Fabric-Based Wearable Robotic Exoskeleton Gloves: Advancements and Challenges

Fabrics have evolved beyond passive materials into dynamic, programmable structures that function as artificial skins, driving advancements in wearable soft robotics. Fabric-based robotic gloves mimic the biomechanics of the human hand by combining softness, tactile adaptability, multiaxial flexibility, and shape-morphing capability, offering a compliant alternative to traditional rigid systems. While these systems show significant potential for assistive mobility and home-based therapy, their transition to real-world applications necessitates addressing complex interdisciplinary challenges. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current landscape and future outlook of fabric-based robotic exoskeleton gloves, critically examining technological advancements across multiple dimensions, including design and fabrication techniques, actuation mechanisms, sensor integration, control architectures, and power and energy requirements. Performance is evaluated through biomechanical testing, torque and grip assessments, as well as comfort-related studies. Key issues, such as durability, home-based usability, and material sustainability, are explored alongside the challenges of safety and ethical deployment. By identifying current limitations and research gaps, this review proposes a roadmap to advance fabric-based exoskeleton gloves toward intelligent, scalable, and materials-driven textile robotic systems designed for real-world rehabilitation and assistive use.