When purchasing a wheelchair it is wise to ask oneself the following. Is it required for an adult or child? What is the age of the person? What is the approximate weight of the person? What is the reason that the person requires the chair? (Stroke, amputee, old age, etc.) Is the wheelchair needed long term or short term? In what environment is the wheelchair going to be used in? All the above factors influence the choice of a wheelchair.

Ø The width of the wheelchair is important due to the fact that your standard door width is 80 cm so any wheelchair wider than a standard 41 cm seat width will have a problem passing through the doorway.

Ø When considering the upholstery, it is better to choose fabric over imitation napa leather as the fabric is tougher and breaths.

Ø It is advisable to choose mag wheels over spokes as the mag wheel is stronger and more durable.

Ø With the tyres, it is also preferable to choose solid tyres over pneumatic, by choosing the solid tyre you need not worry about punctures or the tyre going flat.

Ø Sport or desk arms are preferable over your standard full arm as these allow the person to get closer to either the table or desk. Removable arms also assist in the transfer to and from the wheelchair.

Ø Transport of the wheelchair should also be taken into consideration; does the user have a hoist or does the chair need to fit into a boot and what is the size of the boot?

Ø To aid in the transport of the wheelchair you do have the option of a wheelchair with removable back wheels and foot rests.