One of the most common questions we hear from people recovering from foot or ankle injuries is:
“Can I actually use a knee walker outside?”
The simple answer is yes, but choosing the right knee walker and understanding how to use it safely outdoors makes a huge difference.
For many people, getting outside again is an important part of recovery. Whether it is walking the dog, collecting children from school, going to appointments or simply enjoying fresh air, maintaining some independence can have a positive impact both physically and mentally.
This guide explains how knee walkers perform outdoors, what surfaces to be cautious on and why the Orthomate is designed specifically to support outdoor recovery.
Are Knee Walkers Suitable for Outdoor Use?
Yes, many knee walkers can be used outdoors, particularly on smoother pavements and pathways. However, not all knee walkers are designed in the same way.
Some models are primarily intended for indoor use, where tight turning and manoeuvrability around furniture are the priority. Outdoor recovery presents different challenges, including:
• Uneven pavements. Slightly uneven pavements can be negotiated with care. Keep an eye on what lumps and bumps are approaching, move gently and slowly over the unevenness and maintain a firm grip on the handlebars. Seriously uneven pavements such as where tree roots are lifting the tarmac or paving slabs quite high should be avoided, taking a longer route or even crossing the road to a better surface. Taking longer rather than taking a tumble is the way forward.
• Small kerbs. Doorway thresholds or small kerbs can be mounted or descended from with practice. This is not something to tackle lightly. With some practice and experience, you can gently take the weight at the handlebars and lift the front wheels a little way when popping over a threshold or mounting small kerbs. You must of course keep your scooting foot in controlled contact with the ground while on this manoeuvre. NEVER think that force or momentum will simply bump-you-up and over. When it is time for the rear wheels to follow over the obstacle, take some of the weight off the knee walker with your scooting leg whilst pushing yourself forward.
• Gravel paths. Neatly compacted gravel can be traversed with the larger pneumatic tyres over short distances. Again, take things very slowly with firm control at the handlebars. I can be quite hard work but achievable. Loose and uncompacted gravel should not even be attempted as you lose more and more momentum and can sink in the gravel to a degree that you can become stranded.
• Wet surfaces. As with all driving, riding and scooting, extra care should be taken. Do not propel yourself faster than a slow walking pace to ensure safe stopping even if you lock the brakes and have a tiny skid. Bar brakes on the outdoor knee walkers with rubber tyres perform very well in the wet. Wet icy surfaces require a day of staying indoors.
• Longer distances. An outdoor Knee Scooter will cope with longer distances with ease. Some people have used them for charity walks (well… scoots) of over 20 miles and of course it is always advisable to take breaks along the way. Apply the parking brakes and have a seated rest if the model you are using allows this. If your model has a basket, keep a raincoat, drinks and snacks to hand. Remember, don’t get overconfident and compete for the front of the pack by going too fast. Enjoy participating as the quirky ambulator.
Using a knee walker designed with outdoor stability in mind can make recovery far more comfortable and confidence boosting.
Why Outdoor Mobility Matters During Recovery
Being non weight bearing can quickly feel isolating.
Many people assume they will be confined to the house during recovery, especially if they struggle with crutches outdoors. In reality, appropriate mobility support can help people continue with many everyday activities safely.
Outdoor mobility can help with:
• Mental wellbeing
• Maintaining independence
• Attending appointments
• Social interaction
• Gentle movement and circulation
Even something as simple as sitting outside with a coffee or walking around the garden can make recovery feel more manageable.
What Makes the Orthomate Better for Outdoor Recovery?
The Orthomate knee scooter was designed specifically to cope better with outdoor conditions and longer periods of use away from the home. Its padded and comfortable standard knee pad can also be topped up with either the memory foam fitted topper or a premium knee pad for those embarking on long and continuous excursions.
One of the biggest differences is its pneumatic tyres. These air filled tyres help absorb bumps and uneven surfaces far more effectively than hard plastic wheels. The rubber tyres provide better grip even in the wet and the bar-braking systems works well even in wet conditions.
This provides:
A smoother ride outdoors
Better comfort on uneven ground
Improved stability on pavements and paths
Greater confidence over longer distances
A basket as standard for keeping the essentials close to hand
For many people recovering from surgery or injury, this added comfort and stability can make a huge difference to daily life.
Common Outdoor Situations Where People Use Knee Walkers
Many Orthomate users continue with day to day routines throughout recovery.
Common examples include:
• Walking the dog
• School runs
• Shopping trips
• Going to work
• Visiting friends and family
• Attending physiotherapy appointments
• Enjoying parks and outdoor spaces
The key is pacing yourself and using the knee walker sensibly based on your recovery stage and environment.
Are Knee Walkers Safer than Crutches Outdoors?
For many people, yes.
Crutches can become difficult and tiring outdoors, particularly on slippery or uneven surfaces. During colder months, wet pavements and icy conditions can increase the risk of slips and falls.
A knee walker offers:
• Greater stability
• Reduced upper body strain
• Less fatigue over longer distances
• Better balance and confidence
This is especially important for people recovering over several weeks or months.
Outdoor Surfaces to Be Careful with
Although the Orthomate is designed for outdoor use, caution is still important.
You should take extra care on:
- Loose gravel
- Deep grass or mud
- Steep hills
- Dimpled paving where dropped pavements denote crossing points
- Wet leaves
- Ice and snow
- Uneven cobbles
Slowing down and planning your route carefully helps keep outdoor use safe and comfortable. Always keep to a slow walking pace. Don’t get over confident with speed or your abilities to negotiate unusual surfaces. Take the longer, safer route rather than taking risks.
Tips for Using a Knee Walker Outdoors
Here are some simple ways to make outdoor recovery easier:
Wear supportive footwear
Your supporting leg works harder during recovery, so comfortable, supportive shoes are important.
Avoid carrying heavy bags
Use the basket where possible and avoid overloading yourself.
Take regular breaks
Recovery can be tiring, especially during the early stages.
Check tyre pressure
If using an Orthomate, keeping tyres correctly inflated improves comfort and handling.
Be cautious on slopes
Take hills slowly and avoid sharp turns on uneven surfaces.
The Mental Benefits of Getting Outside
One of the things many customers tell us is how important outdoor mobility became during recovery.
Being able to:
• Walk the dog
• Meet friends for coffee
• Watch children play sport
• Visit local shops
• Simply get fresh air helped them feel more normal again.
Recovery is not just physical. Maintaining confidence, routine and independence matters too.
Which Knee Walker Is Best for Outdoor Use?
At StrideOn, we generally recommend:
Best suited for indoor use and tighter spaces where manoeuvrability is the priority.
Designed for outdoor recovery and longer distances, with pneumatic tyres that provide greater comfort and stability on outdoor surfaces.
Choosing the right model depends on where you expect to spend most of your recovery time.
Supporting Your Recovery Journey
A non weight bearing recovery does not necessarily mean being stuck indoors.
With the right support and sensible precautions, many people continue enjoying everyday activities safely throughout their recovery.
The Orthomate helps bridge the gap between injury and independence, allowing people to move more comfortably and confidently outdoors while protecting their healing foot or ankle.
