Self Propelled Wheelchairs

Who Are Self-Propelled Wheelchairs Best Suited To?

Self-propelled wheelchairs are often chosen by people who have enough upper body strength, coordination, and confidence to move themselves without relying fully on someone else to push. They can be useful for regular day-to-day mobility, short trips, appointments, shopping, or moving around at home.

They also usually include rear handles, so a family member, carer, or attendant can still provide support when needed.

Self-Propelled, Transit Or Active Wheelchair?

A self-propelled wheelchair has larger rear wheels with push rims, allowing the user to move and steer themselves.

A transit wheelchair has smaller rear wheels and is designed to be pushed by another person, making it better for assisted journeys.

An active wheelchair is usually lighter, more adjustable, and more performance-focused, making it better suited to confident users who want a more responsive chair for regular independent use.

If you are unsure which type is right, it may help to compare self-propelled wheelchairs with transit wheelchairs, active wheelchairs, and travel wheelchairs before choosing.

What To Consider Before Buying

When comparing self-propelled wheelchairs, it is worth considering:

• Chair weight and folding size
• Seat width and comfort
• Rear wheel size and push rim position
• Armrest and footrest setup
• Whether the chair needs to fit into a car boot
• Indoor and outdoor use
• How often the chair will be used
• Whether attendant support may still be needed

A lightweight self-propelled wheelchair can be especially useful if the chair needs to be lifted, folded, or transported regularly.

Compare More Wheelchair Options

Modern Mobility stocks a range of self-propelled wheelchair options from brands including Days, Drive DeVilbiss, Karma, Rehasense, R Healthcare, and VanOs. You may also wish to browse the main wheelchairs range, lightweight wheelchairs, transit wheelchairs, active wheelchairs, wheelchair accessories, and wheelchair cushions when comparing comfort, transport, and everyday mobility needs.