16 minute read
MOBILITY AND SEATING
MOBILITY
Meet the Gear Guides
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Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to find countless reviews, rants and raves about almost any product on the market … unless the products you are looking for happen to be disability or mobility-related.
Searching for even the most basic information on wheelchairs, tires, rims and other mobility gear can leave you wondering if you used the wrong search terms or made a mistake. There’s not a lot out there, and what reliable info there is can be exceedingly difficult to find. That can be a frightening situation when your mobility and independence hinge on making the right purchase.
Enter the Gear Guides, New Mobility’s attempt to aggregate all the products and product information you need to make an educated, confident decision the next time you have to buy mobility-related products.
We launched the Gear Guides series in May with an exhaustive breakdown of 18 types of handrims, including pricing, sizes, features and whom they work best for. For the second Gear Guide, we tackled wheels, tracking and describing 25 options. By the time you read this, the third Gear Guide — focused on power-assist options — should already be online at newmobility.com.
We are committed to growing this series and building it into the web’s premier destination for mobility-related product info. To do that, we’d like to enlist your help. If you come across a great product we missed, have an insight into one of the products we featured or have a product-related question or request, we want to hear from you.
Send all Gear Guide inquiries to Seth McBride at smcbride@unitedspinal.org.
ABILITIES EXPO
Available from Abilities Expo 323/363-2099 or abilities.com
Abilities Expo is the nation’s leading event for the disability community taking place in seven cities across the US. Attendees discover the latest, life-enhancing products and services, and learn from info-packed workshops. Top it off with adaptive sports, dance, service dog demos and more. Admission is free.
SOFTECH CUSHION
Available from Aquila Corporation 608/782-0031 or aquilacorp.com
SofTech is a custom fabricated pressure sore healing/ prevention cushion which automatically changes pressure points while offloading as needed under sores. SofTech has all system components inside the cushion and includes a wireless remote control.
COMPANION
Available from Cheelcare 888/948-2680 or cheelcare.com
The Companion line of power assist devices turns your manual wheelchair into a freedom machine! Connect it in seconds and instantly give your mobility a boost of up to 15mph and 20-mile range. Rest your shoulders and enjoy the scenery around you.
MOBILITY ACCESSORIES
Available from Diestco MFG 800/795-2392 or diestco.com
DIESTCO MFG has the largest selection of mobility accessories, helping to keep you independent and enjoying the outdoors. We have bags, equipment holders and cupholders to carry your stuff, and canopies and covers to protect you and your vehicle from the elements. All MADE IN THE USA for 30 years and counting!
Is a proud partner and sponsor of United Spinal’s SWT member event
I’m always intrigued when I see other wheelers barrel through the woods or tackle rough surfaces in all-terrain chairs, but I didn’t know what it felt like until I reviewed Outrider’s new accessible off-road vehicle, the Coyote 4WD.
After hours testing the Coyote in every set of conditions I could imagine, two feelings jumped out at me: freedom, for being able to go almost anywhere I wanted, and appreciation, for empowering me to do something new.
The Outrider Coyote is an electric offroad vehicle designed for people with disabilities. The demo model that I received included a ROHO cushion, a lap belt, a chest strap, a strap to secure my legs, and several other straps that I did not need.
The hand controls came with a tripin adapter so I could use the throttle and steer safely. Two buttons that allow you to change gears and speeds, among other functions, are attached to arms that are mounted behind the driver seat. The arms adjust so you can press the buttons with your shoulders or head without removing your hands from the hand controls. Finally, the seat is adjustable to accommodate height and arm length, and the back angle is adjustable for comfort and balance.
The hardest part of using the Coyote for me was transferring to it. As a C5-6 quad with no triceps and terrible balance, transferring to anything is difficult for me. The frame of the Coyote does not allow you to get very close to the seat, so there is a considerable gap to transfer over. No doubt someone with more function and balance could transfer with a sliding board, but I couldn’t. Once in the seat, you have to swing your legs over the throttle control and into the footrests. Fortunately, my brother and caregiver were available to lift me from my wheelchair to the Coyote. It was an awkward transfer, but we got it done.
ADAPTABLE DRIVING
Driving the Coyote is straightforward. Two hand controls, one on each side, control the steering and the throttle. The Coyote can be customized to accommodate differences in strength between your arms. My left arm is stronger than my right arm, so for my setup, the steering control was on the left and the throttle on the right.
To steer the Coyote, I pushed the left handle forward to turn right and pulled back on it to turn left. It does take a fair amount of strength to be able to steer, so I needed to use an adaptive grip to keep my hand on the handle. The throttle is controlled by tipping the handle back and forward. Tipping the handle back accelerates while tipping forward engages the brakes.
The Coyote has three speed modes, with top speeds of 6, 10, and 22 mph. I did not feel like I had the strength to control the Coyote at higher speeds, so I never tried it higher than 6 mph. The acceleration can be a little jumpy, but after some practice, I got used to it. The throttle can be adjusted to make it less jumpy, but since I only had a demo unit and my time was limited, I left it as it was delivered. My brother, who is nondisabled, was able to handle the Coyote easily at 10 mph, but even he felt like 22 mph was a bit too much. If you’re trying it out, start slow and make sure you have the function to handle it at higher speeds.
