Seat Width

This is the size of the seat on the wheelchair from side to side and not the size of the user's width. Please see our measuring guide to determine how to measure the appropriate seat width.

Seat Depth

This is the size of the seat on the wheelchair from front to back. Please see our measuring guide to determine how to measure the appropriate seat depth.

Seat-to-Floor Height

This measurement is important if the wheelchair user will be propelling the wheelchair with their feet. Please see our measuring guide to determine how to measure the appropriate seat-to-floor height.

Rear Wheel Options

The rear wheels may come in many sizes with different tire choices. While pneumatic tires offer lighter weights and a more comfortable ride, they need continual maintenance and aren't as reliable. Urethane or semi-pneumatic tires are generally less expensive and last longer. Wheel size usually determines seat-to-floor heights but a good rule of thumb to remember is that larger wheels and castors roll easier over thresholds and rough terrain than do smaller ones. 

Casters

Casters are the small wheels on the front of the wheelchair. Like the rear wheels, they may come in many sizes with different tire choices. While pneumatic tires offer lighter weights and a more comfortable ride, they need continual maintenance and aren't as reliable. Urethane or semi-pneumatic tires are generally less expensive and last longer.  Wheel size usually determines seat-to-floor heights but a good rule of thumb to remember is that larger wheels and castors roll easier over thresholds and rough terrain than do smaller ones.

Hand Rim Options

The hand rims are used to propel the wheelchair. They may come in several types. Aluminum hand rims are the lightest and most durable. Composite or plastic hand rims tend to get nicked by sharp corners or bumps. For users with limited strength or arthritis in their hands, plastic coated hand rims offer the easiest rims to grasp.

Arm Options

The arms on a wheelchair come in two basic types and lengths:

• Desk Length:  these are shorter arm pads that allow the user to get closer to tables.
• Full Length:  these are longer and assist the user in standing up from the wheelchair.
• Fixed Height:  The armrest height cannot be adjusted.
• Adjustable Height:  The armrest height can be adjusted.

Front Riggings, or Footrests

There are many styles and features available with footrests. Almost all of them easily remove from the chair by swinging away from the front.  Some wheelchair offer elevating leg rests for those individuals that need to have one or both legs extended. Many will offer heel loops to keep the foot from sliding backwards off the footrest.  Footrests may be offered in plastic or aluminum. While plastic is lighter, it is also easier to break.