Are you looking for the best wheelchair in the world to help you regain independence as a wheelchair user?
It’s natural for wheelchair users to be overwhelmed when they’ve got so many waking aid options available on the market.
Fortunately, we’re coming to the rescue with our 10 best wheelchair reviews!
Let’s start with a quick look at our top picks, then keep reading for all the glorious details.
Best Wheelchair Top Picks at a Glance
If you see the value in these products and choose to purchase via my referral links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
- Best Transport Wheelchair: Medline Ultralight Transport Wheelchair
- The Most Affordable Power Wheelchair: eVolt Traveler Power Chair
- Runner Up: Drive Medical Silver Spot 2
- The Best Manual Wheelchair: Invacare Tracer SX5 Manual Wheelchair
- Best Pediatric Wheelchair: Medline Excel Kidz Pediatric Wheelchair
Check the table below for a side-by-side comparison of our favorites!
Related: Transport Wheelchair Vs Standard Wheelchair
10 Best Wheelchair Reviews
Wheelchairs are one of the most popular types of mobility aid, along with walking canes, forearm crutches, and rollator walkers.
They’re invaluable for people with limited mobility to stay active, independent, and move quickly from one point to another.
But with so many types of wheelchairs, it’s hard to pick one. That’s why we’ve analyzed different models to find the best wheelchairs for elderly patients, adults, and children.
#1 Best Transport Wheelchair: Medline Ultralight Transport Wheelchair
The best transport chairs are sturdy, maneuverable, and lighter than standard wheelchairs to facilitate transportation.
Medline’s Ultralight Transport chair ticks all the boxes and is one of the best wheelchairs for seniors and adults alike.
Physical Attributes
- An aluminum frame
- Restaurant-style armrests
- Nylon upholstery
- A seat belt, a cup holder, and back pockets
Quantitative Measurements
- Weighs 15 pounds
- 8-inch rear tires
- 19″ x 16″ wide seat
- 300 pounds of weight capacity
Benefits and Drawbacks of Medline Ultralight Transport Wheelchair at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Weighs only 15 pounds but is still durable enough for indoor/outdoor use | You need another person to push the wheelchair since the 8″ rear wheels are too small |
It boasts a comfortable seat | The wheels aren’t the best for uneven terrains and thresholds |
Compact folding design | You have to remove the foot rests to get it down to the advertised 15-lb weight. |
Foldable, with a frame that is also easy to maintain and made of steel | |
Lightweight |
Benefits
The great thing about Medline’s Ultralight transport chair is that it weighs only 15 pounds but is still durable enough for indoor/outdoor use.
It boasts a comfortable seat with padded armrests and leg rests for ultimate comfort while on the go and a seatbelt for added safety. The 8″ rear tires also can handle most terrains.
But what makes Medline lightweight wheelchair one of the best is the compact folding design, allowing you to fold it for transportation/storage without disassembly.
Customers also give this wheelchair a high rating and describe it as “lightweight perfection.”
Drawbacks
- You need another person to push the wheelchair since the 8″ rear wheels are too small.
- The wheels aren’t the best for uneven terrains and thresholds.
How it Compare to Others and Why
Medline’s transport wheelchair is one of the lightest chairs you can find and has a greater weight capacity than other models.
It also boats restaurant-style armrests so users can sit close to tables/desks and stow-and-go clips to secure the footrests.
ALSO CHECK: Outdoor Power Wheelchairs For Seniors
How the Product Evolved
- Smaller back and front wheels.
- Lighter than basic models for optimum portability.
- Added extras, such as a cup holder.
Expert Tips
- You need to bend down to lock the brakes or have a caregiver park the chair for you.
- The frame is available in several colors.
- The Medline 300 lb weight capacity ultralight transport chair allows you to travel light while making outings and/or and rehab situations easier
- This durable transport chair weighs less than 15 lbs | Compact, simple-folding design is great for travel and storage
- Stow-n-go clips allow the comfort footrests to be locked to the side of the transport wheelchair when not in use
- Restaurant-style permanent armrests allow the user to sit closer to tables and desks for a more comfortable experience
- Padded nylon upholstery | 8 inch rear wheels for easy forward and reverse | Made of high-grade aluminum | 16 inch seat depth, 19 inch seat width
#2 Runner Up: Drive Medical Silver Spot 2
When it comes to mobility equipment and wheelchair accessories, Drive Medical is one of the top wheelchair brands.
