Strive to Be Better: Comparing the Strive Special Needs Stroller and the Trotter Mobility Chair

According to the CDC, recent estimates have found that approximately 17% of children aged 3-17 years have one or more developmental disabilities. These statistics envelop a myriad of conditions that can result in physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral impairments. Supporting our children through appropriate therapies and well-designed assistive devices can facilitate better functional independence and improve the quality of life for both the caregiver and the child.

Special Needs Strollers are one category of popular assistive devices that provide children and adults with mobility dysfunctions the opportunity to travel and move with their loved ones both indoors and outdoors. They offer additional support and durability compared to standard push strollers and offer greater portability and adjustability compared to standard wheelchairs. Being durable, lightweight, and portable, they enhance child mobility and keep users safe and comfortable as they progress through development. Follow along as we compare and contrast two of the most popular special needs strollers on the market today.

Are there any differences between the Strive and Trotter?

	Strive Special Needs Stroller by Circle Specialty View Product
	Drive Medical Trotter Special Needs Stroller for Children, Teens, and Young Adults View Product

With so many medical devices on the market today, it can be challenging to isolate the best options available. Integrating everyday use with long-term reliability, the Strive push-stroller and Trotter mobility chair are two favored products that rank highly in the special needs stroller category. On the whole, there are many similarities between the two which we outline below. That said, the Strive offers a distinctive Adjustable Tension Positioning (ATP) feature that takes this stroller to the next level, giving users customizable and multi-purpose back support to meet ever-changing body sizes and individual needs.

The Best Features of the Strive and Trotter

Both the Strive and Trotter strollers, from Circle Specialty and Drive Medical respectively, were designed by top-quality brand-name companies and offer many notable features. The best stroller for your child with special needs is one that appropriately augments their strengths and fills in for their weaknesses. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, durability, or increased postural support, both the Strive Special Needs Stroller and Trotter Pediatric Mobility Chair provide a variety of benefits to suit your child’s ever-changing needs.

Adjustability

With so many children in a seemingly never-ending growth spurt, adjustability is the first key feature offered in our highlighted push strollers. Both the Strive and Trotter provide high levels of customization to grow seamlessly with your child. Adjustability is present at every turn, from the seat depth to the back angle ensuring both momentary comfort and long-term reliability. In addition, both brands feature 12, 14, 16, and 18-inch width options with varying weight capacities to match your child’s distinct size and shape. An added perk of an adjustable seat or tilt angle can be found in the Strive version further amplifying customization and postural control when needed. Rest assured that you are making a valuable investment, and watch your child grow confidently and comfortably in their push stroller.

Portability

A second key feature and perhaps the greatest convenience of special needs strollers is their portability. If your family loves to travel or you’re simply looking for more seamless mobility, push strollers are great transport options. Scientific studies and anecdotal evidence alike agree on the importance of outdoor activities for children with special needs and specialty push strollers make it possible. Both the Strive and Trotter are lightweight and foldable allowing you to easily take them wherever life takes you. With simple collapse mechanisms and a low profile, you can toss them in the trunk or check them at the airport gate with ease and efficiency.

Postural Support

Designed with safety and support in mind, both the Strive and Trotter are also durable and well-padded. The integrated mechanisms of both provide high levels of stability to the child’s body, keeping them secure and shielded while on the go. Safety is paramount and the unique construction of these push strollers gives children with special needs the safest experience possible. A 5-point harness evenly distributes forces, minimizes pressure points, and provides support both at the shoulders and hips. As mentioned earlier, the Adjustable Tension Positioning (ATP) feature found in the Strive Special Needs Stroller allows for nearly endless positioning capabilities, putting it in a class above the rest.

Transit Capability

Ramping up their versatile use is the transit capability of both these devices. For those that need it, transit brackets are available for separate purchase enabling additional transit options. Whether you’re looking for bus transit tie-downs or specialty transit brackets, both devices have product add-ons to make everyday living simpler and more manageable.

Optional Accessories

A final standout feature of both products is they offer additional customization through optional accessories. From headrest extensions to storage baskets, and canopies to foot plates, there are plenty of options available to tailor your stroller according to the child’s needs. Various colorways give children a fun way to personalize their devices and included warranties give parents added confidence in their purchasing decisions.

Final Thoughts

Push strollers are an ideal product for parents or caregivers searching for a lightweight alternative to heavy wheelchairs. Enhancing the freedom of your special needs child and easing the caregiver burden is possible with the customizable support of the Strive special needs stroller and Trotter mobility chair. Both devices offer stability, portability, and durability at their core, and facilitate user mobility and parental confidence. Give your child the mobility and excitement they deserve and get exploring with your push stroller today.

If you or your loved one are interested in learning more about special needs push strollers or similar adaptive equipment, check out our Special Need Strollers category page. While you’re there, feel free to explore our expert-crafted informational portal, Caregiver University, and make your medical buying decisions with confidence.