Tag: Wheelchairs

Wheelchair Advancements: Then vs. Now

What active wheelchair rider hasn’t inadvertently crashed into a couch or fallen over a curb, often ending up with injuries? (Or nearly did). Traditionally, wheelchairs, scooters, and other types of mobility equipment have not been known for their safety, accessibility, or level of comfort. However, with rapid technological advancement in the healthcare industry, the wheelchair space has come a long way, and the future looks bright. To begin, let’s take a look at the humble wheelchair.

Key Takeaways

  • The earliest wheelchairs were used between the 4th and 6th century BCE.
  • 3D printed carbon fiber wheelchairs are the future of wheelchairs.
  • Wheelchairs will become smarter and have self-driving capabilities.

The Humble Beginnings

It is believed that the earliest wheelchairs were used sometime between the 4th and 6th century BCE; however, the first instance of their usage dates back to the 17th century. In 1655, German innovators developed a type of rolling chairs, mainly referred to as “invalid chairs.” These weren’t much more than chairs with two wheels at the front, but they were a step toward chairs with rotating wheels.

The first usage of the term “wheele-chaire” itself was documented in a private letter written by the famous English novelist Jane Austen. Later, in the 18th century, wheelchairs emerged as a transport vehicle for surgical and medicinal causes. A few modifications were made to the structure in the 19th century, the most notable of which was the adoption of timber frames with cane seats.

In the same century, wheels with wire spokes and rubber tires began to debut. Nevertheless, these early designs restricted individuals to the limitations of flat interior areas. This was because earlier versions were heavy and unwieldy, constructed from wood or metal, making it impossible to move.

The 20th century saw the advent of a foldable wheelchair, which included a more durable wheel design and enhanced mobility capabilities. Subsequent versions made consistent moves toward lighter construction, better maneuverability, and overall performance.

The Advent of Electric Wheelchairs

After World War II, disabled soldiers needed assistance, so George Klein, a Canadian inventor, came up with the idea for the electric wheelchair. By attaching simple motors to regular chairs, Klein transformed ordinary chairs into smart, electric wheelchairs. From that point on, the development of electric chairs witnessed advancements in design, mobility, dependability, and comfort, which ultimately led to the contemporary machines we see whizzing down the streets today.

The Wheelchair Space Today

The private sector has recently driven a progressive and integrative approach to technological advancements, making it possible to investigate and develop “high-tech” assistive devices to join the competition. Even better, these designs of the 21st century are pushing the limits of technological growth in the wheelchair space even further. Transportable power wheelchairs, lightweight power wheelchairs, and heavy-duty power wheelchairs are some prominent examples.

The Future Advancements

As of now, there are close to 131 million individuals worldwide who are restricted to wheelchairs and utilize them for mobility. To better serve the enormous community of wheelchair users, many wheelchair brands are now undertaking crowdfunding campaigns to gather funds to develop and launch the wheelchair of the future. Some new inventions we hope to one-day hit markets include the self-driving wheelchair, 3D printed carbon fiber wheelchairs, and accessibility-friendly chairs.

New to Wheelchairs? Here’s What to Expect

Are you new to the world of wheelchairs or just don’t know where to start when purchasing one? Look no further. Although wheelchairs are a need for many reasons (illness, injury, or disability), this does not imply that they have to be uncomfortable or unattractive. Today, the market is flooded with various alternatives for wheelchair users who want to live their lives to the fullest, ranging from foldable to ergonomic chairs and everything in between.

For a novice wheelchair user like yourself, it’s essential to understand that buying a wheelchair is more complicated than just “buying a wheelchair.” Since they come in various forms and sizes and may accommodate almost every body type, choosing one that completely suits your needs may be similar to climbing a mountain barefoot. This guide will discuss everything you should expect at the beginning of your wheelchair journey.

Key Takeaway

  • Wheelchairs are a need for many reasons (illness, injury, or disability).
  • The first-ever wheelchair was made in 1519 for King Phillip II of Spain.
  • The most commonly used are manual, transport, and power wheelchairs.
  • Before investing in a wheelchair, pay attention to your surroundings – are things wheelchair accessible?
  • Begin weight training to easily roll the wheelchair tires manually.
  • Pay attention to wheelchair seating, warranties, and financing options.

What Is a Wheelchair?

