5 Best Outdoor Wheelchairs For Those Who Want To Live Without Limits
Posted by Tom Lee on
5 Best Outdoor Wheelchairs For Those Who Want To Live Without Limits
Outdoor wheelchairs are suitable for individuals who love to enjoy their time outdoors. Else, it is also ideal for individuals who love to be mobile and independent. If you face mobility issues, then being able to live a normal life is a challenge. If you are one of those who loves activity and being mobile, then these wheelchairs are for you. Though it is easy to fulfill mobility needs indoors, it is tricky to fulfill them outdoors. This is where an outdoor wheelchair comes into the picture.
For instance, an outdoor wheelchair offers independence to an individual. In addition, it enables people to interact and socialize with others. Not only do they make you feel confident, but also come with additional features. Today, wheelchairs have several features that allow users to enjoy life like normal individuals. However, there are certain limitations as well. An outdoor wheelchair enables a user to engage in sports activities. They are ideal for individuals who don't wish to compromise on their active life. Loaded with numerous advanced features, these wheelchairs are ideal for active users. If you love the outdoor life, then outdoor wheelchairs are the best accompaniment. Here, we will list a few outdoor wheelchairs that you can consider.
What Type Of Wheelchair Should I Choose?
Many users take their wheelchairs outdoors. However, the motorized models aren't ideal for uneven surfaces. Interestingly, manual wheelchairs are suitable for outdoor use. This is why they have specific features that help with outdoor use. Manual wheelchairs are the best when it comes to using them on rough terrains. While some easy-to-propel wheelchairs offer better off-road capabilities, manual devices work ok any surface. Similarly, powered wheelchairs allow you to boost the quality of your life. If you wish to socialize or be independent, then powered wheelchairs can bring you back to normalcy. Likewise, it allows you to be confident and be outdoors often. However, choosing the right power wheelchair is no less than a task. This is why here we list what factors you should consider in manual or powered wheelchairs for outdoor use. While you decide on a manual or powered device, here are some features you should look for. This will help you get a better deal and a quality wheelchair.
Manual Wheelchair
When you decide to purchase a manual chair, there are some crucial features that you should be aware of. Especially, if you plan to use the wheelchair outdoors.
Large Rear Wheels
Often, the rear wheels on manual wheelchairs are large enough. This allows users or caregivers to easily navigate the wheelchair. The reclining and bariatric wheelchairs have smaller wheels. But they are still larger than the front casting wheels. This is mainly because these wheelchairs have a tougher construction than the others.
Adjustable Foot Rests
Who would like their feet to drag on the ground while transportation? We guess nobody. Not only it can cause discomfort but also severe injuries as well. Thus, a manual wheelchair should have high footrests. This will ensure that the feet of the user are safe and comfortable. You can also look for advanced features like detachable ones. There you have a portable wheelchair with basic support features. Likewise, a detachable footrest allows the user to navigate the wheelchair using their feet.
Metal Frames
A majority of wheelchairs are made using aluminum, carbon steel, or stainless steel. You can also find manual outdoor wheelchairs with a titanium frame. However, these are pretty uncommon because titanium is an expensive metal. At the same time, these are suitable to hold individuals who have a higher weight capacity.
Padded Armrests
The purpose of padded armrests is to ensure the comfort of the user. In addition, it also allows the user to gain back their confidence and travel places. It just doesn't end here. Padded armrests are also an additional stability support feature. It makes sure that the user is comfortable and secure while in the wheelchair.
Collapsible Seat Back
Many outdoor wheelchairs feature a backrest, collapsible seat, and even a frame. These wheelchairs are ideal for travel purposes. In addition, they allow you to enjoy the outdoors to the fullest. These models are the best choice for outdoor and recreational purposes.
Anti-Tipping Option
This is a feature that should not be missed out on by any chance. Not all wheelchairs come with anti-tipping features. But such implements are an inevitable feature for users. One of the most leading causes of injuries and accidents is tipping over. Thus, wheelchairs should have anti-tipping features that prevent the device from falling backward.
Different Seat Widths
The average seat width can differ in wheelchairs depending on the user. In such a scenario, the comfort, stability, and user's size are necessary to include. The majority of the seat ranges from 16 to 18 inches in width. But there are pediatric and adult wheelchairs with a seat width of 12 to 20 inches. Thus, it is important to choose a wheelchair with an appropriate seat width.
Weight Capacity
Different wheelchairs have varying weight capacities. Now, several factors affect weight capacity. Some of them include seat width, frame materials, and more. However, a majority of wheelchairs can accommodate up to 300 lbs. Then, others can hold a weight of up to 700 lbs.
Power Wheelchairs
The following are the crucial features for choosing a power chair.
Range
One of the most crucial factors to consider in power wheelchairs is the range. First, ask yourself how do you plan on using the wheelchair. Do you need it only for short errands or long drives? A simple folding electric wheelchair can go about 8 miles per charge. You can also get your hands-on advanced devices. These can go approximately 20 miles per charge. All of this entirely depends on the battery of the particular wheelchair.
