Comparison of top bariatric stretcher brands and models in 2025

Choosing the right stretcher is very important now. Almost 42% of adults in the U.S. are obese. Top bariatric stretcher brands include Stryker, Spirit EMS, Bariatric Sked, Hill-Rom, Ferno, Hausted, Pedigo, and Gendron. These brands focus on weight capacity, safety, comfort, and how easy it is to move. They also care about durability and cost.

Key Takeaways

• Pick a stretcher that can hold enough weight. Spirit EMS can carry up to 1,500 pounds. This makes it good for very heavy patients.

• Check for safety features like wheels that lock and strong straps. These things help keep patients safe when moving them.

• Think about how easy it is to move the stretcher in your space. Stretchers like Ferno work well in small spaces. Some other stretchers are better in big open areas.

Comparison Table

Key Specs Overview

You want to know how each bariatric stretcher compares. The table below shows the main features for each brand and model. You can look at weight capacity, safety features, patient comfort, how easy it is to move, durability, and cost. These things are important when picking a stretcher for your facility.

Brand Highlights

Let’s look at what makes each brand special. Spirit EMS has the highest weight capacity and strong safety features. It uses a reinforced frame and secure straps to keep patients safe. Bariatric Sked is wide and flexible. You can use it in tough places, and the tow strap helps you move it. Stryker Prime is stable and has an ergonomic design. It has a strong frame and a locking system. Hill-Rom is made for comfort with a soft surface and height that can change. Ferno is easy to move in small spaces. Hausted and Pedigo have good safety features and move smoothly. Gendron is heavy-duty with a wide surface and strong build.

If you want more details, here are some facts about Bariatric Sked:

• Width is 4 feet, which is 12 inches wider than normal.

• Length is 8 feet.

• It weighs 17 pounds.

• It is made from medium density E-Z glide polyethylene plastic.

• Lift slings have webbing tensile strength of 9,000 lbs.

• It has a large steel carabiner and a tow strap.

Each brand has special features. When you look at these features, you can pick the stretcher that fits your needs. The features you choose will help with patient safety, comfort, and moving the stretcher. Always check the features before buying. The right features help you every day. You want features that last and keep patients safe. Features like reinforced frames, secure straps, and wide surfaces help with heavy patients. Smooth wheels and tow straps make moving easier. Padded mattresses and adjustable headrests make patients more comfortable. Durable features save money over time. Features that fit your budget are important. Each brand gives you choices for different places. Hospitals, ambulances, and long-term care need different features. The best features depend on your space and patients. Features should match how you work. Easy-to-clean features help stop infections. Height and width adjustments help with transfers. Staff safety features matter. Features that meet rules keep you legal. Easy maintenance saves time. Good warranties give peace of mind. User feedback helps you trust your choice. Tested features for strength and reliability are important. Flexible features let you change as needed. Lightweight features help with transport. Sturdy features handle daily use. Affordable features help with costs. New features keep you up to date. Simple features make training easier. Customizable features let you give better care. Features that are ready now mean no waiting. Expert-recommended features give confidence. Popular features in 2025 show what works best.

Top Bariatric Stretcher Brands

Xieeh Stretcher

The Xieeh Stretcher is built with highstrength aluminum alloy, making it both durable and lightweight. The soft foam mattress and adjustable backrest give patients comfort during transport. Safety belts keep the patient secure at all times. With its automatic loading legs and reliable locking system, one medical worker can easily move the stretcher in and out of an ambulance.

The frame is strong and designed for long service life, while the smooth wheels make rolling effortless. Certified by CE, FDA, and ISO standards, the Xieeh Stretcher offers trusted quality for emergency use. It may cost a little more than basic stretchers, but you get lasting strength, comfort, and safety in return.

Spirit EMS

Spirit EMS is great for very heavy patients. It can hold up to 1,500 pounds. This is the highest weight limit you can find. The strong frame and tight straps keep patients safe. The mattress is wide and has extra padding. This helps patients feel comfortable. The stretcher rolls easily, so you do not have to push hard. The steel frame is tough and lasts a long time. Spirit EMS costs more, but you get strong safety and strength.

Bariatric Sked

Bariatric Sked works well in small or tricky places. You can use it where other stretchers do not fit. It is wide and bends easily. It weighs only 17 pounds, so you can carry it. Bariatric Sked uses E-Z glide plastic and strong lift slings. If a patient weighs over 300 pounds, four people should help move them. A Safety Officer watches to make sure everything goes right. You use special gear with handles and check for things in the way. Here are some rules for safe moving:

Bariatric Sked puts safety first. The wide and bendy design helps patients feel good and makes moving easier.