Performance-wise, the Coyote did a great job handling different types of terrain. I have never used an off-road vehicle before, so I have nothing to compare it to, but the ride was very smooth. I tested it on grass, dirt and concrete, and going up and down hillsides. The Coyote managed everything with ease. I don’t have trunk control, so it was difficult for me to maintain my balance while driving on the side of a hill. The Coyote never felt in danger of tipping over, though, and I always felt secure and safe in the driver’s seat except when angled on a hill.
TRANSPORTING AND TAKEAWAYS
Transporting the Coyote could be an issue for those without access to the right type of vehicle. At 78 inches long, 33 inches wide and up to 36 inches tall, it can weigh up to 250 pounds, depending on the options added. The model I demoed fit into the back of a pickup truck with the gate open. We secured it with tiedowns. It took two people to lift the Coyote into the bed of the truck, but despite its weight, this was not difficult. The Coyote would likely fit in the back of most minivans and larger SUVs with the rear seats removed.
The Coyote starts at a base price of $13,985. Options are extra. It comes standard with one rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a top range of 35 miles. Up to three additional batteries can be added at any time for a top range of 140 miles. Customers can choose from two different 2WD powertrains
and one 4WD powertrain. Additional options like a cargo rack or electronics package can be added as well.
The Outrider Coyote is a great product for those looking to get back into nature, whether it’s hunting, fishing or trail riding. It would also be useful for somebody who lives on acreage and needs to get around their property quickly. It is expensive, so I would recommend going for an extensive test ride to be sure you can control it and be comfortable in it for extended periods of time. For more information and to see the full selection of Outrider models, visit outriderusa.com.
FEELDOM MAX WHEELCHAIR BAG
Available from FEELDOM Co., Ltd., 610/420-8370 or feeldomlife.com
MAX is the biggest and strongest among wheelchair / scooter bags. Hand-crafted with rigid, padded contruction and water resistant heavy-duty ballistic nylon to withstand years of use. 8-way adjustable strap system, 50-plus liter capacity storage for respiratory gear, laptop, fluid containers. 6 outer pockets with ring zippers for easy access.
ROGUE 2
Available from Ki Mobility 800/981-1540 or kimobility.com
The redefined style and superior design of Rogue 2 is the perfect balance of performance, functionality and self-expression. Developed to fit any lifestyle, every element of the chair has been enhanced to provide you with an optimal experience, wherever you go.
IBOT PERSONAL MOBILITY DEVICE
Available from Mobius Mobility 833/346-4268 or mobiusmobility.com
The iBOT PMD is a multi-modal powered mobility device: Standard, 4-Wheel Drive, 2-Wheel Balance, Stair, and Remote modes. An integrated indoor and outdoor PMD - one device for complex terrain in urban, suburban, and country settings. Climbs curbs and stairs. Balance Mode for eye-level interaction. Funding and reimbursement options available.
AUTOMATIC DOOR OPENERS
Available from Open Sesame Door Systems 800/673-6911 or opensesamedoor.com
Gain freedom and independence with Open Sesame. Voice, remote control or proximity activated, our door systems open and close any swinging door in your home or office.
Call us to discuss your application. Since 1991, we have been the leader in automated door technology.
FERTICARE
Available from ORION MEDICAL GROUP, INC. 714/649-9284 or medicalvibrator.com
Most powerful medical vibrator to help men with spinal cord injury to achieve ejaculation. This device is for external use only. The pad area is placed to the dorsum (top) or frenulum (bottom) of the glans penis. • Made in USA • Treats men/women • VA approved • Inexpensive alternative to fertility clinics • Helps with incontinence thru kegel exercise • Ferticare 2.0.
SPEEDCONTROL DIAL
Available from Permobil 800/736-0925 or permobil.com
Maximize your independence at home by using SmartDrive with the new SpeedControl Dial. Start, stop and change your speed on-the-go while taking care of pets, grabbing the mail or taking your lunch to the patio. Save energy and do more with SmartDrive. Now compatible with Apple Watch too!
“GO-ANYWHERE” Chairs“GO-ANYWHERE” Chairs“GO-ANYWHERE” ChairsThe Safe, Practical The Safe, Practical and Convenient and Convenient way to travel wherever and way to travel wherever and whenever you want. whenever you want.No more worries about No more worries about having accessible facilities. having accessible facilities. • Different models to meet specific Different models to meet specific needs!needs! Simple to assemble; no • Simple to assemble; no tools tools required. required. Safe and easy to use. Seat and footrest heights • Safe and easy to use.are adjustable. • Seat and footrest heights are Casters have “total-lock” brakes.adjustable. Lightweight and durable, • Casters have “total-lock” brakes. high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum. • Lightweight and durable, high-quality Compact, convenient, and aircraft-grade aluminum. PORTABLE! • Compact, convenient, and Won’t Rust or corrode; PORTABLE! easy to clean. Virtually maintenance• Won’t Rust or corrode; easy to clean. free. • Virtually maintenance-free. Cushions are available in (3) colors and remove • Cushions are available in (3) colors easily for cleaning. and remove easily for cleaning. Optional accessories include: wheeled custom • Optional accessories include: travel bag, positioning wheeled custom travel bag, belts, slide-out commode positioning belts, slide-out commode tray, 2-way adjustable tray, 2-way adjustable headrest, and headrest, and upgraded upgraded cushions! www.goesanywhere.com Sales@goesanywhere.com 800-359-4021 For home AND on-the-road; When ya Gotta Go, We Go With Ya!” www.goesanywhere.com Sales@goesanywhere.com 800-359-4021 For home AND on-the-road; When ya Gotta Go, We Go With Ya!” www.goesanywhere.com Sales@goesanywhere.com 800-359-4021 For home AND on-the-road; When ya Gotta Go, We Go With Ya!” cushions!
