Walking and mobility difficulties are commonplace among older individuals and those recovering from surgery or an injury. Unfortunately, having difficulty getting around can negatively impact day-to-day life and the things you enjoy. If you or a loved one has limitations in mobility, whether temporary or permanent, a walker can help. Here are some we recommend.
What to Look for in an Upright Walker
Here are a few things you’ll want to consider before buying a walker:
- Maneuverability: Although a walker is rolled around, there may be times when you have to lift or carry it. A lightweight walker will be much easier to maneuver than a heavier one. Also look for ones that are not too short so that the user won’t have to hunch over and hurt their back or neck while moving around.
- Extra Features: Walkers don’t just help you get around—some of them come with seating, storage, and other useful features that may be handy to those with walking limitations.
Best Overall: ELENKER Upright Walker
This walker by ELENKER is one of the more reliable choices out there. It has two 360-degree handles with brakes on each side that help you keep control of the walker. Alongside each handle are padded armrests that keep your arms at a comfortable, neutral position. These armrests are height-adjustable, so don’t worry about hunching down or reaching up.
You can maneuver this walker easily, as its front wheels are designed to move multi-directionally. This walker also comes with a seat and backrest, so you can take a break from standing wherever you are. While seated, you can lock the rear wheels to stay in place. When not in use, this walker is designed with a one-step folding process that easily collapses it for storage. Bonus: you also get a detachable storage pouch.
ELENKER Upright Walker, Stand Up Folding Rollator Walker with 10” Front Wheels Backrest Seat and Padded Armrests(Champagne)
This walker is complete with all the essentials and some bonuses, too.
Best Budget: Drive Medical 10257BL-1 Four Wheel Walker
For a budget walker, this one provides you with almost all of the same features as most of its higher-priced competitors. You can maneuver this walker easily with its braking mechanisms and multi-directional front wheels, which are non-marking. It also comes with a built-in padded seat, a backrest, and a storage pouch underneath. This walker is also collapsible into a smaller structure and can handle weight up to 300 pounds.
Drive Medical 10257BL-1 4 Wheel Rollator Walker With Seat, Steel Rolling Walker, Height Adjustable, 7.5" Wheels, Removable Back Support, 300 Pound Weight Capacity, Blue
This is one of the most cost-effective walkers out there.
Best Lightweight: Goplus Foldable Standard Walker
Mobility is a challenging obstacle that an older individual may face, but the action of lifting and carrying can be an even bigger struggle. This walker by Goplus tackles both of those issues. It’s constructed with durable yet lightweight aluminum that’s easy to carry and supportive of your weight.
The walker comes with excellent support for your arms. It has armrests as well as neutral grips for proper stability. It has seven adjustable height levels and four adjustable armrest levels that tailor to your specific body proportions. This walker also features a one-click folding design for easy storage.
Goplus Walkers for Seniors, Foldable Standard Walker with 5’’ Wheels and Removable Padded Armrests 440lbs, Lightweight Walking Mobility Aid, Folding Platform Walker for Elderly, Handicap, Disabled
This walker is compact and easy to carry.
Best for Tall People: Drive Medical RTL0266-T Walker
If you’re over 6 feet tall, then this walker is for you. Its two adjustable handles can extend up to 41 inches and have brakes attached. It comes with a seat and backrest as well, along with a zippered pouch for storage. This walker has large front wheels which allow for easy steering over various terrains. As with many other walkers, you can fold this one when not in use.
Drive Medical RTL10266-T Nitro DLX Foldable Rollator Walker with Seat, Red
The walker's handles extend higher so that you don't have to hunch over.