Self Propelled Wheelchairs
Self-propelled chairs revolutionise mobility because they allow users to control their own pace, direction and final destination. They do this with the assistance of a person. They can be customized using a variety of accessories to increase comfort and function.
From frame materials to dimensions of the seats There are a lot of factors to consider when buying a self-propelled chair. Let's take a look at some of the main ones:
Independence
Losing your independence is a worry when you suffer from mobility issues. It can be upsetting to be dependent on others to take you to where you need to go or go shopping. Manual chairs, also referred as self-propelled wheelchairs, can assist you in regaining or maintaining your independence. They are safe and easy to push, so you can go out and out without waiting for someone else to get you to where you need to go.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are equipped with large rear wheels and hand rims, which give you the strength to propel yourself forwards or backwards without the need of an accompanying person. This makes them suitable for a lot more people than you think, particularly those with strong upper body strength and endurance. They are also perfect for those who have trouble walking over long distances or on a terrain that is difficult to walk.
Mobility Shop has a wide range of self-propelled wheelchairs to accommodate all types of users. From lightweight and portable models that are ideal for daily use, to crash and transit wheelchairs designed for travel and storage, you're bound to find the right model for your requirements. For added comfort we also offer a wide range of reclining self propelled wheelchairs.
You can purchase our self-propelled wheelchairs online and have them delivered the next day to a majority of UK addresses. You can also use the search box to filter wheelchairs according to the type of frame, seat, or features you need.
If you have any questions or need assistance in selecting the right wheelchair for your needs, don't hesitate to connect with one of our customer service team. We are always happy to help and can be reached on 01278 764454 or email us at [email protected]. We are looking forward to hearing from you! All rights reserved. (c) 2024 The Mobility Outlet, formerly Webster Wheelchairs. Registered office: Harben House, Harben Parade, Finchley Road, London NW3 6LH.
Easy of manoeuvrability
Self propelled wheelchairs are perfect for individuals who need the freedom of movement but still have enough strength in their upper body to propel their chair. They provide users with a new outlook on life and the ability to manage their mobility. They are also a great option for those who want to avoid the expense and hassle of powered wheelchairs.
The frame and centre of gravity of a wheelchair are responsible for its maneuverability. Research has demonstrated that a wheelchair built with fixed wheels as close to its centre of gravity as possible reduces the force of turning significantly.

It is also essential to take into account the weight of the wheelchair when determining its manoeuvrability. Heavy chairs tend to have a higher center of gravity, which makes them more difficult to maneuver. In contrast, light chairs have a lower centre of gravity, which makes them easier to move and operate.
Modern self-propelled wheelchairs are designed for ease of maneuverability which is evident in their small size and lightweight frames. They are extremely customizable, with features like adjustable seat heights and backrest angle. This lets the user customize their wheelchair according to their needs, improving comfort and reducing the risk of pressure ulcers and other discomforts.
In addition to offering maximum mobility, self-propelled wheelchairs can be fitted with a variety of accessories and add-ons that improve the comfort. A cushion, for example can help aid in positioning the user and ease strain. Additionally, a wheelchair could be fitted with a pressure monitoring system to reduce the risk of flat tires.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are also easy to store and transport. A lot of models come with rear wheels that are quick-release, which makes it easier to take off the chair's footplates as well as its front castors. Many models also come with folding seats and backrests that fold half, making them smaller to store and transport. Many come with parking brakes, which can be operated by the driver or their attendant. This provides additional safety and convenience.
Customisation
Self-propelled chairs are an excellent alternative to powered wheelchairs. They allow the user control over the chair. In order to empower independence, these chairs feature large rear wheels with hand rims that allow the user to control pace and direction - not only promoting physical activity, but also aiding to maintain strength and cardiovascular health.
Created for active users, these wheelchairs are designed to be flexible and able to handle different environments, from paved roads to steep hills. They are generally lighter than transit chairs and can be folded down to fit into small vehicles. This makes them a practical and useful mobility aid for daily use, particularly for people who live on their own or have little or no aid.
Aluminum is the most commonly used frame material however titanium's superior fatigue resistance and durability make it a preferred option for those who require the best. Titanium is known for dampening the vibrations, which is crucial because pushing around can be uncomfortable for some wheelchair users. Certain models, like Ki Mobility's Ethos, have been specifically designed to minimise this impact - resulting in an extremely comfortable ride, while allows the user to remain in the control of their chair.
Wheelchair accessories are becoming more and more popular, with products ranging from simple track wheels that lift your front castors off of the ground to increase off-road traction, to power-assisted rear wheels (controlled as a powerchair, but without the requirement for batteries) to handbikes, like Triride's Special Compact HT, Rehasense's PAWS City and the Empulse F55. These features can be customised and enable you to ride on more difficult terrains. They also enhance the comfort and freedom.
Mobility Shop's lightweight self-propelled wheelchairs offer a range of features to help pick the right wheelchair for your needs. For example our Lite 2 can be fitted with power assist, which allows you to transform the manual wheelchair into a powered model by using an attendant control. The power assist can be controlled via an armrest lever or the push handle.
Comfort
There are a variety of wheelchairs to choose from which means that finding the right model for your needs can be a bit difficult. You should also discuss your options with a mobility expert or GP to get the most appropriate advice for your particular circumstances.
If you have good upper body strength and mobility, self-propelled wheelchairs are a great choice for day-to-day mobility. These types of wheelchairs feature larger back wheels that have an outer 'push rim' that you can use to move the chair. The wheelchairs are also equipped with the handlebar which can be used to steer and control the chair. Self-propelled chairs are typically considerably lighter than transit models, and are also easier to manoeuvre.
Attendant-propelled chairs, on the contrary are designed to let an attendant push them from behind. They have smaller rear wheels, and are easier to push. However, they can be difficult to navigate around obstacles like curbs. They are also typically larger to fit in the car's boot and are therefore not the best choice for transport.
Many organisations offer wheelchair rental on a daily basis for parks and zoos. It is recommended to reserve in advance to avoid disappointment. It's also possible to rent wheelchairs on a longer term basis through specialist mobility stores. It is crucial to weigh the pros and cons of this alternative, however it could be more cost effective in the long run to purchase your own chair.
self propelled wheelchairs for sale of a wheelchair to your vehicle can increase your comfort. Some are useful, such as storage bags or footplates. Others aid in finding the most comfortable position to sit in. For instance, you could include seat cushions to ease the pressure on your buttocks and thighs and headrests for additional support.
You can also opt to have your self propelled wheelchair fitted with attendant brakes, which are a safety important feature for those who often have to be pushed by another person. These brakes will make it easier to stop, turn and slow down, especially for heavier users.