Wheelchairs cover a wide range of needs, from occasional transit use to full-time active mobility. This guide explains the main categories to help narrow down what's right for you or a family member.
Transit vs self-propelled wheelchairs
| Transit wheelchair | Self-propelled wheelchair | |
|---|---|---|
| Rear wheels | Small, pushed by a companion | Large, with hand rims for self-propulsion |
| Best for | Occasional use, being pushed by a carer or family member | Users who want to move independently |
| Weight | Usually lighter | Varies by frame material |
Lightweight vs active wheelchairs
Lightweight wheelchairs are easier to lift, fold, and transport — a good general-purpose choice. Active wheelchairs are built for full-time users who want maximum efficiency, manoeuvrability, and a chair set up precisely to their body and lifestyle. See our dedicated active wheelchair service for full customisation and NHS Personal Wheelchair Budget support.
Sizing
Seat width, depth, and height all affect comfort, posture, and safety. An ill-fitting wheelchair can cause pressure problems or make self-propulsion harder than it needs to be — we recommend a proper fitting rather than guessing from measurements alone.
Car boot and crash-tested transport
If you need to fold a wheelchair into a car regularly, check its folded weight and dimensions. If the wheelchair needs to be used as a seat while travelling in a vehicle, look specifically for crash-tested (WC19) transit wheelchairs rather than standard models.
NHS Personal Wheelchair Budget
If you're eligible for an NHS Personal Wheelchair Budget, our active wheelchair service can support you through assessment, customisation, and aftercare — see our active wheelchairs page for details.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a lightweight and an active wheelchair?
Lightweight wheelchairs prioritise portability; active wheelchairs are built and configured for full-time, everyday independent use.
Can I try a wheelchair before buying?
Yes, visit any of our Kent showrooms, or ask about a home demonstration or assessment.
Do you support NHS wheelchair users?
Yes, particularly through our active wheelchair service and NHS Personal Wheelchair Budget support.
Explore wheelchairs
Browse our full range of wheelchairs, or learn more about our active wheelchair customisation service.
