A hybrid pushrim describes a pushrim which combines materials to optimise comfort and propulsion. These pushrims usually combine two materials: a primary material that forms the base, and a second, integrated material that provides grip on the top surface of the pushrim. They aim to provide grip for propulsion whilst still allowing the rim to run smoothly and easily through your hands 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 smooth, uncoated pushrims (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 pushrims, both for Loopwheels and for fitting spoked wheels. We work with three European manufacturers, each offering a hybrid pushrim option 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 they had really nailed a careful assessment of individuals’ differing needs, based on hand function and strength, and manufactured 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 black. Silver may be preferred aesthetically if you don’t like scratches showing over the 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 to enhance handling and comfort. This grip is beneficial in various weather conditions, on uphill terrain, and during daily travel. In 10 years of selling the Gekko, we have NEVER seen the grip come off the body of the pushrim under standard use. The grip strip will, of course, wear out eventually, but it can be replaced with a new one so you don’t have to replace the whole pushrim when this occurs.
Ergonomics
Not only does the Gekko offer enhanced performance from the combination of materials in the pushrim, but it also features a carefully designed ergonomic profile shaped to the contours of the human hand to support efficient, comfortable propulsion and reduce strain from unnatural gripping or pinching.
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 that integrates a larger grip strip on its top surface.
The Ergo-Gripp body
The main body of the pushrim is once again an anodised aluminium surface, which reduces heat generation due to the material’s low-friction nature. This pushrim is also available in both black and silver, offering options to suit your personal preference.
Hybrid Design
The Ergo-Gripp pushrim model features a large integrated rubber grip strip on top. 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 strip’s surface area compared to the Gekko. This can offer improved grip, particularly in wet weather conditions, and for anyone with very 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 not only improves efficiency and control for the person using it, but also features an ergonomic oval design for optimal comfort and control. The larger grip surface is best for people with much more limited hand strength.
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 rims are treated with a natural, water-resistant stain so they’re ready to tackle any weather or terrain. Uniquely, Lignorim WoodRubb is a hybrid pushrim that combines a wooden main body with a robust, 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 leave marks on doorways, furniture or your car. If damage does occur from a serious impact, the wood is easily repaired: it can 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 features a robust, 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 when paired with one of the bright colour options 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 stabilise the wrist.
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 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 determine whether you can 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 flat and downhill, Gekko would likely be the best choice for you.
● Ergonomics
Each model has its own ergonomic design, so the choice comes down to your pushing style and preferences. We have some sample cut-offs available for comparison – 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 the obvious choice for a hybrid pushrim, with 9 shades to choose from! If you’re choosing between black and silver, Ergo-Gripp and Gekko are both 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