While I think Rex is a bit bulky--I do think the race to come up with better exoskeletons is great for everybody with SCI. So far we have 3 devices, Rex, and eLegs from BerkelyBionics: http://berkeleybionics.com/exoskeletons-rehab-mobility/ and the ReWalk system from Argo medical: http://www.argomedtec.com/products.asp With competition the devices will get sleeker, more practical and closer to the realm of affordability. A chair will always be easier--but an exoskeleton offers the hope of stopping and or reversing osteoporosis. And how cool would it be to be able to stand at a party or concert again?

Well, Rex is obviously to slow for now and not sure how it would do on uneven ground as are the same problems with the othe exoskeletons. However at least Rex stand on it's own unlike the rewalk and elegs which require hand crutches. Rex is quite a bit more bulky though. Considering that I'm 38yrs. old, there probably will not be a real cure within my lifetime, but it is a possibility that someone will refine one of these exoskeletons so that it is more useful for daily walking up and down hills,stairs, faster (maybe even close to a slow jog). "What would I use REX for?" you ask. Walking of course! Eric S. Williamson T-8/T-9 complete

@Shark7 - a chair may be less hassle, but if exoskeletons keep getting better over time, ie, smarter, faster, more agile, etc, they may become the easier option :) (here's hoping). And yes, standing at a party would be great. Personally, I'm more jazzed to use it in crowds :) @ericsh123 - I love that Rex requires no crutches too. A slow jog would be fantastic!

I am not a pessimist, but I am a realist and I must ask, since when has any manufacturer of devices, mobility aids or anything for the handicapped/disabled ever aimed to make their products affordable or even reasonable? A padded shower chair costing perhaps $20 to $30 at most to make is marked up 400% to 600%. Wheelchairs that cost more than a car. Roho air cushions at around $450 etc. My point being, if it is anything made for the disabled, it is marked up big time to primarily take advantage of Medicare and insurance companies something akin to the $800 hammer. I have never in my 26 plus years in a wheelchair have ever seen the price go down on anything except perhaps a reacher at the 99 cent store (and you get what you pay for). All these manufacturers are interested primarily in the bottom line...PROFIT MARGINS. I know I will never see an exoskeleton or eLegs device priced for people like me of low income to enjoy. I am afraid it is just another raised hope to be crushed.

I would love the opportunity to use any of the exoskeletons, with no disappointment. Of course it would not be a cure, but the benefits of the movement alone, both physical and emotional would be awesome. Bring them on!