Maintaining a sense of purpose, developing positive relationships, aiding in memory skills, and maintaining strength - sounds nice, right? According to countless studies, people that retain their independence can reap all those benefits and more.
A common mobility device that helps people who have difficulty walking is a manual wheelchair. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, almost 12% of the US population uses a wheelchair. And if you ever used a wheelchair, then you know firsthand that not all wheelchairs are created equal; choosing the right chair for your specific needs can make all the difference! In addition to providing mobility, some wheelchairs can reduce common problems, like pressure sores. Other special features are ergonomic seats, adjustability, heavy-duty designs, and easy-to-clean upholstery.
Our list features our top 7 best manual wheelchairs. These chairs typically weigh about 35-ish pounds and are designed for indoor use. We explain important wheelchair features to consider, expound on our favorite chairs, and answer frequently asked questions.
Standard wheelchairs typically have upholstery made from either nylon or vinyl. There are various considerations you should keep in mind for each.
Nylon is commonly used in homecare settings because it is less expensive compared to vinyl. It is also more breathable because the material is naturally more porous. It therefore takes longer for nylon to reach maximum temperature due to the wheelchair user’s body heat. However, nylon is more difficult to clean - the porous nature of the material absorbs liquids more easily. This could mean more frequent cleanings or upholstery replacement, both of which can be time consuming and pricey.
Vinyl is a popular option for healthcare settings, since it is easier to clean between patients. Although this material is a slightly more expensive option, it is used on many standard wheelchair models. It is less breathable since it is naturally less porous compared to nylon. As a result, it tends to be warmer and can cause patients to perspire more easily. However, it is easy to clean and is generally more durable over time.
Standard wheelchair arm lengths generally come in two measurements: Full length arms or desk length arms. Both styles are available in fixed or adjustable heights, depending on the wheelchair model.
Desk length arms are about 4" shorter in length than full length arms. They get their name “desk length” because their shorter arm length allows the chair to be pulled up close to a desk (or another surface, like a table). This is the best option if you intend on using your wheelchair at the dinner table, or during activities that include a desk/table.
Full length arms extend all the way from the back of the frame to the front. They offer more support in a seated position or while getting up and out of the chair. They also more easily support arm-mounted wheelchair trays.
All standard wheelchairs have a specific weight capacity, which is the maximum amount of weight the chair can support without compromising the safety of the wheelchair user. Generally, manual wheelchairs can support between 200-300 lbs, with 250 being the most common weight capacity. Heavy-duty or bariatric wheelchairs can accommodate even more weight (up to 700 lbs), but they are specially designed for this purpose. The standard wheelchairs listed in this article fall within the 200-300 lbs weight capacity range.
Some specialty wheelchairs are specifically designed to be “lightweight”; for example, transport chairs that are meant for users who travel frequently are often lighter and therefore easier to transport. Standard wheelchairs, however, are designed to be sturdier and more dependable. There are slight weight variations among various models, but most weigh about 35 lbs. This might seem heavy compared to the 15-20 lbs lightweight models, but since standard wheelchairs generally aren’t meant for travel or transfers, it’s not as important to keep the total product weight at a minimum. Users buying standard wheelchairs generally prioritize comfort and stability over weight.
There are two types of footrests included in most standard wheelchairs: the “swing away” or the “elevating” styles.
The swing-away footrest is the most common on standard wheelchairs. This style includes a latch that allows each individual footrest (left/right) to “swing” out to each side when a user is sitting or standing. Some are detachable, while others can simply be placed out of the way during transfers.
Elevating legrests on manual wheelchairs allow the user to rest the leg on an incline. This is especially important for users who may need to immobilize a knee joint or raise feet following an injury. Most elevating leg rests function independently so that one leg can be raised at a time.
