Buy A Wheelchair

They are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for everyday use. Manual wheelchairs are available in different sizes and styles, and some can be customized to meet specific needs. Day's Medical offer some of our most popular self-propelled wheelchairs.

Decide whether the wheelchair will be self-propelled, pushed by an attendant or powered by a battery.

This determines whether a self-propelled, transit or power wheelchair is the most suitable option.

Measure the widest part of the user’s hips or thighs while seated and check the product’s seat dimensions.

A seat that is too narrow may cause discomfort, while one that is too wide may reduce postural support and make the chair harder to control.

Measure from the back of the user’s hips to just behind the knees and compare this with the wheelchair specifications.

The correct seat depth helps distribute weight evenly and reduces pressure behind the knees.

Check the wheelchair’s stated weight capacity before purchasing.

Exceeding the limit can affect stability, performance and durability.

Compare the total weight of different models, especially if the chair will be lifted regularly.

Lightweight wheelchairs are generally easier to push, fold and place in a car boot.

Check the wheelchair’s folded width, height and length.

This is important when storing the chair at home or transporting it in a vehicle.

Consider where the wheelchair will be used most often and the type of surfaces it will travel over.

Smaller, manoeuvrable chairs may work well indoors, while outdoor use may require larger wheels, stronger tyres and a more robust frame.

Decide whether the wheelchair is needed occasionally, for travel or for daily use.

Frequent users may benefit from a more supportive, durable and adjustable model.

Look for removable, swing-away or height-adjustable components where needed.

These features can make transfers easier and improve comfort.

Check whether the chair has user-operated brakes, attendant brakes or both.

The correct braking system improves control and safety, particularly on slopes or when a caregiver is pushing the chair.

Compare solid and pneumatic tyres, as well as large and small rear wheels.

Wheel and tyre type affects comfort, maintenance, manoeuvrability and who can propel the wheelchair.

Consider whether the user needs a pressure-relief cushion, additional back support or specialist positioning.

Proper support can improve comfort and reduce pressure during longer periods of use.

How do I choose the right wheelchair for daily use?

Choose a wheelchair based on the user’s mobility level, seat width, weight capacity, frame weight, and whether they need to self-propel or be pushed by a caregiver. For daily use, a comfortable wheelchair with supportive seating, reliable brakes, and easy-to-adjust footrests is usually the best option.

What is the difference between a self-propelled wheelchair and a transit wheelchair?

A self-propelled wheelchair has large rear wheels so the user can move independently. A transit wheelchair has smaller rear wheels and is designed to be pushed by a caregiver. Both types are common among wheelchairs for sale, but the right choice depends on independence, strength, and caregiver support.

What should I check before making a wheelchair purchase?

Before a wheelchair purchase, check the seat width, maximum user weight, folded size, total chair weight, brake system, wheel type, armrests, footrests, and whether the wheelchair is suitable for indoor, outdoor, or travel use.

Which wheelchair is best for indoor use?

For indoor use, choose a compact wheelchair with a narrow frame, smooth-turning wheels, and reliable brakes. Lightweight transit wheelchairs can be useful in smaller spaces.

Which wheelchair is best for outdoor use?

For outdoor use, look for a wheelchair with durable wheels, a strong frame, stable brakes, and good manoeuvrability on pavements or uneven surfaces.

What is the maximum weight a wheelchair can support?

The maximum weight a wheelchair can support depends on the model and frame design. Standard wheelchairs commonly support between 100 kg and 135 kg, while heavy-duty or bariatric wheelchairs may support considerably more. Always check the maximum user weight listed in the product specifications before purchasing. This limit should not be exceeded, as doing so may affect the wheelchair’s stability, safety and durability.

What size wheelchair do I need?

The correct wheelchair size depends mainly on the user’s seat width, seat depth and weight. To estimate the right seat width, measure the widest part of the hips or thighs while seated and allow a small amount of extra space for comfort. You should also check the seat depth, overall wheelchair width and maximum user weight. A chair that is too narrow may cause discomfort, while one that is too wide may provide less support and be harder to manoeuvre.

What is the difference between a wheelchair and a transport chair?

A standard wheelchair may be self-propelled or pushed by an attendant, while a transport chair is specifically designed to be pushed by another person. Transport chairs usually have four small wheels, making them lighter, more compact and easier to fold for short trips or car journeys. However, the seated user cannot normally propel a transport chair independently. Self-propelled wheelchairs have larger rear wheels with hand rims, allowing the user to move the chair without assistance.