The Best Walker

Buying Guide

You probably never thought about what you’d want in a walker until you needed one. But once you start shopping around, you’ll quickly see that there are plenty of things to consider. You’ll want a walker that’s stable, even when you’re rolling across rough terrain like a gravel driveway. But you also need a walker that’s comfortable to use.

With walkers, comfort is often in the handlebars. Some come with ergonomic grips that put you in control as you maneuver around. Some feature seats that make it easy to rest if necessary. As you look at various features, you probably know which ones you’ll most likely use so that you can narrow walkers down to the most comfortable.

One important feature in a walker is storage. Being able to stow items in the walker can come in handy, even if you’re just carrying an item from the kitchen to the bedroom. Many modern walkers include storage pouches that tuck away neatly beneath the seat. They’re just large enough for holding a wallet, smartphone, book and bottle of water or whatever combination of small items you might need.

Of course, some people prefer a more traditional walker, featuring nothing more than bars, comfortable grips and a couple of wheels. You can usually find a traditional walker for a much lower price than the versions with seats and storage, but there are walkers with those features that are priced in between the extremes. Another option is to purchase an affordable basic walker and buy a separate basket or pouch for it.

Lastly, it’s important to pay close attention to wheels. Some walkers have two wheels, while others have four. Four wheels will give you more control, especially if the wheels are larger. However, if you only plan to use the walker indoors, two wheels will probably suffice. Some walkers have no wheels at all, but if that’s an important feature, you can add them.

• The first thing you’ll need to decide as you start walker shopping is how much you want to spend. You can get a basic folding model with two wheels, or upgrade to a walker with storage and a seat for a bit more.
• If you’re willing to spend even more, you can upgrade to a walker that has more advanced features. You can find rolling walkers that are fairly affordable while still offering plenty of amenities.
• Before you buy, consider the conveniences your walker of choice will offer. Some walkers have a seat with a backrest that lets you use it while seated.
• Another feature that can come in handy is an under-seat storage bag that can hold a few items for you.
• Wheels are also upgraded on many more expensive walkers. Instead of the two small wheels that you’ll get with basic walkers, you’ll get four wheels that provide advanced maneuverability. Consider both support and portability when looking at the wheels on a walker. If you plan to take the walker out of the house, where you might encounter unpredictable terrain, more wheels will increase your control.
• Some walkers don’t come with wheels at all. In some cases, you can buy a kit separately for a minimal upcharge, but you’ll need to install them.
• Although more expensive walkers may have more features, those extras can also weigh them down. Basic walkers are much more lightweight, which will make them easier for folding and tossing into the back of a vehicle when you leave the house.
• Most of your contact with the walker will be with the handgrips. Look for one with ergonomic handle grips that are situated at natural angles for more comfort. You can also adjust the handlebars to make sure they’re at the ideal height.
• Rolling walkers need brakes so that you can stop them stop. Look for ergonomic hand grips that will keep you comfortable while you’re using it.
• Some walkers have locking brakes. This can help keep you safe if you’re prone to falls
• In addition to weight, the mechanism itself can make it easy to open and close the walker. Some walkers have a push-button mechanism that make them easy to close.
• Width is also important in a walker. Measure the doorways of your home before you buy to make sure you can easily squeeze the walker through each door.
• If you plan to regularly remove your storage pouch to carry around with you, it’s important to note that some are easier to remove and reattach than others.
• Unless you’re purchasing the walker preassembled, consider the extra time and effort necessary to put it together. Some walkers arrive fully assembled, which can be a bonus if you don’t have a helper to put it together when it arrives. Still others are fairly easy to assemble and require no tools.