Mobility scooters are essential tools for freedom of movement, allowing people to participate in all sorts of activities, from a trip to the supermarket to a day out with friends. But with choices ranging from compact travel scooters to rugged outdoor models, picking the right one to suit your unique needs can be challenging.
When choosing a scooter, the key is to consider your desired lifestyle. Think not just about what you do now, but what you would like to do with a new level of independence.
For City Living and Socialising: Folding Mobility Scooters
Folding mobility scooters are popular for their versatility and portability, making them ideal for people for whom space is limited. If you live in a small apartment or your days involve public transport and crowded venues, a folding scooter is a great choice.
-
Advantages: Their biggest advantage is how quickly they can be folded down and placed in the boot of a car, taxi, or rideshare vehicle. Their sleek, narrow frame provides excellent manoeuvrability for getting around tables in a cafe or moving through crowds.
-
Best Use: They can be used outdoors but are best on flat, even surfaces due to their smaller wheels.
-
Considerations: While they are lighter than other types, it’s important to check the total weight and consider how easy it will be for you or a carer to lift when folded.
For the Frequent Traveller: Travel Mobility Scooters
Travel mobility scooters share many characteristics with folding models, but with one key difference. Instead of folding, travel scooters are designed to be disassembled into several smaller, lighter sections.
-
Advantages: While this means setup takes a little longer, the separate parts typically weigh no more than 10-15kg each, making them far easier to lift into a car. The majority of airlines will accept them as cargo luggage.
-
Best Use: They are a fantastic option for frequent travellers who need a portable solution. Many models also offer good suspension, making them suitable for outdoor events or navigating cobblestone paths on holiday.
For Neighbourhood Errands and Exploration: Heavy-Duty Mobility Scooters
If you need a scooter to travel longer distances around your neighbourhood, handle frequent errands, or navigate more challenging terrain, a heavy-duty model is the best option.
-
Advantages: This broad category includes sturdier models capable of making trips of 40km or more on a single charge. They have a higher weight capacity, making them suitable for larger users and for carrying shopping or other items. Their larger batteries, wider wheelbase, and bigger tyres mean they can easily tackle hilly and uneven ground.
-
Best Use: If you live on a sloping street, have limited public transport options, or simply want a robust and powerful ride for daily use, a heavy-duty scooter is the right choice.
-
Features: They often come with full lighting on the front and rear, making them suitable for use in all conditions.