Are Electric Skates the Next Step for Urban Movement?

AtmosGear, based in France, has introduced what they describe as the world's first electric inline skates. Unlike standard skates, these include a built-in motor inside one of the wheels, designed to help skaters move faster and more smoothly without changing how skating feels. Rather than replacing the experience, the Atmos system aims to support it, allowing users to switch between manual skating and motor-assisted movement.

At the core of the design are a motorized centre wheel and a lightweight frame. Instead of packing the battery and electronics inside the skate itself, which made early prototypes too heavy the system uses a small backpack that carries the battery safely. Two flexible cables connect the skates to the battery, designed to stay out of the way while skating. Riders can control speed, braking, and even reverse movement using a handheld wireless remote. When the motor is turned off, the skates perform like regular inline skates, offering a hybrid approach without limiting motion.

Beyond performance, the design also focuses on adaptability. The motorized frames are built to fit with many types of skate boots thanks to standard mounting options. The electronics are protected against water and impacts, aiming to support everyday use and more intense skating styles. Battery life allows about 20 kilometres of assisted skating at speeds up to 25 km/h, and the battery can partially recharge while in use through motion.

AtmosGear’s approach shows how small changes in design can expand the possibilities for personal movement. By keeping skating at the centre and layering in assistance, the system presents a different way of thinking about mobility in cities, parks, and open spaces. Instead of offering an entirely new product, it builds on a familiar skill and adds a flexible option for when a little extra speed or support is needed.