Textile-Based Exoskeleton Manufacturing in 2025: How Soft Robotics and Smart Fabrics Are Transforming Human Augmentation. Explore the Market Forces, Innovations, and Future Trajectory of This Rapidly Evolving Sector.

• Executive Summary: Textile Exoskeletons Market at a Glance (2025–2030)
• Market Size, Growth Rate, and Forecasts: 2025–2030 Outlook
• Key Players and Industry Initiatives (e.g., suitx.com, myomo.com, rewalk.com)
• Technological Innovations: Smart Fabrics, Sensors, and Lightweight Materials
• Manufacturing Processes and Supply Chain Dynamics
• Application Segments: Healthcare, Industrial, Military, and Consumer
• Regulatory Landscape and Industry Standards (e.g., ieee.org, asme.org)
• Investment Trends, Funding, and Strategic Partnerships
• Challenges: Durability, Scalability, and User Adoption
• Future Outlook: Emerging Opportunities and Disruptive Trends
• Sources & References

Executive Summary: Textile Exoskeletons Market at a Glance (2025–2030)

The textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing sector is poised for significant growth and transformation between 2025 and 2030, driven by advances in smart textiles, wearable robotics, and the increasing demand for lightweight, ergonomic assistive devices. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems utilize flexible fabrics, soft actuators, and integrated sensors to deliver support and augmentation with enhanced comfort and adaptability. This approach is rapidly gaining traction in medical rehabilitation, industrial ergonomics, and even military applications.

Key industry players are accelerating the commercialization of textile exoskeletons. SUITX, now part of Ottobock, has been a pioneer in developing modular exoskeletons, and is actively exploring textile-integrated solutions for both industrial and healthcare markets. Samsung has demonstrated interest in wearable robotics, with ongoing research into soft, textile-based exosuits for mobility assistance. Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation is also investing in soft exoskeletons, aiming to reduce device weight and improve user comfort for industrial workers.

In Europe, SUITX and Ottobock are joined by startups and research spin-offs focusing on textile exoskeletons for rehabilitation and workplace injury prevention. The euRobotics association highlights ongoing EU-funded projects targeting soft wearable robotics, with several prototypes entering pilot deployment in hospitals and factories by 2025.

The manufacturing landscape is characterized by collaborations between robotics firms, textile manufacturers, and research institutions. Companies such as Teijin and Toray Industries are supplying advanced fibers and smart textiles, enabling the integration of sensors and actuators directly into garments. These partnerships are crucial for scaling up production and meeting the anticipated demand surge.

Looking ahead, the textile-based exoskeleton market is expected to benefit from regulatory support for workplace safety, aging populations, and the push for inclusive mobility solutions. By 2030, textile exoskeletons are projected to move from pilot programs to widespread adoption in healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing. The sector’s outlook is underpinned by ongoing R&D, cost reductions through mass production, and the entry of major textile and electronics companies, positioning textile-based exoskeletons as a transformative force in the broader wearable robotics industry.

Market Size, Growth Rate, and Forecasts: 2025–2030 Outlook

The textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing sector is poised for significant growth between 2025 and 2030, driven by advances in smart textiles, wearable robotics, and increasing demand for lightweight, ergonomic assistive devices. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems utilize flexible fabrics integrated with sensors, actuators, and conductive threads, offering enhanced comfort and adaptability for users in medical, industrial, and military applications.

As of 2025, the market is characterized by a surge in research-to-commercialization transitions, with several companies scaling up pilot production and entering strategic partnerships. For example, SUITX (now part of Ottobock), a pioneer in wearable exoskeletons, has been exploring textile-based solutions to complement its existing rigid-frame products, targeting both rehabilitation and workplace injury prevention. Similarly, Samsung Electronics has invested in soft robotics and smart garment technologies, aiming to integrate textile exoskeletons into consumer health and wellness portfolios.

In Europe, Sciensano and other research-driven organizations are collaborating with textile manufacturers to develop medical-grade exosuits for elderly mobility and post-stroke rehabilitation. Meanwhile, Seismic (formerly known as Superflex) has commercialized powered clothing that augments core strength and stability, leveraging textile-based actuation and control systems.

The industrial sector is also witnessing adoption, with companies like Ottobock and Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation investing in soft exosuit prototypes for logistics, manufacturing, and construction workers. These textile-based exoskeletons are designed to reduce fatigue and musculoskeletal injuries, aligning with occupational health regulations and corporate sustainability goals.

