Rollators

A rollator is a walker type device with four wheels, brakes, backrest and flip down seat. A basket or pouch is often included. Rollators are popular since they are easier to push than traditional walkers. Aluminum rollators are more lightweight than their steel counterparts. Most rollators come with 6” wheels, but 8” are popular as well. The larger wheels are recommended for rougher terrain. Rollators that have the basket under the seat must have the basket removed when folding. Front mounted baskets can usually be left on when folding. Models that have a pouch instead of a basket can usually fold with the pouch in place. Seats come in padded and plastic versions. Backrests can have either a straight or contoured profile. There are two basic style rollators – Standard and Walker Style. The standard rollator has two handles, similar to a baby stroller. The walker style resembles a traditional walker with the addition of four wheels and a seat. Important specifications to look at are the product weight, seat height, handle height, weight capacity and overall width. Handle height is almost always adjustable within a range at set increments. Overall width is important for use in confined spaces. Seat height is usually fixed, except in the case of the walker style rollators. Most rollator models are available in various colors. There is a three wheel variant of the rollator that is super light and more maneuverable. However, three wheel rollators do not have a seat. Heavier and/or wider people should purchase a bariatric rollator. Shorter people should look at junior models. A cup holder is a popular add-on accessory.