12 December 2025
Celebrating Disability History Month and the Brands that are Leading the Way
← Back
Written by Kaye Moors
As Disability History Month draws to a close for this year, now felt like a good time to pause to celebrate and acknowledge the progress being made in disability product design. Adapted brands are stepping up to pave the way for inclusivity by demonstrating that accessibility is not just an afterthought but a vital aspect of modern life that should be incorporated into the design thought process from the start.
From the dull, heavy and impractical original wheelchair first made for King Philip of Spain in 1595, to the brightly adorned and lightweight designs from Izzy’s wheels in the modern day.
Not only do we see lightweight, usable wheelchairs but we can also now introduce some personality with colourful characters from favorite movies or mesmerizing designs. Izzy’s wheels have future proofed the wheelchair to express personality and personal interests with Disney and Marvel characters and the popular actors from musical spectacle, Wicked.
Early prosthetics limbs were clumsy and uncomfortable. Prosthetic arms were often fitted with a hook and designs from the American Civil War were made from wood, glue, metal and leather.
In 2025 we have Koalaa who have taken a considered approach to prosthetics, designing for every day activities like cooking, playing music and sports with particular attention paid to children, including under 3 year olds. Their range for young children introduces a prosthetic which is soft, comfortable and practical but friendly with animal designs. With no swallowable parts and 100% washable, these prosthetics can be worn from birth.
Limb ART also combines the practical with quirky, eye-catching designs that show a sense of humour. This award winning brand has a wide range of seriously cool prosthetic covers made from high-grade durable nylon. Using the latest computer-aided design, LimbARTs prosthetic covers can be dipped or wrapped according to customer preference and they are now available on the NHS!
As product design for people with disabilities spans all kinds of products, even walkers have had an upgrade. Aluminum may have been the material of choice for the 80s as it is more lightweight but by adding wheels, people who need support walking can move more quickly and safely.
Zeal showed up in 2024 with pretty pastels and matching accessories to add style to a necessary, day to day product. Their official launch was earlier this year and their vibration free walkers offer smooth support with reliable brakes that are light and portable. Available in five muted colours: chalk (white), onxy (black), thistle (lilac), blush (pink) and sage (green) you can pre-order and customise your walker.
Finally, we want to talk about Glamsticks, one of our favourites here at Never Grey. Founder, Sharon Farley-Mason, takes the humble walking stick and transforms it into a stylish accessory that allows you to dazzle the crowds as you sparkle your way down the high street. But Glamstick is not limited to walking sticks, aside from the foldable versions and the personalisation options for a truly tailored experience, they have the innovative Walk-Sit which is lightweight, foldable and non-slip. With adjustable height options, an ergonomic seat and a smart touch handle the multiple functions mean it can handle different terrain so you are equipped for that trip to the shops or that trip to the beach.
Glamstick’s wide range also offers hiking poles, customisable crutches, wheelchair covers.
This Disability History Month, let’s take a moment to appreciate the progress we’ve made while still acknowledging the work that lies ahead. Adapted brands are at the forefront of creating a more inclusive world, and their continued success is critical to fostering a culture where everyone, regardless of ability, can find products that meet their needs.
As consumers, we have the power to support these brands, whose founders are often driven by personal experience. When accessibility takes priority, a well-thought out process can be applied to the design and creation of practical products, which can be brought into the modern day world,with a bit of personality thrown in.
Please note: Never Grey are not responsible for content found on third party websites