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Powered Device Transforms The Walking Experience In Large Cities, Allowing Users To Reach Amazing Speeds And Expand Their Personal Mobility Without Changing The Natural Way Of Walking.
Getting to your destination faster while walking through the city streets may be closer to reality with the arrival of the Moonwalkers Aero, a new generation of powered robotic shoes launched by Shift Robotics.
The model, announced in September 2024, starts its deliveries promising to double the pace of normal walking, reaching speeds of up to 11 km/h — a level comparable to a light jog, without requiring changes in the user’s natural walking style.
With a completely redesigned structure, the Moonwalkers Aero hit the North American market costing US$ 1,199, approximately R$ 6,2 thousand at the average exchange rate in July 2025.
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The price positions the product at the same level as basic electric scooters currently sold in Brazil, becoming an innovative option for personal mobility, especially for those looking to optimize commuting in urban areas.
Robotic Shoes Moonwalkers Aero: Technology And Performance
The main highlight of this version is the significant weight and noise reduction.
Each platform weighs about 1.9 kg, totaling 4 kg for the pair, and uses a set of six wheels, four of which are powered and two are free.
This change has reduced the weight compared to the previous version, which used ten wheels.
The new propulsion system, based on neodymium motors, has made the operation about 20 decibels quieter than the original model launched in 2023.
According to the manufacturer’s data, operational noise decreased from 70 dB to 50 dB, enhancing comfort during use in indoor and public environments.
The Moonwalkers Aero robotic shoes maintain a travel range of between 9.6 km and 11.2 km per charge, which covers average urban routines.
Recharging is done via USB-C connection and, according to independent tests, can reach 80% charge in just 30 minutes — enough for about 8 km in practical use.
A full charge takes approximately 90 minutes, which is advantageous for those who need mobility throughout the day.
Innovative Materials And Engineering
Among the engineering innovations, the use of magnesium alloy in the powertrain stands out, offering strength with lower total mass.
The electrical system was repositioned to improve heat dissipation, allowing better performance in high temperatures, which is essential in large Brazilian cities during the summer.
User comfort has also evolved.
Now, the base of each robotic shoe supports up to 100 kg, and a new flexible toe plate preserves the natural movement of the foot, facilitating adaptation.
To ensure greater compatibility with different shoe sizes, an optional spacer enlarges the fit for Brazilian sizes from 34 to 44.
All visible parts, such as wheels, straps, plates, and bearings, can be replaced without special tools, simplifying maintenance and extending the equipment’s durability.
Control By Artificial Intelligence And Connectivity
The intelligent control of the Moonwalkers Aero is performed by machine learning algorithms, which automatically adjust the traction of the wheels according to the walking pace and the type of terrain.
The system recognizes slope variations of up to 10 degrees, modulating torque and regenerative braking to preserve stability.
If the foot remains on the ground, the wheels lock; when the pace accelerates, traction is released, allowing for faster and safer movement.
The companion app, available for Android and iOS, offers the ability to switch between three modes: Indoor, City, and Sport.
Through it, users can update the firmware via OTA (Over the Air) and customize settings such as acceleration, braking, and gait control sensitivity, a feature especially useful for those starting to use these powered devices.
Autonomy And Practicality In Daily Life
The autonomy, performance, and practicality of the Moonwalkers Aero were tested on the streets of Manhattan, New York.
The results showed that the device nearly doubles the pace of traditional walking, reducing the time of common routes: 30-minute trips now take about 18 minutes.
Users also reported advantages such as space-saving, a relevant factor for those living in small apartments, and highlighted the fact that the robotic shoes require less storage space than bicycles or scooters.
Regulation, Safety, And Recommendations
Although classified as walking accessories, the Moonwalkers Aero reach speeds equivalent to electric scooters, vehicles that are regulated by specific rules in several Brazilian capitals.
Shift Robotics recommends wearing a helmet and paying close attention to local regulations.
The company’s goal is for the device to be a practical solution for short trips, such as going to the supermarket, to work, or to public transport, without the need to change shoes upon arriving at the destination.
Origin, Evolution And Comparison Of Versions
The history of Shift Robotics began as a project derived from Carnegie Mellon University, in the United States.
In 2022, the startup gained visibility by raising US$ 329 thousand through a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter.
The first model of powered shoes, launched in 2023, was named one of Time magazine’s best inventions of the year, which spurred the development of the Aero line focused on everyday use.
The comparison between the versions highlights the technical evolution: while the original Moonwalkers weighed 2.4 kg per foot, produced noise at 70 dB, and cost US$ 1,049, the Aero features reduced weight, quieter operation, modular motor, and a 14% higher price.
Advances also include greater ease of maintenance, increased size range, and improved artificial intelligence control.
Future Of Robotic Shoes And Urban Mobility
Personal mobility is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by technological innovations that combine practicality, autonomy, and safety.
The Moonwalkers Aero exemplify this trend, bringing the promise of optimizing the time spent on daily commutes efficiently and comfortably.
However, given the launch price above six thousand reais, the question remains: do the benefits offered by powered robotic shoes justify the investment for those seeking a faster, more technological routine?
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