Self Propelled Wheelchairs
Self-propelled chairs revolutionize mobility as they allow users to control their own pace, direction and final destination. They do this without the assistance of a driver. They can also be customised with a variety of accessories for comfort and functionality.
There are many aspects to consider before buying a self-propelled chair. Let's take a look some of the major ones:
Independence

Losing your independence is a worry when you have mobility problems. The idea of relying on others to get you to your destination, or just go shopping, can be distressing. Self propelled wheelchairs (also called manual chairs) can assist you to retain or regain your freedom. These wheelchairs are simple to use and secure and allow you to get out and about without waiting for someone to drive you.
Self-propelled wheelchairs feature large rear wheels fitted with hand rims that provide you with the leverage to propel yourself forwards and backwards without need for an attendant. This makes them suitable for a lot more people than you may think, particularly those with strong upper body strength and stamina. They are also suitable for those who have difficulty walking long distances or over difficult terrain.
Here at Mobility Shop we have a range of different self propelled wheelchairs for all kinds of users. You'll find a wide range of wheelchairs, from lightweight and portable models for everyday use, to crash-tested and transit wheelchairs for travel and storage. To make your life more comfortable we also offer various reclining self propelled wheelchairs.
You can order our self-propelled wheelchairs online and have them delivered the next day to the majority of UK addresses. You can also filter the wheelchairs by the kind of frame, seat, or features that you require by using the search box.
Contact our customer service team if have any questions about wheelchairs or require assistance in selecting the best one for your requirements. 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! (c) 2024 The Mobility Outlet (formerly Webster Wheelchairs) All rights reserved. Registered company in England & Wales no 07004640. Registered office: Harben House Harben Parade Finchley Road London NW3 6LH.
Manoeuvrability and ease of use
Self-propelled wheelchairs are great for those who need mobility but have the upper body strength to propel their chair. They allow users to take control of their mobility and give them a fresh perspective on life. They are also great for those looking to stay clear of the expense and burden of powered chairs.
The maneuverability of a wheelchair is largely determined by its centre of gravity and frame construction. A wheelchair with wheels that are as close as possible to the center of gravity can reduce the force on the turning.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of the weight of the user when assessing a wheelchair's maneuverability. Heavy chairs have a higher centre of gravity which makes them difficult to maneuver. On the other hand, lighter chairs have a lower center of gravity, which makes them easier to move and operate.
Modern self-propelled wheelchairs are designed for ease of maneuverability as evident in their compact size and lightweight frames. They are also generally customizable with adjustable features such as the backrest angle and seat heights. This lets users customize their wheelchair to suit their individual needs, which improves comfort and reduces the risk of developing pressure sores and other discomforts.
Self-propelled wheelchairs come with a range of accessories and add-ons that can enhance the comfort. For instance, a cushion can help to improve the user's posture and reduce strain. A wheelchair could also be fitted with a pressure monitoring system to reduce the risk of flat tires.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are also simple to transport and store. Many models feature quick-release rear wheels, making it easier to remove the chair footplates and front castors. Many models come with half-folding backrests and folding seats which makes them easier to store and transport. They're often equipped with parking brakes that are operated by the person who is using them or their attendant, bringing additional safety and convenience.
Customisation
Powered wheelchairs may not be the ideal choice for everyone, and self propelled chairs put control back into the hands of the user. They empower independence. feature large rear wheels with hand rims that allow users to control the their pace and direction. This is not only promoting physical activity, but also aiding to keep muscle strength and cardiovascular health.
These wheelchairs are made for active users and are able to be able to adapt to a variety of situations, including roads with pavement and steep hills. These wheelchairs are usually lighter than transit chairs and can be folded down to fit into small cars. They are a convenient and practical mobility aid, particularly for those who live on their own or have a limited amount of assistance.
The most commonly used frame material is aluminium, but titanium offers superior fatigue resistance and durability which makes it a preferred option for those who are more demanding. Titanium is also known for its ability to dampen vibration, which is increasingly important as pushing around can cause discomfort to certain wheelchair users. self propelled wheelchair with elevated leg rest mymobilityscooters , such as Ki Mobility's Ethos have been specially made to reduce the impact - resulting in an extremely comfortable ride while allows the user to remain in control of their chair.
Wheelchairs are becoming increasingly popular, with products including simple track wheels that raise your front castors off of the ground to increase off-road traction, to power-assisted rear wheels (controlled as a powerchair, but without the need for batteries) to handbikes like Triride's Special HT, Rehasense's PAWS City and the Empulse F55. These features can be customized and enable you to ride on more difficult terrains. They also improve the comfort and freedom.
Mobility Shop's lightweight self-propelled wheelchairs offer a range of features to help you select the best wheelchair for you. Our Lite 2 wheelchair, for instance, comes with a power assist feature that allows you to transform the manual wheelchair into a powered model by using an attendant control. The power assist can be controlled with an armrest lever or by the push handle.
Comfort
There's a wide selection of wheelchairs to choose from and deciding on the most suitable model for your needs can be a bit difficult. It's a good idea to discuss your options with a mobility expert or GP in order to receive the most appropriate advice to your specific circumstances.
Self-propelled wheelchairs are an excellent choice for daily mobility if you've got good upper-body strength and mobility. These wheelchairs come with larger back wheels and an outer push-rim that can be used to propel the chair. The wheelchairs are also equipped with the handlebar which can be used to steer and control the chair. Self-propelled chairs are lighter and easier to maneuver than transit models.
Attendant-propelled wheelchairs, on contrary, are designed to be pushed by an attendant from behind. They have smaller rear wheels, and are easier to push. However they can be a challenge to maneuver around obstacles such as curbs. They are also typically heavier to fit into the trunk of a car, so they're not ideal for transport.
Many organisations, such as zoos, parks and gardens offer wheelchair hire on a daily basis. It is recommended to reserve in advance to avoid disappointment. You can also hire wheelchairs for a longer period of time from mobility shops. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of this alternative, however - it might be more cost-effective in the long run to buy your own chair.
You can also increase the comfort of a self-propelled wheelchair by adding extra accessories. Some of these are practical, such as footplates and storage bags and others assist you to find a more comfortable seating position. For example, you can add seat cushions to reduce pressure on the thighs and buttocks or headrests to provide additional support.
You can also choose to install brakes with attendants on your self-propelled wheelchair. This is a safety feature that is crucial for those who are regularly being pushed. Having these fitted will make slowing, stopping and turning a lot more simple, especially for heavier users.