Mobility Best Sellers
"When you discover your mission, you will feel its demand. It will fill you with enthusiasm and a burning desire to get to work on it," —W. Clement Stone.
The goal of any product designer is to create a product so innovative and so valued in its industry that it virtually flies off the shelves. When supply has to chase demand, product designers know they have met their objective. With so many mobility products at your fingertips, have you ever wondered what products are the most popular for each mobility manufacturer based on sales? Well, it's not a secret anymore. Here manufacturers reveal their top two mobility best sellers and reveal why they think their products are in such demand in the marketplace.
What's In Demand? The Golden Compass Power Chair
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Golden Compass power chair offers dealers a high quality, center wheel drive power base with an articulating frame design for enhanced maneuverability and obstacle climbing ability at a great price point. The Compass comes standard with a captain's seat and can accept our Pro-Flex solid seat pan seating system. It qualifies under the following Medicare codes: K0816 Group 1; K0823 Group 2; K0815 Group 1; and K0822 Group 2," says Patricia O'Brien, communications manager.
Golden Technologies; (800) 624-6374; www.goldentech.com
What's In Demand? The Golden Buzzaround Lite GB-106 Scooter
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Buzzaround Lite GB-106 scooter features an easy to disassemble and assemble design thanks to its wireless technology. It has a 250 lb. weight capacity and a fresh, attractive design. It disassembles in three easy steps: 1. pop off the seat; 2. pull off the battery pack and 3. push the frame apart. It also comes standard with three sets of quick-snap shroud colors in red, blue and sahara. The Buzzaround Lite GB-106 qualifies under the following Medicare codes: K0800 Group 1," says Patricia O'Brien, communications manager.
Golden Technologies; (800) 624-6374; www.goldentech.com
What's In Demand? The Denali
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "A mid-wheel built for maneuverability and style, the ergonomic office style seat highlights the distinctive look of the Denali. The chair looks like a chair that you want instead of need. It has a patented suspension and drive system that allows this chair to step over obstacles that would stop other power chairs. The easy slide-out batteries make this chair a breeze to work on. For the more aggressive user, you can upgrade the batteries to group 22 batteries. Truly a chair for many user types and any occasion, even the color can be changed effortlessly. The Denali is the chair for today's more sophisticated user," says Stephanie Treant.
Drive Medical; (877) 224-0946; www.drivemedical.com
What's In Demand? Cirrus Plus EC Power
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "When size matters, the folding Cirrus Plus EC comes to the rescue. A foldable power chair stocked from 16" to 22" widths, the Cirrus Plus EC is packed with numerous standard options. With adjustments throughout, this chair can be fitted to most users. Put your reimbursement concerns to rest," says Stephanie Treant.
Drive Medical; (877) 224-0946; www.drivemedical.com
What's In Demand? Curb-Sider Interior Lift
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Curb-Sider has an industry exclusive Direct Gear Drive technology, which means it doesn't use chains. Chains tend to become loose with time, causing "flop" (working themselves off the sprockets) which requires maintenance. The Curb-Sider also can lift up to 400 lbs., easily handling any power wheelchair. With more than 600 custom sub bases and docking devices, as well as a new Modular Adjustable Sub Base, the Curb-Sider is the most versatile interior vehicle lift," says Mike Krawczyk, marketing manager.
Bruno Independent Living Aids; (866) 882-4990; www.bruno.com
What's In Demand? Out-Sider Meridian Vehicle Lift
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "Out-Sider Meridian is rugged and dependable exterior vehicle lift. It's available in three different packages to handle any scooter or power wheelchair. Its low-profile design allows complete visibility through the rear window, and the optional 'Swing-Away' rotates the platform to a maximum of 170 degrees, providing total rear entry accessibility. With easy, one handle, one button operation, and a built-in safety latch to prevent unintentional lowering of the platform, the Out-Sider Meridian is fully automatic and self-leveling," says Mike Krawczyk, marketing manager.
Bruno Independent Living Aids; (866) 882-4990; www.bruno.com
What's In Demand? Total Driving Experience TDX SP Wheelchair
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The TDX SP features smooth driving capabilities and SureStep suspension that allows the front casters to smoothly drop and climb full 3" obstacles. It has MK6i electronics, which provides a standard 90-amp controller for smooth driving performance. Its quiet stability lock provides a stable, quiet ride. In addition, its bold new styling is unmatched," says Nirav Pandya, group product manager, power mobility.