As the name suggests, a wheelchair is a chair with wheels. In other words, it is a manually operated or power-driven device designed for individuals with mobility issues due to injury, illness, or disability. While the earliest wheelchairs had to be pushed by another individual (more on that later!), today, you can easily move them, either manually (by pushing the wheels) or electrically.

Wheelchair Through Years – From Origin to Evolution

According to evidence found in art and literature, comparable devices were used during ancient times, particularly in early Greece and China. When it comes to the official beginning, it all started in 1519, when a wheelchair was made for King Phillip II of Spain, who suffered from gout and needed mobility assistance. This aid, however, wasn’t self-propelling and required an attendant.

The 1700’s

After a century had passed, the wheelchairs desperately needed an upgrade; thus, in 1783, John Dawson from Bath (a city in England) constructed a wheelchair and named it after his town. Two massive wheels were located in the Bath’s rear; however, the front wheel was much smaller. All of the Bath’s designs were extremely heavy, necessitating the employment of a donkey or horse to be pushed or dragged about. The design was so successful that over 40 years, Bath sold the most units.

The 1800’s

Fast forward to 1800, the Bath wheelchair needed improvements. Although it was popular among those who could buy it, the overall structure offered little to no comfort. Later, the Bath was constructed out of various materials to maximize comfort. Even better, Queen Victoria preferred it. However, in the 1860s, wheelchairs designs comparable to those used today became available.

 

The Early 1900’s

As time passed, wheelchairs gradually became lighter and easier to travel in. It was 1932 when Harry Jennings developed the first folding wheelchair model made of tubular steel. Harry developed this wheelchair for his disabled friend Herbert Everest, and the two friends later established Everest and Jennings, which became the mobility and adaptive equipment manufacturing powerhouse.

The Mid 1900’s

When it comes to the first electric or powered wheelchair, George Klein, born in Hamilton, Canada, is recognized for contributing to the design and invention. In the 1950s, motorized chairs were available for mass production for the first time, which made the life of wheelchair users even more accessible. The 1990s saw the beginning of widespread production and usage of sports wheelchairs, which provided its users with additional support and assistance in various sporting endeavors.

2022 and Beyond

Over the course of the previous few hundred years, the wheelchair industry has seen a variety of transformations, from the early wheelchairs, which needed attendants to move about, to the current wheelchairs, which allow for freedom of movement and mobility. Given the quick rate at which technological advancements are being made, who knows what the future holds?

What to Expect from New Wheelchairs

Types of Wheelchairs to Expect

From manually operated to power-driven, a wide variety of wheelchairs are available to pick from, and the right one will depend on your requirements. However, if you aren’t acquainted with the terminology and what each signifies, you may end up wasting money on the wrong wheelchair. The following section will help you narrow down your research and simplify the buying process.

What to Expect from New Wheelchairs

Transport vs. Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are intended for the individual seated in the chair to maneuver independently, while transport wheelchairs are made to be pushed by caretakers or companions. On the other hand, wheelchairs designed for transport often have four small wheels, whereas wheelchairs designed for manual use typically have two smaller wheels in front and two bigger wheels in the rear.

Power Wheelchairs

A power wheelchair, also known as a powerchair, electric wheelchair, motorized wheelchair, or electric-powered wheelchair (EPW), is a kind of wheelchair that moves forward with the assistance of an electric motor (often via the use of differential steering) rather than the user’s physical power. Individuals who cannot walk short distances or those with weaker upper extremities may use them.

New Wheelchair Users – Essential Aspects to Consider

If you were just recently put into a wheelchair, it’s possible that you don’t fully understand how to manage things quite yet. Firstly, remember that it is normal for you to feel uncertain about how to travel moving forward. After all, wheelchair accessibility is a new experience that requires time to get used to. Now that you know everything about the history and origin of wheelchairs, it’s time to gear towards the next part: the essential aspects of using a wheelchair.

Think About Your Surroundings

Before investing in a wheelchair, pay attention to your region’s surroundings, particularly meteorological conditions. For instance, if you are caught in a blizzard with your brand-new wheelchair, and it gets damaged, know that you will be responsible for the costs of having it repaired (the average cost of wheelchair repair is $100 to $200; however, it may vary). To begin, imagine driving a vehicle, truck, or SUV, and apply the same frame of mind to your new accessibility.

