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- Last Updated January 18, 2024
The Best Knee Scooters (2024 Reviews and Analysis)
Knee scooters, otherwise known as knee walkers, knee coasters, and orthopedic scooters, are some of those unique mobility products that you never knew you wanted until you tried them. You’d used crutches, spent time on walkers, but a knee scooter? Really?
Yep. They are great. Fun to ride, make you feel mobile, and grant a lot of independence. If you’ve been recommended crutches by someone, perhaps after an ankle or leg injury, but are finding them a pain to use, a knee scooter is a really good alternative.
But not all knee scooters are made equal. There are many different styles and forms available, and they often differ greatly, with their unique pros and cons. Due to personal circumstances and preferences, the best knee walker for one person is unlikely to be the best knee walker for another.
With that in mind, we’ve reviewed dozens of the best knee scooters to identify the best options for many different types of users. We’ve looked through and tested many, compared their attributes, and here are the ones that came out on top:
An excellent, compact, knee scooter at a fantastic price point. High quality and easy to use.
From our in-depth research, the KneeRover GO Knee Walker stood out as the clear overall winner. It provides impressive quality and features for a very reasonable price. It is lightweight, compact, foldable, and offers really high quality at a really fair price. Great for increased mobility, independence, and freedom without crutches!
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Knee Scooters
| Editor’s Picks | Knee Scooters | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Best Overall | KneeRover GO Knee Walker | 4.3/5 |
| 2. Runner Up | KneeRover Deluxe Steerable Knee Scooter | 4.5/5 |
| 3. Best Heavy Duty | All Terrain KneeRover Steerable Knee Scooter | 4.3/5 |
| 4. Best For Elderly | Drive Medical DV8 Aluminum Steerable Knee Walker | 4.2/5 |
| 5. Best Budget Pick | KneeRover Economy Steerable Knee Scooter | 4.4/5 |
Our Top Pick: KneeRover GO Knee Walker
The KneeRover GO Knee Walker is truly something special.
Unlike many other knee scooters on the market, this one does not take much space as it is light in weight and graciously portable. It is a very compact knee scooter that weighs about 20.4 lbs while still having a weight capacity of 300 lbs. That’s impressive, and it goes to the scooter’s great build quality.
Due to its small size, it is easy to move and turn even in small and tight places, making it an ideal option to maneuver indoor areas. The width of this scooter is 15.5 inches, and the wheels are only 7.5 inches, so you can easily fold it and take it with you in your car or on public transport. It also features a handlebar folding option which allows for stress-free storage and removal – you can see how easy the folding and unfolding is in this official video from KneeRover themselves:
This scooter is also very easy to assemble, so it can be used right away after purchasing. It has great stability, a decent cushion and works across many terrains. It’s our favorite knee scooter by a significant margin – and a great match for most potential users!
KneeRover GO Knee Walker Key Features:
- Compact and portable
- It can be folded and unfolded in seconds
- Lightweight and portable
- Great for both indoor and outdoor use
- Rubber wheels for smooth riding
- Thick and comfortable knee cushion
- Adjustable handlebars
Our Runner-Up Pick: KneeRover Deluxe Steerable Knee Scooter
A high-end and high-quality knee scooter with handlebars for responsive steering.
When you have one of your legs out of action, your mobility is bound to be somewhat restricted. But the “KneeRover Deluxe Steerable Knee Cycle Knee Walker Scooter Crutch Alternative” (seriously, that’s what they call it) is another great option for gaining more independence while you recover.
Despite being from KneeRover again, and hence of excellent quality, this scooter stands out because of its tie-rod steering mechanism that allows you greater control and maneuverability of the device. This feature is not present in many other scooters out there, so if you have a knee walker that is nimble and easy to steer, this product was made for you.
Additionally, the dual brake system and parking brakes provided with this scooter ensure you will be kept safe and secure when using it. In terms of comfort, it is armed with a 3.5 inch contoured and padded platform to reduce any strain on your knees, up to a weight capacity of 300lbs.