As such, it’s no surprise that their top-rated wheelchair Silver Spot impressed us so much we consider it the best wheelchair in 2021. You’ll see why in a moment.
Physical Attributes
- Plastic footrests and padded armrests
- Push to lock brakes
- A pocket for storage
- A steel frame with a powder-coated finish
- Nylon upholstery
Quantitative Measurements
- 8″ caster wheels and 24″ rear wheels
- Folded dimensions: 42″ x 12.5″ x 36″
- Overall weight: 45 pounds
- Weight capacity of 350 pounds
Benefits and Drawbacks of Drive Medical Silver Spot 2 at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Great balance between features, price, and versatility | Some customers note that it’s not the best wheelchair for tall users and that the armrests aren’t very durable |
It boasts an easy-to-clean upholstery | The plastic leg rests also require assembly |
Ensures a smooth ride on any terrain | Wheels are made of heavy plastic |
Foldable, with a frame that is also easy to maintain and made of steel | |
The chair has a pocket on the backrest |
Benefits
Drive Medical’s Silver Sport 2 offers a great balance between features, price, and versatility. That’s why it’s a great option for people that need a chair for temporary or long-term use.
It boasts an easy-to-clean upholstery with padded armrests and swing-away footrests for optimum comfort.
The large rear wheels and 8″ caster wheels ensure a smooth ride on any terrain, while the push-to-lock brakes allow you to stop the wheelchair safely.
The frame is also easy to maintain and made of steel for maximum durability and weight capacity. It can withstand up to 350 pounds with no problem, and the powder-coated finish protects it from scratches.
Moreover, you can fold this chair for storage when you don’t need it, which is great because you won’t have to rent a chair when traveling. And it won’t take much space around the house when not in use.
But that’s not all.
The chair has a pocket on the backrest so that you can keep your personal items close by. And it’s easy to stir and control, which matters when buying a wheelchair.
Check out this guide on how to fold a wheelchair if you think you will need help folding a wheelchair if you bought one.
Drawbacks
Some customers note that it’s not the best wheelchair for tall users and that the armrests aren’t very durable. The plastic leg rests also require assembly.
How it Compare to Others and Why
Unlike traditional wheelchairs, you can fold Silver Sport 2 for transportation and storage. The wheelchair is also made of a durable steel frame, not aluminum, and is easy to maintain.
It’s not the lightest wheelchair on the market, but it’s not too heavy for travel and has a very comfortable seat.
How the Product Evolved
Compared to Silver Sport 1, Silver Sport 2 has a greater weight capacity – 350 pounds vs. 250 pounds. It’s also heavier to accommodate the extra weight.
Expert Tips
- Silver Sport 2 is available in several arm styles to match your preferences.
- It won’t fit through narrow doorways since it’s 28 inches wide.
- Lightweight Folding Wheelchair: Easy to use, comfortable, and durable, these folding wheelchairs for adults make independent mobility easy
- Easy to Transport: Just lift the seat and the folding wheelchair easily collapses side-to-side; at 45 pounds, the lightweight wheelchair can be lifted to fit in the trunk
- Custom Support: Wheelchairs feature padded detachable desk arms; 8-inches front casters are adjustable in three positions and seat height can be adjusted from 17.5 to 19.5 inches
- Durable Design: This portable wheelchair features urethane tires mounted on composite wheels that provide durability and are low maintenance; comes with push-to-lock wheel locks
- Dimensions: 42 inches in length x 28 inches in width x 36 inches in height; width: 12.5 inches (closed); seat: 16 inches in depth x 20 inches in width x 19.5 inches in height; armrest: 8 inches in height; weight capacity: 350 lbs
#3 The Most Affordable Power Wheelchair: eVolt Traveler Power Chair
Power wheelchairs are great for people who lack the upper body strength to propel themselves and don’t want to rely on a caregiver.
And we’ve got the best power wheelchair for people on a tight budget – the amazing eVolt Traveller!
