The best mobility scooters for steep inclines and hills

If you or someone you care for lives with mobility challenges, then outdoor activities, such as navigating steep hills, can present a significant obstacle to their independence and freedom. We all want to be able to enjoy a fun day out and with the right mobility aids, such as a mobility scooter designed for tricky terrain, conquering the incline of a steep hill can be safe and comfortable. 

In this article, we will explore the factors you should consider when choosing a mobility scooter for steep hills, including key features to look for and some of our top tips for hill climbing. We will also discuss five popular models available at Complete Care Shop to make choosing the right mobility scooter for you or a loved one easier. 

Important factors to consider

When it comes to finding the right mobility scooters for steep hills that fit your requirements, there are some specific things you need to consider. Before you start looking at specific models of mobility scooters, it is crucial to consider some of these key factors when selecting a mobility scooter for navigating steeper gradients:

• Weight capacity - A scooter’s weight capacity is a huge determining factor in its ability to handle steep inclines without strain. While lighter mobility scooters will likely find steep hills easier to navigate, you need to ensure that the scooter’s weight capacity exceeds your own weight. This is not just to ensure you’re comfortable but also for safety reasons. Also consider the weight of any additional items you may carry, such as mobility scooter accessories, to ensure the weight capacity is enough. 
• Motor power - The motor power of a mobility scooter directly influences the scooter’s ability to climb hills and navigate steep inclines. Therefore, you should look for models with robust motors that can provide sufficient torque for uphill climbs. Torque in electric mobility scooters is responsible for providing adequate power to move the scooter up inclines and at low speeds. 
• Stability features - No matter what type of mobility scooter you’re looking for, stability is crucial. This is even more important on steep inclines. Therefore, you should look for features such as a low centre of gravity, a wide wheelbase and anti-tip wheels that can enhance stability and reduce the risk of your mobility scooter tipping over. 

Key features to look for

The best mobility scooters for steep hills will have specific key features that make them navigate challenging terrain more easily. When looking at mobility scooters, keep an eye out for the following key features: 

• Hill climb angle - This refers to the maximum incline a scooter can tackle without struggling. Therefore, we recommend that you look for scooters with steep hill climb angles for optimal performance on inclines. 
• Traction control - Traction control systems are also crucial features to look out for as they prevent wheels from slipping, provide better grip on steep surfaces and ensure a smoother ascent up steep hills. 
• Suspension system - A robust suspension system is another key feature, as it absorbs shocks and vibrations to enhance your ride comfort and stability on uneven terrain. 
• Braking system - All the best mobility scooters for steep hills have a reliable braking system that is crucial for safely descending steep inclines. You should keep a look out for scooters with responsive brakes that provide adequate stopping power. 

Our top tips for hill climbing

Here are some of our top tips for safely climbing hills on a mobility scooter and making the most of your adventures outdoors. 

• Maintain a steady speed - It is important to navigate with skill and caution when hill climbing on your mobility scooter. Therefore, you should avoid sudden accelerations or decelerations wherever possible. Maintaining a consistent speed can help prevent loss of traction.
  
• Distribute weight evenly - Keep your weight centred and evenly distributed on the scooter to maintain stability. Try to avoid leaning too far forward or backward.
  
• Use lower gears - If you have a scooter that features multiple speed settings, you should switch to a lower gear to provide better torque when climbing steep inclines.

Top 5 models for steep hills from Complete Care Shop

Now, let’s take a look and explore five mobility scooters that are available from our range, along with their features and suitability for steep hills to help you find the right scooter for you.

Scooterpac Ignite Mobility Scooter

The all-new Scooterpac Ignite Mobility Scooter is one of the most powerful mobility scooters on the market, so you can enjoy ultimate comfort, power and range throughout your journey. It is a great option for challenging terrain with its super-grip tyres and ultra-soft suspension. It can even tackle rural off-road trials and cobbled streets. The seat fabric is also highly durable and easy to clean. It has a maximum user weight of 28 stone, a maximum slope of 12 degrees, a range of 40 miles and electromagnetic brakes. 

Pride Apex Lite Boot Scooter

The Pride Apex Lite Boot Scooter is a perfect travel companion that is easy to transport as it can be separated into 5 lightweight pieces. It is comfortable and has great user features to make navigating steep hills even easier. 

It has a maximum weight capacity of 21st (133kg) and a powerful motor that has a top speed of 4mph. The controls are simple to use, which makes the scooter easier to use and control. It also comes with a frame-mounted seat post to give you maximum stability. The scooter's 8” front and rear solid alloy style wheels provide great ground clearance and a puncture-free ride.

Motion Healthcare Lithilite Pro Mobility Scooter

The Lithilite Pro Mobility Scooter is part of the Lithilite range, which adds Lithium battery technology to this high-quality design and up to 30 miles of range. It features a lightweight 5kg battery pack, a long floor plan and an adjustable tiller that provides generous leg room. Along with its padded seat and soft grip tiller handlebar, you can guarantee a comfortable ride. 

This model has an overall weight of 40kg and is fitted with all-round suspension, giving impressive ground clearance.

S700 Sterling Mobility Scooter

The S700 Sterling Mobility Scooter stands out as one of the best mobility scooters for steep hills due to its large tyres that make steeper gradients far easier to tackle. Not only does it take on challenging terrain easier, but it also provides a smooth drive each time with its all-round advanced suspension. 

Each wheel also has its own suspension to ensure great comfort despite any bumpy terrain you may come across on your travels. The maximum speed of this model is 8mph and has a maximum user weight of 25st (158kg).

Drive Cobra Mobility Scooter

The Drive Cobra Mobility Scooter is an aerodynamically designed scooter that provides you with a comfortable and stable drive with maximum efficiency in its battery consumption. With an impressive 30-mile maximum range and a comfy seat that can slide and recline to help you find the best position, you can enjoy a relaxing journey.

The Cobra also offers a smooth ride with its all-round suspension and great handling. The armrests are adjustable, and the headrest and tiller can be positioned to suit you. The controls are also easier to use with its electromagnetic brake system and emergency brakes, as well as pneumatic tyres for a smooth ride. It is also great for steep hills with its rear anti-tip wheels and an anti-rollback system to prevent it from rolling backwards on inclines.

Investing in a mobility scooter specifically tailored for steep hills can significantly enhance independence and safety for individuals with mobility challenges. Choose wisely based on your specific needs and preferences to enjoy a comfortable and secure ride on any terrain.

Quality mobility scooters at Complete Care Shop

We hope this guide has provided you with beneficial insight into which mobility scooter is best for steep hills and what to look out for when choosing one.

For more information on our mobility scooters, get in touch with our expert team at Complete Care Shop. If you need more assistance on which of our mobility scooters is most suitable for you, we offer free product advice from our occupational therapists who will be happy to help you.