Using tennis balls on a walker is a common modification that helps the mobility aid glide more smoothly across various floor surfaces. This addition reduces friction, making it easier for the user to maneuver the device without having to lift it as much. The felt exterior also protects flooring from scratches and significantly reduces the noise often associated with walker use.
Gathering Supplies and Safety Precautions
Gather the necessary materials: four new tennis balls, a sharp utility knife or box cutter, a permanent marker, and cut-resistant safety gloves. Use a secure surface, such as a workbench or a cutting board placed on a stable table, to prevent the ball from shifting during the cut.
Always wear the protective gloves to guard against accidental slips of the knife. When making the cut, position the tennis ball so the blade is always moving away from your body and your non-dominant hand. Securing the ball in a vise or a similar clamping device can increase stability and reduce the risk of injury.
Making the Cut and Attaching the Balls
The first step is to mark the precise location for the incision. Use the permanent marker to draw a small “X” on the ball, aiming for the center of the surface that will contact the walker leg. The “X” pattern is recommended over a single straight slit because it creates four small flaps that grip the walker leg more securely, ensuring a snug fit.
Puncture the felt and rubber shell at the center of the marked “X” using the tip of the utility knife. Once the blade is inserted, extend the cut along the lines of the “X,” making each of the four arms approximately 1 to 1.5 inches long. This length is sufficient to accommodate the standard diameter of a walker leg. The cut must penetrate the rubber shell completely but should not be so long that the ball becomes loose or easily falls off the leg.
After the cuts are complete, the tennis ball is ready to be installed onto the walker leg. Hold the ball firmly and squeeze it slightly to open the flaps created by the “X” incision. Align the opening with the bottom of the walker leg and push the ball onto the tube until the leg is fully seated inside. The elasticity of the rubber causes the flaps to press tightly against the leg, securing the ball in place and allowing the walker to glide smoothly.