If you're looking for a lightweight, customisable wheelchair that’s built for movement, independence, and personal style, then an active wheelchair could be exactly what you need.
Whether you're new to manual wheelchairs or looking to upgrade to something more agile and tailored, this guide will help you understand what an active wheelchair is, who it's for, and why choosing the right one can make a huge difference to your lifestyle.
What Is an Active Wheelchair?
An active wheelchair is a lightweight manual wheelchair designed for people who self-propel. It’s built for performance, independence, and manoeuvrability, often with a rigid frame for strength and responsiveness. These wheelchairs are customisable to the user’s size, lifestyle, and activity level.
They’re ideal for:
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Full-time wheelchair users
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Those with good upper body strength
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People who want a wheelchair that fits into daily life, sport, or social activities
Many active wheelchairs are also used as everyday chairs, offering a balance of comfort and speed, with easy lifting and transportability.
What Makes an Active Wheelchair Different?
Compared to a standard transit or self-propelled wheelchair, active wheelchairs are:
✅ Lighter – often made from aluminium, titanium, or carbon fibre
✅ Custom-Fit – tailored to your measurements and posture
✅ More Responsive – designed for users who need high manoeuvrability
✅ Personalised – colour options, wheel styles, seating, and frame shape
✅ Rigid or Foldable – choose what suits your transport and storage needs
They're made to move with you, not against you — whether you're navigating tight spaces, exploring outdoors, or living life on the go.
Types of Active Wheelchairs
There are two main types:
1. Rigid Frame
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Strong, efficient, and perfect for performance
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Lighter and more energy-efficient
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Wheels often quick-release for car loading
2. Folding Frame
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Offers flexibility if space is tight or you travel a lot
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Easier to store in smaller vehicles or home spaces
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Slightly heavier but still built for active use
Who Are Active Wheelchairs Designed For?
Active wheelchairs are often used by people with:
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Spinal cord injuries
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Neurological conditions
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Long-term mobility needs
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Amputations or limb differences
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An active lifestyle or desire to remain independent
They're also a great choice for people transitioning from rehab wheelchairs or who want to reduce fatigue during daily pushing.
Our Trusted Active Wheelchair Brands
At Active Mobility, we only recommend wheelchairs from brands we trust — known for safety, performance, and quality engineering.
Some of our favourite active wheelchair suppliers include:
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Sunrise Medical – home of the renowned Quickie range
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Invacare – known for the Küschall and Action ranges
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Permobil – high-performance chairs including Progeo
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Ottobock – sleek, lightweight German engineering
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Küschall – premium active chairs with carbon frame options
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Rehasense – offering sporty, agile, everyday options
These brands are not only respected across the UK but also meet BHTA (British Healthcare Trades Association) standards, ensuring quality, service, and aftercare you can count on.
Can You Try Before You Buy?
Yes, and we always recommend it. Every user is different, and your wheelchair should reflect your individual needs and comfort.
At Active Mobility, we offer:
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Free consultations
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At-home assessments
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In-store trials of multiple active wheelchairs
Our specialists work closely with you to ensure the fit, posture, and performance is exactly right.
What About Add-Ons and Customisation?
The beauty of active wheelchairs is that they’re highly customisable. Options include:
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✨ Frame colours and finishes
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🛞 Spoke guards and performance wheels
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💺 Cushions, backrests, posture supports
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🛠 Anti-tippers, brakes, push handles
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🔋 Power add-ons – like the Alber or Empulse F55, to boost your push with electric assist
Let’s be honest — if you’re using your chair every day, it should feel like yours in every way.
How Much Does an Active Wheelchair Cost?
Prices can vary depending on materials and customisation, but as a guide:
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Basic active chairs start from around £1,000–£1,500
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Mid-range options are £2,000–£3,000
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Premium carbon or titanium models can reach £4,000+
We’ll always work with your budget and explore options like Motability, NHS vouchers, or private funding to make sure you get the right chair without compromise.
Where Can You Get Impartial Advice?
We’re always here to help, but we also recommend:
In Summary: Freedom. Control. Independence.
An active wheelchair is more than just a mobility aid — it’s your gateway to independence, movement, and freedom on your own terms.
At Active Mobility, we’re here to help you find the chair that fits your life — not just your measurements. Whether you’re new to manual wheelchairs or upgrading to something more lightweight and responsive, we’ll make sure you get the right advice, a proper fit, and ongoing support.
Updated 2025
