Member Article

Wheelchairs for Sports - Making the Right Choice

Shopping for a regular wheelchair means considering a wide variety of factors, to ensure you pick up the right mobility aid for you. Even so, there are often even more factors to consider when looking to pick up a wheelchair for sports use.

What’s most important to consider when shopping for a sports wheelchair is that many of the specialist products on the market are purpose-made. This means that rather than being designed for all-round everyday lifestyle use, they may be more limited in their versatility. Though there are sports wheelchairs that are designed to do it all – support your lifestyle and your sporting activities. Likewise, there are some sports wheelchairs that cover the needs of users who participate in a number of different sports, rather than one specific sport.

The overriding rule is therefore simple – ensure you come up with a list of requirements and preferences beforehand, so you can make sure they are covered by the chair you choose.

Key Factors to Consider

The size and complexity of the checklist involved in choosing a sports wheelchair will vary in accordance with the nature of the intended user’s requirements. Though in all instances, the following should be prioritised before making a final decision:

1. Type of sport: Different sports have different requirements for wheelchairs. For example, a basketball wheelchair will have larger wheels than a racing wheelchair. Be sure to choose a wheelchair that is specifically designed for the sport you will be participating in.

2. Multipurpose: Some wheelchairs are designed with several different types of sports in mind, while others are best suited to just one specific activity. There are also some everyday lifestyle scooters that double up as sports scooters, offering outstanding value for money.

3. Weight capacity: It is important to choose a wheelchair that can support your weight and any additional equipment you may need. Where possible, it is better to choose a model with a weight limit that can comfortably accommodate you, rather than pushing a chair right to its maximum weight capacity.

4. Manoeuvrability: Sports wheelchairs are designed to be highly manoeuvrable. Look for a wheelchair with a low centre of gravity and a tight turning radius, which will result in a chair that can turn sharply and precisely without tipping or falling over.

5. Durability: Sports wheelchairs are put through a lot of wear and tear, so it is important to choose a model that is built to last. Look for a wheelchair made from high-quality materials (like aluminium) and with a strong frame.

6. Adjustability: Many sports wheelchairs are adjustable, so you can customise the fit to suit the height, width, weight and shape of your body. Look for a wheelchair with an adjustable seat height, footrests and backrest.

7. Comfort: The fact that sports wheelchairs are used so intensively means that comfort is of the essence. Plenty of padding will help ensure a comfortable experience throughout even the most demanding activities, but at the same time should not weigh the chair down.

8. Price: Sports wheelchairs can be expensive, given how they are often purpose-made and feature a much stronger overall composition than standard wheelchairs. In order to ensure you get the best possible price, buy from a seller that offers a price match promised and shop around to get a good deal.

9. Brand reputation: Some wheelchair producers have renowned reputations for designing and manufacturing superior-quality sports chairs. If this is your first time buying a sports wheelchair, use online reviews and recommendations from real customers to help guide your decision.

10. Test runs: If you are buying from a conventional retailer, it is a good idea to put a wheelchair to the test before buying to ensure it is right for you. As this is not possible when buying online, ensure that your chosen retailer has a fair and straightforward returns process. If the chair is not right for you, you should have the option of returning it.

11. Optional extras: Some wheelchairs are more broadly compatible with optional extras and accessories than others. This is worth considering, as you may decide to upgrade your chair at a later date, or purchase spare parts to replace those that are damaged during use.

12. Professional recommendations: Depending on the nature and extent of your requirements, it may be a good idea to consult with a suitably qualified professional before buying. This will help you make the right decision based on your capabilities and your limitations, ensuring you find the perfect chair for the sports you participate in.

Call Mobility Smart

At Mobility Smart, we take pride in stocking a broad range of new and used sports wheelchairs at unbeatable prices. As a fully independent retailer, you can count on us to provide the honest and impartial advice you need to make the right choice. Call today for more information, or email the team at Mobility Smart and we will get back to you as promptly as possible.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by iCONQUER Ltd .