Stryker

Stryker is used in many hospitals. It has special wheels and an electric lift. This makes moving patients easier. Stryker stretchers are steady and have strong frames. The locking system keeps patients safe. It can hold a lot of weight, but it is wide. This can be hard in crowded halls. Here are some good and bad points:

Stryker moves well in open spaces. You may need to plan for tight spots. It is liked for being steady and easy to use.

Hill-Rom

Hill-Rom is good for patient comfort. The soft surface and changing height help patients get on and off. The low height makes it safer. Shock absorption stops bumps. TuckAway OneStep Siderails keep patients safe and do not get in the way. Here are some features that help comfort:

Hill-Rom stretchers make long trips easier for everyone. The wheels roll smoothly and steering is easy.

Ferno

Ferno is good for moving patients in tight places. The design helps you move patients safely. Ferno stretchers are easy to use in emergencies. The sliding feature means you do not have to lift much. Ferno cares about safety and comfort for everyone. Here are some things that make Ferno special:

Ferno stretchers are easy to steer in small spaces. They are a good choice for busy hospitals and ambulances.

Hausted

Hausted is a good pick for many uses. The 5B800 Electric All Purpose Bariatric Stretcher works for moving and treating patients. Hausted stretchers are strong and last a long time. The electric controls help you change the stretcher fast. The frame is light, so you can move it in tight spots. Hausted does not hold the most weight, but it has a good mix of features.

Pedigo

Pedigo stretchers have useful features. The frame is big for larger patients. The big wheels help you move the stretcher easily. Pedigo stretchers have winch attachments for lifting and handles for pulling and pushing. They can hold up to 700 pounds. Powered hi/low stretchers make moving and changing positions simple. Here are some features:

• Big frames for large patients

• Big wheels for easy moving

• Winch attachments for safe lifting

• Handles for pulling and pushing

• Holds up to 700 pounds

• Powered hi/low stretchers for easy moving

Pedigo stretchers make daily work safer and easier. The easy moving is great for busy hospitals.

Gendron

Gendron is strong and holds up to 1,000 pounds. The frame is tough and reinforced. Gendron stretchers use electric controls that are simple. The side rails can move to three spots or fold down. You can change the height to what you need. The patient area is wide and soft. Here are some features:

Gendron stretchers are easy to use and dependable. They move well, even with heavy patients. Gendron gives you what you need for safe and comfy transport.

Each top stretcher brand has something special. They focus on weight limits, safety, comfort, and easy moving. You can pick the best stretcher by thinking about what you need most. Whether you want strength, comfort, or easy moving, these brands have good choices.

Bariatric Stretchers Feature Comparison

Weight Capacity

You need a stretcher that holds every patient safely. Weight capacity is very important to check first. Some bariatric stretchers hold more weight than others. Spirit EMS can hold up to 1,500 pounds. Gendron Heavy Duty Stretcher holds 1,000 pounds. Bariatric Sked can carry 1,200 pounds. Most hospital stretchers, like Stryker and Hill-Rom, hold 700 pounds. If you help many plus-size patients, pick a stretcher with a higher weight limit.

Spirit EMS and Bariatric Sked are best for the highest weight. Gendron is also strong for heavy patients.

Safety Features

Keeping patients safe is always important when moving them. Bariatric stretchers now have better safety features. You will see locking wheels, strong straps, and good brakes. These stop the stretcher from rolling when you do not want it to move. Many stretchers have ergonomic designs. You can adjust backrests and leg supports. This helps keep patients safe and comfortable. Infection control is important too. Easy-to-clean materials and special coatings help stop germs.

Look for stretchers with strong brakes and secure straps. Stryker and Hill-Rom are known for safety. Bariatric Sked is also good for safe moves in hard places.

Maneuverability

You want to move patients easily, even in small spaces. Maneuverability makes your job easier. Hospital stretchers roll best on smooth floors. They move quietly and are easy to steer. Ambulance stretchers work well on rough ground. They have strong frames and wheels that absorb bumps. Ferno is great for turning in tight rooms. Pedigo and Hausted also move well in busy hospitals.

• Hospital stretchers roll smoothly inside.

• They keep patients comfortable while moving.

• Ambulance stretchers work on bumpy ground.

• Strong frames and wheels keep patients safe.

For ambulances, pick a stretcher with shock-absorbing wheels. In hospitals, choose one with swivel casters and a small turning circle.

Durability

You want a stretcher that lasts a long time. Durability saves money and keeps patients safe. Many bariatric stretchers use stainless steel frames. This metal does not rust or break easily. Some stretchers have no cracks or gaps, so they are easy to clean. Tough vinyl covers stop fungus and rot. These features make stretchers strong and simple to care for.

Gendron and Pedigo use strong steel and vinyl covers. These stretchers last through daily use and cleaning.

Cost

You want a stretcher that fits your budget. Bariatric stretchers have many different prices. Stryker stretchers cost the most, from $4,995 to $60,000. Bariatric Sked is much cheaper, starting at $579.99. Spirit EMS and Gendron cost more because they hold more weight and have extra features.

