What to Consider

Choosing your first wheelchair can feel overwhelming. Start by considering how you plan to use it, where you’ll use it, and the level of comfort and support you need.

1. How will you use it?
   Consider where, how often, and how far you’ll use the wheelchair, such as at home, outdoors, for travel, or all three.
2. What size and fit do you need?
   Seat width, seat depth, and seat height are important for comfort, posture, and maneuverability.
3. How much weight does it need to support?
   Make sure the wheelchair’s weight capacity meets your needs, including any items you’ll typically carry.
4. How will you transport it?
   If you’ll put it in a car or travel with it, consider the wheelchair’s weight, folding design, and overall portability.
5. What level of comfort and support do you need?
   Think about seating, cushioning, back support, armrests, and footrests, especially if you’ll spend several hours in the wheelchair.

Choosing a Category

Once you know what you’re looking for, explore our wheelchair categories to find the right fit for your needs.

Ultra Lightweight Wheelchairs

Weighing under 25 pounds, they require less effort to propel, are easier to load into a vehicle, and offer greater responsiveness for active users who prioritize efficiency and independence.

Lightweight Wheelchairs

Weighing more than 26 pounds, they’re easier to lift, transport, and self-propel than standard wheelchairs while providing dependable durability for daily use.

Transport Wheelchairs

Built for a companion to push rather than self-propel, transport wheelchairs trade the usual large-back wheels for four small ones.

Standard Wheelchairs

The classic, sturdy everyday model built with a durable frame for everyday mobility. Made from hardened steel rather than lighter metals, they are the most basic, entry-level option.

Recliner Wheelchairs

Built to recline the backrest independently of the seat in small, controlled increments for added comfort and support.

Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs

Designed to redistribute pressure and support proper positioning by keeping your body at the same seated angle while tilting the entire seat backward.

Bariatric Wheelchairs

Designed with wider seats and higher weight capacities to provide added comfort and support. Bariatric wheelchairs accommodate up to 550 lbs and offer seat widths up to 30 inches.

Standing Wheelchairs

Designed to help users transition from a seated to a standing position while supporting greater independence and mobility.

Wheelchair Dimensions

Wheelchair dimensions can help you find an option that fits your body, lifestyle, and space. Here are the key measurements to understand when comparing wheelchairs:

Wheelchair Seat Width

 The distance across the wheelchair seat. The right width provides enough room to sit comfortably without feeling too tight or having excessive space. 16 inches, 18 inches, and 20 inches are common for most wheelchair models while the Bariatric wheelchair series provides a seat width of up to 30 inches.

 

Seat Depth

Seat depth is the distance from the front of the wheelchair seat to the back. To determine the right seat depth, measure from the back of the user’s pelvis to the back of their lower legs while sitting upright. If you already have a wheelchair that fits comfortably, you can also use its seat depth as a reference when choosing a new wheelchair.

 

Seat to Floor Height

Seat-to-floor height is the distance from the floor to the top of the wheelchair seat. The right height helps ensure your feet can rest comfortably and safely. If your feet are dangling or unable to reach the floor, the seat may be too high. If your feet drag on the floor, the seat may be too low. If you use your feet to help move the wheelchair, a lower seat-to-floor height may make it easier to do so.

 

Back Height

Back height is the distance from the top of the wheelchair seat to the top of the backrest. The right back height can provide the level of support you need while seated. Some wheelchairs also allow the backrest to be extended with optional accessories for additional support.

Other Considerations

• Overall Width
  The total width of the wheelchair from side to side. This is especially important if you need to navigate narrow doorways, hallways, or other tight spaces.
• Overall Weight
  The weight of the wheelchair itself. A lighter wheelchair may be easier to lift, transport, and store.
• Weight Capacity
  The maximum amount of weight the wheelchair is designed to support. Always check the weight capacity before purchasing.

Tip: When comparing wheelchairs, review the dimensions listed on each product page to find an option that best fits your needs. If you’re unsure which size or configuration is right for you, consider speaking with a healthcare professional or mobility specialist.

Still not sure which wheelchair is right for you? Contact us.​