Wheelchair types, sizes and construction

Understanding the different types of chair, sizes, and parts can help you make an informed choice when it comes to choosing one.

There are lots of chairs on the market, so we’re not going into specifics. Instead, we’ll explain the basics, from how wheelchairs work to the options available, and all in clear, easy-to-understand language.

What you’ll learn:

• Wheelchair types (manual wheelchairs and powerchairs)
• How wheelchairs are constructed
• Wheelchair safety features
• A short tick-list to help you choose the right wheelchair

What you need to know about wheelchair types, sizes and construction

Wheelchairs can vary widely in design, weight and features.  Some wheelchairs are simple, lightweight, manual chairs. Others are powered, highly adjustable and designed for daily life.

All wheelchairs share some common parts:

• A frame for structure and support
• Wheels for movement and control
• A seat, backrest, and footrests for comfort, position and posture
• Armrests, brakes, and safety accessories to keep you protected

Once you understand these basics, you can start to look at which type of wheelchair best suits your needs.

Wheelchair types

You’ll find two types of wheelchair: manual wheelchairs and powerchairs. Here we explain the similarities and differences between them.

Manual wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are moved by the user (by pushing on the rims) or pushed by someone else. 

Manual wheelchairs are suitable for people who can use their arms and upper body. They can also be used by people who have help from a carer or family member, especially younger children.

There are two main kinds of manual wheelchair:

• Self-propelled wheelchairs: These have large rear wheels which come fitted with a circular hand rim. To push forward and control the chair, you grip the rim. The rim also enables you to steer and control the chair, tackling obstacles like kerbs. Manual wheelchairs are used by people who have enough strength and balance in their arms and upper body to control their own movement.
• Transit wheelchairs: Transit wheelchairs have smaller rear wheels and are designed to be pushed by another person using handles at the back. You’ll find that transit wheelchairs are lighter and more compact, making them ideal for short-term use rather than independence.

Manual chairs are designed to be lightweight, foldable, and easy to store and transport. Once you’ve learned manual wheelchair control skills, you can have a great deal of independence.

Powerchairs

Powerchairs (or electric wheelchairs) use one or more electric motors to move. They’re powered by a rechargeable battery and controlled using a joystick or other assistive input such as head, chin, or switch controls.

Powerchairs are typically used by people who:

• Have limited arm or upper body strength
• Need to travel longer distances independently
• Spend much of the day in their chair

Powerchairs come in a variety of different sizes, styles and drive types, including front wheel drive, mid-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. Here are the benefits of each drive type:

• Front-wheel drive chairs can handle curbs and outdoor terrain well
• Mid-wheel drive chairs are compact and more manoeuvrable, making them ideal for use indoors
• Rear-wheel drive chairs are stable at higher speeds

Because of the battery and motor, powerchairs are heavier than manual wheelchairs. The battery also needs to be recharged regularly (typically overnight while you sleep). 

Powerchairs are more expensive, but they can provide more independence and comfort for some users, making them an essential investment.

How are wheelchairs constructed?

Wheelchairs need to be as strong and stable as possible, but also lightweight for manoeuvrability. 

You’ll find that the frame material affects weight, performance, and price.

• Aluminium: It’s lightweight, rust-resistant, and durable. Most standard manual chairs use aluminium frames.
• Steel: It’s very strong and affordable but it’s heavy, making the chair harder to lift, push and control.
• Titanium or carbon fibre: It’s very light and strong, but can be expensive, so it’s usually used in high-performance or sports wheelchairs.

Seating and support 

Seats and backrests are typically made from nylon, vinyl, or mesh. These materials are light, easy to clean, breathable and flexible

You’ll want to find seating and support (like armrests and footrests) are the right size. They should provide support without restricting movement. Anything that gets in the way of your safe operation of the chair can be dangerous.

Comfort is crucial. You’ll find that some wheelchairs have cushioned or contoured seating systems that can improve posture and help to prevent pressure sores.

Wheels and tyres

On manual wheelchairs, the rear wheels are large and have an inner rim where your hands can grip them. The large size gives you precise control, it’s also the most efficient way to propel yourself forward. Front castors on manual chairs are smaller and swivel, enabling you to steer.

Powerchairs use drive wheels and castors in different combinations depending on the drive type. Wheels are often smaller than manual chairs as there’s no need for a push rim.

Wheelchair tyres at the rear are most often air filled (known as pneumatic tyres) because they’re more comfortable. Castor wheels at the front are more likely to be solid because they need less maintenance.

Brakes and safety features

Manual wheelchairs have wheel locks to keep the chair still during transfers. While they’re known as brakes, they’re only used when the wheelchair is static, not to slow the chair down.

Powerchairs have automatic braking systems that should activate when you release the controls. This makes operating them easier and a little safer.

You’ll also find a range of other safety features fitted to chairs, including anti-tip bars (at the rear) and belts to secure you in the chair. Some powerchairs also come with lighting for outdoor use at night.

Choosing the right wheelchair

Choosing the right wheelchair is a personal choice, but is always better made with the help of a qualified professional.

Naturally, the right wheelchair depends on your body, mobility, environment, and lifestyle. It can also be influenced by your budget and what you’re entitled to from the NHS.

Before choosing a new chair, here are a few key things to consider:

• Will you use it indoors, outdoors, or both?
• Do you need to self-propel or will someone push you?
• How often will you use it each day?
• Does it need to fold or fit in a car?
• What’s your budget and what support is available (e.g. NHS Wheelchair Services)?

Answering these questions (and others you may think of) are a good start. We also recommend getting a professional assessment. This will ensure your wheelchair is safe, comfortable, and right for your needs, now and in the future.