Best Portable Wheelchair Ramps
Updated for December, 2021
Last update on 2021-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How We Found the Best Portable Wheelchair Ramps
Portable Wheelchair Ramps we Reviewed:
The Best Portable Wheelchair Ramps
Seniors are often frustrated by the fact that there are not enough ramps in or around buildings for their ensured mobility. It makes it difficult to navigate when a wheelchair or scooter cannot get over a bump or stair, rendering an entrance or establishment inaccessible. That’s why we’ve taken the time to put together three of the best portable wheelchair ramps for 2022.
An affordable, durable threshold ramp that you can take with you anywhere.
Prairie View Industries Threshold Ramp
- Maximum 1/2" - 3/4" rise for occupied wheelchair or scooter passage
- Ramp width is 32”
- Great for transitioning doorways and thresholds. These ramps are made for small thresholds and are to be attached to the edge of the...
- 600 lb. weight capacity. Dimensions: 10 inch L x 32 inch W. The actual planking on PVI's Modular Ramp has a grooved surface designed to...
Last update on 2021-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- Features a high-traction surface that prevents slipping
- Holes in the top corners of the device make installation easy
- The ramp is durable aluminum
- Ramp comes with hardware so that users can secure it to a surface easily
Cons
- Minimal threshold and not ideal for large stairs
- Does not fold, so users will have to carry it as-is
- While wide enough for wheelchairs, may not take up the entire doorway
- Some customers report trouble with electronic wheelchairs
If you’re looking for a threshold ramp to use in any situation, this may be the ideal option. It has a limited threshold but is useful for helping seniors get over bumps and lips smoothly. This threshold ramp is small enough and light enough for caretakers or seniors to load into their car or van with minimal hassle.
While many mobile seniors and/or caregivers can “hop” their wheelchair over minor threshold disturbances, this ramp can make all the difference, with a non-skid surface that offers solid traction and just a slight slope, it’s easy to navigate.
With a lifetime limited warranty and aluminum construction, this product is built to last.
Best for Stairs
A bit pricier and bulkier than other portable options, but is excellent for stairs.
Titan Ramps 6’ Aluminum Multifold Mobility Ramp, Portable
- GREAT FOR WHEELCHAIRS & SCOOTERS: If youre looking for an outdoor, semipermanent metal access ramp for your home, garage, or commercial...
- DURABLE & SAFE CONSTRUCTION: Our lightweight entry ramps are carefully designed using corrosionresistant aluminum, so you can enjoy...
- MULTIFOLD RAMP: This loading ramp is designed to be strong, portable, and incredibly convenient. Weve designed it with a folding...
- ANGLED LIP: This ramp kit has an angled lip for additional security when installing the ramp. The lip measures 2 1/2in and has holes to...
Last update on 2021-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- Ramp comes with an angled lip and holes to secure it in place
- Soft nylon handles allow easy carrying when folded
- Comes with a slip-resistant surface
- Will work for three-four steps
Cons
- Pricey
- Much more substantial than other portable wheelchair ramps
- Some customers said the ramp was bulky when folded
- Lack of support at the hinges could make the ramp flimsy at times
If you or the senior in your life are seeking a portable wheelchair ramp for stairs, and/or attempting entrance to porches, curbs, landings, steps or transport vehicles, Titan Ramps’ mobility ramp is worth considering. The ramp is an astounding six feet long, allowing seniors to climb and descend slopes easily. We also love the ramp’s black non-slip traction grip.
One of the best things about this ramp is it folds in half, making it easy for caregivers to transport from one location to another or store it away when not in use.
Best Threshold Ramp
This portable wheelchair ramp is easy to transport. Available in three sizes to fit all of your needs.
