Four wheeled rollator (walker)

The four wheeled walker is one of the most advanced of the wheeled style walking frames and it often offers other features like a carry basket and a seat. This kind of walking frame is often referred to as a rollator (as is a three wheeldec walker).

The four wheeled rollator style walker has two big differences (and advantages) over its two wheeler counterpart. The first is that it has wheels on all four of its legs and the second is that it usually has something similar to a handlebar steering system with hand controlled brakes. Unlike both the non wheeled and two wheeled walkers, the rollator does not require lifting or tilting in order for the frame to move forward. The motion is controlled by releasing the brakes and gently pushing the walker in the desired direction as a step (or steps) are taken.

More information

Four wheeled walkers are manufactured in a similar way to other walking frames using lightweight materials like aluminium and tubular constructions. However, one of the obvious differences with this type of walker is that the person using it usually stands behind it rather than within it. This is possible because the grip and control handles project backwards behind the main frame leaving the area enclosed within the frame available for other uses. These uses can include the provision of a storage basket (for shopping) and the inclusion of a seat that allows the rollator's user to sit on the rollator's high seat. This (higher than normal) seat is easier to sit onto and stand up from than a normal chair.

Other features that make four wheeled walkers distinguishable from other models include their larger wheels (which should be puncture proof), a frame that may be "A" shaped when viewed from the side, and the brake cables that extend from the manual handle controls down to the brake pads.

Many rollator style walkers come in a choice of different colours with options including padded seats (which are heavier) and different basket and carrier fittings.

Importantly, the brakes use systems that do not require a high grip pressure for application, i.e. they are suitable for people who suffer from arthritis etc, and the handle grips can normally be adjusted for height and angle, therby maximising their ergonomic feel.

Most rollator walkers will fold almost flat (in their width dimension) which means that they will fit into most vehicles and into the luggage compartments of trains and planes. A typical rollator is designed for use by people up to a weight of approximately 20 stone (280 pounds).

Nearly all four wheel rollators are designed for outdoor and indoor use and they may have pairs of wheels for extra stability and grip.

Back to Walking frames, walkers and rollators main page.

Back to the Home Page