Put the rubber to the road in a manual wheelchair

Those with the ability, or the budget-conscious, prefer manual wheelchairs, and most dealers offer a variety of choices to meet their needs.

I recommend: SpinLife.com offers manual wheelchairs to match users’ needs and budgets, including sport, tilt, heavy-duty and lightweight wheelchairs, and the ability to configure a chair online.  For a similar selection, plus electric wheelchairs and accessories, try 1stSeniorCare.

Empower yourself with powered wheelchairs

For those who can't handle a manual wheelchair, many powered wheelchairs offer maneuverability and portability close to that of manual units.

I recommend: The Scooter Store has been the mobility leader since 1991, offering both maneuverable power chairs for in-home use and electric scooters for mobility outdoors. Wheelchair dealer Hoveround sells its own standard and specialty powered wheelchairs factory-direct; units feature seats with the coil and cushion design of truck drivers’ seats for greater rider comfort.

Cater to special needs with a custom wheelchair

While most wheelchair users have basic mobility needs, some need greater independence than a standard wheelchair can provide or have special requirements best handled by a custom wheelchair.

I recommend: The Independence iBOT 4000 is a powered wheelchair that can climb stairs and five-inch high curbs and raise its user to a standing position while still being easily transportable. 21st Century Scientific offers manual and powered wheelchairs that let users stand, as well as extra-narrow and bariatric models.

Keep rolling with the right accessories

Just as a car needs new tires periodically, so also does a wheelchair. Also, as with cars, people who ride in wheelchairs need supplemental equipment to keep them properly positioned and comfortable as they travel.

I recommend: Kenda American Airless offers foam-inflated and solid rubber tires and inner tubes, as well as wheelchair tires for on- and off-road use, court sports and racing. At 1stSeniorcare, find seat belts, saddles, foot braces, support wedges and bolsters to keep the user comfortable while in the chair.