Physical Attributes
- An aluminum frame
- 2 x 250W motors
- Airline-approved wheelchair battery
- Electromagnetic brakes
- Foldable
Quantitative Measurements
- A weight of 48 pounds
- 12″ rear wheels
- Weight capacity of 220 pounds
- Overall dimensions: 25″ x 37″ x 39″
- 12 miles of driving range
Benefits and Drawbacks of eVolt Traveler Power Chair at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Light and folds quickly | Not the best wheelchair for heavier users |
Chair folds into one piece | Takes five to six hours to charge fully |
Its battery is also airline-approved | Fairly pricey, especially with add-ons |
You can travel as fast as 5 miles per hour | |
The aluminum frame is built for maximum durability |
Benefits
The great thing about eVolt Traveller is that it’s light and folds quickly into a compact shape for transportation and storage. It fits with no problems inside a vehicle’s trunk or a closet.
Moreover, the chair folds into one piece and doesn’t require any additional assembly before it’s ready for use. Its battery is also airline-approved, so you won’t have any problems during the check-in.
The powerful motors and 12″ rear wheels ensure smooth performance on uneven terrain, while the thick seat provides ultimate comfort. You can travel as fast as 5 miles per hour!
Moreover, the aluminum frame is built for maximum durability, and the flip-back arms allow you to transfer in/out of the power chair with ease. Customers describe it as “light, comfortable, and compact.”
Drawbacks
- Unfortunately, the eVolt Traveller has a weight capacity of 220 pounds, so it’s not the best wheelchair for heavier users.
- This model also needs five to six hours to charge fully.
How it Compare to Others and Why
Compared to conventional wheelchairs, the eVolt Traveller is light, portable, and foldable. It’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use and is built with the user’s comfort in mind.
It also doesn’t require any assembly on arrival and can be folded flat without removing parts.
How the Product Evolved
There’s no information about previous models, but we’d like to see a model suitable for taller and heavier users.
Expert Tips
- eVolt Traveller is available with a right or left joystick mount.
- You can get an additional battery and power wheelchair accessories if you pay extra.
#4 The Best Manual Wheelchair: Invacare Tracer SX5 Manual Wheelchair
Invacare Tracer SX5 is an excellent choice for anyone that wants a standard wheelchair with a few extras. Its ergonomic design also makes it one of the most comfortable wheelchairs in its category.
Physical Attributes
- A carbon frame
- Flip-back armrests
- Adjustable seat height
- Additional accessories available
- Limited lifetime warranty
Quantitative Measurements
- Weighs 34 pounds
- Available in three seat widths – 16″ x 16,” 18″ x 16″, and 20″ x 16″
- 300 or 250-pound weight capacity, depending on the size
- 24″ rear wheels and 8″ front wheels
Benefits and Drawbacks of Invacare Tracer SX5 Manual Wheelchair at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
You can select the seat size, armrest style and add plenty of accessories | You have to pay extra for wheelchair accessories, such as removable footrests |
Made of carbon for durability | Some customers also note that this best wheelchair is heavier than expected |
Lightweight | Others feel the brakes aren’t tight enough. |
You can adjust the seat height | |
Upholstery is easy to maintain | |
Great for uneven terrains |
Benefits
Invacare Traces SX5 is one of the best manual wheelchairs because you can select the seat size, type of wheelchair armrests and add plenty of accessories, depending on your budget.
Moreover, this manual chair is made of carbon for durability to withstands up to 250/300 pounds of weight. And it’s so light that you can carry and lift it into a vehicle without straining yourself.
But wait – there’s more. You can adjust the seat height to your liking from 17.5″ to 19.5,” and the frame/upholstery is easy to maintain.
The big wheels are also great for uneven terrains, and wheelchair users say it has “excellent maneuverability.”
Drawbacks
- You have to pay extra for wheelchair accessories, such as removable footrests.
- Some customers also note that this best wheelchair is heavier than expected.
How it Compare to Others and Why
Unlike other standard chairs, you can select between full-sized armrests or desk-sized ones. The seat height is also adjustable, and you get a limited lifetime warranty.
How the Product Evolved
- Lighter than previous models for maximum portability.
- Lower weight capacity and narrower seat widths.
Expert Tips
- If you’re going to spend a lot of time riding in the wheelchair, get the optional total chair cushion for maximum comfort and no pressure sores.
- FEATURING: A carbon steel frame, a seat and back with heavy-duty inner liner, and urethane rear tires mounted on "no flex" wheels, the Tracer SX5 Wheelchair is built to last. Dual-axle allows for conversion from 19.5" to hemi seat to floor height of 17.5".
- BUILT TO LAST: Built with 14-gauge cross braces for added durability and strength. Seats are made of comfortable. dual-embossed nylon with heavy-duty inner liners that keep the seat and back from stretching.
