Nike pitches robotic sneakers and mind-altering mules

Nike is no stranger to a unique footwear concept, be it self-lacing shoes or a "Hyperboot" that can speed up recovery. The company claims its Project Amplify and new "neuroscience-based" footwear take things a bit further, though, by actively augmenting your body and mind while you're wearing them.

Developed with robotics startup Dephy, Project Amplify acts as "a second set of calf muscles" for "everyday athletes" who want to walk or run more. Nike says the first-generation model consists of a running shoe with a carbon fiber plate, a calf-mounted rechargeable battery, a motor and a drive belt. While it has the neon colors and cushioned finish of a normal pair of running shoes, the basic design of Project Amplify seems like a more polished version of the robotic Sidekick shoes Dephy is already pitching on its website.

Project Amplify doesn't replace your legs' ability to walk ...