Get Stronger By Exercising

If you pursue the route of purchasing a manual wheelchair, know that you will need to provide your own propulsion by rolling the wheelchair tires with your hands and arms in order to move about. It may not be easy to complete this activity if you do not have strong upper body strength; therefore, going to the gym and focusing on strength training with a personal trainer may be essential.

Avoid Alcohol

Drinking alcohol has been linked to weight gain, making it more challenging to move about using a wheelchair; thus, consider switching up the alcoholic drinks. It’s okay to have a beer or glass of wine every once in a while, but you shouldn’t just slouch in your chair and consume beverages nonstop. In 2016, around 38.9% of individuals with disabilities age 18 and older were obese; thus, you should do everything you can to prevent yourself from falling into that category.

Seating, Warranties, and Financing Options

As a rule of thumb, you shouldn’t purchase a product without first examining it and getting a feel for it, especially regarding something as important as medical equipment. At 1800Wheelchair, the comfort issue is by far the most frequent one we’ve encountered when dealing with wheelchairs over the years. If you shop with us, you’ll find various seating options among 1,200 products in 100 different categories. However, if you need enhanced comfort, consider wheelchair cushions.

What to Expect from New Wheelchairs

In addition to comfort, warranties and financing are the next top concern. Before making a purchase, you must investigate the manufacturer’s warranty and financing options. This applies to the warranty provided by the product manufacturer and affordable financing options by the seller. For example, 1800Wheelchair is a Bread® partner, which means you can pay for your purchase over time.

So there you have it: a beginner’s guide to a wheelchair. Entering the world of wheelchairs may be overwhelming; however, with all the essential aspects in place, you may lead a happy and healthy life moving forward. With time, you may understand that embracing life in a wheelchair is pretty straightforward – all it requires is maintaining a positive outlook to get the most out of your journey.

Future Advancements in the Wheelchair Space

What active wheelchair rider hasn’t inadvertently crashed into a couch or fallen over a curb, often ending up with injuries? (Or nearly did). Traditionally, wheelchairs, scooters, and other types of mobility equipment have not been known for their safety, accessibility, or level of comfort.

However, with rapid technological advancement in the healthcare industry, the wheelchair space has come a long way, and the future looks bright. To begin, let’s take a look at the humble wheelchair.

Key Takeaways

  • The earliest wheelchairs were used between the 4th and 6th century BCE.
  • 3D printed carbon fiber wheelchairs are the future of wheelchairs.
  • Wheelchairs will become smarter and have self-driving capabilities.

The Humble Beginnings

It is believed that the earliest wheelchairs were used sometime between the 4th and 6th century BCE; however, the first instance of their usage dates back to the 17th century. In 1655, German innovators developed a type of rolling chairs, mainly referred to as “invalid chairs.” These weren’t much more than chairs with two wheels at the front, but they were a step toward chairs with rotating wheels.

The first usage of the term “wheele-chaire” itself was documented in a private letter written by the famous English novelist Jane Austen. Later, in the 18th century, wheelchairs emerged as a transport vehicle for surgical and medicinal causes. A few modifications were made to the structure in the 19th century, the most notable of which was the adoption of timber frames with cane seats.

In the same century, wheels with wire spokes and rubber tires began to debut. Nevertheless, these early designs restricted individuals to the limitations of flat interior areas. This was because earlier versions were heavy and unwieldy, constructed from wood or metal, making it impossible to move.

The 20th century saw the advent of a foldable wheelchair, which included a more durable wheel design and enhanced mobility capabilities. Subsequent versions made consistent moves toward lighter construction, better maneuverability, and overall performance.

The Advent of Electric Wheelchairs

After World War II, disabled soldiers needed assistance, so George Klein, a Canadian inventor, came up with the idea for the electric wheelchair. By attaching simple motors to regular chairs, Klein transformed ordinary chairs into smart, electric wheelchairs. From that point on, the development of electric chairs witnessed advancements in design, mobility, dependability, and comfort, which ultimately led to the contemporary machines we see whizzing down the streets today.

The Wheelchair Space Today

The private sector has recently driven a progressive and integrative approach to technological advancements, making it possible to investigate and develop “high-tech” assistive devices to join the competition. Even better, these designs of the 21st century are pushing the limits of technological growth in the wheelchair space even further. Transportable Power Wheelchairs, Lightweight Power Wheelchairs, and Heavy Duty Power Wheelchairs are some prominent examples.

The Future Advancements

As of now, there are close to 131 million individuals worldwide who are restricted to wheelchairs and utilize them for mobility.

To better serve the enormous community of wheelchair users, many wheelchair brands are now undertaking crowdfunding campaigns to gather funds to develop and launch the wheelchair of the future.

Some new inventions we hope to one-day hit markets include the self-driving wheelchair, 3D printed carbon fiber wheelchairs, and accessibility-friendly chairs.

Bang for Your Buck – The Top Motorized Wheelchairs in 2022

Power Electric wheelchairs and other mobility devices are a great thing to have for those who don’t have the upper body strength to use a manual wheelchair. The best electric wheelchairs are light, can go far, and are controlled by joysticks that are easy to use.

If you’re looking for motorized wheelchairs that get the job done and suit your needs and requirements, check out the wheelchairs offered by 1800Wheelchair. With an assortment of some of the best brands in the market, you’re sure to find something that can benefit you in the long haul.

3 Best Motorized Wheelchairs of 2022

1. Pride Go Chair

The Pride Go Chair is a great lightweight travel chair with a compact turning circle that makes it easier to move around. This power wheelchair is easy to take apart into five lightweight pieces. This lightweight nature means it’s easy to carry around and doesn’t feel too heavy when you’re moving around in it.

What’s more, you get two storage bins that swing away from you, making it super convenient to keep your phone, keys, and other accessories on you while you’re on the go. If you’re someone who likes a bit of personality in their motorized wheelchair, the Pride Go Chair comes in multiple colors like Ruby Red and Citrine Yellow.

2. Shoprider – Jimmie Power Chair

The Jimmie Power Chair is designed for individuals who are always on the go but want an electric wheelchair seat that is more comfortable and conventional.

This  is one of the most convenient motorized wheelchairs to move around on because of its 15.5″ turning radius, making it incredibly easy to maneuver. The foam wheels and easy-to-use controls  also serve to smoothen the ride.

With a comfortable seat that is neither too deep nor too shallow, you’ll be able to ride around in comfort. What’s more, the Jimmie Power Chair is easy to take apart as it breaks into 3 easy-to-store parts thanks to its connectorless technology.

When taken apart, the heaviest piece weighs only 35.8 lb. The lightweight nature of this motorized wheelchair means that most people will have no trouble storing it in their car or at home.

3. Merits Dualer Power Wheelchair

The Merits P312 Compact FWD/RWD Dualer is made to meet all of your needs, just like the most eager hotel concierge. This power wheelchair has two driving modes, and you can switch from front-wheel drive to back-wheel drive by pulling a lever and turning the seat around.

The powerchair, as a whole, weighs 189 pounds, and the heaviest part of it weighs 97 pounds. It has a power base and a battery that can be charged for 18 miles of range.

The power-operated seat rises smoothly from 22″ to 27″ to make reaching the top shelves in the kitchen and other hard-to-get-to places easier.

Final Thoughts

Lightweight electric wheelchairs are great for older adults and people with mobility issues who need to travel around or run a quick errand.

When making our list, we considered several things: build quality, ease of use, comfort, performance functionality, user reviews, and value for money.

No need to run to different stores – all the wheelchairs mentioned here are available at 1800Wheelchair.com. Visit our website and choose the best motorized wheelchair that suits your needs.

Mobility, Comfort, Versatility -The Best Transport Wheelchairs You Need to Know About

When purchasing a transport wheelchair, it is crucial to pick a model that delivers the appropriate level of comfort and mobility. Choosing one without keeping these factors in mind can result in an uncomfortable experience every time you have to move around.

You also have to remember the wheelchair’s weight, weight capacity, design, portability, accessories, and most importantly, the wheels. Luckily for you, 1800Wheelchair has some of the best transport wheelchairs on the market. Here, we’ve picked out 4 that you need to know about.

Top 4 Best Transport Wheelchairs of 2022

1. Medline Ultralight Transport Mobility Wheelchair

The Medline Ultralight Transport Mobility Wheelchair is a good solution for those who need to store their wheelchair when not in use. The chair is built to carry up to 300 pounds, so its aluminum structure is strong despite being the lightest on the list.