- WEIGHT CAPACITY: 250 lbs.
- DIMENSIONS: Adjustable seat to floor height 17.5" or 19.5", seat width 16", seat depth 16".
- ARMREST AND LEGREST DETAILS: Flip back, desk-length arms allow individuals to pull close to a table, desk, or surface. T93HAP Hemi Footrests with Aluminum Footplates and Heel Loops
#5 Best Pediatric Wheelchair: Medline Excel Kidz Pediatric Wheelchair
Medline has an excellent pediatric wheelchair for kids with mobility disorders, built for the child’s comfort in mind.
Physical Attributes
- Height adjustable handles
- Vinyl upholstery
- Padded legrests
- Removable desk length armrests
Quantitative Measurements
- 24″ rear wheels and 8″front wheels
- Weighs 38 pounds
- Weight capacity of 250 pounds
- Overall dimensions: 36.5″ x 22.5″ x 25″
Benefits and Drawbacks of Medline Excel Kidz Pediatric Wheelchair at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Kid-friendly design | Low weight capacity of 250 pounds |
Handle height and seat height are adjustable | Not the best for taller children |
With swing-back armrest and swing-away footrest | |
Narrow enough to fit most doorways |
Benefits
This top-rated wheelchair boasts a kid-friendly design with a comfortable seat, calf pads, and water-resistant vinyl upholstery. So, don’t worry if your kid is prone to accidents.
The handle height and seat height are adjustable for the parents’ convenience, while the deep tread tires and anti-trippers ensure the chair performs well indoors/outdoors and on rougher terrain.
Moreover, thanks to the swing-back armrest and swing-away footrest, you won’t have trouble transferring your child to and from the wheelchair.
And this best wheelchair is narrow enough to fit most doorways.
Drawbacks
- Low weight capacity of 250 pounds
- Not the best for taller children
How it Compare to Others and Why
We like the smiley face on the upholstery and the bright yellow frame. It makes the wheelchair look less scary for children, and user say it’s “just perfect for traveling.”
How the Product Evolved
No information about previous releases, but we’d like to see improved footrests that can accommodate children with short legs.
Expert Tips
- If you don’t have a wheelchair ramp for cars, consider adding one as an extra.
- Get a wheelchair bag to keep your child’s essentials close by.
#6 Best Wheelchair for Larger People: Karman KN-920W Bariatric Wheelchair
Most traditional wheelchairs have a weight capacity of between 250-350 pounds, but they can be too small for heavier people.
Well, Karman has just the best wheelchair for larger users!
Physical Attributes
- A steel frame
- Removable armrests
- Vinyl Upholstery with padding
- Swing-away footrests with heel loops
Quantitative Measurements
- Weight capacity from 300 to 600 pounds
- 24″ rear wheels and 7″ front wheels
- Seat size range from 20″ to 28″ inches
- Weighs between 41 to 89 pounds
Benefits and Drawbacks of Karman KN-920W Bariatric Wheelchair at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Available in several seat sizes | More expensive than traditional models |
Has a sturdy steel frame for durability | You have to pay extra for seat and back cushions if you want the most comfortable wheelchair |
Armrests are removable | It’s not very lightweight |
Leg rests have heel loops for extra comfort | |
Adjustable seat height |
Benefits
Karman’s KN-920W is one of the best wheelchairs for larger users because it’s available in several seat sizes and has a sturdy steel frame for durability.
You also can remove the armrests when you have to get in/out of the chair, and the leg rests have heel loops for extra comfort and security.
Larger users will also appreciate the double padded upholstery to reduce discomfort and the adjustable seat height.
Drawbacks
- More expensive than traditional models
- You have to pay extra for seat and back cushions if you want the most comfortable wheelchair.
How it Compare to Others and Why
Karman’s Bariatric wheelchair has a greater weight capacity than most basic models and larger seat size.
Its frame is also made of high-quality steel, and you can add plenty of extra accessories for comfort and convenience.
How the Product Evolved
Karman KN-920 is slightly heavier than other available modes and doesn’t include anti-trippers or reclining back, as the KN-880 chair. But you’ve got more options to customize it to your liking.
Expert Tips
- You might have problems with wheelchair-accessible buildings since bariatric chairs are wider than the standard wheelchair width.
#7 Best Bathroom Wheelchair: Mariner Rehab Shower Commode Chair
Bathroom or shower wheelchairs are designed to make self-care easy for people with limited mobility and physical disabilities.
