How Fast Is Gecko Running?

Geckos run at about 2 metres per second — that's 25 body lengths per second. Their toe pads use van der Waals forces — molecular adhesion — to grip absolutely any surface, even smooth glass overhead, which has inspired a generation of climbing robots.

Gecko feet have inspired a generation of climbing robots — using molecular adhesion rather than suction or glue.

• 25 body lengths per second — proportionally remarkable
• Their van der Waals toes grip any surface