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You are here: Home / Wheelchairs / Standard & Manual wheelchairs / Guide to Buying a Manual Wheelchair

Guide to Buying a Manual Wheelchair

Knowing what type of manual wheelchair to buy is essential to ensuring you get the wheelchair that’s right for you. There are so many different types of manual wheelchairs on today’s market from self-propel and transit wheelchairs to lightweight and ultra lightweight wheelchairs it can be difficult to choose the right one.

We hope after reading this guide to buying a manual wheelchair the decision-making process will be a lot easier.

What type of manual wheelchair do you need?

Manual wheelchairs are suited for those who have the ability to self-propel the chair or have someone to push the chair for them. If this is not the case then a powered electric wheelchair may be more suitable.

Self-Propelling or Transit Wheelchairs

wren transit manual wheelchair If you are able and want to wheel yourself then a self-propelling wheelchair is right for you. Self-propelling wheelchairs have larger rear wheels, (generally around 60cm in diameter) and are fitted with hand rims to push the wheels with.

They have swivelling castors at the front to allow easy turning. If the user is intending to always be pushed around in the wheelchair, then perhaps transit wheelchairs may be better suited.

Transit wheelchairs have smaller rear wheels, (around 30cm in diameter) as well as brakes either on the wheel or handles behind. Transit models tend to be slightly lighter than self-propelled and can take up less room when being stored and transported.

Rigid Frame Wheelchairs

Having a frame that’s rigid or folding can make all the difference in making life easier with transportation. A rigid frame tends to be a welded frame and has the ability to fold the back down and remove the wheels to allow easy transportation. Also, rigid frames wheelchairs tend to be slightly stronger and more durable than folding frames, being made from aluminium or titanium they can also be incredibly light.

Folding Frame wheelchairs

A folding chair will fold sideways in an X mechanism. It can then be locked in position. Because of the complex mechanism, there is usually reinforced metalwork on the chair, meaning the chair is heavier than a rigid frame chair.

They are also usually made from aluminium or titanium. The advantage of a folding chair is easy storage and transportation, especially if you have limited space in your home. Being able to fold your wheelchair for storage and transportation may be essential.

In general rigid wheelchairs are generally lighter, perform better as well as being more durable as they have less moving parts, however, if you are very active and travel regularly, it is worth comprising on the weight and durability to have a folding frames ease of storage for stress-free travel.

Ultra Lightweight Wheelchairs

Kuschall K-Series Ultra Light wheelchair Available in both self-propel or transit models, they are made from very lightweight aluminium. Ultra lightweight chairs generally weigh between 8 and 13kg, although removing leg rests and rear wheels for transporting will make the chair even lighter.

These are the lightest of wheelchairs and designed to be the easiest to move and transport. Typically seat widths are 16’’ or 18’’ but some models do offer larger sizes.

Lightweight Wheelchairs

Weighing around 12-16kg lightweight wheelchairs come in both self-propel and transit models. They are one of the best all round weight classes and are the most economically priced. Seat widths on lightweight chairs generally are around 16’’ to 18’’ wide.

Bariatric (Heavy Duty) Wheelchairs

Bariatric wheelchairs are designed for larger users. Offering a much wider seat of 20’’ to 24’’ they also have reinforced frames and can handle a weight capacity of 160-325kg. Bariatric chairs tend to weigh around 15-27kg.

action junior paediatric wheelchairs with custom wheelsPediatric Wheelchairs

Pediatric wheelchairs are for children often with a different set of needs to adults. Pediatric wheelchairs come in colour schemes and designs aimed at the younger generation and can really improve a young person’s life.

The rehabilitative benefits of pediatric chairs also extend to standing chairs.

Active/Sport Wheelchairs

Also referred to as a sports wheelchair active wheelchairs are for those who have a very ‘on the go’ lifestyle and therefore need an ultra-lightweight and tough frame.

Tilt and Recline Wheelchairs

A tilting chair means you can change orientation without bending your back. This is really useful in order to reduce pressure build up in your joints. Reclining chairs mean you can move the backrest backwards or forward to help you feel more comfortable and relaxed without harming your posture.

Manual wheelchair features

Weight

The weight of your chair will affect every aspect. The lighter your chair the easier it will be to transport and propel. Basic economy wheelchairs are made from steel which is a lot heavier than higher quality aluminium or titanium wheelchairs.

