What is the Skippi power wheelchair?
The Skippi is an electric-powered wheelchair specifically designed for children and youth with mobility challenges, including those with severe disabilities. It provides independent mobility through joystick control, allowing children to navigate their environment, keep up with friends, and participate more fully in daily activities without relying on manual propulsion or being pushed.
Who is the Skippi suitable for?
The Skippi is designed for children and youth who require powered mobility support, particularly those with severe disabilities who cannot self-propel a manual wheelchair. It accommodates users up to 50kg maximum body weight and features extensive adjustability to fit children of various sizes and ages.
What makes the Skippi unique for children?
The standout feature is the optional lift seat function that elevates children up to eye level with their peers and adults. This promotes social interaction, improves communication, and helps children feel included in activities at tables, counters, and group settings. The ability to reach eye level is crucial for a child's social and emotional development.
How adjustable is the Skippi as my child grows?
The Skippi offers comprehensive adjustability to accommodate growing children:
- Seat width: 300-420mm (adjustable)
- Seat depth: 290-370mm (adjustable)
- Back height: Available in four options (400mm, 420mm, 440mm, 460mm)
- Lower leg length: 150-430mm (adjustable) These adjustment ranges mean the wheelchair can adapt to your child's changing body dimensions over several years.
What power functions are available?
The Skippi comes with multiple power options for enhanced positioning and comfort:
- Electric back angle adjustment: 25° of electric adjustability
- Seat inclination: 20° tilt available either electrically or manually
- Optional lift seat: Raises the child to eye level
- Mid-tray control option: Alternative joystick positioning for easier access
Is the Skippi easy to transport?
Yes! One of the Skippi's key advantages is its innovative quick-disassembly design. The wheelchair can be taken apart in just a few simple steps without tools, and the components fit into the boot of a compact car. This makes it practical for families to take the wheelchair on outings, vacations, and appointments without requiring a specialized vehicle.
How maneuverable is the Skippi?
The Skippi is designed to be small and highly maneuverable with a tight turning radius of only 680mm. This compact design allows children to navigate through doorways, around furniture, and in tight indoor spaces with ease. The overall width matches the seat width (300-420mm), making it one of the most compact power wheelchairs for children.
What is the top speed and range?
The Skippi has a top speed of 7.2 km/h (approximately 4.5 mph), which is appropriate for safe indoor and outdoor use by children. It's equipped with AGM batteries that charge in a maximum of 12 hours, providing reliable daily use.
Can the Skippi handle outdoor terrain?
Yes, the Skippi has an obstacle negotiation capability of 60mm, allowing it to handle small curbs, thresholds, and uneven surfaces. While it's primarily designed for daily mobility and rehabilitation use, it can manage typical outdoor environments children encounter.
What control options are available?
The standard control is a joystick system that's intuitive for children to learn. An optional mid-tray control can be positioned for optimal access based on the child's hand function and reach. The controls are designed to be easy and intuitive for young users.
What storage options does the Skippi have?
The Skippi comes with an integrated back bag built into the seat upholstery, providing convenient storage for personal items, toys, or necessities without requiring additional accessories.
What is the overall size of the Skippi?
- Overall width: 300-420mm (matches seat width)
- Overall length: 970mm (with leg supports)
- Seat height: 445mm
- Turning radius: 680mm
These compact dimensions make the Skippi suitable for use in homes, schools, and community environments.
How long does the battery take to charge?
The AGM batteries require a maximum charging time of 12 hours. Regular overnight charging ensures the wheelchair is ready for daily use.
Is the Skippi suitable for daily use?
Absolutely. The Skippi is designed specifically for daily mobility and rehabilitation activities. It supports children in school, home, and community settings, providing the independence needed to participate in everyday life.
