Gekko, Ergo-Gripp and WoodRubb: Hybrid Pushrim Models

A hybrid pushrim describes a pushrim which combines materials to optimise comfort and propulsion. These pushrims usually combine two materials: a primary material which makes up the base, and a second, integrated material which offers grip on the top surface of the pushrim. They aim to provide grip to help propulsion whilst still allowing the rim to run smoothly and easily through your hands when travelling at higher speeds.

Hybrid pushrims are often recommended for people with less strength and/or slightly restricted hand or finger function, who could benefit from more grip than pushrims with a smooth, uncoated surface (such as simple aluminium or titanium pushrims). However, they can also be great for people who often face hills or wet conditions and therefore need slightly more grip.

In short, hybrids can really help optimise propulsion and comfort for a wide range of people.

But what are the differences between different hybrid options?

At Loopwheels, we offer a wide range of different pushrims, both for Loopwheels and to fit to spoked wheels. We work with three European manufacturers who each have a hybrid pushrim option, each with slightly different purposes and benefits.

In this blog post, we describe these three hybrid pushrims, and explain their differences.

CarboLife Gekko

CarboLife Technologies is a German-based manufacturer of a range of ergonomic pushrims. The business, founded in 2013, offers a range of pushrims tailored to the individual needs of different users. We started working with CarboLife in 2016 because we felt they had really nailed a careful assessment of the differing needs of individuals, based on hand function and strength, and manufacture a very high quality pushrim.

When the CarboLife Gekko first launched, it was a unique, revolutionary hand rim, designed to offer great ergonomics and outstanding grip thanks to its hybrid design. It is still one of the best-selling ergonomic pushrims today for good reason. Before it came the Surge, but Gekko really lifted the bar in terms of ergonomic design AND by making the grip strip replaceable.

The Gekko body

The Gekko pushrim is made primarily from anodised aluminium, so the main surface is low-friction, helping prevent heat generation during braking – a common issue with completely coated pushrims. It’s available in both natural silver and in black. Silver may be preferred aesthetically if you don’t like scratches showing long-term.

Hybrid design

The hybrid design of this pushrim is characterised by the integrated silicone surface strip. This robust strip is integrated into the profile for exceptional handling and improved comfort. This grip is beneficial in different weather conditions, going uphill, and during daily travel. In 10 years of selling the Gekko, we have NEVER seen the grip come away from the body of the pushrim through standard use. The grip strip will of course wear eventually, but can be replaced with a new grip strip so that you don’t have to replace the whole pushrim when this occurs.

Ergonomics

Not only does the Gekko offer enhanced performance due to the combination of materials within the pushrim, it also has a carefully designed ergonomic profile shaped to the contours of the human hand to support efficient, comfortable propulsion, and reduce strain caused by an unnatural gripping position or pinching.

Options available

There is another version of the Gekko called theGekko S for smaller hands. This was originally designed for children/paediatric use, but is also suitable for anyone who has small hands. Yes, the S in Gekko S stands for Small!

Tetra-Equipment Ergo-Gripp

Tetra-Equipment is a German-based manufacturer of a range of wheelchair pushrims and accessories for wheelchair rugby. It was founded by Martin Schüth, who had a spinal cord injury as a young man, and was frustrated by the lack of good options in pushrims. He first introduced a high-quality coating solution to the market, available on their own coated pushrims as well as those from other brands, including the CarboLife Curve and Curve L Tetra-Grip models. The Ergo-Gripp is an expertly designed pushrim which integrates a bigger grip strip on the top surface.

The Ergo-Gripp body

The main body of the pushrim is once again an anodised aluminium surface, offering reduced heat generation due to the low-friction nature of the material. This pushrim is also available in both black and silver, offering options to suit your personal preference.