Frame

This is the body of the chair, being either fixed or folding. The frame is the bones of the chair and what every other component is attached to.

Upholstery

This is arguably the most important component of a wheelchair to ensure you are comfortable. The upholstery can be made from nylon or chairs can be fully upholstered like a car seat, including cushioned support added throughout the seat to reduce aches and pains.

Armrests

Armrests come in two types; full-length armrests which are usually standard with the chair or desk style armrests which allow you to get closer to a table edge. Either type can be height adjustable, can flip-up or retract to allow access.

Footrests

Having swing away or removable footrests help to transfer into a wheelchair. Footrests can also be height adjustable. Some footrests can be independently adjusted if having one foot higher than the other suits your posture.

Brakes

Brakes are obviously very important and vital that they are easily operated. There are various types of brakes to suit different needs such as push/pull on brakes, scissor and disc brakes. For those who have less strength, extension levers can be installed which reduces the strength needed to apply the brakes.

Rear Tyres

There are three main types of tyres available for manual wheelchairs; pneumatic, puncture proof and solid. Pneumatic tyres are air-filled. They are the most comfortable when driving as they offer the most cushioning and comfort over bumps and uneven terrain.

However pneumatic tyres are susceptible to punctures and require the air pressure to be checked regularly. Puncture proof tyres are a compromise between the types, they are instead filled with foam, plastic or have a rubber inner, increasing the weight of the tire slightly but meaning they are resistant to punctures.

Solid tyres are the most hassle-free, easily propel over a smooth service and are ideal for use primarily in the home. However, they offer little shock absorption and you can sometimes really feel those uneven surfaces when driving.

Front Castors

These are the rotating wheels at the front of the chair. A larger castor makes it is easier tackling rougher terrain. On the other hand, a smaller castor means it’s easier to turn and should be favoured by those who have no problem lifting the front of the chair when self-propelling.

Backrests

Your chairs backrest needs to be comfortable and offer maximum postural support. Over time a bad backrest can cause damage to your body. 

Users with poor posture may need a larger backrest; however bear in mind a backrest too high may cause an issue when trying to reach the back wheels. Backrests can be made from adjustable materials or solid and come in fixed, removable, folding or height adjustable styles and designs.

Postural Support

For those users who find it difficult to sit upright a support can be added that helps the torso and the hips align correctly. This can be attached to the backrest or seat cushion.

Headrests

For those who need extra neck support, a headrest can be fitted on the top of the backrest of the chair.

Camber

This is the angle of the rear wheel. The top of the wheel can be angled toward the chair and bottom of the wheel angled away to improve the stability of the chair, however, this will make the wheelchair slightly wider.

Transferring on or off a wheelchair

It’s important to take into account how capable the user is to transfer on or off a manual wheelchair. Some features can make it easier to do so. For example, footplates that can be turned up or down or removed mean there is more room to easily stand in front of the chair, as well as armrests that can be flipped up or moved back. Always ensure the brakes are applied when transferring on or off the chair.

How do I buy a manual wheelchair?

The cost of a manual wheelchair is very dependent on the make and model. Features such as bespoke designed parts and more expensive materials will be the main contributor the overall cost of the chair.

Some NHS wheelchair services offer a voucher scheme to the value of a chair following an assessment and determining which type of wheelchair is needed. This voucher can then be used towards the cost of buying a manual wheelchair privately.

The Motability scheme is useful for hiring or buying a wheelchair, it’s aimed for those who receive disability living allowance or war pensioners mobility supplement. These benefits can be used to fund your new wheelchair.

Easy mobility services are experts in providing the right manual wheelchair for our customers. We listen to our customer’s needs and requirements and provide a full fitting service to make sure they get the wheelchair that is best suited to them.

If you are unsure which manual wheelchair is right for you please feel free to contact us or call into one of our mobility shops for further advice and to try out some of the manual wheelchairs we have on offer.

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A very good understanding of my mobility needs…

I just want to say, big thank you to Paul. I am so pleased with my new Illusion scooter & such great service from you and your company. I have used the scooter three times now, what a big difference compared to my old one. Great service and no pushy sales speak, just a very… good understanding of your product and my mobility needs, thank you again. Alvinnia Lantree Read more “A very good understanding of my mobility needs…”

Exceptional!

