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Are you looking for wheelchair armrest pads?
As you’ll find out, the right wheelchair armrest pads can increase your comfort while you’re traveling in your chair.
And we’re here with our top 8 wheelchair arm cushions to narrow down your choices.
Let’s start with a quick look at our top picks, then keep reading for all the glorious details.
Check: Best Wheelchair for Elderly
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Table of Contents
Wheelchair Armrest Pads Top Picks at a Glance
- Winner: Full-Length Armrest Pad Thick-Style
- Best Budget-Friendly:
- Best Deluxe: Sheepskin Wheelchair Armrest Covers
- Bests for Comfort: Hermell Sherpa Armrest Covers
- Best Supportive: Secure SDAS-1 Wheelchair Arm Rest
Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
8 of the Best Wheelchair Arm Pads (With Reviews)
Armrest pads aren’t the most popular wheelchair accessories. But they’re very important for people with disabilities, especially if they’re prone to sores or experience chronic joint pain.
As specialists explain, “70 to 100% of individuals will experience upper extremity pain using their wheelchair.” [1]
Arm pads can help lessen the discomfort, prevent pressure injuries, and give you the leverage to get in/out of your chair.
However, not all armrest covers will do a good job, and that’s why we’re here with the best armrest pads that won’t disappoint you.
#1 Winner: Full-Length Armrest Pad Thick-Style
Invacare is one of the leading companies on the market for electric and manual wheelchairs, and they’ve got some of the best wheelchair padded armrests.
Physical Attributes
- Black
- Vinyl
- Full-length
- Latex-free, making it ideal for people with allergies
Measurements
- Measures 14″ x 2″
- Suitable for manual wheelchairs
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| This wheelchair armrest pad has a smooth surface for maximum comfort and convenience. The vinyl material is gentle on the elbows and durable enough to withstand repeated use. | Minor problems with the mounting screws |
| The design features multiple hole spacing for easy installation, and it’s suitable for most manual wheelchairs. You can also attach it on either the left/right side. | Each one is sold separately, which is a bit odd for something that should come in a pair. |
| Easy to apply/remove and doesn’t get in the way. As such, you don’t have to worry about reaching tables or desks. | |
| Easy to return the item if you purchase the wrong length and that they’re pleased with the quality. |
How it Compares to Others and Why
- Relatively easy to apply, remove, and maintain
- Very thick and padded
How the Product Evolved
- Improved design and thickness compared to other Invacare replacement wheelchair armrest pads
Tips
- If you’re not sure these pads will fit your chair, you should contact customer support.
#2 Best Budget-Friendly:
If you’re looking for something affordable and cheap, Vive has the perfect wheelchair arm cushions.
Physical Attributes
- Black or white
- Synthetic sheepskin with memory foam
Measurements
- Measures 12.75″ x 4.5″
- It fits any armrest up to 8.5″ in circumference
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Made from soft sheepskin for optimum comfort with a breathable memory foam layer to keep the skin sweat-free | Slides too much, according to customers |
| You get a 60-day money-back guarantee. | |
| Sold as a pair | |
| Easy to strap and light enough to carry around in a wheelchair case for airline travel | |
| Distributes pressure evenly to prevent sores and nerve pain |
How it Compares to Others and Why
- Velcro closures for easy application instead of mounting screws
- Shorter than other models
- Suitable for standard/transport wheelchairs, office chairs, and scooters
How the Product Evolved
- Available in two colors
Tips
- Clean the pads with mild detergent and a damp cloth. Don’t machine wash.
Hypoallergenic, the synthetic sheepskin material is soft and breathable to protect against irritation, sore spots and nerve pain
#3 Best Stylish: Universal Armrest Pad with Grey Base
Another excellent wheelchair arm cushion, this universal-fit option is perfect if you’re looking for something stylish to fit most types of wheelchairs.
Physical Attributes
- Black with a grey base
- Vinyl material
Measurements
- Measures 9-1/8 Inch Long x 2 Inch Wide
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Smooth, comfortable surface to ease discomfort and reduce skin irritations | Not the best choice for power wheelchairs |
| Easy to apply/remove to most wheelchairs and standard chairs | While called “universal,” some this brand didn’t fit their particular chair. |
| You can clean it quickly in case of an accident | Not as long-lasting as other options |
| Multiple spacings to ensure the hole pattern will match most manual chairs |
How it Compares to Others and Why
- Slightly shorter than other types of wheelchair armrests.
