The Real Truth About Esteem Wheelchairs: A Simple, Honest Guide

Buying a wheelchair can feel difficult. I've realised it's challenging to compare all the features, models, specifications, and technologies. If you are thinking about buying an Esteem wheelchair, make a cup of tea and let's begin.

Who Makes Esteem Wheelchairs?

Esteem wheelchairs are made by U-GO Healthcare, a company that has been working for around 29 years and that almost 30 years of supplying mobility aids to people and NHS or another company. Some wheelchairs are also sold by Cosmocare, but they are still a part of Esteem range

What Types of Esteem Wheelchairs Are There?

Manual Wheelchairs

You have two options:

• Self-propelled:  Big back wheels, you can push the wheelchair yourself for more independence.

• Transit models: Small wheels, you will need someone to push your wheelchair, is best when you need help.

Lightweight Wheelchairs

Lifting a heavy wheelchair into a car boot, it's hurting your back, so you need to use these ones:

• Eclipse Ultra Lightweight: 6.7 kg weight, only when you remove the quick release parts, it's superbly light.

• Lightweight Self-Propelled with Attendant Brakes: 12.6 kg weight without footrest,s but still light enough for most people to handle.

Heavy-Duty (Bariatric) Wheelchairs

Need something strong? The bariatric self-propelled wheelchair is extra strong:

• It has a strong frame, and the joint is also.

• Depending on the seat side, it can carry up to 317kg.

• Made for people who fat or need more support and space

Reclining Wheelchairs

Everybody knows sitting up all day is so hard ,so look out for the Deluxe lightweight reclining wheelchair:

• It reclines back up to 70 degrees.

• Effortless movement thanks to the gas piston.

Tilt-in-Space Wheelchair

If you want to release your pressure sores, so check out that:

• The Tilt-in-Space Transit Wheelchair tilts from 98 to 134 degrees. 

• You can shift your weight without changing the way you sit – much more comfortable for long-term use.

What Are They Made Of?

• Lightweight wheelchairs use aluminium – strong but light.

• Heavy-duty ones use steel – extra strong and stable.

How Much Weight Can They Hold?

Here’s a quick look:

• Standard wheelchairs – up to 115kg (18 stone)

• Lightweight models – up to 113.6kg (18 stone)

• KosmoCare Esteem – up to 100kg

• Bariatric models – up to 317kg

• Reclining chairs – up to 130kg (20 stone)

• Tilt-in-space chairs – up to 150kg (23 stone)

Size and Fit

Most of the wheelchairs come with seat widths of 16" or 18," and a bariatric wheelchair is wider.

Pro Tip: Always measure the doorway of your house before buying a wheelchair. The problem occurs when the wheelchair does not fit in your bathroom.

Folding and Transport

Almost all Esteem wheelchairs fold up easily:

• Grasp the back and front of the seat in the middle and lift up.

• Easily fits into car boots and wardrobe.

• The Eclipse model has a folding backrest for more extra space-saving.

Wheels and Tyres

• Self-propelled chairs: Large 24" back wheels with hand rims so you can push yourself.

• Transit chairs: Smaller 16" back wheels - for being pushed.

• Front wheels (casters): Usually 7" to 8" in size.

• Most chairs come with solid, puncture-proof tires - don't worry about getting flats while you're out!

Finding Your Match

Hard Questions to Ask Yourself

Be honest about these:

1. Can you self-propel or do you need someone to push?

2. How many hours a day will you spend in this chair?

3. Where will you use it most? Smooth floors or rough paths?

4. Do you need to put it in your car regularly?

5. What’s your budget ceiling?

Indoor vs Outdoor Use

Indoor chairs need to be lightweight chair and compact. Outdoor chairs need tougher tires and stability. Using both? Look for a middle ground.

Independence vs Assistance

If you have upper body strength and want independence, self propelled is your jam. If you’re usually with a helper or have limited strength, transit models make more sense.

Weight Considerations

Match the chair’s capacity to your needs but don’t forget to consider the chair’s weight if you’ll be lifting it into cars or up steps.

Special Requirements

Need to change positions often? Go reclining. Dealing with pressure issues? Tilt-in-space is your friend. Need extra width and stability? Bariatric models have your back.

Using Your Chair Safely

Some common sense rules:

• Take slopes slowly (this isn’t the X Games)

• Keep your feet on the footplates when moving

• Skip the escalators

• Don’t back down slopes

• Apply brakes when transferring

Operating Those Special Features

Reclining

Lock your brakes (seriously, don’t skip this step). Adjust the lever on the back handle to discover your ideal lounging position.

Tilt-in-Space Function

Brakes locked? Good. Pull the left-hand lever on the push handle and adjust the tilt. Your pressure points will thank you.

Tackling Curbs

Here’s how:

1. Face the curb head-on

2. Helper pushes down on the stepper tube with their foot

3. Front wheels rise up

4. Roll onto the curb

Maintenance Basics

Quick Daily Checks

Take 30 seconds to check:

• Brakes working?

• Wheels spinning freely?

• All parts secure?

It’s like checking your mirrors before driving - fast but important.

Clean It

Wipe it down with a damp cloth occasionally. Store it somewhere dry away from direct sun, which can degrade materials over time.

Annual Service

Once a year get a pro to check everything: tires, bearings, brakes and all moving parts. A well-maintained chair lasts years longer.

Nice to Have

Pimp your ride with:

• Lap belts (not for car use!)

• Storage pouches for your phone and wallet

• Anti-tip wheels if you’re worried about stability

• Elevating leg rests for comfort

• Headrests if you need neck support

• Torso supports for better posture