Easy Mobility Services were diligent, tidy, and exceptional when sorting out our problem. Mrs. Dean

Kindness and Patience Much Appreciated

Dear Paul and Nicky, Thank you for making the process of buying my sister in law a power chair last Saturday so easy.
Nicky- your kindness and patience were much appreciated. Sarah Hiller

Excellent Service

I would just like testify to the excellent service provided by Easy mobility in Braintree. I first made contact to inquire about a Scooter that I needed urgently as I have Multiple Sclerosis and was going on holiday. I spoke with Ms Claire Tracy within a week Claire had the scooter that I asked for… delivered to me at my address in Somerset. Claire is a very kind and helpful lady and credit to Easy mobility. Bernard Dray Read more “Excellent Service”

Nothing Short of Outstanding

Kuschall series wheelchair

Following several failed attempts to engage a wheelchair showroom in my local area, I decided to contact Easy Mobility Services after an internet trawl of wheelchair dealers. Initially, a first visit was arranged over the telephone to begin a discussion about buying an active wheelchair.  Ben Upson had no hesitation about driving from his Colchester base to visit me at my home address (a… considerable distance of approximately 70 miles).  He brought three makes of wheelchairs with him so that a visual comparison could be made between folding and rigid-framed wheelchairs. After Ben had given me a detailed breakdown of each type, I decided to opt for the Kuschall K-Series wheelchair.  He then very carefully measured me for the right frame prescription and took me through the various ‘add-ons’ that could potentially be beneficial (quite a lengthy process, but obviously necessary).  Some four weeks later, as promised, the new wheelchair that I had chosen was punctually delivered by Ben himself. Quality of service Throughout the whole process, I found Ben to be very honest and highly professional.  It quickly became apparent that he is way ahead of our more local sales advisers, both in terms of product awareness and wider industry knowledge. He showed genuine excitement about the latest advances in wheelchair design.  It is a tribute to this professional approach that he did not, at any point, oversell any particular wheelchair model or ‘add-on’ items and always gave me undisputable and honest advice.  Indeed, whilst I was considering choosing a higher priced Kuschall wheelchair, Ben carefully pointed me to a more fit-for-purpose, entry-level specification better suited to my particular situation and requirements. This was proposed on the basis that I could possibly upgrade in years to come, as I become more accustomed to active wheelchairs.  In hindsight, the eventual model he recommended (and that I chose) is perfectly adequate for my needs.  Ben is a relaxed, amiable man but always maintained a professional ‘edge’ throughout our two meetings. Recommendation Without hesitation, I can say that the quality of the service I recently received from Ben Upson was nothing short of outstanding.  Furthermore, I will definitely recommend him and Easy Mobility Services to others seeking to buy a wheelchair or other mobility aid. Thank you, Ben. Dr D Grange Read more “Nothing Short of Outstanding”

I Can’t Speak Highly Enough of Your Staff Member

I went into the Clacton store on Monday and would like to send an email based on the service I received from a young lady called Amanda. As soon as I entered the shop a lady that worked there, whom I now know to be called Amanda gave me a lovely warm smile and came… over as it was clear I wasn’t sure what I was looking at. I’d been set the task of finding out prices of new scooters for my 92 yr old grandmother. I can’t speak highly enough of your staff member, not only did she know her knowledge but also informed me of weekly payment plans as she’s on disability. She put me at ease on every area and explained things I wasn’t clear on and recommended other areas that may also help her around the home. I work in retail myself and cannot say how much of an asset to your company Amanda is, she went above and beyond and took the time that most wouldn’t have. She’s very welcoming and warming and I shall certainly be recommending people visit the shop and see her for things they may need due to her lovely service. Please pass on my heartfelt thank you to her. Yours sincerely Nicola Heap Read more “I Can’t Speak Highly Enough of Your Staff Member”

