What to Look for When Buying a Wheelchair Online

Buying a wheelchair online can be daunting, especially when you’re not able to test the equipment in person. Whether you’re buying for yourself or a loved one, getting it right is key to comfort, mobility and overall well being. This full guide will take you through everything you need to consider when buying a wheelchair online so you make the right decision for you.

Wheelchair Size and Dimensions: Get the Right Fit

Seat Width and Depth

Proper wheelchair sizing is the most important part of your buying decision. An ill fitting wheelchair can cause pressure sores, discomfort and reduced mobility. When measuring for seat width you need to measure the widest part of your hips when seated, then add 2 inches for comfort and clothing allowance.

Seat depth is also important - measure from the back of your buttocks to the back of your knees, then subtract 2 inches to prevent pressure behind the knees. Most standard wheelchairs have seat widths from 16 to 20 inches and depths from 16 to 18 inches.

Overall Chair Dimensions

Consider the overall dimensions of the chair in relation to your living space. Measure doorways, hallways and any tight spaces the chair will need to fit through. Standard wheelchair widths are 24 to 27 inches with armrests, length varies between models.

The turning radius is another important measurement especially for indoor use. Smaller wheelchairs are more maneuverable in tight spaces, larger chairs are more comfortable but need more room to navigate.

Seat Comfort and Support Features

Cushioning and Upholstery

Proper seat cushioning significantly affects both comfort and overall well-being. Look for high density foam cushions that provide support without pressure sores. Memory foam is more comfortable but more expensive.

Upholstery should be breathable, easy to clean and durable. Vinyl is practical and wipeable, fabric options are breathable but require more maintenance. Some premium models have antimicrobial treatment to prevent bacterial growth.

Back Support

Back support is key to good posture and not getting tired. Adjustable backrests allow you to find the perfect angle for comfort and support. Some wheelchairs have removable back cushions for customisation, others have built in lumbar support.

Do you need high back or low back depending on your level of trunk stability and support requirements. High back wheelchairs provide more support but limit upper body movement.

Weight Considerations: Durability vs Portability

Wheelchair Weight Categories

Wheelchairs fall into several weight categories, each with its own benefits. Standard wheelchairs typically weigh between 35 and 50 pounds, offering excellent durability and stability for users.

Lightweight wheelchairs weigh 25-35 pounds and are easy to transport but still good build quality.

Ultra-lightweight wheelchairs weigh less than 25 pounds and are for active users who need to move the chair around. They may sacrifice some durability for weight reduction.

Weight Capacity

Always make sure the wheelchair’s weight capacity is at least 20-30 pounds more than the user’s weight. This is for safety and longevity. Standard wheelchairs can support 250-300 pounds and heavy duty can support up to 500 pounds or more.

Adjustability and Portability Features

Folding Mechanisms

Folding wheelchairs are for transport and storage. Look for ones with easy to use folding mechanisms that don’t require too much force. Quick release wheels are great for reducing the size of the wheelchair when storing in cars.

Some modern wheelchairs have tool free adjustments, so you can adjust seat height, armrest height and footrest position without tools. This is great as needs change over time.

Removable Components

Removable armrests, footrests and seat cushions make transfers easier and allow for more customisation. Quick release mechanisms should be secure when engaged but easy to use when you need to make adjustments.

Electric Wheelchair Batteries: Power and Performance

Battery Types and Capacity

Electric wheelchairs are powered by either sealed lead-acid or lithium-ion battery systems.

Lead-acid batteries are cheaper but heavier and require more maintenance. Lithium-ion batteries are lighter, last longer and charge faster but more expensive to buy.

Battery capacity is measured in amp-hours (Ah), the higher the rating the longer the range. Most electric wheelchairs have a range of 10-20 miles per charge depending on terrain, user weight and driving habits.

Charging

Look for wheelchairs with convenient charging options. On-board chargers allow you to plug directly into wall outlets without removing batteries. Some models include USB ports for charging your mobile devices, which is a nice added feature!

