Background A reduction of energy used during walking could present a significant advantage for both healthy individuals and those with reduced mobility. Current unpowered exoskeletons have shown a net reduction in energy consumption for walking, but commonly with a clutch and assist on the heel. This paper presents the development of a lightweight energy recycling exoskeleton without a clutch and assists on the forefoot. Methods Eight healthy participants were tested during walking at 1.25 m/s on a treadmill wearing exoskeletons of four kinds of conditions. Electromyography (EMG) of the soleus muscle and gastrocnemius muscle were collected. Results Our results showed that the novel exoskeleton could make the peak and average EMG-values of soleus muscles drop about 13% and 8% respectively, and that of gastrocnemius muscles drop about 12% and 13% respectively. Conclusions The results of the present work demonstrate for the first time that the novel energy recycling exoskeleton can improve the walking economy, and this device could be feasibly worn for a broad range of individuals.