- A universal option, so it’ll fit most chairs.
#4 Best Deluxe: Sheepskin Wheelchair Armrest Covers
These sheepskin wheelchair armrest covers are a great choice want something extra comfortable and classy for your wheelchair.
Physical Attributes
- Beige
- Velcro closure
Measurements
- Measures 9-1/2″ x 5″
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Made from dense medical sheepskin for comfort and as pressure relief cushions | Not the cheapest option |
| Reduce moisture to protect the skin and prevent decubitus ulcers | Shipping costs extra |
| Quick and easy to apply thanks to the durable Velcro fasteners | |
| You can machine wash these armrest pads, so you don’t have to worry if you get them dirty | |
| Most customers give them a 5-star review for quality and durability | |
| Sold in a pair |
How it Compares to Others and Why
- Genuine, not synthetic sheepskin
- Superb quality and softness
- Beige can be trickier to maintain since it gets dirty quickly
How the Product Evolved
Sheepskin Ranch has decades of experience in producing medical-grade sheepskin, and they’re constantly working on expanding their product range.
Tips
- Sheepskin Ranch has a great seat pad (18″ x 16″) if you’re looking for the best wheelchair cushions.
- Contact the manufacturer if you want a custom wheelchair replacement pad.
| Check Latest Price Sheepskin Accessories |
#5 Best for Sore Prevention: Gel Armrest Pads
Gel armrest pads are the perfect choice if you’re dealing with sores and pressure ulcers and want comfortable wheelchair pads to fix the problem.
Physical Attributes
- Black
- Nylon cover
- Full-length or desk-length
Measurements
- Measures 10″ to 16″ in length and 2″ to 3.5″ in width, depending on the size.
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| The gel is an excellent choice for providing optimum user comfort and aiding in healing ulcers and abrasions. | Sold as a single |
| You can install these gel wheelchair pads on most wheelchairs. | Easy to dent and scratch |
| The wheelchair armrest pads feature a stable wooden base with a plastic guard for durability, and they won’t move around once you install them. | No installation tips |
| Neoprene nylon cover is easy to maintain and provides enough leverage to allow you to get in/out of the chair with ease. | |
| The gel also distributes pressure evenly and absorbs shock well. |
How it Compares to Others and Why
- Available in a wider range of sizes, compared to other wheelchair armrest pads
- It boasts a gel design for increased comfort.
- More expensive than the average vinyl wheelchair armrest pads
How the Product Evolved
- No information about upgrades, but we’d like to see an improved nylon cover.
Tips
- Measure your chair’s armrest well to ensure these gel pads will fit over them.
- Soft GEL Padding
- Wider than a Standard Arm Pad
- Washable
- Attaching Hardware is provided
- Stretch nylon & dimensional GEL shape allows airflow to carry away heat & moisture.
#6 Best for Comfort: Hermell Sherpa Armrest Covers
If you’re looking for comfortable wheelchair arm pads but don’t want to spend a fortune, Hermell has you covered.
Physical Attributes
- Polyester shearling
- Hook-and-loop Velcro
Measurements
- Measures 10″ x 12″
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Soft material to prevent skin irritations and provide ample support for the arm and elbows | Available in only one size |
| Affordable price | Too wide for some wheelchair models |
| Machine-washable and easy to maintain | |
| Made in the USA | |
| Lightweight and easy to carry around, so it’s perfect if you’re going on a wheelchair-friendly vacation. | |
| Great for manual chairs, electric wheelchairs, office chairs, and more Hook-and-loop closure, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your chair’s armrest |
How it Compares to Others and Why
- Imitation sheepskin instead of a genuine one
- Wider than other brands we’ve reviewed
How the Product Evolved
- Hermall has long years of experience in manufacturing products to reduce patients’ pain and discomfort, so they’re constantly improving their designs.
- Their wheelchair arm covers are available as hand grips for walkers.
Tips
- Check Hermall’s body aligner pillow if you have problems getting comfortable in bed.
| Check Latest Price Soft Wheelchair Armrest Covers in Sherpa — $17.95 Are you a caregiver providing assistance to individuals who require the use of a wheelchair? Do you find that the rubber armrests irritate their skin or cause discomfort? We’ve found a solution! With the Soft Wheelchair Armrest Covers in Sherpa , stiff ru |
#7 Best Supportive: Secure SDAS-1 Wheelchair Arm Rest
The Secure Store has the best wheelchair armrest pads for preventing lateral leaning and supporting the whole body.
