I never thought much about the way I walked until this fitness tech brand made me question everything.
What is HyperShell?
Hypershell, founded in 2021, offers a range of AI-powered exoskeletons designed to help you achieve peak performance during cardio-focused activities like walking, running and cycling. They have three models to choose from: X Pro S, X Max S, and X Ultra S.
When I had the opportunity to test the Hypershell X Ultra S, as well as the popular Hypershell Although I don’t consider myself completely sedentary, I would rather walk in the park than run up mountains. Ultimately, I accepted the assignment for this very reason. I wanted to see how Hypershell could help someone like me.
My honest review of the Hypershell exoskeleton
Weather permitting, I walk the full loop around Prospect Park starting at my apartment, which ends in about 4-5 miles. There’s no running involved. It’s just me and my friend Stephanie taking a steady, fast pace while discussing the hot topics of the day. Over the past few weeks, I’ve used a few of these rides to try out both devices to see how they compare.
Here are my honest thoughts after walking over 30,000 steps using the device.
What makes the Hypershell X Ultra different from the X Ultra S??
At first glance, the two models may look almost identical, but there are several functional upgrades over the X Ultra S:
- Both waist pads are designed with three-zone stability and iliac fit construction.
- There’s a thicker back cushion, which is now also raised on both sides.
- Leg straps are now designed to stay in place more easily with skin-friendly materials and anti-slip technology.
The X Ultra S’s AI-powered HyperIntuition feature is what makes it an elite piece of machinery. It’s a motion control algorithm that uses 12 sensors to predict your next move in real time and assist you as needed.
It’s more like working in manual mode versus automatic mode.
When wearing the X Ultra S, HyperIntuition is an absolute game-changer. It makes the stride feel more natural as the exoskeleton moves more in tandem with your body. Every time the terrain changes, HyperIntuition knows the power distribution and other settings and adjusts them as needed.
The X Ultra has a bit of a delayed response, and while still impressive, it felt like it needed to be told what to do.
How easy is it to set up a Hypershell?
Like any new technology in 2026, using Hypershell requires an app and a Bluetooth connection. Getting started with both X Ultra models is the same. Turn on the device, pair it with the app, adjust the device to your size and buckle up.
The app is very easy to navigate. When you first open it, you’re shown quick videos showing how to use the device and fit the exoskeleton to your body.
Once they fit correctly, the real fun begins. I’ve watched a lot of cyborg movies in my day, yet I wasn’t quite prepared for what it felt like to step into a Hypershell for the first time. It’s a bit jarring, but not in a bad way. Feeling the difference between my natural stride and the one assisted by the Hypershell immediately made me realize how little I lift my legs when I walk.
Although the app walks you through the entire process, it took me a few tries to figure out the correct placement. Even after four walks, I still needed to adjust and tighten to make sure the exoskeleton was working at maximum efficiency.
How long does the battery last?
The first time I used the Hypershell X Ultra S, I was curious about all the features and features and actually tested the device in Hyper mode. The battery drained about 30 minutes into my walk. I then learned that the batteries can last from 30 minutes to eight hours, depending on the mode you’re working in and how much help you need.
On my second run with the Ultra S, I mainly stuck to Eco mode and it made a huge difference. This model is equipped with improved motion efficiency to make it last longer during hiking, climbing, and outdoor days. It is designed to reach 90% energy conversion efficiency and reduce heat loss by 50%.
Thanks to the hard lessons I learned from my experience with the Ultra S, I was much better at conserving battery when I tested the original X Ultra.
Honestly, I was initially annoyed by the fact that using the features that make Hypershell so special drains battery power very quickly. But it has since occurred to me that these devices, like the human body alone, are not meant to operate at peak performance for long periods of time. Hyper and Boost modes are meant to be used when you’re really pushing yourself.
Although I’m confused about which settings to use to get a single charge to last eight hours, the fine folks at Hypershell are taking all of this into account by providing an extra battery for people using any of their X Ultra models. The X Ultra S also comes with a charging hub to ensure you always have a spare battery ready to use when needed.
What position is right for you?
Both models have three operating modes: Eco, Hyper, and Transparent. Eco is the standard mode reserved for moderate activities, like my walks or some hiking trips. The exoskeleton will provide some assistance while allowing you to conserve battery. Ultra mode is for more intense activities and will work with extra power when needed. Clear mode offers no additional assistance and works similarly to a standard belt.
You can also switch to Fitness mode to select one of the preset activity settings for things like walking uphill, stairs, running, cycling, and more.
However, my favorite feature is the boost mode…which should really be called the “Beast” mode because it provides a short 30-second burst of energy to help you get through tough moments during your workout.
Which Hypershell material should you buy?
Although it may seem obvious that the new and improved Hypershell X Ultra S is the way to go, that’s not necessarily true. It really depends on how you want to use your Hypershell. If the idea is to stick in and get active without having to play in an app, get the X Ultra S, set it up in HyperIntuition mode and be on your way. Its inclusion of a smaller bag with a side shoulder strap also makes it ideal if portability is a primary concern.
But let’s not rule out the X Ultra. It offers a lot more for those looking to pay less, but still gets a very similar level of support in cardiology. You really can’t go wrong either way.
Both models will take some getting used to, but the weirdness goes away after a few uses. I’m so used to doing bi-weekly walks that I don’t even feel like exercising anymore, but doing it with the Hypershell made me feel like I was using leg muscles that haven’t seen activity in a long time. I definitely felt a difference, so I can only imagine how they would feel if I were doing something more physically demanding.
Who is Hypershell X Ultra S for:
- ‘Set it and forget it’ adventurer: If you want to commit to nature and instantly unwind without micromanaging the settings on your phone, the Ultra S is worth every penny.
- Mixed Terrain Explorer: If your trails display a mix of steep inclines, stairs and sudden drops, HyperIntuition’s real-time response is a complete game-changer.
- Jetsetter: If portability is a priority, its much smaller shell and integrated side shoulder strap make it much better for packing and traveling.
Who is the original Hypershell
Great Value Fitness Walker: If you want that signature “cyborg-assisted” leg muscle boost, but don’t necessarily want to pay the full price of a Hypershell exoskeleton, the Original model offers a very similar level of support where it counts.
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