This model also features bigger 8-inch rear wheels, making it easier to reverse the chair or change directions. The shorter arms let you sit closer to a table, which makes it quite practical for dining out.

The Medline Ultralight includes attachments, such as a cup holder with a clip, hand grips, and a seatbelt.

2. NOVA Lightweight Transport Chair

The NOVA Lightweight Transport Chair is a good alternative if you’re searching for a high-end transport wheelchair that can cross virtually any terrain. It is foldable and includes a fold-down back with a rapid release and cushioned, full-length arms for enhanced comfort.

This chair is fitted with locking brakes on the rear wheels, anti-tip devices, and a flexible seatbelt since it is meant for usage on more difficult terrain.

This chair easily collapses thanks to its quick-release fold-down function and folding footrests. Additionally, the armrests pop up, making it simpler to rise from a desk.

3. Expedition Lightweight 12″ Rear Wheel Transport Chair

The Drive Medical Expedition Transport Chair has wide 12″ rear wheels for easy mobility and weighs only 19 pounds. A lever on the chair’s back makes it easy to collapse the chair for transport and/or storage.

The lightweight, robust powder-coated aluminum frame is paired with a lightweight nylon upholstered seat. This chair is distinguished from others in its category thanks to its 300-pound weight capability. Included for further safety are a seatbelt and hand brake.

4. Quickie Xenon Folding Wheelchair

The Quickie Xenon FF is an exceptionally sturdy folding wheelchair frame that weighs as low as 19.4 pounds.

What’s more, this wheelchair is simple to fold, load, and travel around on and features an updated cross-brace and axle stem. The front frame’s swing-away design facilitates standing transfers into and out of the wheelchair.

Final Thoughts

Wheelchair users and other adults with limited mobility can benefit greatly from a supportive transport wheelchair that is easy to use and store. Wheelchair users have different ideas about what features are most important to them.

Luckily, there are products on the market that can meet the needs of a wide range of people. If you’re looking for a transport wheelchair that suits your needs, you don’t have to look in 10 different places. Instead, head on over to 1800Wheelchair, where you’ll find wheelchairs from all the best brands on the market.

Where Can You Find Affordable Folding Wheelchairs

Used by millions of disabled individuals worldwide, the wheelchair is a piece of technology that we are all familiar with. However, one of the most significant drawbacks of a manual wheelchair is that it almost always requires the assistance of a second person to be pushed. Fortunately, this issue is far gone with the invention of the world’s first folding, portable wheelchair—designed by mechanical engineer Harry C. Jennings for his disabled friend Herbert Everest in 1933.

Best Affordable Folding Wheelchairs

When it comes to mobility, wheelchairs play a significant part in assisting impaired and disabled individuals in moving safely and conveniently from one place to another. Are you looking for the best folding wheelchair online? Search no further; we’ve already done the legwork for you. Below we’ll uncover some of the best yet affordable brands that sell folding wheelchairs in the United States.

WHILL – Travel With Style And Confidence

WHILL was established to develop a short-distance mobility platform. Providing quick access to an innovative and well-designed personal mobility solution when needed. WHILL presents a new method of short-distance travel and is the final means of transportation that no other mode can provide. With an emphasis on creative design and cutting-edge technology, WHILL’s goods allow you to freely express your self-assurance, sense of style, and independence.

WHILL Model Ci2 Power Chair

Pride Mobility – Unleash The Best

Pride Mobility Products Corporation is a leading designing and manufacturing company for mobility products, including some famous brands like Jazzy and Power Chairs. Pride is committed to delivering professionally designed, manufactured, and tested products with technologically advanced features that enable users to accomplish their highest quality of life and mobility objectives.

Pride Go Chair

Pride Jazzy Elite HD

Pride Portable Jazzy Elite ES

Pride Jazzy 600 ES

Jazzy Air 2 Power Wheelchair

Golden Technologies – It’s Totally Worth It!

Golden Technologies is a family-owned business founded on real entrepreneurship. They are the world’s top manufacturer of power wheelchairs and other mobility products. Golden Technologies are proud to employ approximately 500 Americans, hence strengthening the economy. They have collaborated with some of the region’s greatest craftsmen to design and construct wheelchairs that would last for years.

