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  • Review Article
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Soft robotics for personalized and sustainable wearables

Nature Reviews Bioengineering volume 4, pages 30–46 (2026)Cite this article

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Abstract

Soft robotic systems prevail in wearable and haptic applications, offering adaptability, safety and comfort. In this Review, we explore the integration of soft robotics in wearable designs for applications in assistance, rehabilitation and haptic sensory stimulation. We outline various types of soft actuators, examining their properties with regard to adjustable stiffness, mechanical responsiveness and sensing capabilities and their integration into wearable devices for health-care applications. We also highlight challenges and opportunities in developing sustainable, self-healing, self-powering and self-actuating soft robots, particularly with regard to achieving efficient energy usage, long-term durability and personalized control. Finally, we examine how machine learning might be explored to optimize the performance and adaptability of soft robotic devices to transform real-time data into actionable insights for personalized experiences.

Key points

  • Soft actuators provide advantages for wearable technologies by supporting mobility and delivering nuanced, responsive haptic feedback.

  • Energy efficiency is essential to improving the portability, autonomy and user experience of wearable devices.

  • Durability and recyclability are crucial to maintaining long-term performance, and biodegradable materials offer promising solutions for short-term or disposable use.

  • Personalized, data-driven design enhances human–robot interaction, improving usability, comfort and user acceptance.

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Fig. 1: Soft actuation types for wearable applications.
Fig. 2: Soft actuators.
Fig. 3: Performance metrics of soft actuators.
Fig. 4: Soft wearable robot modules and devices.

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Acknowledgements

This article has been supported in part by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (grant number 899987).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Industrial Design, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands

    Anke van Oosterhout

  2. Reconfigurable Robotics Laboratory, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland

    Matthew A. Robertson & Jamie Paik

  3. Mechanical and Materials Engineering, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

    Matthew A. Robertson

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J.P. and A.v.O. conceptualized the focus of the Review. A.v.O. and M.A.R. conducted the literature search and analysis. All authors contributed to the writing and critical revision of the manuscript.

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van Oosterhout, A., Robertson, M.A. & Paik, J. Soft robotics for personalized and sustainable wearables. Nat Rev Bioeng 4, 30–46 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44222-025-00359-6

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