Looking ahead to 2030, the textile-based exoskeleton market is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the double digits, fueled by ongoing material innovations (such as stretchable electronics and washable conductive fibers) and the miniaturization of power and control units. The convergence of textile engineering and robotics is anticipated to lower production costs and expand accessibility, particularly in emerging markets and home healthcare settings.

• Key drivers include aging populations, workforce safety mandates, and the proliferation of wearable health technologies.
• Challenges remain in durability, mass manufacturability, and regulatory approval, but industry consortia and public-private partnerships are accelerating standards development.
• By 2030, textile-based exoskeletons are projected to become mainstream in rehabilitation, eldercare, and industrial ergonomics, with leading roles played by companies such as Ottobock, Samsung Electronics, and Seismic.

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

The textile-based exoskeleton sector is experiencing rapid evolution as companies and research institutions focus on lightweight, flexible, and wearable assistive devices. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based solutions leverage advanced fabrics, soft robotics, and smart materials to enhance user comfort and adaptability. As of 2025, several key players and industry initiatives are shaping the landscape, with a focus on both medical rehabilitation and industrial support applications.

One of the most prominent companies in the exoskeleton field is SuitX, a California-based manufacturer known for its modular exoskeletons. While SuitX initially focused on rigid systems, it has increasingly integrated textile elements into its designs to improve ergonomics and reduce device weight. Their ongoing research and development efforts are aimed at creating hybrid exoskeletons that combine soft, textile-based components with minimal rigid structures, targeting both industrial workers and individuals with mobility impairments.

Another significant player is Myomo, which specializes in powered orthoses for upper limb rehabilitation. Myomo’s devices, such as the MyoPro, utilize soft, wearable sleeves embedded with sensors and actuators, exemplifying the shift toward textile-based exoskeletons. The company continues to expand its product line and clinical partnerships, with a focus on increasing accessibility and comfort for users recovering from neurological injuries.

In the realm of lower-limb exoskeletons, ReWalk Robotics has made significant strides. While their flagship products are primarily rigid, ReWalk has announced research collaborations aimed at developing soft exosuits for gait assistance. These initiatives are expected to yield commercial textile-based solutions in the coming years, leveraging advances in smart textiles and lightweight actuators.

Beyond these established companies, several startups and research groups are entering the textile-based exoskeleton market. For example, Samsung has demonstrated interest in wearable robotics, including soft exosuits for elderly mobility support, as part of its broader health technology initiatives. Additionally, collaborations between industry and academia, such as those seen at leading technical universities, are accelerating the translation of laboratory prototypes into market-ready products.

Looking ahead, the textile-based exoskeleton sector is poised for significant growth through 2025 and beyond. Key industry initiatives focus on improving material durability, integrating advanced sensing technologies, and ensuring regulatory compliance for medical and industrial use. As user demand for lightweight, comfortable, and unobtrusive assistive devices increases, the role of textile-based manufacturing is expected to expand, with major players and new entrants alike driving innovation in this dynamic field.

Technological Innovations: Smart Fabrics, Sensors, and Lightweight Materials

The field of textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing is experiencing rapid technological innovation, particularly in the integration of smart fabrics, advanced sensors, and lightweight materials. As of 2025, these advancements are driving a new generation of wearable assistive devices that are more comfortable, adaptable, and effective for users in both medical and industrial settings.

Smart fabrics, which embed conductive fibers and flexible electronics directly into textiles, are at the forefront of this transformation. Companies such as Smilables and Myant are pioneering the development of textiles that can sense muscle activity, joint movement, and physiological signals. These fabrics enable exoskeletons to respond dynamically to the wearer’s movements, providing tailored assistance and real-time feedback. For example, Myant’s SKIIN platform integrates biometric sensors into everyday clothing, a technology that is being adapted for exoskeleton applications to monitor user fatigue and optimize support.

Sensor technology is also evolving rapidly. Textile-based exoskeletons now incorporate arrays of stretchable, washable sensors that can detect pressure, strain, and motion with high precision. Xsens, a leader in motion tracking, supplies inertial sensor modules that are being miniaturized and embedded into exoskeleton garments, allowing for seamless motion capture without bulky hardware. These sensors are critical for applications in rehabilitation, where precise movement tracking is essential for patient progress and safety.

Lightweight materials are another key area of innovation. The use of high-strength, low-weight fibers such as Dyneema and advanced composites is reducing the bulk and increasing the wearability of textile exoskeletons. DuPont continues to advance its Kevlar and Nomex product lines, which are being utilized in exoskeletons for their durability and flexibility. These materials allow for the creation of exosuits that are not only protective but also comfortable enough for all-day use in industrial environments.

