When searching for a new walker, there are numerous factors to consider. Here's a simple, handy guide to help you choose the right walker for your needs.
Should your walker be for indoor or outdoor use?
Walkers generally fall into three categories: indoor, outdoor, and combo walkers, which are suitable for both purposes.
An indoor walker is, as the name suggests, designed for indoor use. This walker is narrower and equipped with smaller wheels, making it easier to maneuver around the house. An indoor walker typically comes with a tray for dining and a smaller basket for carrying essential items like reading glasses and keys.
An outdoor walker is more stable and has larger, softer wheels, allowing it to easily tackle forest paths, cobblestones, and other uneven terrains outside. It can also be advantageous to have extra soft or air-filled wheels for added shock absorption. Outdoor walkers typically feature a seat for taking breaks.
A combo walker is a hybrid of the two previous types and is the most common. It is meant for outdoor use but can also function well as an indoor walker. Most walkers are suitable for both settings. However, always ensure the walker you choose isn't too wide for your door frames at home (This is rarely an issue but might occur if you live in an older farmhouse, for example).
Whether you're in the market for an indoor walker, a classic combo walker, or an outdoor walker, you'll find it at Seniorshop. Check out our full selection here.
How much should your walker weigh?
Walker weights vary from about 13 kg down to as light as 5 kg. Typically, the price reflects the weight, as lightweight walkers are more expensive to produce while still needing to be just as strong and stable as the heavier ones.
Weight is crucial if you need to lift your walker up stairs, into a car, or over curbs. A lightweight walker is significantly easier to handle daily and is practical if strength is a concern.
Should your walker be foldable?
Almost all walkers can be folded, making them much more compact, but the methods of folding vary greatly.
Two folding methods are illustrated below.
The first method (1), often seen in more affordable models, involves a "vertical folding" where the front part is folded into the back. The downside is that the walker can't stand on its own when folded, and the basket and tray must be removed before folding.
The second method (2), found in more expensive models, is a “horizontal folding” where the sides come together like an accordion. The advantage here is that the walker can stand on its own when folded, and neither the basket nor seat needs to be removed first, as they're designed to fold along with the walker.
Accessories for Your Walker
At Seniorshop, you'll find a versatile range of practical accessories for your walker that can prove highly beneficial depending on your needs. We offer, for example:
- Trays (ideal for an indoor walker)
- Bags and baskets (perfect for shopping trips)
- Cane holders (so you can easily carry your cane)
- Backrests (allowing you to rest your back while seated on the walker)
- Travel bags (for storing your walker)
Some accessories, like baskets, usually come with various walkers, while other accessories need to be purchased separately.
Check out our smart walker accessories here.
Have Questions? Contact Us
We hope you feel well-equipped to find the right walker for you. If you have any questions at all, feel free to contact our friendly and experienced customer service team.
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