In these cases, you can’t go wrong with Invacare and its comfortable wheelchair, suitable for an adult or an elderly person.
Physical Attributes
- An aluminum frame with steel hardware
- Flip-back padded armrests
- Adjustable swing-away footrests
Quantitative Measurements
- 24″ rear wheels
- Weighs 41 pounds
- Seat size: 18.5″ x 18.25″
- 300 weight capacity
Benefits and Drawbacks of Mariner Rehab Shower Commode Chair at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Completely rust-resistant | Users complain the lightweight bathroom chair doesn’t come with instructions |
It fits most standard and elongated toilet bowls | It’s one of the most expensive wheelchairs, and you get only three years of warranty on the frame |
Great for transport and storage | |
Easy-to-maintain vinyl upholstery |
Benefits
The great thing about Mariner is that it’s completely rust-resistant, so you can use it in the shower with no problems.
It fits most standard and elongated toilet bowls, so you shouldn’t have issues in wheelchair-accessible bathrooms. And you can flip the arms and footrests to make the transition smooth.
This lightweight wheelchair also folds, which is great for transport and storage and has easy-to-maintain vinyl upholstery. Users call it “the most awesome contraption.”
Drawbacks
- Users complain the lightweight bathroom chair doesn’t come with instructions.
- It’s one of the most expensive wheelchairs, and you get only three years of warranty on the frame.
How it Compare to Others and Why
Unlike other bathroom wheelchairs, we considered, the Mariner has large rear wheels, allowing users to push themselves to wheelchair-friendly facilities.
How the Product Evolved
The Mariner is available in a version with 5″ rear wheels for users that require something lighter. You’ve also got several seat size options.
Expert Tips
- You don’t need any tools to adjust the footrests’ height.
- The chair is not suitable for outdoor transportation or frequent mobility usage.
- FEATURES: Self propel rear wheels for more independent individuals. 18 inch seat width flip-back padded arms, swing-away front footrests and a four-position padded seat, aid in providing user comfort. Tool-less adjustable height footrests.
- BUILT TO LAST: Offers a lightweight aluminum frame and stainless steel hardware making it ideal for shower use, while supporting a 300 lb. weight capacity
- DESIGN: Rolling shower chair designed for use in the shower. Fits over most standard toilet bowls.
- EASY STORAGE: Folds into a compact unit for storage and transport.
- SAFETY: Safety strap included.
#8 Best Lightweight Power Wheelchair: Featherweight 33 lbs. Power Chair
If you’re looking for a lightweight power wheelchair, Feather Chair won’t disappoint with its ergonomic design and plenty of features.
Physical Attributes
- 1-inch seat and back cushions
- Lithium-ion battery
- Electromagnetic brakes
- Flip-back armrests
Quantitative Measurements
- Weighs 33 pounds
- 13 miles range
- 3.7 mph speed
- Folded dimensions: 28”x 28.35”x 13.39”
Benefits and Drawbacks of Featherweight 33 lbs. Power Chair at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Folds into a single piece | Among the most expensive options |
Light and easy to lift | Limited warranty on the frame/components |
Designed for comfort | Only holds up to 242 lbs. |
You can travel up to 13 miles on a single charge | |
Controls are super-friendly |
Benefits
Featherweight folds into a single piece and doesn’t require additional assembly. That’s great for adults who love traveling and need a chair that fits into their car’s trunk.
Moreover, the featherweight wheelchair is light and easy to lift over obstacles or into a vehicle. Its cushions are designed for comfort, while the flip-back arms give you additional room to move.
And you can travel up to 13 miles on a single charge. The 9.8″ rear wheels are great for most surfaces, and the controls are user-friendly. Users also describe it as “the best for small homes.”
Drawbacks
- Not the cheapest option
- Limited warranty on the frame/components
How it Compare to Others and Why?
This lightweight model has an average speed compared to other power wheelchairs but has a better mile range and folds into one piece.
How the Product Evolved
- Improved drive range and weight capacity
- Available in different colors
Expert Tips
- You can get anti trappers and a safety belt if you pay extra.
- This best wheelchair chair is airplane-approved, so you shouldn’t have problems during the check-in.
#9 Best Foldable Power Wheelchair: Model H Hybrid Manual and Power Chair in One
Foldable power wheelchairs are great for indoor/outdoor use and are perfect for travel since they don’t require upper body strength to propel yourself.
