The crutch hub · Updated July 2026
The Best Crutches of 2026
The best crutch for you depends first on the type, not the brand. Most people recovering from a foot or ankle injury do best on a basic underarm pair; anyone on crutches more than a few weeks is usually better off on forearm (Lofstrand) crutches, which spare the armpits entirely. Below: pick your type, then jump to our scored top picks in it.
Quick quiz
Not sure which type is right for you?
Answer a few questions and get matched to the right crutch type and top pick for your situation.
Best forearm crutches
Forearm crutches are the long-term choice: the cuff wraps your forearm so the load comes off your armpits, and you can let go of the grip without dropping them. Our top pick is the In-Motion Pro Forearm Crutches.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Affiliate commissions never change our scores or rankings. Details.
| Crutch | Fit Score | Best for | Weight cap. | Foldable | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-Motion Pro Forearm Crutches Best for long-term use Millennial Medical | 8.4/10 | Long-term daily use | 350 lb | Yes | Visit site |
| Ergobaum 7G Forearm Crutches Best for recovery Ergoactives | 7.8/10 | Post-surgery recovery | 360 lb | Yes | Check price |
| smartCRUTCH Forearm Crutches smartCRUTCH | 7.6/10 | Long-term daily use | 265 lb | Yes | Visit site |
Prices and availability change; "Check price" opens the current Amazon listing.
The strongest pick for people on forearm crutches every day. The spring-assist and ergonomic handle focus on the comfort points (hand and shoulder load) that make standard crutches tiring over months of use.
- Spring-assist mechanism absorbs shock through each step
- ~24° ergonomic handle angle keeps the wrist closer to a neutral position
- Articulating tips keep contact flat through the full stride
- Carries the HCPCS E0110 code for insurance reimbursement
- Premium price vs. basic aluminum pairs
- Heavier than bare-bones models due to spring mechanism
Best underarm crutches
Underarm (axillary) crutches are the standard recovery pair: cheap, easy to size, and fine for a few weeks non-weight-bearing. Our top pick is the In-Motion Pro Underarm Crutches. Keep the pad two inches below your armpit so your hands, not your underarms, carry the weight.
| Crutch | Fit Score | Best for | Weight cap. | Foldable | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-Motion Pro Underarm Crutches Best premium Millennial Medical | 8.2/10 | Post-surgery recovery | 350 lb | Yes | Visit site |
| Drive Medical Aluminum Underarm Crutches Best for most people Drive Medical | 7.6/10 | Post-surgery recovery | 350 lb | No | Check price |
| Medline Aluminum Underarm Crutches Best everyday durability Medline | 7.6/10 | Buying for a parent | 300 lb | No | Check price |
Prices and availability change; "Check price" opens the current Amazon listing.
The premium underarm pick for comfort over the long haul: spring shock-absorption, ergonomic angled grips, and articulating tips make long days easier than any basic pair.
- Spring shock-absorption smooths each step
- Sure Foot articulating tips keep contact on uneven ground
- Contoured left and right ergonomic grips keep the wrist neutral
- Underarm cradle and grip adjust independently; folds in half
- Often FSA/HSA eligible (confirm with your plan); one-year warranty; tall sizes to 7'1"
- Costs far more than a basic drugstore pair
- More crutch than a short, simple recovery needs
Other crutch types
Not everyone needs a traditional crutch. If you can’t bear weight through your wrists or hands (severe arthritis, a hand or wrist injury), platform (gutter) crutches rest your weight on your forearm instead. If you’re non-weight-bearing on one leg for weeks, a hands-free knee scooter is often more comfortable than any crutch: our sister site covers those in depth at Mobility Reviews. See all crutch types compared to find your fit.
Best crutches for your situation
The best crutch changes with why you’re on them. Jump to our scored picks and buyer’s advice for yours.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best crutches overall?
It depends on how long you will use them. For a few weeks of recovery, a basic aluminum underarm pair is the practical pick. For anything longer, a forearm crutch is usually the better tool: it keeps the load off your armpits and lets you release the grip without dropping the crutch.
What are the most comfortable crutches?
Comfort comes from fit first, then design. Among underarm crutches, the ergonomic models with pivoting saddles and shock absorption score highest for comfort. Among forearm crutches, spring-assist posts and angled ergonomic handles make the biggest difference over a long day.
Should I get forearm or underarm crutches?
Underarm for short recoveries: cheaper, simpler, easy to size. Forearm for anything past a few weeks: more natural stride, no armpit contact, and easier daily living. If you are unsure, the length of time you expect to be on crutches is the deciding factor.
What crutches should I use long term?
Long-term daily users almost always end up on forearm crutches, and weight becomes the spec that matters most: lighter frames cost less energy per step across thousands of steps a day. Ergonomic handles, shock absorption, and durable construction round out the long-term checklist.
Quick quiz
Find your match in 60 seconds
Answer a few questions and get matched to the right crutch type and top-scored pick for your situation.