Wheelchair Model Arm Length Upholstery Weight Capacity Product Weight #1 LT-700NT Manual Wheelchair Desk Length Nylon 250 lbs 36 lbs #2 Tracer EX2 Manual Wheelchair Desk or Full Length Vinyl 250 lbs 36 lbs #3 S-Ergo 125 Ergonomic Wheelchair Desk Length Anti Bacterial Fabric 250 lbs 25 lbs #4 Viper Plus GT Manual Wheelchair Adjustable Between Desk, Full, and Half Nylon 300 or 350 lbs 34 or 36 lbs #5 REVO Dart Daily Living Manual Wheelchair Desk Length Mesh Fabric 300 lbs 34 lbs #6 Guardian K1 Folding Manual Wheelchair Desk Length Nylon 300 lbs 28 lbs #7 Manual Wheelchair with Removable Padded Desk Arms Desk Length Vinyl 250, 300, 350, or 450 lbs 40 or 58 lbsOur 7th pick is the Manual Wheelchair with Removable Padded Desk Arms by McKesson. This is a great all-around standard wheelchair that comes in five seat widths and weight limits ranging from 250 lbs to 450 lbs. It is on the heavier side, starting at 40 lbs. You get a lot of perks for the weight, though: this chair features a sturdy steel construction and is treated with a silver or chrome finish that increases strength and stability.
There are also a number of adjustable features: the wheelchair has padded desk armrests that can be removed depending on the wheelchair user’s activities, and the legs are adjustable to accommodate different lengths. The upholstery is made from easy-to-clean embossed vinyl.
If you are searching for a wheelchair with a higher weight capacity, check out our similar article Best Heavy-Duty Wheelchairs.
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Coming in at #6 on the list is the Guardian K1 Folding Manual Wheelchair by Medline. This is a great option for anyone looking for a simple wheelchair to use while recovering from an injury or other short-term mobility issue. It is easy to maneuver, is available in 3 widths, and folds for easy transport or storage. This product is often used in care facilities, hospitals, and assisted living communities due to its simplicity and reliability. It also offers users the choice between swing-away or elevating leg rests, depending on their specific rehabilitative needs.
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Earning the #5 spot is the REVO Dart Daily Living Manual Wheelchair by Troy Technologies. This is a great option for a wheelchair that doesn’t have the appearance of medical equipment. Its stylish design was built for easy indoor navigation and is ideal for users who need to maneuver around small spaces. For added flexibility and mobility, the chair's armrests flip up to give the user more space to move. The back of the chair also has a unique ergonomic design that supports the lower back and promotes good posture. In addition, it has standard wheelchair features, such as a caregiver push handle, locking casters, and footrests.
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The “best adjustable” option in our opinion is the Viper Plus GT Manual Wheelchair by Drive Medical. This chair is specifically designed to accommodate patients with limited mobility or who are recovering from injuries or surgery. It is the most accommodating chair on the list; the backrest, seat, and footplates are all easily adjustable. It is also the only chair on the list featuring an optional one-arm drive upgrade (sold separately), which allows users to propel the chair with only one hand. The one-arm drive is a great option for users that are recovering from a stroke, or if they have limited mobility in one arm. The chair is available in four sizes to accommodate a wider range of patients: it is available in 16, 18, 20, and 22-inch seat sizes. It can also easily be folded for storage.
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Coming up third is the S-Ergo 125 Ergonomic Wheelchair by Karman Healthcare. This manual wheelchair is top of the line! It features a unique s-shape ergonomic seat, which evenly distributes pressure across the lower body, stabilizes the wheelchair user while sitting, and prevents the user from slipping forward (which can compromise posture). It is a great option for individuals who may be in need of enhanced comfort, such as patients with severely limited mobility. Hospice patients may benefit from all the added supportive features this chair provides.
The chair also has breathable nylon upholstery that is flame-retardant and antibacterial for added safety. The anti-bacterial feature is unique and resists the build up of microbes as an added health feature. This is important, since sitting on these cushions all day typically creates a welcoming environment for bacterial build-up.
The S-Ergo 125 Wheelchair can be used for travel if needed (for example, to/from appointments) - as it is only 25 lbs without footrests, and it folds up easily. It also has adjustable features, including arm rests that flip back, and detachable, swing-away footrests.
Since lower mobility increases the chance of pressure sores, the memory foam cushions (sold separately) are designed to relieve pressure and evenly distribute weight to lower this risk.
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Runner-up and the best for hospital use is the Tracer EX2 Manual Wheelchair by Invacare. This manual wheelchair is a great all-around option for hospital use. It has all the best standard features you expect from a hospital-grade wheelchair, including a strong frame, durable vinyl upholstery, detachable footrests, padded armrests, and supportive side paneling. Vinyl is most popular in hospital settings due to its non-porous material, which makes it easier to clean between patients. This chair is available in 3 seat sizes, and available with desk length or full length arms. Swing away footrest, elevating legrests, and anti-tippers are sold separately. The wheelchair also folds easily for easy travel.