And the best wheelchair in this category is Model H Hybrid Chair, with its innovative design and safety features.
Physical Attributes
- Flip-back armrest and flip-up legrests
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Safety horn and seatbelt
Quantitative Measurements
- 260 pounds of weight capacity
- 22″ rear and 6″ front wheels
- 5mph of speed
- 8/13 miles of driving range
Benefits and Drawbacks of Model H Hybrid Manual and Power Chair in One at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
It fits into any car and weighs only 39 pounds | Not the cheapest option |
It also has a comfortable seat with plenty of available accessories | Fairly basic accessories cost extra |
Allows you to switch between manual and power control | Only holds up to 260 lbs |
Easy to operate |
Benefits
We consider Model H the best foldable power wheelchair because it fits into any car and weighs only 39 pounds. It also has a comfortable seat with plenty of available accessories for extra comfort.
The chair also allows you to switch between manual and power control, so there’s no need to worry you’re going to get stuck when the charge drops.
Since it folds into a single piece with no tools necessary, this foldable power chair is perfect for wheelchair users on the go. And users say it’s “easy to operate.”
Drawbacks
- Not the cheapest option
- Accessories cost extra
How it Compare to Others and Why
Unlike other power chairs we’ve considered, the Model H Hybrid is light, compact, and portable. You can fold it for seconds, and it fits in vehicles and closets with no problems.
How the Product Evolved
- Available 12V battery for an extended drive range of 13 miles. The 6V battery has an 8-mile drive range.
Expert Tips
- Consider a caregiver push bar if you need help getting around.
- Optional adjustable anti-trippers are available to prevent your chair from tipping on uneven surfaces.
- The chair is airline-approved, so you shouldn’t have problems checking it in.
#10 Best Wheelchair with Reclining Back: ProBasics Standard Reclining Wheelchair
If you’re looking for a comfortable wheelchair, you can’t go wrong with ProBasics, one of the top wheelchair brands, and their reclining wheelchair.
Physical Attributes
- A steel frame
- Padded removable armrests
- Black vinyl upholstery
- Mag-style wheels
- Chart pockets
- Elevating leg rests
Quantitative Measurements
- Seat width size from 16″ to 22.”
- 300 pounds of weight capacity
- 24″ solid tires
Benefits and Drawbacks of ProBasics Standard Reclining Wheelchair at a Glance
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Tilts back from 90 to 160 degrees allowing users to have a nap | Some customers state that you need help to adjust the chair’s reclining angle |
The chair has a removable headrest for maximum comfort | Not the lightest wheelchair |
Upholstery is durable and doesn’t stain easily | Brakes are pull-to-lock rather than push-style. |
Adjust the leg rigging without any tools | |
The large rear wheels ensure excellent traction on most surfaces |
Benefits
ProBasic’s top reclining wheelchair tilts back from 90 to 160 degrees, allowing users to have a nap whenever they want without transferring to a bed.
The chair has a removable headrest for maximum comfort, while the upholstery is durable and doesn’t stain easily. Users call it a “game-changer.”
Moreover, you can adjust the leg rigging without any tools, and the large rear wheels ensure excellent traction on most surfaces.
Drawbacks
- Some customers state that you need help to adjust the chair’s reclining angle.
- Not the lightest wheelchair
How it Compare to Others and Why
While other reclining wheelchairs allow adjustments up to 180 degrees, ProBasic’s top-rated wheelchair offers an excellent balance between price and features.
It also one of the few brands available in sizes suitable for heavier wheelchair users.
How the Product Evolved
- Available in large seat size with a 400 weight capacity
Expert Tips
- The wheelchair requires some assembly upon delivery.
- The chair folds for storage/transportation once you remove the bar across the back.
- STRONG & DURABLE: Slide tube steel frame design with a silver vein finish. Setback axle position to prevent tipping when fully reclined. Reclining wheelchair has comfortable vinyl upholstery that is easy to clean.
- FEATURE RICH: Padded removable desk-length arm rests. Composite handrims with mag-style wheels. Chart pocket on backrest. Tool-free leg riggings. Easy push-to-lock wheel locks.
- WHEELS: Composite handrims with 24" solid urethane tires. 8" x 1" solid rubber front casters. Precision sealed wheel bearings in front and rear ensure long lasting performance and reliability.
