care & love
At their core, robotic lower limb exoskeletons are wearable machines that mimic or augment human leg movement. They use a combination of motors, sensors, and advanced algorithms to detect a user's intended motion—whether that's taking a step, climbing stairs, or standing up from a chair—and provide the necessary support. What makes them revolutionary is their ability to adapt: modern exoskeletons learn from their users, adjusting to gait patterns, strength levels, and even fatigue over time. For many, they're not just devices—they're partners in regaining mobility.
In North America, the demand for these technologies is skyrocketing. With an aging population (the U.S. Census Bureau projects over 77 million Americans aged 65+ by 2034) and rising rates of conditions like stroke and spinal cord injuries, healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers are turning to exoskeletons as a game-changer. But with so many options on the market, how do you separate hype from reality? Let's explore the top models defining 2025.
From rehabilitation clinics to family homes, these exoskeletons are making their mark. We've focused on devices widely available in the U.S. and Canada, backed by strong clinical data, and praised for user-friendly design.
A household name in the exoskeleton space, Ekso Bionics has long led the charge in rehabilitation. The EksoNR, their latest model, builds on that legacy with smarter technology and a more intuitive user experience. Designed primarily for clinical and home rehabilitation, it's FDA-approved for use in treating stroke, spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injury.
Price-wise, the EksoNR is an investment—typically ranging from $75,000 to $90,000 for clinical settings, though rental and financing options are becoming more common for home use. It's widely available through medical equipment suppliers across the U.S. and Canada.
For individuals with spinal cord injuries seeking independent mobility, the ReWalk Personal 6.0 is a standout. Unlike rehabilitation-focused models, this exoskeleton is designed for daily use at home, work, or out in the community. It's FDA-approved for personal use and has built a loyal following for its durability and ease of use.
The ReWalk Personal 6.0 starts at around $85,000, with insurance coverage increasingly available for eligible users. It's sold directly through ReWalk's North American partners, with demo centers in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto.
Hailing from Japan but making significant inroads in North America, CYBERDYNE's HAL 5 is a versatile exoskeleton built for both rehabilitation and daily assistance. What sets it apart is its non-invasive brain-machine interface: it detects electrical signals from the user's muscles to anticipate movement, creating a more natural, intuitive experience.
The HAL 5 is pricier, with clinical models around $100,000, but its versatility makes it a favorite among healthcare facilities. Personal use models are expected to launch in North America by late 2025, with pre-orders already open.
A newer entrant to the North American market, Fourier Intelligence's X2 is turning heads with its affordability and focus on home rehabilitation. Targeting individuals recovering from stroke or orthopedic surgeries, it's designed to bridge the gap between clinic-based therapy and independent home practice.
The X2 launched in the U.S. in early 2025 and is available through ｓｅｌｅｃｔ medical suppliers, with plans to expand into Canada by mid-year.
| Brand & Model | Primary Use | Key Features | Price Range | Availability in NA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ekso Bionics EksoNR | Clinical/Home Rehabilitation | Adaptive gait, lightweight, telehealth | $75,000–$90,000 | U.S. & Canada (medical suppliers) |
| ReWalk Robotics ReWalk Personal 6.0 | Daily Mobility (Spinal Cord Injury) | Self-contained, terrain adaptability | $85,000 | U.S. & Canada (direct/partners) |
| CYBERDYNE HAL 5 | Rehabilitation/Industrial/Daily Use | Neuromuscular sensing, multi-purpose | $100,000 (clinical); TBD (personal) | U.S. (clinical); Canada (late 2025) |
| Fourier Intelligence X2 | Home Rehabilitation | Affordable, app integration, portable | $35,000 | U.S. (early 2025); Canada (mid-2025) |
With so many options, narrowing down the right exoskeleton can feel overwhelming. Here's what to prioritize based on your needs:
The lower limb exoskeleton market in North America is booming, with analysts projecting it to reach $1.8 billion by 2028—a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.3%. What's driving this growth?
Challenges remain, though. High costs are a barrier for many individuals, and insurance coverage is still inconsistent. Additionally, while technology is advancing, some users report discomfort during extended wear, and not all models work well for those with severe obesity or certain joint conditions. Manufacturers are addressing these issues—expect to see more affordable, inclusive designs in the next 3–5 years.
The state-of-the-art in lower limb exoskeletons is evolving faster than ever. Here's what to watch for in the coming years:
As one researcher put it, "We're moving from 'restoring mobility' to 'enhancing human potential.' The next generation of exoskeletons won't just help people walk—they'll help them run, climb, and live more active lives than ever before."
Choosing a lower limb exoskeleton is a deeply personal decision, one that depends on your unique needs, goals, and circumstances. Whether you're a clinician looking to equip your clinic, a caregiver seeking support for a loved one, or an individual ready to reclaim mobility, the key is to start with research: talk to healthcare providers, read independent reviews, and if possible, try before you buy (many suppliers offer trial periods).
In 2025, exoskeleton robots are more than tools—they're bridges to independence. With the right model, the future of mobility is brighter than ever. Here's to taking that first step.