Looking ahead, the convergence of these technologies is expected to accelerate commercialization and adoption. Industry collaborations, such as those between textile innovators and robotics firms, are fostering the development of modular, scalable exoskeleton platforms. As manufacturing techniques mature and costs decrease, textile-based exoskeletons are poised to become mainstream solutions for workplace injury prevention, mobility assistance, and physical rehabilitation over the next several years.

Manufacturing Processes and Supply Chain Dynamics

The manufacturing of textile-based exoskeletons is undergoing significant transformation in 2025, driven by advances in smart textiles, automation, and collaborative supply chain models. Unlike traditional rigid exoskeletons, textile-based variants rely on soft, flexible materials integrated with sensors, actuators, and conductive fibers, enabling lightweight and ergonomic designs suitable for industrial, medical, and consumer applications.

Key players in this sector include SuitX (now part of Ottobock), Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation, and Samsung Electronics, all of which have invested in textile-based wearable robotics. Ottobock has expanded its exoskeleton portfolio to include soft exosuits for industrial and rehabilitation purposes, leveraging its expertise in orthotics and prosthetics. Sarcos has announced ongoing development of soft exosuits for logistics and healthcare, focusing on scalable textile integration and modularity.

Manufacturing processes in 2025 emphasize automated textile fabrication, including 3D knitting, laser cutting, and ultrasonic welding, to ensure precision and repeatability. Companies are increasingly partnering with established textile manufacturers to access advanced weaving and lamination technologies. For example, Samsung Electronics collaborates with textile and electronics suppliers to integrate flexible sensors and actuators into garments, aiming for mass-market viability.

Supply chain dynamics are evolving as manufacturers seek reliable sources for high-performance fibers (such as aramids and conductive yarns), miniaturized electronics, and medical-grade fasteners. The sector is witnessing a shift toward regionalized supply chains to mitigate risks associated with global disruptions. In Europe, Ottobock has localized parts of its supply chain to ensure compliance with medical device regulations and to reduce lead times.

Looking ahead, the textile-based exoskeleton market is expected to benefit from further automation in assembly and quality control, with machine vision and AI-driven inspection systems being piloted by leading manufacturers. The integration of sustainable materials and closed-loop recycling processes is also gaining traction, as companies respond to regulatory and customer demands for eco-friendly products. As the sector matures, collaborations between robotics firms, textile innovators, and electronics suppliers will be critical to scaling production and meeting the growing demand for wearable assistive devices.

Application Segments: Healthcare, Industrial, Military, and Consumer

Textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing is rapidly evolving, with significant advancements and deployments anticipated across healthcare, industrial, military, and consumer application segments in 2025 and the following years. The integration of soft, flexible textiles with robotics and wearable technology is enabling the creation of lightweight, comfortable, and highly functional exoskeletons, addressing limitations of traditional rigid-frame designs.

• Healthcare: In rehabilitation and assistive mobility, textile-based exoskeletons are gaining traction due to their comfort and adaptability. Companies such as SUITX (now part of Ottobock) and Ottobock are developing soft exosuits for gait assistance and post-stroke rehabilitation. These systems use textile actuators and sensors to provide targeted support, and are being trialed in clinical settings for both inpatient and outpatient care. The focus for 2025 is on improving user compliance, reducing device weight, and integrating smart textiles for real-time monitoring.
• Industrial: Textile-based exoskeletons are being adopted in logistics, manufacturing, and construction to reduce worker fatigue and injury. Samsung SDI and Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation are among the companies exploring textile-integrated exosuits for upper and lower body support. These devices are designed to be worn under or over work clothing, providing ergonomic assistance during lifting, repetitive tasks, and overhead work. In 2025, pilot programs are expanding, with a focus on durability, ease of cleaning, and seamless integration into existing safety protocols.
• Military: Defense agencies and contractors are investing in textile-based exoskeletons to enhance soldier endurance and reduce musculoskeletal injuries. Lockheed Martin has developed the ONYX exoskeleton, which incorporates soft textile elements for knee and leg support. The U.S. Army and allied forces are conducting field evaluations, with an emphasis on mobility, stealth, and compatibility with standard gear. The next few years will see further miniaturization of power systems and the use of advanced, lightweight fabrics for improved camouflage and comfort.
• Consumer: The consumer segment is emerging, with textile-based exoskeletons targeting fitness, elderly mobility, and lifestyle enhancement. Startups and established brands are introducing soft exosuits for running, hiking, and daily assistance. ReWalk Robotics and Myomo are exploring textile-based solutions for home use, focusing on affordability, ease of use, and aesthetic appeal. The outlook for 2025 includes broader market entry, especially as smart textiles and wearable sensors become more accessible.

