Best 3 Wheel Rollator For Seniors – Our Top Picks For 2021

What is a 3 Wheel Rollator & How Does it Compare to Other Walkers?

3 wheel rollators are a variant of its more widely used 4 wheel sister. While four-wheel rollators have two wheels at the front and two wheels at the back, 3 wheel rollators have their wheels arranged in a triangular layout, with one at the front and two at the back.

This design makes 3 wheel rollators considerably more maneuverable, compact, and lightweight than their four-wheel counterparts. This increased maneuverability makes it easier to navigate tight turns on the road and in buildings. While the more compact design and lower weight make 3 wheel rollators easier to store in your home or car.

However, it should be noted that this lightweight maneuverability comes at the expense of stability, as the loss of a wheel makes it harder to balance and walk with a 3 wheel rollator. Hence, four-wheel walkers are better suited to seniors who struggle for balance. 

On the other hand, 3 wheel rollators are perfect for seniors who are currently using a cane and want a bit more support but don’t want to get a heavy, bulky, four-wheeler. 

Another thing to bear in mind is most models of four-wheel walkers have a seat for you to rest in, while three-wheel rollators don’t, due to the limited space available. For the same reason, three-wheel rollators also tend to have fewer features, but some may still have a cup holder or a small removable storage unit. 

3 wheel walkers have a key advantage over wheel-less walkers, such as standard walking frames and Hemi-walkers. As they have wheels attached at the end of each leg, they can be gently pushed forward and rolled along the ground. In contrast, wheel-less walkers have to be lifted and moved a few inches ahead of you again and again. 

Even if lightweight wheel-less walkers are being used, continual lifting can be quite tiring for users with limited endurance and weak upper body strength. So 3 wheel walkers are generally preferred to wheel-less walkers. 

The Benefits of 3 Wheel Rollators

3 wheel walkers are much easier to use than wheel-less walkers. They are ideal for seniors and other users with limited endurance and weak upper body strength.

They are much quicker than wheel-less walkers, so they can significantly reduce the amount of time it takes you to get around. 

They have better maneuverability than four-wheel rollators, allowing you to navigate tight turns. 

3 wheel rollators are smaller, lighter, and more compact than their four-wheel sisters. 

The Drawbacks of 3 Wheel Walkers

They are less stable than four-wheel walkers and harder to balance. 

They are more expensive than wheel-less walkers, though many users would argue they are well worth the extra dollars.

They don’t have a seat for the user to rest in.

They usually don’t have as many additional features, such as a phone holder or a built-in basket, as four-wheel rollators. 

Things to Consider When Shopping for a 3 Wheel Walker

Comparing different types and models of walkers can be challenging. There are several variables and differences – many of which may not be immediately apparent or seem particularly relevant at first glance. 

Here are some of the things you should keep an eye out for when shopping around and trying to compare 

different models… 

Can it Fit in My Home & Car?  

As three-wheelers are smaller and more compact than four-wheel rollators, you usually won’t have any trouble fitting them into your home or car. But, it’s still worth double-checking before making a purchase. 

What Features Does it Have?

Although the average 3 wheel rollator doesn’t have as many additional features as the average four-wheel rollator, many models will still have a couple of features. So, it is a good idea to bear these extra features in mind when comparing different models. 

Instead of merely picking the model with the most features, you should consider how useful the specific features will be to you. Then choose the one which is most suited to your requirements and adds the most value. 

Is it Light Enough?

As already mentioned, 3 wheel walkers are considerably lighter than four-wheel rollators. Some models can be several pounds lighter than others. If you have particularly low upper body strength, it makes sense to go for an exceptionally light three-wheeler, though most models will be sufficiently light for the vast majority of seniors.

What Materials Are Used in The Construction?

The frames of 3 wheel rollators are most often made from steel, though certain lightweight models have aluminum frames. These frames are stronger, more durable, and lighter. Walker frames can also be made of carbon fiber. This polymer is considerably even more durable and lighter than both aluminum and steel, but it is also more expensive.

As most standard three-wheel walkers are already light enough for most seniors to carry, the materials the specific model is built from may seem less critical than when comparing four-wheel models. However, durability is still an important factor here, so it’s nevertheless an essential consideration. 

What Are The Wheel Sizes?

Wheels with a larger circumference provide better ride quality, as they can tackle bumps and rough terrain more easily. However, large wheels can make your rollator feel a bit bulkier. 

What is The Weight-Bearing Capacity?

Most standard three-wheel rollators will be just fine most seniors. Still, if you are considerably heavier than the average adult, you should consider getting a heavy-duty walker. 

In any case, it is better to be safe than sorry, so you should always check the weight-bearing capacity of any walker you are considering to buy, regardless of your weight. 

How Much Does it Cost?

The final point on our list is an obvious one, which you should seriously consider whenever making a large purchase. Especially when the product is related to your health and physical wellbeing. 

Carefully consider the pros and cons of your rollator investment.  Buying the cheapest model you can find can be a bad idea when it comes to rollators.  And it is best to stick to established manufacturers, such as Drive Medical and the others we have recommended below.  

Our Top Picks 

We’ve researched numerous 3 wheel rollators and put together an overview of our top picks. All of the listings below are directly from the official Amazon account of the brand/manufacturer, so you can buy in complete confidence. 

Carex Trio Rolling Walker

This stylish black three-wheel rollator from Carex has 7-inch wheels with durable locking brakes. It has an easy-to-use foldable design and was designed to be as lightweight as possible. This particular model comes with a storage bag and built-in pockets which can hold some 

of your valuables. 

At a glance:

Foldable and compact design

7-inch wheels with durable locking brakes

Made from lightweight materials and weighs just 10lbs

Comes with a storage bag and built-in pockets

Features height adjustable handles

Has a 4-star rating from about 700 satisfied customers on Amazon.

Drive Medical Winnie Lite Supreme Three Wheel Rollator

Manufactured by Drive Medical, this three-wheel walker rollator has adjustable brakes and handles. It has 7.5-inch wheels with soft grip tires for indoor and outdoor use and has a 4-star rating from over 1,000 verified reviews on Amazon.

At a glance:

Foldable design and comes with a tan plaid carry pouch

Weighs 15lbs and has a weight-bearing capacity of 300lbs

Features 7.5-inch wheels with soft grip tires and aluminum loop-lock brakes

Easily adjustable handlebars and brakes

Has a 4-star rating from over 1,000 verified reviews on Amazon

NOVA Traveler 3 Wheel Rollator Walker

This black 3 wheel rollator is manufactured by NOVA Medical Products. It comes with a tray, a large zippered storage pouch, and a basket. It is equipped with 8-inch wheels and all-terrain rubber tires. It has a very impressive 4.5-star rating on Amazon from over 1,500 happy customers. 

At a glance: 

Compact and foldable rollator equipped with 8-inch wheels and all-terrain rubber tires

Comes with a tray, storage pouch, and basket

Features NOVA’s patented feather touch handbrakes. 

Has a weight-bearing capacity of 250lbs and weighs 16.5lbs

Can be purchased with a lifetime warranty for some components