exploring partnerships with textile innovation hubs to source smart fabrics capable of real-time sensing and adaptive support.

On the supply chain front, the adoption of automated cutting, sewing, and lamination technologies is streamlining the production of textile-based exoskeletons. Companies are investing in digital manufacturing platforms to enable rapid prototyping and customization, reducing lead times and costs. The integration of conductive threads and flexible printed circuits is also becoming more prevalent, allowing for seamless sensor integration and data transmission within the fabric layers.

Looking ahead, the outlook for textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing is promising. Industry analysts anticipate that by 2026–2027, advances in smart textile production and scalable assembly methods will enable broader deployment of these systems across industrial, medical, and consumer markets. The continued convergence of robotics, materials science, and textile engineering—driven by companies like Ottobock, Sarcos, and their supply chain partners—will be instrumental in shaping the next generation of wearable assistive devices.

Investment Trends & Funding Landscape

The investment landscape for textile-based exoskeleton development is experiencing notable momentum as of 2025, driven by the convergence of wearable technology, advanced materials, and the growing demand for ergonomic solutions in healthcare, industrial, and military sectors. Textile-based exoskeletons, which utilize soft, flexible fabrics and embedded actuators or sensors, are increasingly viewed as a promising alternative to traditional rigid exoskeletons due to their enhanced comfort, adaptability, and user compliance.

Key players in the sector, such as SUITX (now part of Ottobock), Samsung, and Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation, have attracted significant funding rounds and strategic partnerships in recent years. Ottobock, a global leader in prosthetics and orthotics, has expanded its portfolio to include textile-based exosuits, leveraging its expertise in wearable medical devices. Samsung has also demonstrated ongoing interest in soft robotics and wearable assistive devices, with continued R&D investments and patent filings in textile-integrated exoskeleton technologies.

In 2024 and into 2025, venture capital and corporate investment have increasingly targeted startups and university spin-offs specializing in soft exoskeletons. For example, Myomo, known for its myoelectric orthoses, has reported increased funding and commercial partnerships to accelerate the development of textile-based upper limb assistive devices. Similarly, Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation has announced collaborations with industrial partners to pilot textile-integrated exosuits for workplace injury prevention and worker augmentation.

Government funding and public-private partnerships are also shaping the funding landscape. Agencies in the US, EU, and Asia have launched grant programs and innovation challenges to support the translation of academic research in soft robotics and smart textiles into commercial exoskeleton products. For instance, the European Union’s Horizon Europe program continues to allocate resources to wearable robotics, with a focus on textile-based solutions for rehabilitation and eldercare.

Looking ahead to the next few years, the outlook for investment in textile-based exoskeletons remains robust. The sector is expected to benefit from the broader trend toward human augmentation and the integration of artificial intelligence and IoT in wearable devices. As textile-based exoskeletons move from pilot projects to scalable manufacturing and real-world deployment, further rounds of funding—both from private equity and strategic industry players—are anticipated. This influx of capital is likely to accelerate product development, regulatory approvals, and market adoption, positioning textile-based exoskeletons as a key growth area within the wearable robotics industry.

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—particularly in the areas of durability, comfort, and user adoption.

Durability is a primary concern for textile-based exoskeletons, as these devices must withstand repeated mechanical stresses, laundering, and environmental exposure. Unlike rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems rely on advanced fabrics, integrated sensors, and actuators that are susceptible to wear and tear. Companies such as SUITX (now part of Ottobock) and Samsung have explored hybrid designs that combine textiles with more robust materials to enhance longevity. Meanwhile, Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation has focused on developing modular textile components that can be easily replaced or upgraded, addressing maintenance and lifecycle concerns. Despite these efforts, ensuring consistent performance over months or years of daily use remains a technical hurdle, especially for applications in industrial and healthcare settings.

Comfort is another critical factor influencing the adoption of textile-based exoskeletons. The promise of soft, ergonomic designs is central to the appeal of these devices, but achieving a balance between support and wearability is complex. Leading developers such as Myomo and Ottobock are investing in user-centered design, employing breathable, stretchable fabrics and adjustable fits to minimize discomfort and skin irritation. However, integrating actuators, power supplies, and control systems without adding bulk or restricting movement remains a significant challenge. In 2025, ongoing research is focused on smart textiles that can adapt to the user’s body and activity, but widespread commercial availability is still limited.

User adoption is shaped by both the perceived benefits and the practical realities of using textile-based exoskeletons. While the lightweight and discreet nature of these devices is attractive, users—especially in industrial and rehabilitation contexts—demand reliability, ease of use, and demonstrable improvements in performance or comfort. Companies like SUITX and Ottobock are conducting pilot programs and field trials to gather user feedback and refine their products. Nevertheless, skepticism persists among potential users, particularly regarding device robustness and the learning curve associated with new wearable technologies.

Looking ahead, the outlook for textile-based exoskeletons in 2025 and beyond will depend on continued advances in materials science, user-centered engineering, and real-world validation. As industry leaders and innovators address these core challenges, broader adoption in healthcare, workplace safety, and personal mobility is expected to accelerate, provided that durability, comfort, and user trust can be demonstrably improved.

Future Outlook: Emerging Trends and Strategic Opportunities

The landscape of textile-based exoskeleton development is poised for significant transformation in 2025 and the ensuing years, driven by advances in smart materials, miniaturized actuation, and integration with wearable electronics. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems leverage soft, flexible fabrics embedded with sensors, actuators, and conductive threads, offering enhanced comfort, adaptability, and user compliance. This shift is particularly relevant for applications in rehabilitation, industrial ergonomics, and assistive mobility.

Key players are accelerating innovation in this domain. SUITX, now part of Ottobock, has been at the forefront of developing modular exoskeletons and is actively exploring textile-based solutions to improve wearability and reduce device weight. Samsung Electronics has demonstrated interest in wearable robotics, with ongoing research into soft exosuits that integrate seamlessly with everyday clothing. Harvard University’s Wyss Institute continues to pioneer soft exosuit prototypes, focusing on textile-integrated actuation and sensing for both medical and industrial use.

Recent years have seen the emergence of advanced materials such as shape-memory alloys, electroactive polymers, and textile-based pneumatic actuators, which are expected to reach higher levels of commercial maturity by 2025. These materials enable exoskeletons that are lighter, more breathable, and capable of providing targeted assistance without restricting natural movement. Companies like Myant are developing textile platforms that embed biometric sensors and haptic feedback, paving the way for exoskeletons that can monitor user fatigue and adapt support in real time.

Strategically, the sector is witnessing increased collaboration between textile manufacturers, robotics firms, and healthcare providers. For example, Smilables is working on integrating smart textiles with rehabilitation robotics, aiming to deliver scalable solutions for aging populations and individuals with mobility impairments. The industrial sector is also a major driver, with companies like Ottobock and SUITX targeting workplace injury reduction through ergonomic textile exosuits.

Looking ahead, the next few years are expected to bring further miniaturization of power sources, improved washability and durability of smart textiles, and enhanced user interfaces for intuitive control. Regulatory pathways are also evolving, with standards for wearable robotics being shaped by organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). As textile-based exoskeletons become more affordable and user-friendly, their adoption is likely to expand rapidly across healthcare, industry, and consumer wellness sectors, marking a pivotal shift in the assistive technology landscape.

Sources & References

• SUITX
• Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation
• Ottobock
• Myant
• Softeq Development Corporation
• Smartex
• euRobotics
• Harvard University
• IEEE
• ASTM International