Physical Attributes
- Vinyl
- High-density foam
- Black
Measurements
- Measures 16″ x 7″ x 9″
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Unique ergonomic design with a high-density foam core to stabilize the body and provide extra comfort, pain relief, and arm/elbow support | Not the cheapest option |
| Made from soft and durable vinyl material to withstand everyday use and protect the skin from ulcers | Bulky |
| Easy to apply and doesn’t damage the chair surface since it slips over the existing armrest | Sold as a single |
| Water-resistant and flame-retardant | |
| It fits left or right armrest, and you get a one-year guarantee |
How it Compares to Others and Why
- More padding than other armrest pads we’ve reviewed
- Specially designed to correct body posture
How the Product Evolved
No information about improvements, but we’d like to see the armrest pad available in smaller sizes and different colors.
Tips
- Since it’s bulky, this pad might not work well on swing-away armrests.
- You can purchase foam inserts separately.
- MAXIMUM LATERAL SUPPORT AND COMFORT - The Secure SDAS-1 Deluxe Wheelchair Armrest Cushion is ergonomically designed for secure arm stabilization, lateral support and overall user comfort in a wheelchair or geri chair mobility aid device. This arm trough cushion helps stabilize the torso and prevent lateral side leaning in wheelchairs.
- LEFT OR RIGHT WHEELCHAIR ARMREST APPLICATION - Our arm support cushion installs easily in seconds by slipping the pad over the wheelchair armrest of most standard wheelchairs. The cushion can be installed on the right, left, or both wheelchair arm rests. The wheelchair user, medical professional or caregiver can quickly position or move the cushion as needed.
- QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP - The cushion cover material is made of soft and durable latex free vinyl that is both waterproof and flame retardant (Meets California #117 flame retardant standards). The inner core of the cushion is crafted out of high density contoured foam for secure arm positioning and padded comfort.
- EASY CLEAN COVER MATERIAL- User or caregiver can easily and quickly wipe clean the arm cushion
- PURCHASE WITH CONFIDENCE - The SDAS-1 armrest cushion is covered by the Personal Safety Corporation one year full-replacement guarantee and supported by our industry leading customer service team. Place your trust in a company that has been serving nursing homes, assisted living homes, hospitals, nurses, and at-home caregivers since 1991.
- One arm support cushion is included per package. Cushion is suitable for left or right armrest. Dimensions: 16"L x 7"W x 9"H
#8 Best Multifunctional: NYOrtho arm-Rest Cover Cushion Pads
NYOrtho and its armrest cover pads are perfect for managing the daily discomfort of sitting in a wheelchair with their unique design.
Physical Attributes
- Blue
- Stretch fabric
- Hook-and-loop closure
Measurements
- Measures 11″ in length (desk-length armrests) or 16″ (full-length armrests)
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| These best wheelchair armrest pads are made of waterproof stretch fabric to keep your skin from overheating and provide real comfort during travel. | Too small for some wheelchairs |
| The pads have an inner foam layer for additional comfort and the material is water-resistant to ensure easy maintenance. | Not the cheapest option |
| The fabric is also anti-microbial to prevent the build-up of bacteria and reduce the risk of pressure injuries. | |
| Best of all, these pads attach to most types of wheelchairs and are easy to apply/remove, thanks to the hook-and-loop Velcro. |
How it Compares to Others and Why
Unlike other brands we’ve reviewed, these pads are reversible and available in a desk or full-length size. They’re also antimicrobial and have highly positive customer reviews.
How the Product Evolved
- Improved design and upgraded fabric, compared to NYOrtho’s sheepskin wheelchair armrest covers
Tips
Check NYOrtho’s sheepskin wheelchair footrests if you want some extra comfort for your feet as well.
- COMFORTABLE HYGIENIC COVER - The NYOrtho Wheelchair Armrest Covers protect wheelchair bound patients from making uncomfortable contact with metal wheelchair frames and add comfort by acting as a cooling agent to help skin breathe
- WATERPROOF PROTECTION - High-performance stretch fabric promotes comfort by remaining cool and allowing skin to breathe. Inner foam layer provides additional cushioning for optimal comfort.
- EASY TO ATTACH - Easy to attach hook and loop closure allows for quick application and removal as well as easily changing wheelchair armrest color from one side to the other to match patient's preference.
