Manual Wheelchairs

If you're a wheelchair user, you know all the obvious things you need to take into account before choosing one.

If this is all new to you, you really need to spend some time comparing, and preferably trying different models.

Lower down this page is a range of information about manual wheelchairs.

You can click to go straight to more on:

Wheelchair components
Special wheelchair features

or, you can download a PDF with all the information - Choosing a manual wheelchair

Lightweight rigid wheelchair

A lightweight rigid wheelchair, such as the Enigma Super Deluxe (right), offers a combination of safety and durability with convenient features such as flip-back armrests and swingaway footrests for easier transfers, and height-adjustable rear wheels.

It is available in self-propelled and attendant-assisted versions, and can be quickly demounted for easier transportation.

 

Folding transit wheelchairs

For situations where the user will be pushed by an attendant, a lightweight folding chair such as the one shown on the right is practical and transportable.

Weighing very little, it folds flat into a neat and compact carry unit which can be stored in very small spaces.

This type of chair is most suitable if it is only needed occasionally.

It is able to carry users weighing up to a maximum of 16.5 stone (105 kg).

Karma's new Ergo 105 folding wheelchair, (left) combines lightness and transportability with many clever design features, such as upholstery with inbuilt anti-bacterial protection, an ergonomic seat shape that helps to prevent sliding and pressure sores, and comfortable outrigged armrests that reduce the overall width.

The chair shown here is the transit model. It is also available for self-propelling

For the heaviest users, you can find information about bariatric wheelchairs in our bariatric mobility section

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Help choosing the right manual wheelchair for you. Click on a highlighted word and the explanation will open in a new browser window.

Components

• Frame - materials, type

• Seat - dimensions, weight

• Backrests - dimensions, fold backwards/forwards, pushing handles, adjustable height

• Tyres - pneumatic, puncture-proof, solid

• Drive wheels - type, size

• Footrests - fixed, swing-away, detachable, one piece, elevating

• Armrests - desk-style, adjustable height, fold-up-fold-down/swing-away, detachable

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Special features

• Active user wheelchairs

• Lever-propelled wheelchairs

• One-arm-drive wheelchairs

• Catering for amputees

• Elevating seat

• Low-seat wheelchairs

• Comfort wheelchairs

• Wheelchairs with a reclining backrest

• Tilt-in-space seat unit

• Stand-up wheelchairs

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Quick links to other Independent Living Product sections below: