A power wheelchair for outdoor use needs to be durable and tough enough to handle all kinds of terrain, including gravel, mud, and even snow. But it also needs to be comfortable and easy to control, so you can enjoy your time outdoors. That’s why below, we’ve put together a guide for you on how to choose the best power wheelchair for outdoor use, based on your specific needs.
FDA Clearance
FDA clearance is very important for any medical device company. It shows that the company is serious about making quality products and that they have been tested and proven to be safe and effective. This gives customers confidence in the products they purchase and helps to build a loyal customer base.
A lot of research and development goes into creating new medical devices. The FDA must approve all device designs before they can be sold in the United States. To get FDA approval, a device must go through several rounds of testing, which can take years. After a device is approved, it must be manufactured according to strict guidelines set by the FDA.
[wpmfc_cab_ss]Aside from the guarantee of quality and safety, FDA-compliant motorized wheelchairs are usually allowed on airplanes. If you travel often, then you understand how important this is. That’s why in the list of the best power wheelchairs for outdoor use we included only FDA-cleared models.[/wpmfc_cab_ss]
Maximum Speed
The maximum speed of a motored wheelchair is an important consideration for outdoor use. Most power wheelchairs have a top speed between 4 and 8 mph. The lower speed options may be more appropriate for use on smooth surfaces like sidewalks and paved roads. If you plan on using the wheelchair on rough terrain or going up and down hills, a higher top speed may be necessary.
Travel Range
When choosing a power wheelchair for outdoor use, it’s important to consider the travel range. Depending on the terrain and how much you’ll be using the chair, you’ll want to make sure it has enough power to get you where you need to go.
Most power wheelchairs have a travel range of about 10 miles, but some can go further.
[wpmfc_cab_ss]If you plan on using your wheelchair for long distances or on rough terrain, look for one with a higher travel range. Look for wheelchairs that can travel at least 15 miles on a single battery charge.[/wpmfc_cab_ss]
Some versions can travel up to 30 kilometers, but they tend to be rather costly.
Tires
Pneumatic (air-filled) tires are generally the best choice for outdoor use, as they provide a smoother ride and better shock absorption than solid tires. However, they can be punctured more easily than solid tires, so you’ll need to keep a patch kit handy.
Heavy-duty solid tires are a good choice for occasional outdoor use, but they can be uncomfortable and difficult to maneuver on rough terrain. The heavy-duty wheels are almost maintenance-free and will not wear out with time, but your wheelchair will be bumpier.
Foam-filled tires offer a good middle ground between air-filled and solid tires, as they’re puncture-resistant but still provide a smooth ride.
Flat-free tires are pneumatic tires that have a semi-liquid filler. They are not prone to flat repairs, and their ride is gentler than that of solid tires.
Drive Power
A front-wheel drive is ideal for rugged conditions. You can easily climb steep hills and grades with the wheels positioned slightly ahead of the chair’s body.
Front-wheel drive electric wheelchairs are ideal for traveling over, through, and around dirt, grass, curbs, uneven terrain, and snow. This is due to the fact that the bulk of the weight is behind the driving force. But when turning in these sorts of chairs at your full speed, it’s crucial to be cautious.
Front-wheel power wheelchairs generally only travel 5 miles per hour for safety reasons, but because of their shorter turning radius, they can make tighter turns; in certain cases, they may only have a 25-inch turning radius.
A mid-wheel drive power chairs are among the most maneuverable power chairs on the market. These electric wheelchairs rotate in the middle of the device, much like a spinning top.
In restricted areas, mid-wheel drive electric wheelchairs require far less movement than rear-wheel drive or front-wheel vehicles. They are also one of the simplest to manage. They tackle terrain well with traction and stability when used outdoors.
A rear-wheel drive power chairs have the fastest speed on average. They can reach speeds of up to 10 mph, which is fast enough to keep up with most traffic.
Rear-wheel drive electric wheelchairs have great traction and are able to climb inclines with ease. This is due to the weight distribution of the chair, which puts more weight over the rear wheels.
While rear-wheel drive power chairs aren’t as maneuverable as front-wheel drive chairs, they’re still quite nimble. You’ll be able to navigate around tight spaces without any problems.
The drive power of an electric wheelchair is determined by the wheels that propel the chair.
Turning Radius
The turning radius is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a power wheelchair for outdoor use.
Some of the best power wheelchairs for outdoor use have a turning radius of fewer than 25 inches, which makes them perfect for maneuvering around tight corners and obstacles, especially indoors.
For uneven terrains or in off-road conditions, look for a model with a larger turning radius that will provide more stability and control.
Charging Time
A power wheelchair can take anywhere from four to eight hours to charge, depending on the type of battery. Lithium-ion batteries, for example, recharge much faster than lead-acid batteries. Most power wheelchairs use lead-acid batteries, which need to be charged overnight to get a full day’s worth of use. All our models can be charged in just 4 to 8 hours using a standard 110-volt household outlet so that you don’t have to wait all day for your chair to be ready to use.
[wpmfc_cab_ss]If you don’t use your power wheelchair, it still must be fully charged once a week to maintain the battery’s health.[/wpmfc_cab_ss]
If you’re using your power wheelchair regularly, it’s a good idea to invest in the second set of batteries so that you can always have one set charged and ready to go.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity is one of the most important aspects to consider when purchasing a power wheelchair. Not only does the weight limit ensure that the chair can support your body weight, but it also determines how much of a load the chair can carry. This is especially important for those who frequently transport heavy objects or need to use their wheelchair on rough terrain.
Most models have a weight capacity of around 250 pounds, but there are some that can accommodate up to 700 pounds. If you plan on using your wheelchair for long periods of time or carrying heavy loads, then you’ll want to make sure that it has a high weight capacity.
Weight
For many wheelchair users, the weight of a motorized chair is a key factor to consider.
Those who are unable to walk or have difficulty walking may find that a heavier chair is more difficult to maneuver. Heavier chairs also tend to be more expensive.
For users who plan on using their wheelchair primarily outdoors, a lighter-weight chair may be a better option. Lighter chairs are easier to transport and maneuver over uneven terrain. They are also generally less expensive than heavier chairs.
Before First Use
- Practice Before Operating. Until you are confident in operating this car, practice in an open place such as a park with an assistant. Before getting inside or out of the seat, make sure the power is off. Set the speed control to your driving ability. Until you are familiar with the vehicle’s driving characteristics, keep the speed control at its lowest position.
- Set the speed to its lowest position and practice moving forward
- After getting a feeling for moving forward, practice making “S” tums.
- Practice moving in reverse after you’ve mastered “S” turns. Note that, compared to forwarding motion, the vehicle moves more slowly in reverse.
Other Options
Power Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter is an electric vehicle and mobility aid equivalent or auxiliary to a power wheelchair but configured like a motor scooter.
A power mobility scooter is a fantastic idea for seniors and the disabled, if you’re looking for one, you may read our best 3-wheel mobility scooters or best lightweight mobility scooters to find the best for you.
When motorized they are commonly referred to as power-operated vehicles/scooters, handicap scooters, or electric scooters as well. Non-motorized mobility scooters are less common but are intended for the estimated 60% of wheelchair users who have at least some use of their legs.
Mobility scooters differ from power wheelchairs in that they are usually cheaper, easier to transport, and more customizable. These scooters are built for people who have trouble walking or getting around but don’t need a power wheelchair.
Standing Wheelchair
A standing wheelchair is an incredible device that gives people with disabilities the ability to stand up and walk, even if they can’t do so on their own.
They can be powered by an electric motor, making them ideal for people who can’t walk long distances not only indoors but also outdoors.
Users can sit or stand in their wheelchairs when using these devices. They can be used as both a wheelchair and a standing frame, allowing the user to recline or stand in the chair. With a hydraulic pump or electric-powered assist, they may transition from sitting to standing.
Manual Wheelchair
A manual wheelchair is an old-fashioned type of wheelchair that is propelled by the user through the use of handrails. This type of wheelchair requires a lot of upper body strength and can be difficult to maneuver for people with limited mobility.
A manual wheelchair is a great option for those who are looking for a more affordable way to get around.
If you are looking for such an option, consider checking these best manual wheelchairs to save your money.
However, they are not always the best option for those who live an active lifestyle. If you are someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, or if you need a wheelchair that can handle rough terrain, then a power wheelchair is a better choice.
