The goal isn't to find the best wheelchair. It's to find the right one for you. Two people with the same condition can need completely different chairs, and a few centimetres in the setup can make a huge difference to your posture, comfort and how easily you push. So we start with you, not the chair.
Start with you, not the chair
Before we look at models, we look at how you sit and move, how quickly you tire, where you'll use the chair and what you want to be able to do. Indoors or out, driving or not, sport or everyday: it all changes the setup.
8 things we get right when we fit an active wheelchair
1. Seat width
We measure you at your widest point when you're sitting, because most people spread a little when seated. Allow for a winter coat. If a size would be tight, go up. Your cushion should be a little wider than the seat, so it sits snugly between the frame tubes.
2. Seat depth
On a rigid frame there's little room to change the depth later. Many chairs can be ordered with a little extra frame at the back, which lets us fine-tune the fit or fit a solid back in future.
3. Front frame and footplate
The front of the frame can be narrow (a V shape) for a snug fit, or wider if you move your legs around. Footplates can flip up for standing transfers, or sit higher for shorter legs.
4. Seat height
The front and rear seat heights set your knee angle and how well you reach the wheels. Most people use 24-inch wheels, with your hand falling comfortably on the push rim.
5. Centre of gravity
How far forward the rear wheels sit changes how the chair feels. Further forward makes it lighter to push and easier to pop over kerbs, but more tippy. We set it for your confidence and adjust it at handover if needed.
6. Back height and angle
A height-adjustable back gives you room to change. Back angle is one of the hardest things to get perfect, and small changes make a big difference to posture.
7. Front casters
A caster will only roll over something about a third of its own height. Bigger casters suit outdoor use. Where the casters sit also changes stability when you lean forward.
8. Push rims, tyres and side guards
Coated or ergonomic push rims help your grip. Removable side guards keep clothes off the wheels and make transfers easier.
Rigid or folding?
Rigid frames like the Ki Mobility Rogue2 are light and efficient to push. Folding frames like the Catalyst 5 and Catalyst 5Vx are easier to fit in some cars. See compare active wheelchairs.
Thinking about a power add-on?
If you might add one later, tell us when you order. The frame can be reinforced, and the wheels must be lined up perfectly or the chair will twist as you go. See the best power add-ons.
Book an assessment
We offer free home assessments within 75 miles of Stratford-upon-Avon, or you can see us in store. Please call first on 01789 339 738. Made-to-measure chairs usually take about 3 weeks to arrive. Browse active wheelchairs.
Frequently asked questions
What size active wheelchair do I need?
It depends on your seat width, seat depth, lower leg length and back height. We measure all four. See choosing the right size for your active wheelchair.
Is a lighter wheelchair always better?
Not always. The right fit and setup matter more than a few hundred grams.
How long does a made-to-measure chair take?
Usually about 3 weeks.