Golden LiteRider Envy

Hoveround – A Lifetime Comfort Solution

Hoveround manufactures both standard and heavy-duty power wheelchairs, each engineered with a tight turning radius and enhanced durability for daily use. Hoveround’s wheelchairs significantly enhance the mobility and independence of individuals within and outside their homes. With this enhanced mobility, you may quickly navigate a confined area or tight corner without risking damage to walls or furnishings.

All-New Move Lite Folding Power Chair

1800Wheelchair – The Brand Everyone’s Talking About

Find Affordable Folding Wheelchairs

Based in NY, United States, 1800Wheelchair is a brand that needs no introduction. Founded with a mission to fill a void in the mobility equipment market, 1800Wheelchair offers more than 1,200 products in 100 categories—guided by four exemplary principles: value, convenience, timely delivery, and expert advice. Since its launch, the company has served over 1 million customers worldwide, making it a leader in the wheelchair market. All products are backed by Bread®.

Folding Wheelchairs @ 1800Wheelchairs (Recommended)

Final Verdict

So there you have it: a list of brands that sell the most affordable folding wheelchairs in the United States. With the market saturated with various brands claiming to sell ‘the best folding wheelchairs,’ the buying process can become a little overwhelming. However, with an extensive selection of products and equipment for individuals of all ages and needs, 1800Wheelchair.com will always be your best option.

Portability and Power – The Best Folding Power Wheelchairs

From being used in retirement homes and hospitals to private dwellings, dozens and dozens of wheelchairs—packed with countless customizable features and configurations – give the gift of mobility to disabled and impaired individuals worldwide. Needless to say, with the introduction of folding power wheelchairs, the industry has come a long way.

Before getting to the nitty-gritty, let’s pay some attention to the fascinating history of wheelchairs, including the several phases of development and fine-tuning that led from manual wheelchairs to electric power wheelchairs—used by millions of disabled individuals today. Stay with us until the end to discover the best folding power wheelchairs. Without further ado, let’s hop in.

History of Power Wheelchairs

A groundbreaking device that has been available for many decades, power wheelchairs may tremendously benefit individuals with impairments or limited mobility. Surprisingly, the invention of the first power wheelchair encouraged more manufacturers to develop an improved version, adaptable to various mobility circumstances and difficulties encountered on the road. To bring you up to speed on the past, present, and future of the motorized wheelchair, here’s an overview.

According to the historical records on wheelchairs, George Klein, born in Hamilton, Canada, is recognized for having contributed to the design and invention of what is regarded as the first electric or powered wheelchair. Other inventors were motivated to produce new, groundbreaking innovations due to his inventions and often turned to Klein’s designs for inspiration.

Klien spent most of his childhood working at the jewelry business owned by his father. There, he fiddled with various goods and was fascinated by the workings of timepieces. As he got older, his interest in mechanical devices became more established, which forced him to find answers to day-to-day difficulties. Even though Klein didn’t do so well in school, he became one of Canada’s most renowned and successful innovators of the 20th century, whose influence was witnessed for decades.

As time passed, Klien finally managed to get accepted at the University of Toronto, which laid the groundwork for his subsequent career as the designer of a robust electric wheelchair that revolutionized how impaired individuals moved around. Along with a group of other engineers working at the National Research Council of Canada in 1929, Klein was responsible for developing the first electric-powered wheelchair, sometimes referred to as “The Klein Chair.”

After World War II, Klein and his colleagues focused their early efforts on developing a design for an electric wheelchair to assist veterans. According to the University of Toronto, Klein spent over 40 years at the National Research Council of Canada. During his career, he was responsible for developing several useful mobility gadgets. However, Klein’s most famous invention to date is still an electric wheelchair designed specifically for individuals with quadriplegia.

Moving forward, Klein worked on incorporating the joystick into his invention. Additionally, he worked to separate the wheel drives and make the turning components more acute. The following is a quick rundown of the history of the wheelchair as well as the many phases of development and fine-tuning that led from the manual wheelchair to the electric wheelchair:

It all started in 1595 when a wheelchair was invented for King Phillip II of Spain, who was paralyzed from the waist down. As time passed, a paraplegic watchmaker named Stephen Farfler created the first self-propelled chair on a three-wheel platform in 1655. Later in 1783, a man from Bath, England, named John Dawson, constructed a wheelchair. However, the first wheelchair design to be granted a patent in 1869 had tiny casters at the front and larger wheels in the rear of the device.

