Features of a standard wheelchair

A standard wheelchair will normally be made from a lightweight steel construction and most models will carry an individual of at least 250 pounds (18 stone) in weight. Many models are available that will carry a larger and heavier person although chairs of this type can be more expensive.

Wheelchairs can weigh as little as 25 pounds (or less) and some will fold down for easy storage during carriage or transportation. Others have a rigid fixed frame.

Most wheelchairs will be designed to be self propelled by their passenger or pushed by a third party. This means that they will feature rims on the rear wheels and handles behind the seat's backrest. They will have arm rests and, depending upon the model, a number of adjustable features.

The rear wheels on a wheelchair will usually be pneumatic (air filled), however the front wheels on most standard models tend to take the form of castors that do not puncture.

Wheelchairs should have easy "palm activated" release for the rear wheels and quick release footrests and armrests.

Features like these see the footrests folding up vertically and the armrests being tilted back or easily removable to make leaving the chair, by swinging out sideways, a simple process.

Typical options

Everyone is different and therefore each individual's wheelchair requirements are different. For this reason there are options that enable a high level of personalisation to be made. Some of these options are standard whilst others will have an additional cost.

Probably the most significant customising feature is the seat and most manufacturers offer chairs with a range of seat width fittings. These will (as an example) extend from 16 inches to 22 inches in width although larger widths are available as bespoke orders.

Seat padding, material finish and tension adjustment are further comfort options on many wheelchair seats. Some may even offer height adjustment.

Rear wheel sizes can also vary, although a 24 inch diameter wheel is often seen as the most desirable.

Overall wheelchair weight can be reduced and strength increased by having an aluminium frame. This is generally are more expensive option, but it will make the chair easier to move and control.

Frame colour selection is available from many manufacturers and different spoke designs or solid style wheels are often optional extras.

Multi-position axle adjustment, quick release anti-tippers, padded arm rests, fold-down backs and pneumatic front tyres are features (or options) on some of the more expensive wheelchairs.

For wheelchair with even more versatility, style and options, see our pages covering sports wheelchairs, The general introduction page is Sports wheelchairs.

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