- CONFIGURABLE & ADJUSTABLE: Available 16 inch to 22 inch seat width will accommodate almost any user. Tool-free elevating padded legrests with pneumatic piston and composite footplates. This wheelchair will support a patient up to 300 pounds.
- SPECIFICATIONS: Seat Widths - 16” | 18” | 20” | 22"; Seat Depth – 16”; Seat-To-Floor Height –20”; Back Height: 19.5" | 34" (with extension); Warranty - Limited lifetime on frame and one year on all parts
ALSO CHECK: Wheelchair That Goes Up Stairs
What to Consider When Buying a Wheelchair?
Let’s talk about what features you should consider when buying a wheelchair. It will help you narrow down your choice.
Type of Wheelchair
You have to decide what type of chair works best for you. It depends on your disability and how much upper body strength you have to push the wheelchair.
- Transport and travel wheelchairs are great for indoor/outdoor use, but most require a caregiver to do the hard work. But these types of wheelchairs are light and easy to lift.
- Manual wheelchairs can get you anywhere, but they require a lot of hand strength and can be hard to maneuver around obstacles.
- Power wheelchairs can be operated with “any other functioning body part,” as experts say. But they’re expensive and have a limited driving range.
Comfort
No matter how long you’ll need a wheelchair, your comfort should be of the utmost importance to prevent pressure sores.
Consider if the model has padded armrests, footrests, seat depth/width, and the best types of wheelchair cushions. You need something easy to maintain or clean if you spill something.
Seat Size
Seat size is one of the most important features in a wheelchair because if the seat is too small, you won’t fit into the wheelchair.
As specialists explain, seat width is “the measurement of the seat upholstery between the arm rests.” Most seats are 18 inches wide, but you can find narrower or larger ones, depending on your needs.
Wheelchair Weight
No one likes to struggle to lift a heavy wheelchair in a car. So if you travel often, get a lightweight wheelchair that folds.
Weight Capacity
Most wheelchairs have a weight capacity between 250 – 300 pounds. Therefore, heavier users should look for bariatric wheelchairs to accommodate their size.
Wheels and Safety
In general, the bigger the rear wheels, the better traction they provide on different types of surfaces. The brakes also should be easy to engage in case you have to park the chair suddenly.
READ MORE: Why Do Some Wheelchairs Have Slanted Wheels?
Conclusion
Picking a single wheelchair seems hard, but once you know what type of wheelchair you need, it’s easy to narrow down your options. And you can get a wheelchair through Medicare if you meet the requirements.
If you need a wheelchair temporarily, you can get a cheap basic model, but if you’re using it long-term, you should choose something that won’t break apart after the first year.
Our Final Recommendation
- The Medline 300 lb weight capacity ultralight transport chair allows you to travel light while making outings and/or and rehab situations easier
- This durable transport chair weighs less than 15 lbs | Compact, simple-folding design is great for travel and storage
- Stow-n-go clips allow the comfort footrests to be locked to the side of the transport wheelchair when not in use
- Restaurant-style permanent armrests allow the user to sit closer to tables and desks for a more comfortable experience
- Padded nylon upholstery | 8 inch rear wheels for easy forward and reverse | Made of high-grade aluminum | 16 inch seat depth, 19 inch seat width
What do you think about our 10 best wheelchairs? Which one is your favorite and why? Share your opinion in the comment section.
References:
- “Advantages and Disadvantages of Power Wheelchairs.” n.d. Karman Healthcare. https://www.karmanhealthcare.com/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-power-wheelchairs/.
- “Airline Approved Power Chairs.” n.d. Www.1800wheelchair.com. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.1800wheelchair.com/category/airline-approved-power-chairs/.
- ASmith. 2020. “Best Pediatric Wheelchairs in 2021 (Best Wheelchairs for Children).” Wheelchair, Canes & Walker Advice, Reviews, & Tips. December 19, 2020. https://mobilitymedicalsupply.com/best-pediatric-wheelchairs/.
- “Determining the Seat Width for a Wheelchair.” n.d. Karman® Wheelchairs. https://www.karmanhealthcare.com/determining-the-seat-width-for-a-wheelchair/.
- “Top 5 Bariatric Manual Wheelchairs [Updated for 2021].” n.d. Rehabmart.com. Accessed June 22, 2021. https://www.rehabmart.com/post/top-5-bariatric-manual-wheelchairs.
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