Across all segments, the outlook for textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing is marked by rapid prototyping, increased collaboration between textile and robotics companies, and a strong emphasis on user-centered design. As material science and wearable electronics advance, textile exoskeletons are poised to become mainstream solutions in multiple sectors.

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

The regulatory landscape and industry standards for textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing are rapidly evolving as the sector matures and adoption accelerates in medical, industrial, and military applications. As of 2025, the industry is witnessing increased engagement from international standards organizations and regulatory bodies, aiming to ensure safety, interoperability, and performance consistency across products.

A key player in the development of exoskeleton standards is the IEEE, which has established the IEEE P2863 working group focused on exoskeletons and exosuits. This group is actively developing guidelines for performance metrics, safety, and testing protocols, with a particular emphasis on soft, textile-based systems. The IEEE’s efforts are complemented by the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers), which has published the ASME V&V 40 standard for assessing the credibility of computational modeling in medical devices, including wearable robotics. These standards are expected to be increasingly referenced by manufacturers and regulators in the coming years.

In the European Union, the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) framework applies to wearable exoskeletons intended for rehabilitation or assistive purposes. Textile-based exoskeleton manufacturers must demonstrate compliance with essential safety and performance requirements, including biocompatibility and mechanical integrity of textile components. The CEN-CENELEC standards bodies are also working on harmonized standards for wearable robotics, which are anticipated to be published within the next few years, further clarifying the regulatory pathway for textile-based systems.

Industry consortia and alliances are playing a growing role in shaping best practices. The Exoskeleton Report highlights the formation of the ASTM International Committee F48 on Exoskeletons and Exosuits, which is developing standards for labeling, testing, and user safety. These efforts are particularly relevant for textile-based exoskeletons, which present unique challenges in terms of fit, comfort, and durability compared to rigid-frame devices.

Looking ahead, regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are expected to issue more specific guidance for textile-based exoskeletons, especially as clinical evidence supporting their efficacy grows. Manufacturers like SUITX and Samsung SDS are actively engaging with regulators and standards bodies to ensure their products meet emerging requirements. The next few years will likely see the introduction of certification schemes and clearer regulatory pathways, supporting broader adoption and market growth for textile-based exoskeletons.

Investment Trends, Funding, and Strategic Partnerships

The textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing sector is experiencing a notable surge in investment and strategic partnerships as the industry matures and demand for lightweight, wearable assistive devices grows. In 2025, venture capital and corporate funding are increasingly directed toward companies that integrate advanced textiles with robotics, aiming to deliver ergonomic solutions for healthcare, industrial, and military applications.

Key players such as SuitX (now part of Ottobock), Samsung SDS, and Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation have attracted significant attention for their efforts in developing soft exosuits that utilize textile engineering for improved comfort and flexibility. Ottobock, a global leader in prosthetics and orthotics, has expanded its exoskeleton portfolio through acquisitions and partnerships, notably integrating textile-based designs to enhance user experience and broaden market reach.

In 2024 and into 2025, SuitX continued to benefit from Ottobock’s resources, accelerating R&D and scaling up production of textile-integrated exoskeletons for industrial and rehabilitation markets. Meanwhile, Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation has announced collaborations with textile manufacturers to co-develop soft exosuits, leveraging expertise in both robotics and advanced fabrics. These partnerships are often structured to combine robotics know-how with the latest in smart textiles, such as conductive fibers and stretchable sensors, to create more adaptive and user-friendly exoskeletons.

Strategic alliances are also forming between exoskeleton developers and established textile companies. For example, Samsung SDS has been reported to explore partnerships with textile innovators in South Korea, aiming to integrate smart fabrics into wearable assistive devices for industrial workers. Such collaborations are expected to accelerate commercialization and reduce time-to-market for next-generation textile-based exoskeletons.

Investment activity is further buoyed by government grants and public-private initiatives, particularly in Europe and Asia, where workforce aging and workplace safety are driving adoption. The European Union and various Asian governments have launched funding programs to support the development and deployment of textile-based exoskeletons, fostering cross-sector partnerships between robotics firms, textile manufacturers, and research institutions.

Looking ahead to the next few years, the outlook for investment and partnerships in textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing remains robust. As the technology matures and regulatory pathways become clearer, more capital is expected to flow into the sector, with multinational corporations and specialized textile firms playing increasingly prominent roles in shaping the future of wearable robotics.

Challenges: Durability, Scalability, and User Adoption

Textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing is poised for significant growth in 2025 and the coming years, but the sector faces notable challenges related to durability, scalability, and user adoption. As the industry transitions from prototype development to commercial-scale production, these hurdles are shaping the strategies of leading manufacturers and influencing the pace of market penetration.

