Top 5 Posterior Pediatric Walkers

Embark on a journey through the top 5 pediatric posterior walkers, each designed to empower children with mobility impairments. Discover how these innovative devices foster independence and interaction, all while providing essential support from behind. Let our team of experts guide you through the selection process, drawing from their wealth of knowledge and real-world insights to ensure you find the ideal solution for your child.

The Top 5:

Features to Consider

Although we cover a lot of these features more comprehensively in our educational article on How to Choose the Best Pediatric Walker, here are some of the most important to help you determine the best pediatric posterior walker for your child.

Size and Adjustability

Choosing the correct size is one of the most important determinants of how effective this walking support will be for your child. Measure the distance from the crease of the wrist to the floor, as this will show you the height range of the handgrips or armrests you need to select. Posterior walkers that offer grow-with-your-child adjustability in height and width must be adjusted to ensure the elbow is slightly bent at a 20-degree angle. 

Foldability

Most families opt for taking the walker wherever their child may roam, so portability is important. Lightweight, foldable walkers that are easy to fold up into a compact size to stow away in a trunk are always preferable to models that are not. They’re also simpler to place in a closet or under a bed when not used for space-saving storage. 

Integrated Seat

Several walker styles come with an integrated seat that can flip open, providing the user with a convenient place for resting when they tire of walking. When they’re not in use, they flip back up and out of the way when the user is walking.

Swivel Lock Rotation

Swiveling wheels can be great for kids with more ability and control, but they can be a nightmare for children who are unable to maneuver them. Swivel lock rotation facilitates easier control for children with more physical involvement. This can be unlocked as users gain additional skills and strength with gait training. 

Anti-Rollback Wheels

Anti-rollback wheels, also referred to as forward-rolling wheels, are an especially important feature on posterior walkers. They make it impossible for the walker to roll backward, increasing the level of safety for these walkers who provide their support from behind. No matter how hard the user leans back against the rear of the walker, it will not roll backward.

Circle-Specialty-Klip-Gait-Trainer-Posterior-Pediatric-Walker

What is a posterior walker?

A posterior walker is usually configured as a 3-sided frame, with the back of the frame placed behind the person using it and its two sides on each side of the user. Its open front ensures the user pulls the walker by grasping the sides, doubling as balance and walking support.

Why do kids use posterior walkers?

Kids with temporary or permanent mobility impairments use posterior walkers for balance and walking support. Pediatric posterior walkers may be indicated for children following illness, injury, or surgery, helping some youngsters regain walking skills, proper gait patterns, and leg strength. They’re also commonly used by children with cerebral palsy and other congenital disorders, developmental delays, and neurological conditions, with many styles offering additional stabilizing supports for children with higher physical involvement. 

How do you use a posterior walker?

A posterior walker is placed behind the user, with the sides of the frame on each side of the user and the back of the frame behind them. The user places their hands on each side of the frame or on the forearm supports, pushing their weight down through their arms as they walk forward. The walker provides balance and support from behind the user as they walk or stand. 

How do you fit a posterior walker?

Although most manufacturers have sizing guides specific to the walkers they make to help you determine the best fit, the general rules for fitting a posterior walker are as follows: Have the intended user stand up straight with arms relaxed at their sides, measuring the distance from the floor to the crease of the wrist - this is what the height of the handgrip should be. The user’s arms should be slightly bent at a 20-degree angle at the elbow when their hands are placed on the handgrip.

What is the difference between a posterior and an anterior walker?

The difference between a posterior and an anterior walker is that the posterior walker places its support behind the user, while the anterior walker places its support in front of the user. Posterior walkers have a bit of a learning curve to master, but they are considered the better choice over anterior designs, especially for long-term support. 

Why are pediatric walkers backward?

Not all pediatric walkers are backward, but the pediatric posterior walkers are configured with their support behind the user as they walk, rather than anterior formats that place the support in front of the user. Also known as reverse walkers, posterior walkers improve pelvic tilt and stability, encouraging a healthier, more upright posture than anterior walkers. They require less exertion of the knee, hip, and trunk and don’t take as much energy. Facilitating a more natural, faster, and stable gait pattern, posterior walkers allow for freedom of movement, improving cadence and stride length.

What is a Klip Walker?

The Klip Walker is a popular brand of pediatric posterior walkers made by Circle Specialty Inc. It comes in 2 and 4-wheeled styles, with or without a seat, and with standard or large outdoor wheels. Multiple adjustable height sizes and a wide selection of customization options make this well-loved walker ideal for most young users.