Between 1867 and 1875, several innovators developed rubber wheels similar to those seen on bicycles. However, in 1881, pushrims, which allowed wheelchairs to propel themselves, were introduced to the market. Later in 1916, the first motorized power wheelchair was introduced. In 1932, Harry Jennings created the first folding tubular wheelchair. Everest & Jennings began producing electric wheelchairs in 1956, not long after they came up with the idea for the folding wheelchair.

The Best Folding Power Wheelchairs @ 1800Wheelchair

Based in NY, United States, 1800Wheelchair is a company that needs no introduction. Founded with a mission to fill a void in the mobility equipment market, 1800Wheelchair offers more than 1,200 products in 100 categories—guided by four exemplary principles: value, convenience, timely delivery, and expert advice. Since its launch, we have served over 1 million customers worldwide, making us a leader in the folding power wheelchair market. All products are backed by Bread®.

Featherweight 33 lbs. Power Chair

The Feather Power Chair is just 33 pounds, making it the lightest electric power wheelchair on the market. If that’s not enough to pique your interest, we don’t know what else is. This wheelchair can be folded into a tiny package in ONE PIECE, collapsing the seat to 13″ and the back folding down to 28″—ideal for fitting into any vehicle or storage closet. Technically speaking, with 4-mph speed and one single battery charge, you can travel 13 miles with Featherweight 33 lbs. Power Chair.

All-New Move Lite Folding Power Chair

After the Feather Power Chair comes this All-New Move Lite, another lightest mobility chair on our list, weighing only 50 lbs. The Move Lite can be folded into ONE piece without disassembly, allowing it to fit in most automobiles’ trunks easily. This gives you the flexibility to go shopping, to the park, and do the activities you like. The durable, lightweight aircraft quality aluminum makes this model extremely durable, while 12″ flat free rear tires allow it to roll over rough terrain.

eVolt Traveler Power Chair

When it comes to a compact power chair, the eVolt Traveler Power Chair ticks all the boxes with its two super strong 250W motors for a combining 500W motor. Apart from its powerful composition, the eVolt Traveler holds a tight space, allowing it to fit into any vehicle. Additionally, this wheelchair boasts a weight of only 48 lbs., making it lighter than All-New Move Lite but heavier than Feather Power Chair. Nevertheless, this powerful wheelchair is hands down the best bang for your buck.

Model H Hybrid Manual and Power Chair in One

When it comes to utilizing multi-features, the Model H Hybrid Manual and Power Chair in One set a high standard in the wheelchair market. Weighting only 39 lbs., this hybrid model allows you to self-propel and switch to power mode at any time. With a set of additional elements that do not come with most power wheelchairs, including removable seat and back cover, adjustable anti-tippers upgrade, batteries (12V and 6V), and charger, Model H leads the market one more time.

Pride Portable Jazzy Elite ES

This Pride Portable Jazzy Elite ES equips a small turning radius and stability, provided by the in-line technology included in this power wheelchair. Your ride will be more comfortable—thanks to the higher back of the seat, which also includes a headrest and a bigger footplate. This power chair is more dependable than other power wheelchairs due to its easy-to-maintain structure and the addition of the Jazzy Armor, which increases the chair’s resistance to typical wear and tear.

The Future of Wheelchairs

When it comes to folding power wheelchairs, we have come a long way since the 20th century. All in all, the history of wheelchairs has resulted in several significant improvements and innovations, which in turn have inspired a wave of technologically sophisticated wheelchairs. Even better, the most recent and cutting-edge technological advances may also turn any ordinary wheelchair into a smart one—with the power of AI, machine learning, big data analysis, and cloud connection.

The Final Cut

So there you have it: the best folding power wheelchairs. At 1800Wheelchairs, we understand how overwhelming it might be to track down a transportable motorized power wheelchair that folds into one piece. However, the wheelchairs mentioned above, with their lightweight structure and composition, are the best currently on the market and definitely won’t break your bank.

Finally, we introduced you to some of the best folding power wheelchairs available at 1800Wheelchairs. This brings us to the end of this guide; now, it’s time to hear from you. Any questions? Or maybe there’s something we missed? Either way, feel free to leave a comment below.