Invacare Corp.; (440) 329-6000; www.invacare.com
What's In Demand? ProSPIN X4 Ultralightweight Performance Wheelchair
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "Consumers like the responsiveness and performance it offers through its innovative design, which includes an energy efficient side frame and rigidizing H-blocks that hold the seat rail firmly in place. The X4's axle plate design allows for a number of seat-to-floor and center-of-gravity combinations. Other features include reversible wheel locks along with swing-in and swing-out front riggings. Providers and clinicians also react very positively when they test ride the ProSPIN X4 and get a sense of its responsiveness and lightweight feel. Even though the functional and clinical benefits of the ProSPIN are apparent, consumers and providers love it because of its compact, unique aesthetic look it has brought to manual wheelchairs," says Aaron Henry, product manager, custom manual.
Invacare Corp.; (440) 329-6000; www.invacare.com
What's In Demand? 6 Runner Power Chair
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The 6Runner Power Chair with all six points of contact on the ground provides superior stability and maneuverability. The dual articulating frames allow flexibility on uneven terrain eliminating the problem of high center point. The 6Runner comes standard with a luxurious leatherette high-back reclining seat with the versatility of many other seating options including light rehab seating and seat pan style seat with captain back. Adjustable arm rest assemblies (height, width, angle), adjustable footplate (height, length, angle), and flat-free tires completes this technically advanced package," says Janet Butterfield, technical supervisor.
Shoprider Mobility Products; (800) 743-0772; www.shoprider.com
What's In Demand? Smartie Power Chair
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "With new Envirofriendly™ Battery technology, Shoprider introduces another first in powered mobility with its extremely lightweight, high performance and extended life high energy battery. Smartie™ provides virtually zero maintenance over the life of its battery, an astounding 2000+ charge-discharge cycles. Simply put, the Envirofriendly™ Battery outlasts the bigger, heavier batteries by up to five times longer without compromising performance. Adjustable arm rest assemblies (height, width, angle), adjustable footplate (height, length, angle), and flat-free tires completes this technically advanced package," says Janet Butterfield, technical supervisor.
Shoprider Mobility Products; (800) 743-0772; www.shoprider.com
What's In Demand? Amigo RD
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "Maximum function and durability continue to hallmark the Amigo® RD as the most popular Amigo model. Personal features tailored to meet individual needs promote an active lifestyle and greatly assist with mobility-related aids of daily living. The combination of a small turning radius and rear wheel design allows maneuverability throughout indoor/outdoor applications equally well. Its compact design allows for easy transport in the majority of vehicle trunks. With a robust 350 lb. weight capacity, infinitely adjustable handle, 360 degree seat rotation, and optional power seat lift, the Amigo RD comfortably accommodates a wide range of people. Fully customizable and made in the USA," says Fran Hetzner, marketing and advertising.
Amigo Mobility International Inc.; (800) 821-2710 x221/x245; www.myamigo.com
What's In Demand? Amigo RT Express
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: The Amigo® RT Express is a streamlined 20.5? narrow rear drive product. Its open design allows ample legroom and the versatility to accommodate people of all sizes from petite to 6? and over. Ideal for inside use, but with Amigo rear drive power to smoothly navigate outdoors. The Amigo Lift-All® transports the RT Express into virtually any trunk hassle-free. It offers no-charge color selections, an industry-best power seat lift option, standard infinitely adjustable handle with 360° seat rotation, and customization capabilities with a large selection of accessories and options for personalized mobility. Made in the USA," says Fran Hetzner, marketing and advertising.
Amigo Mobility International Inc.; (800) 821-2710 x221/x245; www.myamigo.com
What's In Demand? The Fusion
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "One dealer had her Fusion for less than a week. After a demonstration to three customers, three were sold. A dealer who bought six Fusions in just a few weeks commented that customers love the Fusion?s versatility. It is easy to use indoors and works great when they go outside. The dealer/physical therapist team like the support of the tall back, and the quality and support of the seat foam. Fusions 29.5 turning radius is much more maneuverable than small tippy travel scooters, all real wheel drive power chairs and many front wheel drive. Outside Fusion has superior performance and power to go where no other indoor usable scooters and power chairs can go. Fusions patented pending design climbs 12o resna rated inclines, 3? curb cuts and easily traverses soft ground. All day comfort is provided by full size seating and leg room," says DuWayne Kramer, CEO.