- EASY WIPE CLEAN - Maintaining new condition is easy with wipe-clean surface.
- NONSLIP & REVERSIBLE DESIGN - easy to install and remove
What to Consider Before Buying Wheelchair Armrest Pads
Since wheelchair armrest covers come in a wide variety of sizes and features, let’s talk about what you should consider for making the right choice.
Size and Fit
Most wheelchair armrest pads are suitable for standard wheelchairs, but not all are a good choice for electric chairs.
Always check the product details to ensure the pads will fit and won’t be too loose.
Check: Average Weight of Wheelchair
Material
In general, armrest pads are made from synthetic sheepskin, genuine sheepskin, nylon, or vinyl. All these materials are soft and gentle on the skin, but sheepskin is the most comfortable.
On the other hand, vinyl and nylon are easy to maintain and don’t get as dirty as sheepskin.
Easy to Attach
Armrest covers either wrap around the existing armrests or install with screws. Both types have pros and cons.
Hook-and-loop armrest pads can be too loose or too thin to provide the necessary comfort, but you can remove them quickly.
Mounting armrest pads are more stable and secure, but they can get in the way when you’re sitting at the table.
CHECK: Gifts for People in Wheelchair
FAQs
What Are the Best Wheelchair Armrest Pads?
In general, the best wheelchair armrest pads provide extra comfort and stability for your arms and elbows. They also reduce the risk of pressure injures at vulnerable body points.
The best wheelchair armrest pads are also lightweight, easy to attach/detach, and made from durable material to withstand repeated use.
How Can I Make My Wheelchair More Comfortable?
You can make your wheelchair more comfortable by using wheelchair accessories, such as cushions, footrest pads, armrest pads, or back cushions.
Conclusion
Wheelchair armrest pads are a great solution if your arms and elbows are getting sore from sitting in the wheelchair. They can help with pain relief and reduce the risk of pressure injuries.
However, armrest pads also add extra weight to your chair and might make pushing your wheelchair harder if you pick the wrong type.
Final Recommendation
These eight wheelchair arm pads can provide you with the right level of comfort and stability. But we highly recommend Invacare Full-Length thick armrest pads.
While they’re harder to attach/remove than wrap-around pads, Invacare’s armrest pads are thick, well-cushioned, and durable. They’re also suitable for most standard wheelchairs.
Resources
- 1. Maintaining arm health in wheelchair users: The need for updated guidelines [Internet]. ICORD. 2015 [cited 2021 Dec 7]. Available from: https://icord.org/2015/02/maintaining-arm-health-in-wheelchair-users-the-need-for-updated-guidelines/
What do you think about these 8 wheelchair armrest pads? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
There are lots of great options here. I always love a wheelchair with armest pads.
Thanks for sharing this. I live where there are many in wheel chairs and this information would be wonderful for them.
This is great to know. I think it’s really important to have good arm rests that are comfortable enough.
So many chairs to choose from. This is an important part of the chair.
It’s understandable that a lot of thought would go into armrests for wheelchairs. I think it’s so important to make them as comfy as possible.
This buying guide is a game-changer for wheelchair users! Finally, a comprehensive list to help find the perfect armrest pads for enhanced comfort and support. Thank you for making lives easier!
This is so important for anyone using a wheelchair. Having the right armrest pads can make a world of difference in supporting that individual while they are using their wheelchair.
It is wonderful to know of all these options to make people using wheelchairs more comfortable.. and these armrest pads might be of help to others as well..
It is so nice they have these available. They would be perfect for my grandfather’s wheelchair!
Hey there, your guide on wheelchair armrest pads is truly helpful! It’s a great resource for anyone looking to enhance comfort and support. Your detailed insights and top picks make it easier to choose the right option. Keep up the fantastic work in making life more comfortable for wheelchair users! 🛋️🪑
I can only immagine how important wheelchair armrest pads are. These details make the difference!
It is good to make accessories that are so useful and make wheelchair use easier. Such a useful guide.
Your guides are beneficial, thanks for sharing them! Having all this information is very helpful to me
This is a super informative guide for anyone in need of purchasing arm rests for their wheelchair. Love it and bookmarking next 😉
Thanks for sharing it. I live where there are many neighbors who use wheel chairs and this information will be great for them.
I bet wheelchair arm rests aren’t very comfortable. These pads will help make a wheelchair user more comfortable. Thank you for this review.