Manual Wheelchairs typically weigh between 15 lbs. and 60lbs. Power Wheelchairs weigh between 50 lbs. and 250 lbs. Thedifferences in weight are due to the motor (or lack of motor), materialsused, and accessories.
Helpful hints:
- The lighter your wheelchair, the easier it is to propel yourself or to liftinto a car.
- The industry often lists weights without leg-rests included (i.e. frame only).
Why is weight important?
All other things being equal, lighter wheelchairs are easier to push andmaneuver. Also, they allow for relatively stress-free transportation.
Consider your lifestyle, how often you might transport your wheelchair,and who will have to lift it into a car’s trunk. If you or your caregiverare not particularly stronger, a lighter wheelchair might fit your needsperfectly.
Wheelchairs come in four general weight classes:
Transport Wheelchair - 15lbs. - 30lbs.
- A transport wheelchair has smaller wheels than most wheelchairs.
- Typically used for traveling to the mall, restaurant or the park.
- Weight is important because the lighter, the chair the easier it willbe to lift into a car.
- However, because of the smaller wheels, a transport wheelchair cannotbe self-propelled.
Standard Manual Wheelchairs - 35 lbs. - 40 lbs.
- These are your basic wheelchairs that you may see at an airport or hospital.
- They tend to be on the heavier side since they are very sturdy and madefor commercial use.
- These chairs are not recommended for self-propelling long distances orfor lifting into a vehicle. They may cost less, but are very heavy andawkward to lift into a car.
Lightweight Wheelchairs - 15 lbs. 35 lbs.
- These chairs are specifically built for moving and lifting. Because theyare so light, they are easy to push, self-propel and lift into a car orbus. Note: The lighter the chair, the more it will probably cost. However,chances are you won't regret purchasing a super light chair.
- Lightweight wheelchairs come in two types of frames: folding frames andrigid frames.
- Folding frames are easy to fold and are great for senior citizens (65+).
- Rigid frames are great for younger users (18 - 65) who are self-propellingmost of the day. Think of them like racing bikes - very light, not a lotof moving parts, and super-efficient.
Heavy Duty Wheelchairs - 40lbs. - 60lbs.
- For users who are over 300 lbs. and need wider seats and a stronger frame.
- Because of their reinforced frames, these chairs are the heaviest. Ifyou need to lift this chair into a vehicle, using a wheelchair ramp isvital.
Power Wheelchairs - 50lbs. - 250lbs.
- Battery powered by an electric motor
- 4 mph to 8 mph max speed
- Driving range: 7 to 20+ miles