It comes with a wire basket for storage, so it is easy for you to hold and carry things while moving from one place to another, and it is also equipped with a flexible handlebar and knee platform height.
And with all that in mind, it’s clear to see why this scooter was our runner-up pick! Another great option despite being on the higher-budget end.
KneeRover Deluxe Steerable Key Features:
- 300 lb weight capacity
- Foldable, easily portable, design
- 7.5-inch polyurethane rubber wheels for smooth riding
- Adjustable handlebar and seat heights
- The contoured and padded knee platform
- Tie-rod steering for more efficient movement
Best Heavy Duty: All Terrain KneeRover Steerable Knee Scooter
Built with a weight capacity of up to 350lbs, All Terrain KneeRover with dual brakes is a great, safe pick for those on the heavier side.
Unlike bariatric wheelchairs, with hundreds, it can be harder to find a heavy-duty knee scooter. Thankfully, KneeRover has created something that gets the job done splendidly with their Folding Knee Scooter. A great alternative to canes, crutches, and walkers that will protect you from arm fatigue and back pain.
With its dual braking system, this scooter allows the user to avoid putting too much weight and pressure on the injured/painful area while still roam comfortably.
This product from KneeRover also has high-quality tires that can not only withstand a lot of weight but also allow the scooter to roll smoothly and absorb any external impacts or shocks. Like the KneeRover Deluxe, the All Terrain KneeRover Steerable Knee Scooter also has adjustable handlebars and a knee platform (18-21.5 inches) alongside adjustable brakes.
The frame is durable, sturdy, and, as mentioned above, has a 350 lbs weight capacity, making this scooter our top heavy-duty pick!
All Terrain KneeRover Steerable Knee Scooter Key Features:
- Steerable
- 12 inches Air-filled tires absorb shock and allow for smooth use
- The dual, lockable braking system
- Foldable and lightweight
- Easily transportable
- The knee pad and handlebars can be adjusted for comfort.
Best For the Elderly: Drive Medical DV8 Aluminum Steerable Knee Walker
A durable and unexpectedly lightweight knee walker with easy use and setup is a perfect choice for seniors.
The Drive Medical DV8 Aluminum Knee Walker is very durable and unexpectedly lightweight, given that, unlike other knee scooters, this one has a frame built from aluminum!
The folding handlebar allows this scooter, like the KneeRover Go, to be easily fit anywhere (e.g., car, truck, airplane, or closet). In addition, the handlebar and seat are adjustable for appropriate height tuning, allowing users to operate the device with their hips at ease.
Beyond offering protection for frailty, the DV8 is also great for the elderly in that it comes with a pair of 8-inch front wheels with very responsive but very smooth brakes, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride.
A key component of this knee scooter is its knee padding and cushioning made with very high-quality material to ensure a comfortable ride and prevent strain and pressure.
Drive Medical DV8 Aluminum Key Features:
- Channeled leg pads
- Tool-free adjustment of seat and handlebar height
- Front-wheel steering for easy maneuverability
- Simple and effective brake system
- Durable and lightweight aluminum frame
- Ideal for indoor and outdoor use
Best Budget Pick: KneeRover Economy Steerable Knee Scooter
A dependable knee scooter/walker with all the standard features for those on a tighter budget.
Despite coming in as the most affordable scooter on our list, the KneeRover Economy Knee Scooter still includes steering and other great features! Weighing only 21 lbs, it can easily hold up to 300 lbs of weight. This makes it an ideal low-cost pick for all types of users, whether they’re healing from surgery, mobility problems, amputation, or have a leg/ankle fracture.
This scooter has 7.5 “thick wheels that are easy and comfortable to ride on many different terrains. It also features an adjustable padded knee platform and handlebar. It is a perfect size for most people and is manufactured with good-quality frame material regardless of the cost.
