All About Walkers & Rollators

Choosing the right walker or rollator can be more complicated than you expect – it is not always one size fits all. That is why we decided to simplify it for you! This article covers some general pointers to follow when selecting a walker or rollator, and breaks down the specific pros and cons of various units we offer. But before we get started, let us go over some definitions. Technically speaking, a walker is a frame with legs, sometimes two front wheels and two rear skis. A rollator is frame with four wheels. However, for the purposes of this article we will use the terms interchangeably.

: EZ Fold N Go Walker with two rear skis.

: EZ Fold n Go Rollator with four wheels.

5 Questions to Ask

What size do I need?

What handle height do I need?

Will I use it indoors, or outdoors?

Do I need more support, or balance?

Will I be spend more timing sitting, or walking?

What size do I need?

The seat height is non-adjustable on walkers. So be sure to size your walker against seat height first. When you are sitting down, your knees should be just below your hips. Most units come in a low, mid, or high seat height option.

What handle height do I need?

The handle height on walkers and rollators is adjustable — when you are standing up with your walker, the base of your wrist should line up with the handlebar. You can be leaning forward slightly when walking, but you do not want to be hunched over. With the right handle height, you can maintain proper posture even while using a walker.

Will I use it indoors, or outdoors?

If you plan to use your walker indoors, a light, compact, small walker will work well. You could use a walker with two front wheels and two skis on the back. In the home, you may not care about having a great seat on your walker, but perhaps more storage space or a tray would be helpful. On the other hand, if you are interested in using a walker outdoors more, you will likely want one with four larger wheels and a foot assist for navigating curbs. Often times our customers will buy two walkers: one for indoor use and one strictly for outside that they keep in their car or garage.

Do I need more support, or balance?

If you are using a walker mostly for balance, one with rear skis would be a good fit. A simple, basic walker is often best in this scenario; since the walker is there for your comfort and security, but maybe you do not need to rely on it as much. However if you are using a walker for support, and lean much of your weight on it, be sure to get one with ergonomic handles and maybe a nicer seat. Having four wheels will help you move it forward easily, although you may find you are going to fast and would prefer two skis in the back.

Will I be spend more timing sitting, or walking?

If you plan to spend lots of time sitting on your walker, you will want to try different seats. Some are flat and hard; others are softer or padded. Some walkers have back support, others do not. This is something we recommend you come in-store and try out a few units with us. If you will walk for long periods of time or long distances, you will probably want ergonomic handles, storage space, and a foot assist for navigating those curbs. You will want a rollator that allows for good posture but does not move too quickly for you or is too difficult to control.

A few more things to consider…

Most walkers generally offer the same style hand breaks (one break per side, operated by two push/pull handles). However a unit like the Let’s Shop from Stander offers a one-handed break option which is great for around the house when you only have one free hand.