Pacesaver/Leisure-Lift Inc.; (800) 255-0285; www.pacesaver.com
What's In Demand? The Boss
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "PaceSaver's American-made Boss is better with longer warranties and larger dealer profit margins than other bariatric chairs. Boss 3/4 dive provides much better indoor maneuverability than rear- or front-wheel drive bariatric chairs. The Boss gives greater stability for the high center of gravity user, than teeter-totter center drive chairs. Boss has better outdoor range and power. Boss uses a 90 amp modular controller, and short power lines to deliver up to 200 watts more power to the cool running 4 pole high torque motors. Maximum efficient in line gear drives deliver the power and range to go up and down 140 yard, 7 to 9 degree hills an amazing 14 times with a 650lb rider. Boss seat provides a better fit and comfort with a 2" to 3" lower seat height for short bariatric users. Advanced 5" thick automotive spring support, fully adjustable seat and automatic 50 degree recline provide the user with all day comfort. Step on footrest access and Stanza provide the easiest user front chair access. Exclusive Boss chair tie-down system provides safe vehicle transport. The Boss system is better, because it is a fully developed / integrated design with more than 20 years of bariatric experience," says DuWayne Kramer, CEO.
Pacesaver/Leisure-Lift Inc.; (800) 255-0285; www.pacesaver.com
What's In Demand? The Go-Go Elite Traveller
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Go-Go Elite is the ultimate travel mobility product, disassembling easily into five lightweight pieces that fit into even the smallest car trunks as well as the storage closets on common transportation mediums like planes, trains, and buses. The Go-Go Elite?s compact size allows it to negotiate narrow hallways and tight spaces while also providing stable outdoor performance. The Elite features an auto-latching lockup mechanism that permits simple frame separation with one hand and an auto-connecting front to rear cable that allows for easy assembly/reassembly. "Pride's best-selling mobility products are the Go-Go Elite Traveller Travel Scooter and the Celebrity X Scooter. Both exhibit a sense of style resulting in a high level of curb appeal and boast performance that meets or exceeds ANSI/RESNA standards. The Go-Go Elite Traveller and Celebrity X are feature-rich mobility products, built to the highest quality standards, incorporating state-of-the-art technology." — Pride Mobility Products
Pride Mobility Products; (800) 800-8586; www.pridemobility.com
What's In Demand? The Celebrity X
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Celebrity X, available in 3 or 4-wheel format, offers elegant simplicity, unmatched reliability and impressive easy-to-use performance and operation. The Celebrity X provides sleek styling, while delivering advanced features usually reserved for higher-priced scooters. Features include a Delta tiller with wraparound handles for easy throttle operation, auto latching lock-up mechanism for easy assembly/disassembly, and bright, long lasting LED lights for added safety. Many features were developed as a direct result of customer feedback. The Celebrity X is the perfect blend of style, performance technology, and affordable pricing." — Pride Mobility Products
Pride Mobility Products; (800) 800-8586; www.pridemobility.com
What's In Demand? Everest & Jennings Metro IC4 Manual Wheelchair
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "Everest & Jennings(r) Metro(r) IC4 Manual Wheelchair offers high quality at an affordable price. It meets Medicare Code K00004, weighs just 34 lb. and has a 300 lb. weight capacity. It includes a limited lifetime warranty on sideframes and crossbraces. Options include: chart pocket; black nylon padded, reinforced upholstery; dual-position rear axle and caster fork; height-adjustable back; flip-back desk-length or full-length arms; swingaway footrests or elevating legrests; compatible with after-market backs, seats, front rigging, and upholstery," says Dan Grieco.
Graham-Field Health Products; (800) 347-5678; www.grahamfield.com
What's In Demand? Lumex Walkabout Lite Rollator Series
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "Lumex(r) Walkabout Lite Rollator Series features high quality at an affordable price. It's very portable, weighs only 12 lb., with 300 lb. weight capacity and meets HCPCS Codes E0143 and EO156. Features include: aluminum frame in royal blue, teal, green, burgundy, black or red; removable wire storage basket; padded seat and backrest; ergonomic, adjustable-height hand grips; easy-to-operate hand brakes; 6" wheels for versatile indoor or outdoor traveling. Comes with laminated color operating instructions," says Dan Grieco. All Lumex rollators feature locking loop brakes, handy laminated color operating instructions, and limited lifetime warranty.
Graham-Field Health Products; (800) 347-5678; www.grahamfield.com
What's In Demand? MAGICWHEELS™ 2-gear Wheelchair Drive
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "It is the first ever 2-gear wheel for manual wheelchair users. Engaging in the MAGICWHEELS™ low gear acts much like a lower gear on a bicycle; the wheelchair user exerts half as much effort to negotiate the same grade. Using MAGICWHEELS™ 2-gear drive significantly reduces shoulder pain. With no batteries or motors, it takes 50 percent less effort required to climb a hill, ramp, or grade. It also features automatic hill-holding with override and 50 percent less effort required for braking; no added width with standard handrim; easy shifting; quick -release axles; and it is compatible with most manual wheelchairs. High performance 4-speed dual handrims are also available," says Jill Roth Alm.