The Safe, Practical and Convenient way to travel wherever and whenever you want. No more worries about having accessible facilities. Different models to meet specific needs! “GO-ANYWHERE” Chairs Simple to assemble; no tools required. Safe and easy to use. Seat and footrest heights are adjustable. Casters have “total-lock” brakes. Lightweight and durable, high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum. Compact, convenient, and
PORTABLE! Won’t Rust or corrode; easy to clean. Virtually maintenancefree. Cushions are available in (3) colors and remove easily for cleaning. Optional accessories include: wheeled custom travel bag, positioning belts, slide-out commode tray, 2-way adjustable headrest, and upgraded cushions! For home AND on-the-road; When ya Gotta Go, We Go With Ya!”
“GO-ANYWHERE” Chairs“GO-ANYWHERE” Chairs 30-Day Risk-Free Trial Just In! Awarded VA Contract V797D-30180 Mobility Solutions
For home AND on-the-road; When ya Gotta Go, We Go With Ya!”For Home AND On-The-Road; When Ya Gotta Go, We Go With Ya!” www.goesanywhere.com Sales@goesanywhere.com 800-359-4021
QLK-150
Available from Q’Straint 800/987-9987 or qstraint.com/qlk-150
The QLK-150, the next step in independent wheelchair docking systems, represents the world’s most advanced personal mobility wheelchair securement solution — providing more options and features than any other docking system. It’s the perfect solution for mobility users who drive their own vehicles or simply want to quickly secure their wheelchair.
RGK OCTANE SUB4
Available from Sunrise Medical 800/333-4000 or sunrisemedical.com
For more than three decades, RGK has been at the forefront of made-to-measure manual wheelchair innovation. Guaranteed to weigh less than 4 kg, the Octane Sub4 is the result of our obsessive focus on perfecting fit and materials. Transferring, propelling, lifting and turning are all effortless with the Octane Sub4.
SUREHANDS LIFT & CARE SYSTEMS
Available from SureHands Lift & Care Systems 800/724-5305 or surehands.com
SUREHANDS® systems are designed to enable users and caregivers to maximize abilities while accomplishing the normal activities of daily living. The versatility of SUREHANDS always places the users’ needs and safety first while offering products that will improve their quality of life, comfort and well-being.
WHEELEEZ ALL-TERRAIN CONVERSION KITS
Available from Wheeleez, Inc. 707/751-3999 or wheeleez.com
Go anywhere in your own chair!
Converting your standard wheelchair to an all-terrain chair is easy, and there is no drilling. Wheeleez three- and four-wheel conversion kits are now available for you to explore beaches, parks and trails with ease. Go anywhere with Wheeleez!
EXPERIENCE FREEDOM
WITH MOBILITY
2022 Publisher’s Statement:
New Mobility (USPS 1086-4741) is published by United Spinal Association, 120-34 Queens Boulevard, Suite 320, Kew Gardens, NY 11415. Number of issues published annually: 6. The General business offices of the Publisher are located at United Spinal Association, 120-34 Queens Boulevard, Suite 320, Kew Gardens, NY 11415. Annual subscription price is $16.95. The names and addresses of the Editor-inChief and Senior Editor are: Ian Ruder, Editorin-Chief and Seth McBride, Senior Editor, United Spinal Association, 120-34 Queens Boulevard, Suite 320, Kew Gardens, NY 11415. Extent and Nature of Circulation: “Average” figures denote the average number of copies printed each issue during preceding 12 months. “Actual” figures denote the number of copies of the single issue published nearest to filing date. Total number of copies printed: average 10,742; actual 10,805. Total paid and/ or requested distribution: average 8,112; actual 8,502. Total non-requested distribution: average 2,630; actual 2,303. Total distribution: average 10,742; actual 10,805. Copies not distributed: average 0; actual 0.
Celebrating 50 Years of Engineering Independence
• Detailed info on the Top 20 Wheelchair-Friendly Colleges, researched and written by wheelchair users • Personal stories and photos of wheelchair-using students at every school, plus advice from successful grads • Resources and scholarships for wheelchair users
NOW NOW AVAILABLE! AVAILABLE!
life beyond wheels FROM NEW MOBILITY MAGAZINE AND UNITED SPINAL ASSOCIATION A GUIDE TO WHEELCHAIR-FRIENDLY HIGHER EDUCATION WHEELS CAMPUSon
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