Thank you so much for the total care that you have given me

Dear Paul I have been meaning to write to you, but just have not had time as I have been given freedom after many months of being housebound, I am rarely seen at home now. I thought that it’s time I made the move and bought a scooter, and I am so pleased that I… visited your mobility centre and received the care and attention you gave me in buying a scooter that fulfils my health needs. The time you gave me as to the Midi XLS Kymco and the information regarding all matters concerning the scooter has been invaluable, the attention regarding the delivery, visit and care shown on our practice run was as much as anyone could possibly ask This Scooter has changed my life, I have been housebound for months and have an Airedale dog that needs exercise, and above all, I needed to get out of the house.   I am out every day with my dog, enjoying every day, meeting people. The dog has plenty of exercise, he walks and trots alongside with no trouble at all, in fact, he guards the scooter jealously and sits by the shed in the mornings waiting for ‘Madge’ (the scooter) to appear. Paul, I thank you so much for the total care that you have given me, which is not often found these days, Thank you Lucy Rouse Read more “Thank you so much for the total care that you have given me”

Personal touch with absolute professionalism

Dear Ben Cliff and I would like to thank you for your prompt and willing response following accidental damage to his electric wheelchair yesterday. It is such a relief to have it back in working order. The prospect of being without the wheelchair for any length of time made us realise what a difference it… has made to both our lives. For Cliff, it has opened up opportunities to get out of the house and to feel part of the community again, to the extent that we have booked a short holiday knowing that he will be comfortable and have access to places we visit. For me, apart from the reassurance of knowing that Cliff is safe and comfortable, it means an end to the back strain and frustration I used to experience in trying to go anywhere with the manual wheelchair. The time and care you spent measuring up and assessing Cliff’s needs when we purchased the wheelchair earlier this year was well spent. The wheelchair provides more comfort and support than any armchair and can be positioned to enhance his posture, which is a huge benefit. I also appreciated the time you spent providing  ‘driving lessons’! Cliff is now able to come with me on walks to the local shops and, together with the wheelchair-adapted car we have purchased, it means that journeys are no longer something to be dreaded. I would recommend Easy Mobility Services to anyone in a similar position.  You manage to combine the personal touch with absolute professionalism and exceptional pre and after-sales service. With regards Cliff and Linda Knights Read more “Personal touch with absolute professionalism”

Cliff and Linda Knights

Great Service!

Hi Claire The chair work on Friday went well & all seems to be fine now. Many thanks for sorting things out. Your company provides great service Kind regards Mark Harper

Mark Harper

Happy Bunnies

Hi Ben and Paul Mission accomplished! Many thanks to all of you for your input into this situation – To Paul for coming up with the solution – To Ben for expediting it – To Brendon for fitting the stairlift and retrieving the redundant one – And finally to the young lady in the Cressing… shop who realised my predicament when I phoned, and pressed all the right buttons. Thanks again – there are now two happy bunnies in Ash Grove. Best regards Robin Read more “Happy Bunnies”

Robin

Excellent after sales service

Easy Mobility Services have done it again! I had a problem last week with scooters offside rear collapsing after going down a very small kerb and managed to get it home in one piece. Rang you and you were busy with a customer but managed to speak with Steve who came out about 4 hours… later and managed to find a similar bracket on his van to the one that had snapped and after a bit of filing/drilling managed to get me up and running and today has just left after fitting a new component. Steve really is such a dependable man and follows your own and your companies excellent after sales service and work ethic plus he is always friendly and polite. I really can’t thank him enough he is a credit to your organisation…………….please thank him again for me. I am always recommending you without any fear of comebacks. Disabled people like me depend so much on transport  and clearly you recognise this, believe me many do not. Very Best Wishes to you all Brian Mister MBE Read more “Excellent after sales service”

Brian Mister MBE

Very pleased

We were very pleased with our purchase of a riser recliner and would certainly recommend the company to our friends.

Mr & Mrs Dennis

Sincere gratitude and admiration

I have just collected the New Road King mobility scooter from Tony the New Street Shop Chelmsford Manager. I wish to place on record my sincere gratitude and admiration for the way that, as in all my previous contact with Easy Mobility over several years, your customer service goes well beyond what might be expected from… a busy organisation. Many staff have served me to the highest standards, and I hope you will publish this testimonial, as others who would do business with your company are sure to agree with me!   Tony Millett Read more “Sincere gratitude and admiration”

Tony Millett

Thank you

Hi, just wanted to thank you for sending us the Kymco gas strut so quickly, very much appreciated. Elaine

Elaine
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