Stability
Another important factor in power wheelchairs is stability. If you plan to use the device on rough terrains, stability is detrimental. Usually, all-electric wheelchairs offer quality stability as a safety feature. But, if you need extra stability, look for a rear-wheel-drive power wheelchair. They are safe and ideal for outdoor use. Also, they feature shock absorbers that ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
Comfort
It doesn't matter if you are going to use the wheelchair for short periods or a long time. Comfort is something that you need 24/7. Check if the material of the wheelchair is of good quality. Similarly, have a look at the seat width if it's comfortable to sit. You can add a cushion for extra comfort. But, ensure that the wheelchair base is firm. If you have padded armrests as well, it can't get any better. It will offer superior comfort and support to your arms.
Weight
Do you want a wheelchair that is easy to carry and transport? Do you plan to take it with you on trips and travels? Then, the weight of the wheelchair is a crucial factor. Power wheelchairs are available in lightweight and heavy-duty materials. Furthermore, there are portable and robust wheelchairs available too. But, if you are a go-getter, consider purchasing a lightweight wheelchair.
Speed
Different wheelchairs have varying speed offerings. However, a majority of the power wheelchairs offer a speed of 5 mph. But some models offer 10 mph. If you are an active person, then you may want to opt for higher speeds. Also, if you need a faster device, get a mobility scooter. However, if you plan on using the device indoors, you don't need much of a speed.
5 Best Outdoor Wheelchairs For Those Who Want To Live Without Limits
The main purpose of an outdoor wheelchair is to allow users to enjoy a life of normalcy. It ensures individuals can enjoy the outdoor life and be independent. These wheelchairs are tough devices that work smoothly even on rough terrains. From snow, muddy water, rocks, gravel, or stones, the outdoor wheelchairs glide without difficulty. There are several places that you can visit with these previously unimaginable devices. This is why here we list some crucial pieces of information. And, we hope that this allows you to make a smart decision. Below are our 5 best outdoor manual and power wheelchairs. They not only excel in features but also are customer-favorites. These incredible wheelchairs are sure to change your life forever. So, let's take a look at the features of these wheelchairs.
1.Medline
The first wheelchair on our list is from Medline. It is a lightweight chair. This type of transport adult wheelchair is ideal for users looking for a portable and lightweight device. Not only is it portable, but also strong and affordable too. They are ideal for traveling on uneven terrains since they feature 12" rear wheels. At the same time, the wheelchair has a strong aluminum frame. This wheelchair can easily hold a maximum weight of 300 lbs. Finally, the device weighs only 34 pounds and is very lightweight.
2. Drive Medical
This remarkable blue streak wheelchair is one of the most loved wheelchairs. If you have the capacity of navigating the wheels yourself, then a self-propelled wheelchair is ideal. This is one of the most popular manual devices that you can get. The wheelchair can support a maximum weight of 250 lbs. In addition, the device is compact, foldable, and affordable too. It is also an ideal choice for traveling as well. Last but not the least, it weighs only 41.2 pounds.
3. Porto Mobility D09S
This power wheelchair weighs only 48 pounds and is suitable for outdoor travel. It has a maximum weight capacity of 265 pounds. Similarly, this wheelchair is ideal for lighter individuals. At the same time, the device features a dual-motor system. Furthermore, the seat size is 20 inches that offer maximum comfort. An interesting feature of this power wheelchair is that it folds in less than 5 seconds. It has easy-to-use features that the user to travel outdoors stress-free. But, the rear wheels of the device are slightly smaller than the others. This means the wheelchair can cover a smaller distance in one charge.
4. Innuovo Electric Chair
Are you looking for the lightest electric wheelchair? Then here is the Innuovo wheelchair weighing only 43 pounds without batteries. Also, it is a foldable device that folds in under 3 seconds. You can easily fit it in the trunk of the car or other compact spaces. In addition, this wheelchair is the ideal choice for air travel. However, if you have heavy usage, then it can be difficult to manage with a single battery. To overcome this situation, you can purchase a second battery.
5. JBH Electric Wheelchair
JBH is a Chinese manufacturer of electric wheelchair, outdoor wheelchair with sits in MINGGUANG, ANHUI province with 160,000m2. JBH D23 is a lightweight and folded power wheelchair helps you travel outdoor easily. Equipped with electromagnetic brake system. And three batteries are optional to increase the driving range to 30km.
Conclusions
An outdoor wheelchair is the best choice for a disabled or mobility-restricted individual. These wheelchairs allow users to enjoy a life of freedom and independence. Indoor wheelchairs do not give you the liberty of features as with outdoor wheelchairs. With the right outdoor wheelchair, you can engage and participate in sports. Furthermore, if you are looking for outdoor wheelchairs, these above-listed ones are the best choices you can make. They not only have world-class features but also offer comfort. At the same time, they are available at affordable prices as well. No disability should stop you from living the life that you dream of. There should be no restrictions or limitations in the kind of life you live. And this is only possible with a quality outdoor wheelchair. This is an investment that you can cherish for a lifetime!