The KneeRover Economy model includes a dual rear brake system to ensure safety and protection. Like all KneeRover scooter’s, it is straightforward to assemble:
KneeRover Economy Steerable Knee Scooter Key Features:
- 16-inch front axle
- The lightweight frame with a high weight capacity
- The dual rear braking system
- 7.5-inch rubber wheels for control and stability
- Fully adjustable and compact
- Features a quick-release folding mechanism
Who Should Buy A Knee Scooter?
Generally, knee scooters and knee walkers are designed for those people who face immobility issues that affect only one of their legs. These immobility issues can be temporary (e.g., a person might healing from a leg injury, sprained ankle, or foot surgery) or permanent (e.g., chronic leg conditions or amputations).
However, there are no set rules in this area! Some people use knee scooters because they prefer them to other assistive mobility devices such as walkers, crutches, and wheelchairs. A common reason for this preference is that knee scooters are easy to use and make people feel especially active and independent.
Thankfully, there are so many different knee scooters on the market that it should not be hard for most people to find one that suits them. Although these scooters are perhaps not as commonly seen as, for example, wheelchairs, they still offer many unique benefits in contrast to other options. The most predominant one is that they do not require the upper-body strength other devices require.
To truly benefit from a knee scooter, there are a number of considerations that you should make before purchasing one. Not every scooter is suitable for everyone.
Knee Scooter Types
Foldable or collapsible
Knee scooters that fold are also known as collapsible knee scooters. This style of knee scooter can fold down to a smaller, more portable size when not in use. While traveling, you can easily collapse and make your scooter smaller if needed.
All-terrain
All-terrain knee scooters are more durable. These scooters are ready for any situation and any terrain. A basic knee scooter is fine on paved surfaces and even floors, but an all-terrain model is preferable. All-terrain knee scooters include larger wheels and tread to travel smoothly on uneven areas, including gravel, dirt, and more.
Heavyweight
A heavyweight knee scooter is designed for larger riders. These knee scooters are built to carry heavier persons and provide an increased level of balance. They often have a greater carrying capacity than most other models on the market.
Important Features to Consider
When you’re first considering a knee scooter, the number of features and figures you will see on marketing material can be overwhelming. Inches, pounds, capacities, materials, what does it all mean? For your benefit, here is a detailed list of what we consider to be the most important aspects that you should look out for before you purchase a knee scooter:
Frame Material
It is crucial to understand what material has been used to manufacture any knee scooter’s frame. The material should be durable and strong – preferably something like aluminum or steel to ensure reliability. You want your knee scooter to be made from strong material because these are devices that are supposed to hold the entire weight of your body, so you do need one that can provide optimum support and protect you from injury. The strong and sturdy material will also be beneficial when considering the different weather conditions you might encounter with your scooter. You don’t want a device that will be tarnished during rain or a storm.
Brake System
In terms of safety, this is probably the most important feature to consider because nobody wants to end up rolling down a hill, unable to stop! There are many different types of brake systems in knee scooters, but we suggest going for one where the brakes are positioned on the handlebars, like with a bicycle. For a better understanding of the brake system of the scooter you are considering, it’s worth consulting the manufacturer’s website.
Weight
Another big aspect to look out for in a knee scooter is its capacity to hold weight. Different knee scooters have different weight ranges that they can support. While a regular scooter can hold about 300 lbs, options such as the BodyMed Folding Knee Scooter go higher. If you purchase a scooter that cannot accommodate your weight, you expose yourself to (further) injury.
Basket
A good quality knee scooter should have a basket or some storage box attached to it. This is an important feature to look for because, as a user, you likely want to carry a few items with you when traveling. That said, if there isn’t a storage basket, you can usually purchase a compatible one separately.
Tires
Find out whether the model you want to purchase has high-quality tires or not. If you intend to use your scooter outdoors, you want them built from a durable material like polyurethane. You will also want to consider whether the tires are suitable to be used in harsh weather conditions. Even if you don’t use your knee scooter in the rain, there will still be times when the ground is wet, and it will be vital that your tires don’t slip or struggle.