• Bariatric Sked® Stretcher: from $579.99 each

If you only need a stretcher sometimes, Bariatric Sked saves money. For hospitals with many plus-size patients, Stryker and Spirit EMS have more features but cost more.

Patient Comfort

You want every patient to feel safe and comfortable. Bariatric stretchers now have thick mattresses and wide surfaces. Adjustable positions help patients relax. Stryker and Hill-Rom are best for comfort. Their stretchers have soft mattresses and let you change height and angle. The 5B800 Electric All Purpose Bariatric Stretcher has a comfort mattress and a wide surface. It uses powered controls for easy moving and changing positions.

• Stryker

• Hill-Rom

• Merivaara

• Arjo

• Medikab

For the best comfort, pick stretchers with thick mattresses and adjustable positions. Stryker and Hill-Rom are top choices for patient comfort.

Suitability by Setting

Hospitals

Hospitals help many kinds of patients every day. You need a stretcher that can hold different weights. It should also move easily in busy halls. Oversized and bariatric stretchers are best for hospitals. These stretchers hold between 700 and 1,500 pounds. Their height can go from 17 to 26 inches. They have big wheels for smooth rolling.

Spirit EMS, Gendron, and Stryker are good brands for hospitals. They are safe, strong, and easy to move.

Ambulances

Ambulances need special stretchers for fast rides. The stretcher must keep patients safe when moving quickly. Strong frames and wide platforms help in emergencies. Special straps keep patients safe during the ride.

• Higher weight limits help with heavier patients.

• Wider frames give more comfort.

• Strong frames keep patients safe on the road.

• Powered controls make moving easier.

Ferno and Bariatric Sked are great for ambulances. They have tough frames and features for tight spaces.

Long-Term Care

Long-term care centers need stretchers for longer use. The equipment should fit bigger patients and help every day. Wide wheelchairs, stretchers, and beds make moving easier. You also need bigger furniture and medical tools.

Gendron and Hill-Rom stretchers are good for long-term care. They are comfy, easy to adjust, and help with daily needs.

Tip: Always pick a stretcher that fits your needs. The right stretcher makes moving patients safer and easier.

User and Expert Feedback

User Experiences

You want to know what people think about bariatric stretchers. Nurses and EMTs say powered stretchers make work easier. You can lift heavy patients with less effort. This helps you avoid getting hurt. Many users talk about the frame and wheels. If you use a stretcher every day, you notice if it rolls well. Some people like Spirit EMS for its high weight limit. Others pick Stryker because it feels steady and easy to steer. Bariatric Sked works well in tight spaces. Users say mattress quality is important for comfort. Wide surfaces and thick padding help patients feel safe. People also mention how easy it is to clean the stretcher. Good materials make cleaning quick and simple. Powered stretchers save time and energy. You can move patients faster and with less strain. In busy hospitals, you want stretchers that last and keep patients safe. Quality is very important when you use stretchers all day.

Expert Reviews

Experts look at stretchers in a different way. They check the frame, safety features, and how long the stretcher lasts. Many experts say powered stretchers are changing patient care. You get better control and less risk of injury. Experts talk to staff who use stretchers every day. They want to know if the quality meets real needs. More hospitals need powered stretchers because obesity rates are rising. Experts say you should look for stretchers with extra legs, steel frames, or H-braces. These features make stretchers stronger and last longer. Experts like stretchers with new technology, like hydraulic lifts. These features help staff and improve care. Experts agree powered stretchers are important for safety.

Tip: Always ask your team about the quality of your stretchers. You want powered stretchers that last and keep everyone safe.

You want to give the best care to patients everywhere. Spirit EMS and Gendron are good for hospitals. They can hold a lot of weight and have strong frames. Bariatric Sked is great for ambulances. It keeps patients safe and is easy to move. Hill-Rom is best for long-term care. It gives comfort and safety for patients. When picking a stretcher, look for ones with motors and electric power. The table below shows what is most important for patient care.

You make better choices when you think about safety, how easy it is to move, comfort, and cost.

FAQ

What makes bariatric stretchers different from regular stretchers?

Bariatric stretchers have a wider surface. They use a stronger frame. Extra padding helps patients feel better. These features help move bariatric patients in hard places.

How do you improve patient comfort during transport?

Choose stretchers with thick mattresses. Pick ones with adjustable positions. Soft surfaces help patients relax. Comfort is important every time you move someone.

Tip: Look for powered controls and smooth wheels. These features make patients more comfortable. They help you use good emergency stretchers.

Which features should you look for to maximize patient comfort?

You need a wide mattress and soft padding. Adjustable height helps patients get on and off. Easy-to-clean surfaces keep things safe. Strong safety rails protect patients.