The Top 5

#5 Lumex Walkabout Junior by Graham Field

In our number five spot, the Graham Field Pediatric Rollator Walker, also known as the Lumex Walkabout Junior, provides children with dependable mobility support both indoors and outdoors. Designed with a lightweight aluminum frame that weighs only 11 pounds, it is easy to maneuver and fold for travel or storage. The rollator includes a padded seat and backrest, allowing children to take breaks when needed, while loop brakes lock securely with a light squeeze for safety. Adjustable handles ensure a proper fit as the child grows, and large wheels roll smoothly across a variety of surfaces, making it practical for home, school, and clinical use.

Features and Benefits

  • Padded seat and backrest provide a comfortable resting option
  • Lightweight aluminum frame weighs just 11 lbs.
  • Large wheels allow for smooth maneuverability on most surfaces
  • Loop brakes engage easily and lock securely
  • Adjustable handles support growth and proper posture

Customer Feedback

Pros

  • Easy to fold for transport and storage
  • Comfortable seating option between activities
  • Lightweight yet sturdy frame with a 3-year limited warranty
  • Smooth rolling wheels work well indoors and outdoors

Cons

  • None found

#4 Pluto Reverse Child Walker and Gait Trainer by Rebotec

The German-engineered Pluto Reverse Child Walker and Gait Trainer by Rebotec secures the 4th spot on our list with its vivid, engaging colors and both height and width adjustability. Offered in a small size for kids up to 132 pounds and a large size for kids and teens up to 176 pounds, this strong, durable, but lightweight aluminum walker from Rebotec is ideal for use as both a walking support and balancing aid and as a therapeutic rehabilitation device for gait training. 

Conveniently adjustable in both height and width to grow with your child, its colorful frame delights children and young teens, optimizing compliance for better therapy outcomes.

Cleverly configured with a rear braking system to prevent unintended rollback, the steerable front wheels and fixed rear wheels are also solid and puncture-proof to ensure dependable functionality. For children unable to control the swiveling of the standard steerable wheels, the option of installing front wheels with steer-lock can be selected as an add-on. A comfortable saddle seat can also be added to provide a convenient place for resting when the child tires of walking. Its reverse, posterior configuration ensures upright walking and improved posture.

Features & Benefits

  • Height and width are adjustable to grow with your child
  • Bright colors engage children and ensure therapy compliance
  • Rear braking systems and solid, puncture-proof tires enhance safety
  • Optional saddle seat for resting when the child tires of walking

Customer Feedback

Pros

  • Kids of all ages love the vividly colored frame, which makes them want to use it
  • Solid, strong, but lightweight design that’s easy for children to maneuver
  • Width and height adjustability allow for longer use for growing children

Cons

  • Doesn’t offer many customizable support options for more physically involved users

#3 Klip Gait Trainer Outdoor Walker w/ Big Wheels

We awarded third place in our review to the Klip Gait Trainer Outdoor Walker w/ Big Wheels by Circle Specialty Inc. for its versatility and multifunctionality, incorporating many of the best design features of the other walkers on our list. Its 4-wheel format uses large, rubber, groove-textured 8-inch wheels to ensure safety and traction on uneven outdoor terrains, while it can also be used indoors. Choose the walker with or without a fold-down seat in a selection of 4 different sizes that are conveniently height-adjustable to grow along with your child. They come in bright, vivid blue and red colors that are attractive to children and teens and accommodate up to 75 pounds for the extra-small size and up to 190 pounds for the large size. 

A comprehensive selection of optional support features optimizes user comfort, mobility, and safety, including cushioned sling seats, forearm support platforms, and bumper guards. The Klip’s hand grips are designed with flanged ends to reduce hand strain, while its super lightweight frame, ranging from 12 pounds for the extra-small and 18 pounds for the large, makes the walker easier to control and navigate for children. Simple and quick foldability ensures convenient, compact transport and storage.

Its one-directional rear wheels prevent backward rolling, a safety feature that can be disengaged as the child’s walking skills, gait pattern, and leg strength improve. Its 360-degree swiveling front wheels optimize turning and steering, using a foot-activated wheel lock for easier, improved control. One of the coolest things about the Klip is that it can be used as both a posterior walker and an anterior walker, although this is not available on the extra-small model. This is the perfect pediatric walker for kids learning to transition from an anterior style to a posterior style, as most experts agree that posterior walkers are the better option for children. 

