On 22 October 2026, Mizuno Corporation announced that it had developed pilot gear for a wearable flight device developed by JAXA-founded emblem. Stirrups distribute pressure around the waist and thighs, with the aim of reducing the burden during long-duration flights.
Mizuno Corporation has announced the development of gear to be worn by pilots of a wearable flight device developed by emblem, a JAXA-founded startup. The device has already achieved flight while allowing the pilot to work with both hands, and the company aims to sell a prototype and put the device into practical use in 2030.
Mizuno Corporation was responsible for developing the stirrups and apparel worn by the pilot. To ease the concentration of pressure and burden on the groin caused by conventional harnesses that support only the upper body, the companies jointly developed stirrups that support the body by allowing the pilot to place weight on their feet. The introduction of the stirrups was confirmed to distribute and reduce pressure on the waist and thighs. The apparel uses a DynamotionFit design combining heat-resistant and flame-resistant materials with Mizuno's proprietary postural control theory.
emblem has been developing the device under NEDO's Leading Research and Development Program since fiscal 2024, in collaboration with JAXA and Mizuno Corporation. Expertise in sports equipment development is being applied to the future development of the wearable flight device.
The wearable flight device is scheduled to be exhibited at the Mizuno Sports Festival, held to commemorate Mizuno Corporation's 120th anniversary. The event will be held in Osaka from 24 to 25 October.