A Beginner's Guide to Manual Wheelchairs in Canada

Choosing a manual wheelchair for the first time can feel overwhelming — there are many types, sizes, and features to consider, and the terminology isn't always intuitive. This guide is designed to help you or a loved one understand the basic landscape of manual wheelchairs available in Canada and what matters most when making a decision.

What Is a Manual Wheelchair?

A manual wheelchair is a mobility device powered by the occupant (self-propelled) or an attendant (pushed from behind). It consists of a seat, footrests, armrests, and large rear wheels (for self-propulsion) or smaller wheels (for attendant-propelled transport chairs). Manual wheelchairs are the most widely used wheelchair type in Canada due to their reliability, lower cost compared to power chairs, and versatility.

Types of Manual Wheelchairs

Standard self-propelled wheelchairs

These have large rear wheels with handrims that the occupant grips and pushes to move independently. They are designed for users with sufficient upper-body strength and coordination to propel themselves. Browse manual wheelchairs at Factory Direct Medical, including the EZee Life CH1093 Standard Wheelchair and the economy CH1090 model.

Transport (companion) chairs

Transport chairs have four smaller wheels and are designed to be pushed by a caregiver or companion — not for self-propulsion. They are lighter and more compact than self-propelled chairs, making them well-suited for outings, appointments, or situations where an attendant is always present. See transport chairs at Factory Direct Medical.

Bariatric wheelchairs

Designed for users requiring higher weight capacity and a wider seat, bariatric wheelchairs such as the EZee Life CH1095 support up to 500 lbs and provide a reinforced frame for heavier-duty use.

Key Features to Understand

Seat width and depth

The most critical sizing dimensions. Seat width should allow the user to sit with approximately one inch of clearance on each side. Too wide reduces self-propulsion efficiency; too narrow causes pressure and discomfort. Seat depth should allow the user to sit fully back with 2-3 inches of clearance behind the knee.

Frame weight

Standard steel-frame wheelchairs are heavier but durable and cost-effective. Lightweight aluminum frames are easier to transport — important if the chair needs to be folded and loaded into a vehicle regularly. Most EZee Life models at Factory Direct Medical feature aluminum frames balancing strength and transportability.

Folding vs rigid frame

Most manual wheelchairs sold in Canada are folding — they collapse width-wise for vehicle transport. Rigid frames are more efficient for self-propulsion (less energy lost in frame flex) but don't fold, making transport more complex.

Armrests

Removable armrests (also called swing-away) make lateral transfers — moving from wheelchair to bed or car seat — significantly easier. Fixed armrests are simpler but limit transfer options.

Footrests

Swing-away or removable footrests simplify standing transfers. Elevating footrests allow leg elevation, which can assist circulation for users who spend extended periods in the chair.

How to Size a Manual Wheelchair

The most important measurements are:

1. Hip width: Measured across the widest part of the hips while seated — determines seat width
2. Thigh length: From the back of the hip to just behind the knee — determines seat depth
3. Lower leg length: From behind the knee to the bottom of the heel — determines footrest height

Our guide on how to correctly size a wheelchair provides a detailed walkthrough of these measurements.

Factory Direct Medical's mobility specialists at our Concord, Ontario showroom can conduct an in-person assessment and guide you through sizing. Call 1-855-235-2400 or contact us online.

Wheelchair Accessories Worth Considering

Once you have the right chair, accessories can significantly improve daily use. Browse wheelchair accessories including cushions, lap trays, bags, and armrest covers — all available at Factory Direct Medical.

Frequently Asked Questions