The Ups and Downs of Narrow

One of the most popular questions we get asked about a walker or rollator is, “How wide is it?”

The answer, unfortunately, is not as simple as you would think. As a rule, most walkers measure 22.5-28 inches and most rollators measure 23-30 inches. The width that you see advertised is the width of the widest part. For example, some rollators are wider on the bottom than on the top and in those cases, the width would be measuring between the outside edge of the back wheels. Also, one thing to keep in mind is many people accessorize their walker with bags or purses and these can oftentimes add to the overall width.

One guideline you should be aware of: If you live in an older home, one that was built before 1950, there is a good chance you have a narrow entrance into at least one room within your home.

Balance should be the first and foremost consideration when purchasing a walker or rollator. As a rule, the definition of sturdy varies from individual to individual. Narrower mobility aides, while easier to maneuver through a doorway, often seem ideal. Unfortunately, these narrower units aren't necessarily the best option for every individual, especially those with balance issues. We recommend finding the right fit for the individual FIRST and THEN compare widths of your top choices. After all, that narrow unit is of little use if you don’t feel balanced when using it. For a complete list and quick sizing reference to our walkers and rollators, view our comparison charts.