Features & Benefits

  • Large 8-inch rubber, groove-treaded tires for uneven outdoor terrains.
  • Multiple height-adjustable, grow-with-your-child sizes.
  • A wide array of add-on supports for customization.
  • Can be used as both an anterior and posterior walker.
  • One-directional rear wheels and a swiveling option for front wheels.

Customer Feedback

Pros

  • Perfect for kids who currently use an anterior walker and are learning how to use a posterior walker
  • Durable, strong, and dependable, even though it is a lightweight walker
  • Its stylish, modern design and cool colors make kids and teens want to use it
  • Conveniently customizable with add-on support 
  • Ideal for traveling with its lightweight, foldable design

Cons

  • Larger tires might make this walker harder to maneuver and turn in tight indoor spaces

#2 Circle Specialty Pivot Pediatric Gait Trainer

Ranking at number two is the Circle Specialty Pivot Pediatric Gait Trainer, available in three sizes for children up to 200 pounds. Its height-adjustable frame supports growth, while bright finishes make it engaging for kids. Large casters roll smoothly indoors and out and can be locked for safety. Optional accessories such as safety harnesses, thigh and ankle prompts, hand grips, and forearm supports provide customized positioning and control.

Features & Benefits

  • Available in 3 sizes to fit children from 75 to 200 pounds 
  • Handle heights range from 15 to 39 inches
  • Height-adjustable frame supports growth
  • High-performance casters for indoor and outdoor use, lockable for safety
  • Optional accessories for added support, including harnesses, prompts, hand grips, and forearm supports

Customer Feedback

Pros

  • Adjustable sizing extends usability as the child grows
  • Casters provide smooth mobility on varied surfaces
  • Accessories allow customization for individual needs

Cons

  • Accessories must be purchased separately
  • Larger frame can be harder to use in tight spaces

#1 Drive Nimbo Posterior Pediatric Walker and Gait Trainer

The Drive Nimbo Posterior Pediatric Walker and Gait Trainer earns our number 1 spot for its exceptional combination of affordability, durability, and functionality, making it an ideal choice for children in early and middle childhood. With height-adjustable handles and a durable aluminum frame, it provides reliable stability while promoting proper posture and gait. Unlike other walkers, the Nimbo features an override bracket for forward and reverse mobility, enhancing the child's rehabilitative experience and increasing their stride length.

Features and Benefits

  • Height-adjustable handles accommodate children as they grow
  • Easy folding mechanism for convenient transportation and storage
  • Durable aluminum frame ensures long-lasting stability and support
  • Override bracket allows for both forward and reverse mobility

Customer Feedback

Pros

  • Smooth texture handgrip for comfortable use
  • Effective at helping children stand upright and increase velocity
  • Front wheels can be locked or unlocked based on the therapist's goals
  • Available in two sizes and three vivid color options for personalized customization

Cons

  • Some users noted that the locking mechanism for the front wheels can be difficult to operate

Final Summary

Posterior pediatric walkers provide healthy, upright walking support for children and teens living with temporary or permanent mobility impairments. Often used for kids with cerebral palsy, congenital disorders, neurological or neuromuscular conditions, and developmental delays, posterior walkers are also used to support and re-learn how to walk following an injury, illness, or surgery. 

Choosing the best posterior walker is dependent on several factors, including your child’s level of ability, size, and unique support requirements. While all the walkers we chose for our review have specific design attributes that will make any of them the best choice for specific users, we selected the Drive Nimbo Posterior Pediatric Walker and Gait Trainer as our number one choice. Combining many of the best features of the other walkers in our review, the Drive Nimbo is particularly effective at helping children stand upright while also increasing stride length and velocity. Be sure to consult with your child’s doctor to determine the most appropriate and safest walker to meet their needs.

We invite you to check out all of the quality pediatric mobility support devices we offer, along with our helpful and informative caregiving and special needs parenting tips at Caregiver University, a free educational resource!

Author:

Co-founder/CEO of Rehabmart, Pediatric Occupational Therapist, husband, and father. Passionate about connecting special needs kids with superb nutrition, sensory integration, and complementary health strategies. Excited about Rehabmart's mission to become the premier online educational platform which empowers caregivers by spotlighting innovative devices and interventions to achieve optimal patient response and recovery.

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