Ease of Assembly
You probably want to buy a knee scooter that is easy to assemble and does not require expensive or fancy tools to set up. As one of our top 5 picks, we recommend choosing a device that does not require much effort and time when it comes to assembling, cleaning, storing, and transporting it from one area to another.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Knee Scooters Work?
Different knee scooters work in different ways. Still, generally, they have four wheels and provide support for one leg while allowing the user to use their other leg for independent propulsion. The typical knee scooter will also include a knee pad designed to provide extensive support and comfort. The best way to understand how a knee scooter works is to look at one of the many pictures we include on this page.
Are Knee Scooters Foldable?
Generally, yes. Most knee scooters available for purchase can be folded in different ways depending upon their features and specifications. Usually, a lever is present which is connected to the handlebars, and pulling or releasing the lever will automatically fold away your scooter. A similar lever is present in some knee scooters, but it is instead positioned over the seat. In either case, this should allow you to store and transport your scooter easily.
Are Knee Scooters Better Than Crutches?
Ultimately, this comes down to personal preference. Generally, we prefer knee scooters because they don’t require as much upper body strength as crutches and are easier to use. In addition, knee scooters allow for more and faster mobility and are relatively easy to adjust compared to crutches.
Will Insurance Cover a Knee Scooter?
Generally, no, they would rather you use a cheaper alternative like crutches. But this entirely depends on your insurance policy and coverage and whether you qualify for any government aid (e.g., Medicare/Medicaid). Therefore, you should inquire with your insurance to find out if they will cover the cost of your knee walker.
How Much Does a Knee Scooter Cost?
- Under $100: These basic models offer the same mobility as pricier options but lack some of the features of higher-end models.
- $100 to $250: Prices for knee scooters typically are in this range. You’ll be able to get high-quality and reliable performance.
- $250 and up: If you want the highest-rated, most advanced, feature-rich model, you’ll need to pay more.
Can I Buy A Knee Scooter Online?
There are many places online where you can easily purchase a good-quality knee scooter. Our top picks are Amazon (linked in this post) if you’re on a budget or 1800Wheelchair if you have more flexibility in that area.
Other Knee Scooters We Reviewed
An excellent, compact knee scooter at an amazing price point. High quality and easy to use.
We looked at 10 other knee scooters and knee walkers from a wide range of companies and brands! Even though they didn’t make our 5 best knee scooter list, these can still be good choices in the right circumstances.
All Terrain Heavy-Duty KneeRover Steerable Knee Walker
The KneeRover All Terrain is a durable scooter with great reliability, perfect for independence among people dealing with foot surgery, a broken leg, or other lower-body medical conditions.
The 12-inch pneumatic tires are specially designed to work on dust, dirt, grass, gravel, and of course, sidewalks with a level of comfort and agility not seen by many other models – that’s probably why it’s quite expensive!
It is compatible with both the left and right leg and features a 3-inch thick-knee platform. It is easy an easy scooter to assemble and offers height adjustment features. Alongside its great aesthetic appeal, this product has a weight capacity of 400 lbs! One of the highest we’ve seen!
The tie rod steering system also makes it stand out among its competitors as it allows the user tight steering, which is really useful in narrow and crowded areas.
KneeRover All Terrain Key Features:
- Adjustable hand brake
- Adjustable knee rest
- Dual crossbar and rear brakes
- Tool-free assembly
- Pneumatic tires and padded knee rest
- Heavy-duty construction
Roscoe Knee Scooter with Basket
The Roscoe Knee Scooter weighs around 30 lbs after installation, so it is a lightweight model. The wheels present on the backside of the device are large and wide enough to roll the scooter easily through grooves and bumps on the road.
The scooter’s handle makes it very easy to maneuver around and gives you extensive control over the equipment, which is great for safety.