Durability remains a primary concern, as textile exoskeletons must withstand repeated mechanical stresses, environmental exposure, and regular laundering without degradation of performance. Unlike rigid exoskeletons, textile-based systems rely on advanced fabrics and integrated sensors, which are susceptible to wear and tear. Companies such as SUITX (now part of Ottobock), Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation, and Myant are investing in the development of high-performance textiles and robust electronic integration to address these issues. For example, Myant specializes in textile computing, embedding sensors and actuators directly into fabrics, but acknowledges the need for rigorous testing to ensure longevity in industrial and healthcare settings.

Scalability is another significant challenge as manufacturers seek to move from small-batch, custom-fitted exosuits to mass production. The complexity of integrating electronics, actuators, and smart textiles at scale requires new manufacturing processes and supply chain coordination. Sarcos and Ottobock are among the few with the resources to invest in automated assembly lines and quality control systems tailored for textile-based wearables. However, the sector as a whole is still developing standardized protocols for large-scale production, which is expected to be a focus of industry collaboration and investment through 2025 and beyond.

User adoption presents a multifaceted challenge, encompassing comfort, usability, and perceived value. Textile-based exoskeletons are designed to be lightweight and flexible, but achieving a balance between support and wearability is complex. Feedback from early deployments in logistics, manufacturing, and healthcare indicates that users prioritize ease of donning, breathability, and unobtrusive design. Companies like Myant and SUITX are conducting extensive user trials to refine ergonomics and user interfaces. Additionally, regulatory acceptance and integration into workplace safety standards will be critical for widespread adoption, with industry bodies such as the Ottobock group actively engaging with policymakers and end-users to facilitate this process.

Looking ahead, overcoming these challenges will require continued innovation in materials science, manufacturing automation, and user-centered design. The next few years are likely to see increased collaboration between textile manufacturers, robotics firms, and end-user organizations to accelerate the transition of textile-based exoskeletons from niche applications to mainstream use.

Future Outlook: Emerging Opportunities and Disruptive Trends

The future of textile-based exoskeleton manufacturing is poised for significant transformation as the sector moves into 2025 and beyond. Driven by advances in smart textiles, soft robotics, and wearable sensor integration, the industry is shifting from rigid, mechanical frameworks to flexible, fabric-based solutions that promise greater comfort, adaptability, and user acceptance. This evolution is particularly evident in the medical, industrial, and military sectors, where demand for lightweight, ergonomic assistive devices is accelerating.

Key players are investing heavily in research and development to commercialize textile exoskeletons that blend seamlessly with everyday clothing. For example, SUITX, now part of Ottobock, has been exploring soft exosuit concepts for industrial and rehabilitation applications, focusing on reducing musculoskeletal strain without impeding natural movement. Similarly, Samsung Electronics has filed patents and demonstrated prototypes of wearable robotic garments, signaling potential entry into consumer markets with textile-integrated exosuits.

In Europe, SMRTSuit is developing modular, textile-based exoskeletons for both healthcare and workplace ergonomics, leveraging conductive fabrics and embedded sensors for real-time biomechanical feedback. Meanwhile, Seismic (formerly known as Superflex) has pioneered powered clothing that augments mobility for older adults, using soft actuators and flexible electronics. These companies are setting the stage for broader adoption as manufacturing techniques mature and costs decrease.

The integration of advanced materials—such as shape-memory alloys, electroactive polymers, and graphene-infused fibers—is expected to further enhance the functionality and durability of textile exoskeletons. Industry collaborations with textile manufacturers and robotics firms are accelerating the development of scalable production methods, including automated sewing, 3D knitting, and printed electronics. For instance, Teijin Limited, a global leader in high-performance fibers, is actively partnering with robotics startups to supply specialized textiles for wearable robotics.

Looking ahead, the convergence of artificial intelligence, IoT connectivity, and cloud-based analytics will enable textile exoskeletons to deliver personalized assistance, predictive maintenance, and remote monitoring. Regulatory bodies and standards organizations are also beginning to address safety and interoperability, paving the way for widespread deployment in rehabilitation, eldercare, logistics, and defense. As the market matures, textile-based exoskeletons are expected to disrupt traditional orthotics and prosthetics, offering scalable, user-friendly solutions that redefine human augmentation.

Sources & References

• SUITX
• Ottobock
• Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation
• euRobotics
• Teijin
• Sciensano
• ReWalk Robotics
• Myant
• Xsens
• DuPont
• Lockheed Martin
• IEEE
• ASME
• CEN-CENELEC
• Exoskeleton Report
• Samsung SDS