Over the past few years I’ve noticed a big uptick in the frequency of times I’m in need of a good ladder. Whether it’s light bulbs that need changing or walls that need to be painted, I seem to be wishing for a good ladder at every turn. For me (and for anyone with very high ceilings or light fixtures only accessible from the stairs), a basic step ladder or A-frame doesn’t always do the trick. Thus, I was intrigued by the idea of the Little Giant Velocity Multi-Use Ladder, an articulating model that transforms into multiple different shapes to tackle different tasks. Read on to see if this convertible ladder gets the jobs done.
Design: Innovative
The Little Giant website, says the goal of this product was to create a product that was “fast, convenient, and safe,” and it definitely delivers on all counts. The design is really cool—kind of like playing with an adult version of a transformer. There are actually four different models from which to choose: 13 (complete with 16 configurations and a maximum extension height of 11 feet), 17 (24 configurations, 15 feet), 22 (33 configurations, 19 feet), and 26 (43 configurations, 23 feet). You can find a chart with all the other specifications and position heights on the Little Giant website. We tested model 22, which refers to the total height of the ladder with the “tip and glide” wheels: 22 feet. The multi-tasking wonder can be converted into five different configurations: A-frame (5 feet 1 inch to 9 feet 1 inch in height), staircase, 90-degree, extension (11 to 19 feet in height), and scaffolding (work plank and trestle brackets are sold separately for use with the scaffolding shape). Additionally, accounting for the different height levels, it can take a staggering 33 different forms. Setup and takedown in whatever shape you choose are really quick (once you get the hang of making the adjustments). Two outer ladder parts telescope over the inner ladder, while Little Giant’s patented hinges and locking mechanisms allow for length and position adjustments. I found it very easy to change the shape of the ladder using the hinge locks, which can be released by hitting the circular palm buttons on the outsides of the ladder. Likewise, the “Rock Locks,” which control the ladder’s height, were a cinch to operate. To unlock, push down on the lever-like pieces below the palm buttons to unlock, then tap into the rung tube of your choice. The manual offers detailed instructions for each configuration. This ladder is made with a special alloy of Aerospace-grade aluminum that makes it 20 percent lighter than its competitors. At 38 pounds, I was impressed with how easy it was to carry this ladder around and fit it into tight spaces.
Safety: Solid
Despite its light weight, Little Giant’s Velocity feels sturdy. Innovative features such as wide-flared legs and the aforementioned dual-pin hinge locks and “Rock Locks” make this ladder very secure. This ladder also includes a lifetime guarantee, is industry-rated (for OSHA & ANSI A14.2 standards), and complies with the highest criterion. As a Type IA ladder, it can hold up to 300 pounds—and that goes for all the different sizes of this model. This makes it great for construction projects that require carrying heavy materials. The only exception is in the scaffolding position, which has a one-person, 250-pound limit. My family easily and, most importantly, safely used this ladder on uneven ground to pick mulberries and plums from our tall fruit trees. I found it really simple to access and change the nectar in our hummingbird feeders, and I no longer dread changing the lightbulbs in our stairway fixtures. Of course, as with any ladder, you should choose a solid, level surface, and only use the 90-degree configuration against a secure wall. Avoid getting caught or pinched inside the locks, and double-check that locks are fully engaged before stepping onto a rung. You also shouldn’t stand any higher than the third rung from the top. There are lots of other safety tips for each position in the manual, so read up before you begin using it.
Maintenance: Nothing to it
This ladder collapses down to a manageable size of 9 inches x 5 feet x 7 inches for easy storage. Thanks to the wheels, transporting the ladder a breeze. As for cleaning, I’m not someone who worries about keeping outside tools or gadgets spotless—if anything, a little smudge here or there are badges of hard work done. In my experience, ladders don’t really need much in the way of maintenance except, maybe, in the case of an out-of-the-ordinary paint or dirt mishap. However, a damp cloth would do the trick for most messes. My ladder actually came out of the box quite dusty (the box itself was banged up, too, so this may have happened in shipping), so I did wipe it down with a cloth, which easily removed all the grime. Other than that, despite multiple hours of use, my ladder has remained in tip-top shape.
Price: Fair but a bit high
The Little Giant Velocity Multi-Use Ladder retails for around $262, which is mid-range to high for this type of ladder, but it has tons to offer. It can be converted into multiple positions up to 19 feet. Little Giant makes very high-quality products and has a lifetime guarantee, all of which justify the price. However, if you’re looking for a more economical price, you can find other models that offer similar specifications for less, such as the 22-foot Werner MT-22 Telescoping Ladder, which retails for around $195.
Little Giant Velocity Multi-Use Ladder vs. Little Giant Revolution Ladder
These two Little Giant models both offer great features, which enable them to be used in many different positions to handle just about any job you’d need a ladder to do. The 22-foot Revolution model costs more, at about $600 full-priced. It has extra features, such as built-in, dual-ratcheting levels, with up to 8.5 inches of hands-free leveling (the Velocity model has 7 inches) available for each leg. The Velocity model offers a dual-pin hinge, while the Revolution ladder has a “Quad-Lock Hinge.” For casual at-home repairs, the Velocity model is more than adequate for me, so I would stick with that one. However, if you need added features in your articulation ladder, the Revolution model is an excellent option. Little Giant’s Velocity Multi-Use Ladder does the work of five ladders in one, providing options for multiple sizes and positions, including A-frame, scaffolding, extension, and 90-degree. The lightweight, multi-tasking wonder gets the job done and then some.