The padding on the knee platform is ample, and can be its height can be adjusted accordingly for maximum comfort. Assembling the scooter is very easy and doesn’t require special tools or professional help.
In terms of safety, this scooter is fitted out with a high-quality brake system so you can stop immediately when required. You can also fold this scooter with a thumb release lever for easy transport and storage.
Roscoe Knee Scooter Key Features:
- Extremely durable and built to last
- 8 inch clear wheels for smooth riding
- The extra padded knee platform
- Foldable
- Adjustable handle brake
- Padded handlebar grip
KneeRover HYBRID Knee Scooter
The KneeRover HYBRID Knee Scooter with All-Terrain Front Axle Upgrade is the first scooter we discovered to be available with all the key features of a pneumatic front axle upgrade. The front axle is detachable and ensures ease of folding through a plain thumb release knob.
It comes with a four-wheel design to ensure freedom of transportation, balance as well as stability. It also has 9-inch pneumatic front wheels, which give fluid-like mobility, making it a decent option for those with more sensitive injuries. It is compatible with the right and left leg and features a 3.5-inch contoured knee platform.
KneeRover HYBRID Knee Scooter Key Features:
- Tool-free setup and assembly
- All-terrain pneumatic front axle wheels
- Easily foldable, lightweight, and versatile
- Ergonomic rubber hand grips
- Easy to store and transport
Vive Knee Walker for Injuries
The Vive Steerable Knee Walker is a durable and compact scooter. It comes with a modern design to give additional stability and exceptional comfort, specifically to people recovering from leg injuries.
The build quality and steering make this scooter ideal for indoor and outdoor maneuvering. A storage bag is attached to the scooter to carry essential items out and about, and the foam knee cushion is padded and contoured to support your leg easily. The cushioning is specifically designed to distribute your weight uniformly across the platform and provides airflow for a comfortable experience.
In addition to the above, the polyurethane wheels are 8-inches wide and act as a stabilized base for easy travel. This scooter’s other significant features include advanced dual rear brakes, an adjustable knee platform, and an adjustable steering handle.
Vive Steerable Roller Key Features:
- Modern design
- Polyurethane tires for stability
- The contoured and padded knee platform
- Durable, compact, and lightweight frame
- Adjustable steering handle
KneeRover Jr. Knee Walker for Kids
The KneeRover Knee Walker Jr. was designed specifically for children as well as smaller adults. Whilst smaller in size than most scooters we tested, the quality is still very high.
The firm, ergonomically designed handlebars of this scooter are neither too wide nor too narrow, allowing for easy and comfortable navigation. They feature rubber grips that are easy to clutch and clean. The brakes attached to the handlebars are very receptive and provide an instant stop to help you maintain your control over the scooter.
The knee cushion is seamless and built with lightweight foam for comfort, and its height is adjustable. So if you are looking for a knee scooter for a child, this is the one to pick.
Knee Walker Jr. Key Features
- Smooth handle grip
- Dual crossbar frame for robustness
- Unique glossy finish
- Solid steel construction for long-lasting durability and quality
- Adjustable seat and handlebar
- Foam cushion for comfort
Roscoe Economy Knee Scooter
The Roscoe Economy Knee Scooter is exceptionally durable and one of the highest quality scooters we reviewed at this budget price point. Like all Roscoe devices, this scooter is built to last and can support a person up to 250 lbs.
It features 7.25-inch wheels that are best for use indoors. That’s not to say the scooter cannot function outdoors – but it wouldn’t be our top pick for this area.
This knee scooter is steerable and maneuverable, so it can be used as an affordable alternative to crutches. That said, the knee platform does quickly become uncomfortable due to its fairly lackluster padding.
It can be easily folded at the handlebars, so it becomes easy to store and transfer from one place to another, like many other knee scooters we reviewed. However, we would only recommend buying this one if you’re on a very tight budget.
