Buying a wheelchair, whether it's your first chair or a replacement, can be daunting. In 2025, there are so many wheelchairs and features to choose from that can be overwhelming for a lot of people, but we're here to help!

At Solent Mobility Centre, we hear the question "How do I choose the right wheelchair?" a lot, and we totally understand. Wheelchairs are a big investment and are an extension of the person using them, which is why it's important we find the perfect fit for every customer, as unique as they are.

Today, we're sharing our guide to buying the perfect wheelchair! We've listed out everything you need to know and consider to help you become a mobility genius when looking for your perfect wheelchair.

Let's start with the most important part, you. Your wheelchair will be completely yours, so always remember your own needs and wants. If you're feeling unsure, consider these questions to get started:

"Where will I use my wheelchair?"

Think about where you're most likely going to use/need your wheelchair. Are you someone who stays indoors most of the time? Or, are you someone who prefers outdoor adventures in town or even out in the countryside? If you are an indoor person, then a compact wheelchair with smoother tyres will be a better fit than a robust, durable wheelchair, which is more built for outdoor users.

"Will I be self-propelling my wheelchair?"

Another important factor to consider is your strength. Will you be able to push your wheelchair on your own? Or will someone else be assisting you long-term or short-term? There are plenty of wheelchairs with different wheel sizes and handles to suit your propelling needs.

"How often will I use my chair?"

We know that every mobility story is different; you may only need your wheelchair for a few hours or at certain times, or you may need your wheelchair all day, every day! Whatever your needs, there are options out there for you. Lightweight, foldable wheelchairs are usually best suited for short-term wheelchair users, whereas long-term wheelchair users look for chairs with plenty of comfort features.

"Where will I store my wheelchair?"

This is a great factor to consider as it's essential to keep your chair protected from damage, the elements, theft, and any other potential threats. If you don't have plenty of storage space, then a foldable wheelchair will be perfect for you, as they can fit into smaller spaces. You can also buy accessories such as wheelchair covers to protect your chair from the elements.

"How much is my budget?"

Your budget is your choice. There are plenty of cost-effective wheelchairs around, but if you are interested in purchasing a wheelchair that's fully customised to you could be a little pricier, depending on what features you choose. Our mobility experts are always here to help find the best solution for you, but having an idea of your budget will help us keep the cost down for you whilst giving you the ideal wheelchair solution.

Types of Wheelchairs

Now you should have a good idea of what you'd roughly need/want in a wheelchair, but do you know which type you're after? Don't worry if you're not sure, as the next part of our guide will explain them all to you!

Transit Wheelchairs

Transit wheelchairs, also known as attendant-propelled wheelchairs, are a type of wheelchair designed for short-term use and are typically propelled by a carer or attendant. They are lightweight, compact, and easily foldable, making them ideal for transporting individuals with mobility issues during outings or travel.

While they may not offer the same level of comfort as other types of wheelchairs designed for long-term use, transit wheelchairs are an excellent choice for those with temporary mobility issues or for those who require a wheelchair for short trips.

Self-Propelled Wheelchairs

Self-propelled wheelchairs are another type of wheelchairs are another type of wheelchair that provides both independence and mobility to their user. These wheelchairs are typically equipped with large, rear-mounted wheels that the user can manually propel, allowing for greater control and freedom of movement.

The design of self-propelled wheelchairs allows users to move about without the constant assistance of carers or attendants, fostering a sense of independence.

Lightweight Wheelchairs

Lightweight wheelchairs are made from lighter materials such as aluminium or titanium, making them easier to manoeuvre and transport. These wheelchairs are ideal for those who are more active and need a wheelchair that can keep up with their lifestyle. They often come with additional features such as quick-release wheels for easier storage and transportation.

Prescription Wheelchairs

Prescription wheelchairs are custom-made mobility aids, designed specifically to meet the unique needs of the individual user. The process of obtaining a prescription wheelchair generally involves a comprehensive assessment by one of our mobility advisors, and can be aided by a healthcare professional. This assessment covers a user's physical condition, daily activities, environmental factors, and personal preferences, to ensure the wheelchair will meet their needs and lifestyle.

Prescription wheelchairs have a few more advantages than standard wheelchairs. Firstly, their perfect fit to their users reduces discomfort and the risk of pressure sores and other health complications. Secondly, they often offer more adjustment possibilities and features, such as tilt in space functionality or specialised seating systems.

It's important to note that these wheelchairs come at a higher cost than their standard counterparts. Therefore, the decision to invest in a prescription wheelchair should be weighed against the potential benefits and improvements to your quality of life.

Bariatric Wheelchairs

Bariatric wheelchairs are built to support heavier individuals, typically with a weight capacity of 20-40 stone. These wheelchairs have reinforced frames, wider seats and armrests, and heavy-duty wheels for increased stability and durability.

Other Factors To Consider

Now you know all the types of wheelchairs on the market, but you still have a few queries in your mind. This is totally normal, and it's good to consider many factors of your wheelchair before deciding on a purchase. We recommend you think about these topics before choosing a wheelchair:

Chair Size

Wheelchairs aren't a one size fits all, they should be suited to fit you! They can be adjusted to be bigger or smaller depending on what is most comfortable to you. Our mobility experts are more than happy to find the exact sizing you need for the perfect fit!

Seat Height

Similar to chair sizing, wheelchairs vary in seat height; some can be lower, whereas others can be higher. It's all down to personal preference and what feels best to you. Always test out different height options if you feel unsure.

Footrests

Most wheelchairs feature footrests, but did you know they come in a variety of types? They all serve a different purpose too, and will be better suited to some rather than others, depending on a person's individual needs.

Comfort

Finally, the most important feature to consider whilst wheelchair hunting is comfort! For most, a wheelchair is a daily mobility aid or will be used for long journeys. That's why comfort should always be a priority! When trying out wheelchairs, look for the features that make you feel most comfortable. Or, if you have a specific requirement, ask your mobility advisors and see what they suggest.

How We Can Help You

We've told you the different types of wheelchairs and what to look for when wheelchair hunting, but our job still isn't done! At Solent Mobility Centre, we're dedicated to giving you the best quality of care with our mobility expertise - our mobility experts are always happy to answer any of your wheelchair queries and help find the perfect wheelchair for you.

But it doesn't stop there, we also offer free home demonstrations of all our wheelchairs, meaning you can test out some options all from the comfort of your own home.

Lastly, when you order a wheelchair from Solent Mobility Centre, you'll receive our incredible wheelchair aftercare offer! Our offer includes a free 12-month premium membership, unlimited call outs, a free service of your wheelchair and much more!

We hope our guide has given you a better understanding of buying a wheelchair. If you have any further questions or queries, don't hesitate to get in contact. We're always happy to help!