Carrying multiple objects on my lap as a wheelchair user can sometimes feel like a game of Jenga, where I meticulously stack and reposition objects to prevent them from falling. so when New Mobility He asked me to review the LapStacker, a retractable strap system that holds objects in your lap, I immediately said yes.
As a C6 incomplete quadriplegic, I can’t close my hands and have no strength to pinch or grasp, so I was curious if I would have enough dexterity to pull and secure the strap in place. I have a rigid manual chair with lever brakes, so I was also concerned that the location of the LapStacker would interfere with my ability to lock the wheels in place. Concerns aside, I was intrigued to give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised that none of the concerns turned out to be a problem.
Upon arrival, the box came with detailed instructions for installing it in a manual or electric chair, and horizontally or vertically, depending on the type of wheelchair. The instructions were easy to follow and required no tools. They promised that the LapStacker could be installed in less than five minutes. Unfortunately, installation required a little more fine motor skill than me and I needed my husband’s help.
Easy, Functional
I love the thoughtful design, which includes finger loops to make it easier for those with limited hand functions like me to remove the straps. I simply hook my thumb into a loop and lift each strap with minimal effort, then attach them with the magnetic ends. Between the strong magnetic closure and the tension of the straps, the items felt firmly in your lap. It really is as easy as LapStacker’s motto: Zip, clip and go.
Once installed, I was eager to find ways to use LapStacker to make my life easier. I found it great for work – it kept a large purse and my laptop in place. I also found it helpful to hold a shopping basket and a small cooler for visiting the park. As an avid traveler, it was fantastic at securing my carry-on luggage while I was making my way through the airport.
The real test was when I had to buy a large cake at the bakery. Normally, I have to wait until someone from the store can carry the cake to my car, since I don’t trust myself carrying such a large cake across the parking lot to my car. Not this time: the LapStacker worked perfectly and the cake arrived to my car and to the party in one piece.
I didn’t find many uses for it in my house. Perhaps one reason is that my house is one level and has hardwood floors with no transitions from one room to another. I don’t have the challenge of having to balance things on my lap while navigating ramps, sidewalks, cobblestones, cobblestones, and other hazards I may encounter in the community.
The LapStacker doesn’t detract from my chair aesthetically or add extra weight – design features I like. The only drawback comes from the location of the side guards and lever brakes on my wheelchair. The LapStacker did not fit under the base of my seat as designed, but instead had to be placed further forward and doing so sometimes rubs against the back of my legs. However, that has nothing to do with the product but rather the type of wheelchair I have. If you’re concerned about whether the LapStacker will fit in your chair, their website offers a detailed guide with installation options and the necessary clearances.
The LapStacker costs $119 for rigid or folding manual wheelchairs and $149 for select power chair models. They offer a 100% money back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose by trying it out. Get more information at adaptdefy.com.
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