Prairie View Industries Portable Singlefold Ramp
- Welded fabrication rather than riveting
- Surface is covered with anti-slip skid resistant tape for maximum traction
- Full 30" wide platform design for maximum support and stability. Capacity - 800 Pounds
- Has a handle for easy carrying. Carries like a suitcase.. Durable welded construction
Last update on 2021-12-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- No-slip black grip
- Relies on welds, not rivets, to keep the unit together
- Foldable and comes with a nylon carrying handle
- Astounding weight capacity can handle a variety of wheelchairs and scooters
Cons
- Customers may have to buy multiple ramps to fit varying slopes
- Some indicated they had trouble assembling the ramp
- Video and instructions could be difficult to understand
- Some welds may scrap the ground at thresholds greater than 2”
Another excellent portable wheelchair ramp option, this piece of equipment would be useful for seniors using motorized chairs. This ramp has an incredible 800-pound weight capacity, one of the highest we’ve ever come across for a portable wheelchair ramp, resulting in durability you can count on.
Seniors and caregivers can choose between ramps of three different lengths to meet their specific height requirements—two, three, or four feet—with a sufficient width for most all wheelchairs. This ramp folds as well and even comes with a handle for easy carrying.
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What To Look For When Buying Portable Wheelchair Ramps
Seniors and caregivers are both often perplexed when trying to find a wheelchair ramp that is portable. There are multiple options available, and it’s usually hard to determine which is best or which accommodations are most vital. Below, you’ll see some of the most common frequently asked questions regarding portable ramps so that you can make a well-informed buying decision.
What is the Best Material for a Portable Ramp?
Although you may find ramps made of various materials, the best option is aluminum. Portable aluminum slopes are both lightweight and durable. They are resistant to rust, corrosion, and other wear and tear. This means that caregivers can take them in and out of the car and use them thousands of times without having to worry about faulty equipment.
Another material you’ll want to be on the lookout for is traction or grip tape. Manufacturers often place this tape on the top of the ramp where the wheels of the chair will roll. This allows the wheels to gain traction on the surface, making it much easier for seniors to maneuver up and down the ramp. This also helps in wet conditions, such as when it is raining.
Can You Explain the Different Types of Portable Ramps?
When browsing threshold ramps, you’ll likely come across various types. Rollup ramps are light and compact, as caregivers can unroll them and secure them to a side railing. They are typically only available in lengths of three to five feet, meaning they are best suited for handling one or two steps. Single-fold ramps are better for mid-height inclines. They maintain their length when folded.
Multi-fold slopes can unfold to a length of approximately 12 feet. These are the most massive portable ramps on the market, but they are also the longest. However, because of their size, these ramps can bear heavy wheelchairs and can help seniors cross many stairs. Lastly, temporary ramps are most convenient, as users can install into a doorway instantly. They can be permanent or semi-permanent.
Can I Leave A Portable Ramp in Place?
Yes! If a senior around on his or her own, they may like to explore and wheel themselves around freely. You can install a portable ramp permanently so that they can clear stairs and other obstructions quickly and safely. Many of these ramps come with instructions and guides for permanent installation. If you ever need to move the slope, it should be easy for you to do so.
How Much Do Portable Ramps Cost?
Portable ramps can start as low as $25 and climb from there upwards of a couple of hundred dollars. The cost of the equipment depends significantly on the type that you choose. However, those buying the ramp should remember that quality options made of aluminum are an investment that can last for the rest of your senior’s life. It may be worth your while to ensure you buy a quality product.
Will Ramps Work at Any Height?
No. The American with Disabilities Act recommends that there is a 1:12 ratio when using a ramp, which means that there is at least 12 inches length for every one inch of height the ramp gains. This recommendation is intended for both home and commercial ramps. Having a ratio higher than this is ok. For instance, your ramp can run 13 or 14 inches and only gain an inch of height. That is suitable.
Anything that exceeds the ADA recommendation could put seniors at risk. It could be challenging for them to maneuver themselves a steep slope. If they are going to down a steep decline, they could gain too much momentum and lose control of their wheelchair, potentially risking severe injury. Be sure to measure the height of the location where you wish to have the ramp.
Summary
Many seniors have difficulty maneuvering themselves in their chair, which makes it difficult to clear lips and stairs. It’s always best that caregivers have portable wheelchair ramps on hand to help ease this process. Caregivers should put careful consideration into which slope is best for the senior in their life. We feel as though the three options we’ve provided will help solve many problems in a pinch.
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