Which Better 3 or 4 Wheel Knee Scooter?
- Edd Siu
August 9, 2021
- When looking into mobility options for foot injuries, you might consider using a knee scooter. They are many great benefits over other alternatives, as discussed here. There are a few models that offer different benefits and choosing the best one can be tricky.
However, there is a very clear difference between three-wheel knee scooters and four-wheel knee scooters.Three-Wheel Knee Scooters Case Studies
Three-wheeled knee scooters are good to use, but they have a few flaws that need to be considered.
Since these models only have one wheel in the rear of the unit, this creates a balance issue, thus creating risks of tipping over.
When you make sharp turns, the back wheel tends to tip away from you, and you start to lose balance.
Additionally, the unit is very easy to tip over when backing up. This may cause an instinct reaction to put your injured foot down—risking re-injuring yourself.
If your knee scooter has a wide turning radius, then you'll be making a lot of three-point-turns.
Some three-wheel knee scooter models come with a small attachable side wheel to add stability (similar to a training wheel). But in our opinion, this is something extra you have to worry about installing correctly and periodically making sure the bolts are tight to prevent accidents.
Is turning radius and maneuverability important to you?
If you'll be using a knee scooter mostly indoors, we recommend a knee scooter like the Swivelmate. It's the only knee scooter that allows you to make stable 90 degree turns—this thanks to its wider front base and extra wheel.
Three versus Four
Overall, 4-wheel scooters are considered more stable than 3-wheel scooters.
This is because balancing on a moving knee scooter becomes easier as the base gets wider—hence why most knee scooters have four wheels in the rear.
Further Reading: How To Use A Knee Scooter Properly (An Illustrated Guide)Four-Wheel Knee Scooters
When choosing between 3 wheels & 4 wheel knee scooter for your injury recovery, stability is a big factor—but peace of mind is the number one thing to consider.
When it comes to cost, stability, and comfort, your choice of knee scooter will depend on how often and where you're likely to use the unit on a daily basis.
If you're looking for a knee scooter with pneumatic tires that are great for outdoors and also indoors, our recommended choice is the Orthomate All-Terrain Knee Scooter.
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