I embarked on a unique journey at CES, the annual consumer electronics extravaganza in Las Vegas, where I set out to test every exoskeleton I could get my hands on. These futuristic devices promised to enhance my mobility, and I was eager to see if they lived up to their hype. From the get-go, I was intrigued by the potential of exoskeletons to revolutionize the way we move, especially for those facing mobility challenges.
The Quest for Mobility Enhancement
As I navigated the bustling CES halls, I couldn't help but notice the growing presence of exoskeletons. Companies like WiRobotics, Sumbu, and Hypershell were showcasing their innovative creations, each promising to transform the way we walk, run, and even hike. I was particularly drawn to the idea of exoskeletons as a potential solution for age-related mobility issues, a topic I was helping to judge at the Best of CES awards.
However, I approached this technology with a healthy dose of skepticism. Was consumer exoskeleton technology truly mature enough to be safe and reliable? Would people find these devices convenient and accessible enough for everyday use? These were the questions that lingered in my mind as I embarked on my exoskeleton testing journey.
Unveiling the Exoskeleton Experience
I had the opportunity to test six exoskeletons during my time at CES. Four of them provided assistance at the hip, one focused on the knee, and one targeted the ankle. Each device approached mobility enhancement from a unique perspective, and I was eager to discover which ones would leave the most significant impression.
Let's dive into my experiences with each exoskeleton, ranked from my least favorite to the one that truly impressed me:
WiRobotics WIM-S ($1,905): This minimalist exoskeleton was my least favorite. Despite its sleek design, the WIM-S failed to provide the promised boost to my walking and stepping. It felt more like a gentle nudge rather than a significant enhancement.
Sumbu ($1,199-$1,999): My first encounter with a Sumbu exoskeleton was at CES Unveiled. I could feel the device assisting my leg movements, but it wasn't until I tried it on stairs that I truly appreciated its capabilities. The exoskeleton made climbing stairs feel effortless, even when taking them two at a time.
Ascentiz ($1,499 and up): Ascentiz offers a modular exoskeleton that can assist at both the hip and knee. I tried the hip module, which provided a smooth and natural running experience. The power assistance felt well-timed, enhancing my stride without feeling intrusive.
Hypershell X Ultra ($1,999): I had the chance to borrow a Hypershell X Ultra unit from my colleague James Bricknell. This exoskeleton impressed me with its seamless assistance during running and even sprinting. It felt responsive and intuitive, adapting to my movements effortlessly.
Skip Mo/Go ($4,999): The Skip Mo/Go exoskeleton, designed to operate at the knee, offered a unique experience. It felt like having an extra quad muscle, assisting with knee straightening and providing a gentle deceleration when descending stairs. This exoskeleton truly shone for those with knee pain or mobility issues, offering a much-needed support system.
Dephy's Sidekick ($4,500): Dephy's exoskeleton, marketed as "powered footwear," was a game-changer. It assisted my calf muscles, providing a noticeable lift to my heel with each step. The device didn't help lift my foot, but it enhanced the downward flex, propelling me forward with each stride. This exoskeleton felt the most comfortable and well-designed of all I tried.
The Verdict: Exoskeletons in the Real World
After trying these exoskeletons, I was convinced that they work as advertised. Five out of the six devices I tested provided a noticeable and useful level of assistance. However, the cost of these devices is a significant barrier to entry. Prices ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 make them an expensive proposition for casual hikers or athletes.
I could envision exoskeletons finding a place in the rental market, allowing people to experience the benefits of enhanced mobility on a temporary basis. For example, renting a Hypershell unit for a scenic mountain hike or using Dephy's powered footwear to stay on your feet longer at a theme park.
But my biggest question remained: Could exoskeletons be a game-changer for people with mobility issues due to disability or chronic health conditions?
Comparing Consumer and Medical Exoskeletons
To gain a better understanding of how consumer exoskeletons compare to their medical counterparts, I spoke with Amanda Clark, director of Good Shepherd Creates. Clark, a physical therapist by training, has been working with exoskeletons in a medical setting for over a decade. She shared insights into the differences between consumer and medical devices, highlighting the rigorous FDA approval process that medical devices must undergo.
Medical exoskeletons, such as the Ekso Bionics robotic suit, the Trexo Plus for children, and the ReWalk personal device, are designed to help people walk who may not have been able to do so independently. These devices play a crucial role in rehabilitation, aiding in balance and walking training. However, the cost of these medical-grade exoskeletons is significant, with facilities investing around $250,000 per device, plus annual maintenance costs.
Consumer exoskeletons, on the other hand, are designed for recreational or athletic use. While they may provide assistance, they are not approved as medical devices, which limits insurance coverage. This creates a significant barrier to access for people with disabilities or chronic conditions who may benefit the most from these devices.
The Future of Exoskeletons
As a technology with immense potential, exoskeletons could become a valuable tool for people with mobility issues. Clark expressed excitement about the progress made in miniaturizing and lightening these devices, making them more accessible for everyday use. However, the cost remains a significant challenge, and Clark issued a challenge to exoskeleton manufacturers to create devices that are user-friendly, slim, and accessible to those who need them the most.
In conclusion, while the technology behind exoskeletons is promising, the current price point limits their accessibility and usefulness for many. I'm hopeful that as these devices continue to evolve and improve, they will become more affordable and accessible, revolutionizing the way we approach mobility challenges.