Magic Wheels; (866) 624-4294; www.magicwheels.com
What's In Demand? Overlander/PEV 2000
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Overlander / PEV 2000 is specially designed to meet the needs of the bariatric individual who wants the convenience and accessibility of a power wheelchair and all it has to offer. The PEV has a 750 lb. weight capacity, heavy-duty steel frame, a gear belt driven (non-slip), adjustable suspension, wider tires for active users and it can have a customized seating system to meet your needs. This functional chair also comes with a powered transfer assist option that aids in transferring patients, which is easy to use. It features a 25 degree maximum angle on the seat and can be used with any seat configuration from WOK. Warranty coverage includes a five-year limited warranty on the Overlander frame and one-year on electrical parts and components," says Michele Eberle, director of marketing.
Wheelchairs of Kansas; (800) 537-6454; www.wheelchairsofkansas.com
What's In Demand? The Airpulse PK
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Airpulse PK is in demand because it has proven to be extremely effective in helping to heal and prevent pressure sores. It gets people sitting sooner and longer even during the healing process," says Dan Pretasky. The Airpulse PK is an automatic, alternating pressure, cushion system designed to be the most advanced wheelchair cushion system in helping to heal and prevent pressure sores. Alternating air cells automatically inflate and deflate to the desired firmness on an adjustable timed cycle with the push of a button. This action relieves pressure and stimulates circulation, especially to the vulnerable boney ischial and sacral areas. Each Airpulse PK controller is preprogrammed and the cushion custom built to the clients unique physical characteristics and needs, maximizing the potential for success in eliminating pressure sores.
Aquila Corp.; (608) 782-0031; www.aquilacorp.com
What's In Demand? Custom Air Cushion System
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Custom Air Cushion System is in demand because it is more technologically advanced than other typical manual inflate cushions. The difference maker is the controller which includes the built in pump, pressure monitor and low pressure audio and visual alarms," says Dan Pretasky. The Custom Air is a manually inflated, two-zone, cushion system. The difference between the Custom Air and other static air cushions on the market is two-fold. First, the Custom Air has a controller which includes a built-in pump, LED pressure gauge and audio and visual low pressure alarms. Secondly, the Custom Air is a two-zone cushion. This allows the area immediately under the pelvic bones, to have less pressure than the rest of the pad. The Custom Air comes in six standard sizes or a special size can be custom made.
Aquila Corp.; (608) 782-0031; www.aquilacorp.com
What's In Demand? Starlock Cushion
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Starlock cushion, has the ability to lock up each individual air cell. This innovation creates a multi-celled air cushion with incomparable positioning and stability. The ability to "lock-up" each air cell, as opposed to dividing the cushion into hemispheres or quadrants, has allowed caregivers to really address the needs of difficult clients. All Starlock cushions are available in 2", 3" and 4" thicknesses and range in size from pediatrics up to 21" by 21", says Kevin Fraser.
Star Cushion Products, Inc.; (888) 277-7827; www.starcushion.com
What's In Demand? Star-Lite
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Star-Lite is a product that was developed due to market demand. For the past several years Star Cushion has been asked repeatedly, to provide a lower cost air cushion. The goal in designing this product was not only to address the low cost issue, but at the same time, produce a cushion that still had very good pressure mapping characteristics. The Star-Lite is an air cushion with adjustable, contoured air cells, fitting the anatomical form. Introduced at Medtrade 2006, the Star-Lite has become an exciting, new addition to the Star Cushion line," says Kevin Fraser.
Star Cushion Products, Inc.; (888) 277-7827; www.starcushion.com
What's In Demand? The Pro Pool Lift and the Portable Pro Pool Lift
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "Both units feature ADA compliance, streamlined designs, easy installation, easy operation and low maintenance while the portable unit, in addition to all that, provides the ability to be movable allowing for use in several locations instead of limiting access to the one location," says Bruce Griffin, national sales manager.
Aqua Creek Products; (888) 687-3552; www.aquacreek.com
What's In Demand? Transfer Handle®
Why It's Flying Off the Shelves: "The Transfer Handle® is perfect for anyone who uses a bedside commode, wheelchair or needs help getting out of the bed. Added mobility is provided by a second handle that enables the elderly and people with disabilities to be independent while reducing the risk of falls. The handle is mounted to a 30" by 27" bed board that easily slides between the box spring and mattress. The bed board also provides support to the sleeping area of the bed and firms up the edge of the mattress for safer transfers," says Frederick Garber, director of sales and marketing.
Mobility Transfer Systems; (978) 667-2767; www.mtsmedicalsupply.com
This article originally appeared in the February 2007 issue of HME Business.