Consider charging time - most batteries take 6-8 hours to fully charge. Fast charging options can reduce this to 3-4 hours but may be more expensive.

Manual Wheelchairs: Features and Benefits

Propulsion

Manual wheelchairs have two main propulsion methods: self-propulsion and attendant-propulsion. Self-propelling wheelchairs have large rear wheels with hand rims so you can move independently. The wheel size affects the mechanical advantage - larger wheels require less effort but can be harder to get around in tight spaces.

Wheels and Tyres

Pneumatic tyres give better shock absorption and comfort on rough surfaces but require maintenance and can puncture.Solid tyres require no maintenance but provide reduced shock absorption. Some wheelchairs have mag wheels which are lightweight and low maintenance.

Anti-tip wheels are a must have safety feature that prevents backwards tipping especially for new wheelchair users or those with limited upper body strength.

Armrest Options and Configurations

Armrest Types

Fixed armrests are most stable and durable but can hinder transfers. Removable armrests are good for transfers and side approaches but have more mechanical wear points.

Adjustable height armrests allow for customisation for different users or activities. Some models feature flip-back armrests that can be pivoted away during transfers while remaining connected to the wheelchair.

Padding and Support

Armrest padding should be comfortable for extended use without being too soft and compressing too much. Some armrests have built in supports for trays or accessories adding functionality.

Mobility Requirements Assessment

Indoor vs. Outdoor Use

Where will you be using the chair? For indoor use, it's important to have smaller wheels, a tighter turning radius, and a lighter overall weight. Outdoor use benefits from larger wheels, pneumatic tyres and more robust construction.

All terrain wheelchairs have larger wheels, more suspension and rugged construction for outdoor adventures. But may not be suitable for indoor use due to size and weight.

Activity Level Considerations

Active users need different features than those with limited mobility. Sport wheelchairs have cambered wheels, lightweight construction and aggressive positioning for maximum performance. Standard wheelchairs prioritise comfort and stability over performance.

Online Shopping Tips for Wheelchairs

Measuring and Fitting

Measure before you shop online. Create a list of all the measurements you need, including seat width, depth, height and overall wheelchair size. Many online retailers have measurement guides and customer service to help with sizing.

Warranty and Returns

Make sure you fully understand the warranty and return policy before making a purchase. Good quality wheelchairs have 2-5 year warranties on the frame and shorter on wear items like tyres and upholstery. Some retailers offer trial periods so you can try the wheelchair at home.

Customer Reviews and Research

Read customer reviews carefully, look for long term durability and comfort feedback. Look for reviews from users like you. Professional reviews from healthcare providers can give you clinical insights.

Budget and Getting the Best Value

Price Ranges

Manual wheelchairs can start from £200 for basic ones, but top of the range, custom ones can go up to £3,000. Electric wheelchairs start from £1,500 and can go over £15,000 for high tech ones with lots of features.

Don’t just look at the price – also think about ongoing costs like maintenance, spare parts and accessories. Spending more upfront on a good quality wheelchair will save you money in the long run.

Help with Costs

Check if your wheelchair can be funded through insurance or funding. The NHS may be able to provide one through your local wheelchair service. Some of the expenses might be covered by private health insurance. Several charities and organizations provide grants to assist with the cost of purchasing a wheelchair.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Wheelchair

Buying a wheelchair online isn’t something to rush. Take a moment to consider exactly what you need—whether it's the size, style, or any additional features.

Measure properly, do your research and remember the cheapest option isn’t always the best.

It’s a good idea to speak to an occupational therapist or physiotherapist who can help you work out what’s best for you. Also many online wheelchair shops have customer support teams who can answer your questions.

The right wheelchair can truly transform your life—enhancing your freedom, comfort, and confidence every day. This guide will help you confidently choose a wheelchair that fits both your needs and your budget.