layer hidden off the screen

	Wheelchair Buying Guide Choosing a wheelchair does not have to be a difficult task. Here you will learn about the basic features of a wheelchair. Follow our guide to make this an easy and educating experience. Please Note: Ultralight and Sports Wheelchairs often require additional measurements and fitting.
	Choosing your Manual Wheelchair type There are two basic types of Manual Wheelchairs: Standard Wheelchairs and Transport Wheelchairs. Standard wheelchairs are most often propelled by the user himself, but can also be pushed by a companion. Standard wheelchairs are distinguished by the two large wheels in back and two small ‘caster’ wheels in front. Transport wheelchairs, on the other hand, cannot be propelled by the user, only by a companion. Instead of large rear wheels, all four wheels are of the smaller ‘caster’ type. Choosing Wheelchair Weight The lighter the wheelchair, the easier it is for a user to push uphill and the easier it is for a companion to lift up stairs or place in a car trunk. Choose a weight according to your personal needs and budget, while bearing in mind the advantage of a lighter weight wheelchair.
Choosing Weight Capacity Standard wheelchairs generally have a 115 kg weight capacity. If the user requires a stronger chair, heavy-duty or “bariatric” wheelchairs can support up to 225 kgs. Choosing Seat Size Seat size is measured in width and depth. Most wheelchairs come in several sizes but the standard size is 45 cm wide by 40 cm deep (or 18 by 16 inches). For an accurate measurement: lay a tape measure down, sit on top, and measure the distance from hip to hip. Add an additional 4 cm on each side to ensure proper comfort, for example while wearing a heavy coat or bulky clothes. Seat depth is measured from the back of the seat to 3 to 4 cm behind the knee. Choosing a Seat Height User Height Seat Height 1.5 m and under 35 to 41 cm 1.5 to 1.6 m 43 to 46 cm 1.6 m and up 48 to 53 cm Seat height is the measurement from floor to seat. If the wheelchair seat is too low the user's feet may drag. If the seat is too high, the user may have a difficult time exiting the wheelchair. To measure proper seat to floor height, have the user sit upright and measure the length from the heel to bend in knee. Add 3 to 4 cm for clearance & subtract the thickness of your cushion. Seat cushions are strongly recommended, especially for users who are likely to spend any significant amount of time in their wheelchair. Choosing Armrests Armrests provide arm and shoulder support. There are 4 types: "Fixed" or "Permanent", Adjustable, Removable, and Flip-Back. Some armrests are a combination of types, such as Adjustable Removable armrests. "Fixed" or "Permanent "armrests cannot be adjusted or removed. Adjustable armrests, on the other hand, can be adjusted to different heights. Removable and Flip-Back armrests can be moved out of the user's way to allow for easy transfer in and out of the wheelchair. Armrests also come in two lengths, Full Length and Desk Length. Desk Length armrests are shorter in length and allow the user to sit closer to a table or desk. Choosing Footrests / Legrests Footrests and Legrests are the two basic types of support for a wheelchair user's legs. Legrests elevate and therefore include a Calf Pad. This enables a wheelchair user to raise or lower their legs and lock the legrests in a desired elevation. Footrests provide leg support in a seated position and do not elevate. Both are available in Swing-Away. These may be tucked out of the way from their position directly in front of the wheelchair. This allows for unobstructed access to and from the wheelchair seat. We hope you've found these few steps helpful. For more assistance in choosing the right wheelchair, don't hesitate to call our customer service department on 0800 051 0011.

Wheelchair Sizing checklist

Contact Us        Corporate Information        Policies        Privacy        Directory        Links