What To Look Out For In A Rollator?
There are lots of rollators available - they come in all different shapes and sizes, and with big differences in cost. So what should you look out for when shopping for a rollator?
Weight
The lighter the rollator, the easier it is for you to wheel around, and the easier it will be to transport in a case. Most modern rollators these days feature lightweight aluminium frames, but some are definitely lighter than others.
There are even high-end carbon fibre framed rollators available for the ultimate in lightweight mobility - such as Saljol's sleek Carbon, and Rehasense's Server CF.
It's not just the weight of the rollator itself that matters - the weight capacity is important too. For heavier people we offer bariatric rollators like the Buffalo which can take people up to 200 kg (31.5 stone).
Height
All the rollators we offer feature height-adjustable handlebars, so that you can hold them at a comfortable and supportive height for you. Some models are available in high and low framed variants. If you are taller or shorter than average, it is particularly important to try out a rollator prior to purchase to ensure it is the right size for you.
Style
Rollators have long moved on from the days when they resembled scaffolding poles, and there are some really stylish, modern designs available - Saljol's Carbon is one of the standout models, but Rollz's Flex and Rehasense's Server are also stylish lookers.
Budget
As well as high-end luxury models, we also provide lower-cost rollators to suit the budget-conscious, such as Mobilex's Jaguar.
Rollator Seat
Almost every rollator has a built-in seat, allowing you to lock the brakes on, sit down and lean back against a backrest. Some of these feature more padding than others, and with some models, the back support is an optional upgrade. Check out Rollz's Motion Performance for a rollator that transforms into a wheelchair, allowing you to sit down in comfort and be pushed!
Rollator Bags
Rollators are a useful companion when out shopping, as most feature a bag or basket that can transport your shopping. In some cases these are removable. A highlight is Rollz's Flex, whose extra-large bag has a 20 kg capacity.
Indoor or Outdoor Rollator?
Most rollators are designed for use both indoors or out. However, if your need is for indoors only, there are some smaller and lighter models like the Jaguar available. If you're looking to go off-road, the Server XC and Motion Performance have chunky wheels.
We've found that a four-wheel design provides the best stability - three wheeled rollators are a little more manoeuvrable, but tend to be tippy too, which is not what you want! However, the British-made Triumph rollator features a unique twin front wheel design that provides both stability and manoeuvrability.
Forearm Walkers
Not everyone can get on with holding onto push handles on a rollator - that's why we also offer a forearm walker too, which supports your arms as well while walking.
Standing Wheelchairs
Alternatively if your mobility has rapidly declined to the point where you need a lot more support, then a standing wheelchair maybe the choice for you. Helping you during a transitional period of your journey.
