Best Crutches for Adults UK: How to Choose the Right Pair

If you are looking for the best crutches for adults in the UK, you have probably already discovered that the grey hospital pair is not built for everyday comfort. Whether you need crutches for a few months or for the long term, the right pair makes a real difference to your hands, your arms and how confident you feel out and about.

Here is what to look for, in plain English, from a team that has helped more than 55,000 customers since 2006.

Ready to choose? Every pair of our crutches has moulded handles, shock absorbing tips and silent height adjustment, in classic colours, prints and glitter. Shop our bestselling crutches.

Elbow crutches or underarm crutches?

For adults in the UK, elbow crutches (also called forearm crutches) are the most common choice. A cuff wraps around your forearm and you hold a handle, so your weight goes through your hands and arms rather than your armpits. They are lighter, easier on stairs and better for using over months or years. Underarm crutches are mostly given out for short term use. Read our guide on how to use elbow crutches for the technique.

What to look for in a good pair of crutches

1. A handle shaped to your hand

The handle is where you feel the difference most. Flat, hard handles press on one small area of your palm. A moulded handle spreads your weight across your whole hand. Ours are shaped for the left or right hand and come with a soft, removable, washable grip.

2. Silent adjustment

Standard crutches often click and rattle with every step. Look for a height adjustment that locks firmly in place, so you can move quietly in an office, a library or at home.

3. Shock absorbing tips

The rubber tip, or ferrule, is what meets the ground. A cushioned, grippy ferrule softens the jarring of each step and holds better on wet pavements. Ours are 19mm, and you can swap to High Performance Ferrules for extra grip in winter.

4. Weight and strength

Lighter crutches are less tiring to swing all day. Each of our crutches weighs 730g and takes a maximum user weight of 150kg, so they are light without feeling flimsy.

5. The right height range

Our adult crutches fit people from 4ft 10in (149cm) to 6ft 4in (193cm). From the top of the handle to the tip they adjust from 72.5cm to 102cm. See our crutch and walking stick size chart to set yours up.

6. Easy to travel with

Each of our crutches separates into three parts, the longest being 78cm, so they fit in a suitcase. Handy if you are flying with crutches.

7. A design you actually like

This matters more than people expect. If you are using crutches every day, choosing a colour or print you love helps them feel like part of you rather than something to hide. Popular choices include Black, Black Glitter, Midnight Sky and Carbon Fibre Effect.

Do I need one crutch or a pair?

Most people buy a pair, especially if they need to take weight off one leg. A single crutch suits people who need a little extra support on one side. Our crutches are sold singly or as a pair, and our guide on how to walk with one crutch explains which side to use.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best crutches for adults?

For everyday or long term use, the best crutches for adults are lightweight elbow crutches with moulded handles, cushioned non slip tips and silent height adjustment. They should fit your height and weight and feel comfortable in your hands.

How much do crutches weigh?

Each Cool Crutches adult crutch weighs 730g (1lb 6oz).

What is the weight limit for crutches?

Our adult crutches have a maximum user weight of 150kg (23.5 stone).

What height crutches do I need?

Set the handle level with the crease of your wrist when you stand with your arms relaxed by your sides, with a slight bend in your elbow when you hold it. Our adult crutches suit people from 4ft 10in to 6ft 4in.

Are elbow crutches better than underarm crutches?

For most adults, yes. Elbow crutches are lighter, easier to manage on stairs and put no pressure on your armpits, which is why they are the usual choice for longer term use in the UK.

Still not sure? Take our mobility quiz to find the right fit for you.