Hybrid Design

The Ergo-Gripp pushrim model has a large integrated rubber grip strip on the top of the pushrim. What differentiates the Ergo-Gripp from the Gekko is the surface area covered by the integrated grip-strip. The top surface of the Ergo-Gripp is completely covered, increasing the surface area covered by the strip in comparison to the Gekko. This can offer improved grip, particularly in wet weather conditions, and for any one with very much reduced hand strength, such as older people, and those with MS (Multiple Sclerosis). Like the Gekko, this grip strip is replaceable.

Ergonomics

The Ergo-Gripp pushrim does not only promote improved efficiency and control for the person using it, but this pushrim also has an ergonomic oval design for optimum comfort and control. The larger grip surface is best for people with much more limited hand strength.

Options available

Lignorim WoodRubb

Lignorim is an Austrian manufacturer of unique, wooden pushrims. Crafted from high-quality ash wood, Lignorim push rims offer durability, comfort, and a timeless design. The surface of the rims is treated with natural, water-resistant stain so they’re ready to tackle and withstand any weather or terrain. Uniquely, Lignorim WoodRubb is a hybrid pushrim combining a wooden main body with a robust and replaceable silicone strip.

The WoodRubb body

The finely textured wooden surface provides a moderate, reliable grip even in wet conditions, enhancing control without compromising smooth propulsion. Wood is also highly resistant to scratching, and the colour doesn’t transfer or mark doorways, furniture or your car. If damage does occur through a serious impact, the wood is easily repaired as it can simply be sanded down, and if required, re-stained.

A key advantage of using wood compared with metal in a push rim is its naturally low thermal conductivity. This means wood doesn’t absorb heat or cold easily, so unlike metal rims, Lignorim stays at a stable temperature of neither hot nor cold, no matter the season.

Hybrid Design

The WoodRubb model has a robust and replaceable silicone strip. This is designed to aid uphill propulsion and enhance grip for increased comfort and efficiency. The black silicone grip strip is also a real eye-catcher if combined with one of the choices of bright colours in the range. Lignorim offer 6 bright colours or 3 more natural wood colour choices (natural, dark and black).

Ergonomics

WoodRubb pushrims combine the hybrid design with the ergonomic shape of the Lignorim Prime model for increased comfort and safe propulsion. The indent on the top surface guides the thumb, encourages control and saves energy whilst the indent on the outer surface helps to stabilise the wrist.

Options available

Choosing between the three hybrid models

If you’re interested in hybrid pushrims, but still aren’t sure which model is right for you, some key considerations which may help the decision include:

●      Fitting to your wheels

An important thing to consider before looking at the features of each pushrim is which model will fit to your wheels. Ergo-Gripp is only available in 24” and 25” sizes. The Gekko and Lignorim WoodRubb are both available in 22”, 24”, 25” and 26” sizes.

The type of fitting (tab or rivnut) will also decide whether you will be able to fit the pushrim to your wheels. If you are looking for these pushrims for spoked wheels (such as Spinergy wheels), you will need tab fittings. If you have a pair of Loopwheels Urban or LT, you will need to look for rivnut fittings. For Loopwheels Extreme, contact [email protected]

●      Level of grip required

The clearest distinction between each model here is the level of grip provided by the materials used. For the largest grip-coated surface area, Ergo-Gripp would be the recommendation. If you want a smaller grip-coated surface, but still some grip on the sides of the pushrim, WoodRubb would be the best model. If you want to maintain the benefits of the smooth sides of aluminium pushrims which pass easily through your hands on the fact and downhill, Gekko would likely be the best choice for you.

●      Ergonomics

Each model has its own ergonomic design, and therefore the choice comes down to your own pushing style and preference. We have some sample cut-offs if you want to compare – get in touch with us if you are interested.

●      Colour and personal style

If you’re looking to add colour to your wheels, WoodRubb is definitely the obvious choice of hybrid pushrim, with a total of 9 shades to choose from! If you’re choosing between black or silver, then Ergo-Gripp and Gekko both are available in these options.

We have recently launched a new resource focused on all-things pushrims. For more detailed information on these models or any other pushrims, please visit Pushrim Solutions at pushrims.co.uk