If you suffer from arthritis, are older, or have mobility related disabilities then it can often times be very hard to get around. Something as simple as going to the grocery store can be very painful and leave you so exhausted that you can barely drive home. A mobility scooter can help you restore your independence and mobility. There are many different types and models of mobility scooters available on the market, and it can at times seem overwhelming. It doesn't have to though. Buying the right mobility scooter is very important, but once you know a little bit about the different types of mobility scooters the choice is actually very easy.

If you haven't already read it check out my article titled "What Type of Mobility Scooter is Right for You." It explains the difference between travel scooters and the more traditional style of mobility scooter.

Like most things, if you understand a little bit about mobility scooters it is much easier to make a good choice when it comes to buy one. Mobility scooters usually come in either 3-wheel or 4-wheel designs. There are advantages and disadvantages to both types and many fine scooters are available in both designs.

The main advantage to 3-wheeled mobility scooters is a decreased turn radius. Of course there are exceptions to the rule, but most of the time 3-wheeled mobility scooters can turn in about 30% less space than a 4-wheel mobility scooter. This makes it ideal for maneuvering around furniture, in areas where there are many obstacles close together, and in areas where there are a lot of people. The Ameriglide Lite, a very dependable and reliable mobility scooter, has a turn radius of only 31 inches. 3-wheel mobility scooters usually weigh less than 4-wheel mobility scooters, so usually travel scooters are 3-wheeled.

4-wheeled mobility scooters offer increased stability, better balance, and normally support more weight than 3-wheeled mobility scooters. This is because 4-wheeled scooters are by and large wider front wheel base and this helps to spread the overall weight out evenly between the front and the back. If you are a heavier person or are extremely tall then a 4-wheeled scooter is probably best for you. Since 4-wheeled scooters have better stability and balance, they are also better suited for the outdoors. As with anything there are of course exceptions to the rule. A company called Shoprider makes several models that have a very small turn radius of about 37 inches. They achieve this by putting the front wheels very close together and while they are very good scooters, they will not have the same stability as something with a wider wheel base. These types of units with a very small wheel base offer more stability than a 3-wheel scooter, but they offer significantly less stability than that of something like the Pride Go-Go Elite.

Remember to asses you needs honestly and openly before you purchase a scooter. There are many quality mobility scooters available in 4-wheel and 3-wheel design, so finding one to fit your needs is never an issue.