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Our #1 pick and the best option for home use is the LT-700NT Manual Wheelchair by Karman Healthcare. This manual wheelchair has all the features of the best wheelchairs on the market but also has an elegant, sleek design. It features nylon upholstery, which is most commonly used in homcare settings. Nylon is favored because it offers breathability and does not retain body heat. The downside to nylon is that it is porous and can absorb liquids. This chair is easily foldable, has detachable armrests that are padded and desk-length to accommodate more seated activities, and features breathable nylon upholstery. It is available with your choice of swing away footrest or elevating legrest. The seat is adjustable and the chair comes in 3 seat widths to accommodate more users. Finally, the chair features a push-to-lock brake system for increased safety. This is the ultimate at-home chair because it doesn’t compromise on functionality, safety, or comfort.
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A: Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers 80% of the cost of wheelchairs as part of Durable Medical Equipment (DME) as long as you meet certain conditions, some of which include: whether you have a mobility-limiting health condition, you’re unable to complete activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, etc.), and you demonstrate that you can safely use the wheelchair or have someone to accompany you to safety use the chair.
A: The lifetime of a manual wheelchair depends on many factors, including the quality of the materials, amount of use, and type of use (what type of terrain, etc.), among many others. In general, the expected lifetime of a manual wheelchair is between 3-5 years. Wheelchairs that are used daily may need to be replaced more frequently. There are limited studies on wheelchair use; however, one study reported the average length of manual wheelchair lifetime was 4 years and 4 months, and that after 4 years, 50% of wheelchairs were still functioning.
A: There is wide variability in standard wheelchair cost. The wheelchair models on our list range from $160 to just over $1100, but the majority of manual wheelchairs on the market range from $100 to $500. Since these chairs are designed for every day, long-term use, users generally invest more in standard wheelchairs to prioritize comfort and posture.
A: Manual wheelchairs generally weigh about 35+ lbs, although there is some variability between models. Other categories are “lightweight wheelchairs”, which weigh around 30 lbs, and “ultra-lightweight”, which weigh less than 30 lbs.
A: A “bariatric” wheelchair is a wheelchair specifically designed for bariatric users. According to Disabled Word, Bariatric Aids, Products, and Equipment cater to larger people and have higher than usual weight capacities. Bariatric wheelchairs usually come in wider seat widths (20”+) and have higher weight capacities (300+ lbs). Bariatric wheelchairs are often referred to as “heavy duty” wheelchairs, and most have reinforced cross braces to accommodate extra weight.
A: Manual wheelchairs can usually support between 200-300 lbs, with 250 being about the average weight capacity. Any wheelchair accommodating over 300 lbs is generally considered a bariatric wheelchair and should be purchased and researched with bariatric wheelchair considerations in mind.
A: Most standard wheelchairs are 18” or 20” in width. Standard wheelchair widths fall into 3 categories: narrow, which is 17 inches or below; standard, which is 18 or 20 inches; and wide, which is 22 inches or wider. Some companies do accommodate more sizes, however - be sure to check the width specifications carefully on product pages.
Having a reliable manual wheelchair can make all the difference in a person’s quality of life. Since manual wheelchairs are most often used for long-term, indoor use, users generally spend more time in these chairs (compared to transport wheelchairs) and it’s especially important to consider investing in a model that you know will keep you safe and support your mobility needs.
We believe that our #1 pick, the LT-700NT Manual Wheelchair by Karman Healthcare is the best overall combination of style and functionality, featuring padded, desk-length armrests, swing-away footrest, a padded and height-adjustable seat, push-to-lock wheel brake system, flame-retardant and padded nylon upholstery, and easy foldable design, all for an affordable price.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read about the top-rated manual wheelchairs! For more information about manual wheelchairs, take some time to check out our manual wheelchairs for sale and be sure to visit Caregiver University for more information about products and caregiver resources!
Author:Jeanine Clancy, MEd, BSN, RN
Jeanine has been a nurse for twenty-seven years with an extensive background in perioperative services, school/community health, quality/education, and leadership/administrative roles. Jeanine creates high-quality health content and is a mom (to 4 fabulous kids), dog mom, and avid hiker.
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