From Zimmer frame to Zeen - the mobility aid reimagined

Zimmer frames, rollators, tri-walkers - call them what you will, the humble walking frame makes life a little easier for many with impaired mobility.

However, while these simple, lightweight mobility aids offer more stability than crutches or a walking stick, they've barely evolved since they were invented here in the UK by William Robb in the 1940s. Until now.

Described as 'a big comfortable saddle surrounded by four agile wheels', the Zeen is a radical take on the traditional walking frame. It's a new type of mobility aid that supports your full body weight from beneath, hands-free, so you can walk or coast with ease.

The Zeen is the brainchild of British engineer and camera operator, Garrett Brown, who is best known for inventing the Steadicam - a clever counterbalanced harness that helps support the weight of film cameras. The two devices bear some similarities as the Zeen's 'saddle' can effortlessly raise you up to standing, walking or ‘bar stool’ positions, and then gently lower you into a comfortable seat.​

‘Bar Stool Mode’ is how the creators of the Zeen describe come to a standing stop in the midst of a social gathering, putting your feet on the footrests, shifting back on the saddle and joining the crowd in conversation.

Inspired by the earliest bicycles

The name ‘Zeen’ is a nod to the ‘Draisine’ — the pedal-less precursor to the modern bicycle invented by Baron von Drais in 1816. Riders of Draisines coasted along by striding on the ground, like a full-size version of the balance bikes that children use to learn to ride.

Wheelchairs, walking frames and the Zeen

Mobility scooters and wheelchairs are stable because their users are seated, and while everybody's mobility aid requirements are different, the downside is they can reduce full-body exercise, which can ultimately cause muscles and bones decline faster. The Zeen also has the advantage of elevating it from waist height to standing eye-level with both hands free.

Comprehensive mobility scooter insurance

ETA Mobility Scooter Insurance offers peace of mind for just £65 per year - with no hidden costs. The following benefits are included as standard.

• Cover for theft, accidental loss and damage up to £3,500
• Breakdown recovery up to 25 miles
• Replacement scooter hire up to £250
• Key cover up to £100
• Personal accident cover up to £20,000
• Personal liability cover up to £2,000,000
• Cover for personal effects up to £250
• Hospital benefit of £15 per day
• Puncture repairs covered up to £100

Find out more about mobility scooter insurance
The ethical choiceThe ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.
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