Roscoe Economy Knee Scooter Key Features:
- Single handlebar brake
- Easy folding through thumb release lever
- 7.25″ tires with airtight bearings
- Lightweight and compact
- Great, budget price
Swivelmate Knee Walker
The Swivelmate Knee Walker is marketed as the most easy-to-use and maneuverable knee scooter on the market. It features excellent steering, stability, and comfort. It only weighs 22 lbs but can accommodate passengers of up to 400 lbs. No tools are required for the setup, unpack it, and you are good to go.
The front wheels can turn 90 degrees which is something we didn’t see with other scooters. This allows for easy movement in tight spaces such as the home or office. A patent-protected belt drive feature gives this device it is outstanding steering, so it’s not something you can find on other products.
The 7-inch polyurethane front wheels make the Swivelmate a good option to be used both indoors and outdoors, and a bonus fifth center wheel provides extra stability across different surfaces and terrains. The steering column, the knee platform, and the handlebars can all be adjusted according to the user’s preferences.
In relation to comfort, this walker has a 3-inch thick cushion for your knee and a curved surface to evenly distribute pressure – making for a very comfortable ride.
Swivelmate Knee Walker Key Features:
- Patented belt drive steering
- 90-degree turning radius
- Five wheels for extra stability
- 3″ padded knee platform
- Powerful and responsive disk brake system
- Tool-free assembly and disassembly
EMS Free Spirit Knee and Leg Walker
The Essential Medical Supply Free Spirit Knee and Leg Walker is another solid choice if you’re looking for a unique knee walker that is easy to transport. It can easily be folded, and the belt acts as a feature for securing the device during travel, allowing you to keep the walker in place when carrying it around.
Stability is the key focus of this scooter; EMS sought to develop a product that would make its users feel comfortable and safe. Keeping in line with this, it includes large wheels and a distinctive turning mechanism that prevents you from over-steering. It can be tricky to get the hang of this at first, but it soon becomes second nature.
Essential Medical Supply Free Spirit Knee and Leg Walker Key Features
- Loop and hand brakes
- Foldable, lockable, and lightweight
- Soft and adjustable knee pads
- 8-inch diameter and 1 inch thick wheels
Isokinetics Inc. Steerable Knee Walker/Scooter
The Isokinetic Walker, while being limited in supply, is a great dual steel frame scooter. It is an enhanced mobility aid that can hold a weight of up to 300 lbs.
With a single brake, you can control the overall functionality of this scooter surprisingly quickly, especially when you compare it to knee scooters with a dual brake system. The given parking brakes also come in handy if you need to disembark anywhere.
An adequate height-adjustable knee cushion is provided to make sure that your injured leg doesn’t experience any kind of pain or discomfort while riding, and non-scuff wheels make it a strong indoors-only option.
Isokinetics Inc. Steerable Knee Walker/Scooter Key Features:
- Four non-scuff wheels
- Single brake lever
- Sturdy frame and structure built with steel
- Features a detachable basket
- Adjustable steering column and handlebars
- Padded knee pad
ELENKER Steerable Knee Walker Deluxe Medical Scooter
Finally, we review the fairly recent ELENKER Steerable Knee Walker Medical Scooter, a prime choice for people who are recovering from conditions such as ankle/leg surgery, fractures, sprains, or leg amputation.
This knee scooter weighs only 23 lbs but can support up to 300 lbs. Despite its lightweight, ELENKER has clearly used high-quality materials to ensure users are comfortable, stable, and feel safe no matter where they are traveling.
Like many others on our list, it is a steerable knee scooter that features handlebars that work alongside a quick release folding mechanism for simple storage and transport.
The handles of this scooter have brakes that can help you slow your speed down and instantly stop if required, and the knee pad is made out of memory foam to relieve inflammation and pain.
ELENKER Steerable Knee Walker Medical Scooter Key Features:
- Push down brakes
- 300 lbs weight capacity
- Easy fold switch for easy storage
- Adjustable knee pad, handlebars, and rear disk brakes
- 8 inch PVC wheels for easy handling
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