Choosing the Best Wheelchair

• Manual

  Manual wheelchairs do not come with the assistance of a battery. These wheelchairs are designed to be self propelled by the user, companion propelled (meaning another person pushes the wheelchair), or both. These wheelchairs are typically lightweight, portable and smaller in size.

  The Vive Mobility Transport Chair can be both self and companion propelled. While the rollator wheelchair must be pushed by another person when the user is sitting in the device.

• Electric

  An electric wheelchair is a completely motorized device that assists individuals with limited mobility in moving independently. These wheelchairs are powered by rechargeable batteries and operate using a control panel and joystick. Powered wheelchairs can be used indoors and outdoors and are ideal for those with conditions that make self-propelled (manual) wheelchairs difficult or impossible to use.

• Dual Electric + Manual

  An electric wheelchair is battery operated with power controls. Motorized wheelchairs are rechargeable and great for those who lack motor function and cardiovascular strength. A dual option wheelchair simply means it has both manual and electric capabilities. This is the best of both worlds. The Vive Mobility Compact Wheelchair and  Mobility Power Wheelchair both have the option to be either self propelled using power controls or manually pushed by a companion.

Assembly

Knowing how your wheelchair will arrive and the assembly it will require is important. You’ll want to make sure that you are capable of setting up your chair or arrange to have assistance on hand.

• The Foldable Vive Mobility Compact and Power Wheelchair come preassembled but require a few steps to unfold the chair and attach the footrest and controls.
• Model V and Model C Power Wheelchairs require some assembly. This includes steps to connect the battery and joystick, attach the seat and headrest, and install the armrests and control panel

Portability

Think about how you will be using your wheelchair. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• How often do I plan on taking my wheelchair on the go?
• Do I need to exit my wheelchair for transportation?
• Can I lift my own wheelchair or have someone who can help me?

If you plan to be taking it on the go frequently, you’ll want a design that can be conveniently folded and easily lifted by you or your caregiver. Luckily, each Vive Mobility wheelchair comes with this capability; however, you’ll need to take into consideration your own needs, capabilities and resources.

Our wheelchair rollator is the most minimalist option and perfect for those who are independent and mobile, but rely on a little extra support when fatigued. It’s super lightweight and folds up easily, perfect for running errands, attending daily activities, and storing away when you don’t need it.

The Airframe Wheelchair and Lightweight Transport Chair are compact and ultra-lightweight, making them exceptionally easy to fold and lift into and out of vehicles. Their streamlined design ensures hassle-free portability without compromising on functionality.

If you’re looking for a motorized wheelchair, the Compact Wheelchair is your best option. It folds down small enough to fit into most vehicle trunks, but make sure you or your caregiver is capable of lifting the frame safely as it weighs ~95lbs.

If you have access to handicapable transportation, any of the power wheelchairs are a no-brainer. Some disassembly is required for the Model V and Model C Wheelchairs.

Safety Features

Added safety features make all the difference when it comes to choosing the best wheelchair. Take a look at these main features and see which Vive Mobility wheelchair has which features.

• Seat Belt

  A wheelchair safety or seat belt is designed to protect the user from sliding for falling out of the seat. The Heavy Duty Wheelchair and Wheelchair Rollator are the only two designs that do NOT come with a seat belt.

• Brakes

  Electromagnetic Brakes
  All of our electric wheelchairs come equipped with electromagnetic brakes which means the chair comes to a stop when the joystick is released.
  
  Locking Brakes
  Locking brakes are important for both manual and electric wheelchairs. These keep the wheels safely and firmly locked in place when the wheelchair is not in use; which is especially useful on inclines or declines.
  
  Each manual wheelchair includes hand-locking brakes or driver levers to secure the back wheels.
  
  While there are no manual locking brakes on the Power Wheelchairs, the brakes will automatically engage if the power chair is not being operated using the joystick.

• Freewheel Mode

  Freewheel mode is an essential feature in electric wheelchairs, enabling the motors to disengage so the chair can be pushed manually. This functionality is invaluable in scenarios such as battery depletion, repositioning the wheelchair without power, or during transport and storage, ensuring convenience and flexibility for both users and caregivers.

• Swingback Armrests

  Swingback armrest offer enhanced accessibility and convenience. These armrests can be easily moved out of the way for users to transfer in and out of the wheelchair independently or with assistance. This type of armrest also allows for improved access to desks, tables, and other surfaces for functionality during daily activities.

• Anti-Tip Wheels

  Anti-tip wheels are designed to prevent the wheelchair from tipping when ascending or descending. Both the Compact and Power Wheelchair’s anti-tip wheels allow the chair to safely navigate inclines or declines of 6 degrees.

• Horn

  Both the Compact and Power Wheelchair are equipped with a horn to help alert others of your presence when navigating or approaching crowded areas.

Turn Radius

Turn radius determines how easily the wheelchair can navigate tight spaces and corners. A smaller turn radius provides better maneuverability in small spaces, narrow hallways, elevators, or crowded rooms. Manual wheelchairs often have a larger turn radius influenced by the users ability to maneuver the chair while power wheelchairs are more capable of making tighter turns.

The Model V Electric Wheelchair offers the tightest turning radius at just 25”

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is important to ensure safety and adequate function of the wheelchair. Check to make sure the users weight complies before purchasing to reduce the risk of injury or damage.

Adjustability

Having the ability to adjust certain features can be super convenient and make for a more comfortable fit in your wheelchair, especially if you are on the shorter or taller side.

Each Vive Mobility wheelchair comes with an adjustable footrest that allows you to adjust the height so that your feet rest in the most comfortable position. The Power Wheelchair has adjustable armrests and you can also adjust the height of the seat back.

Wheels & Tires

Essentially the shoes of your wheelchair, a smooth and safe ride is dependent on the quality of its wheels. The wheels or tires we choose for each Vive Mobility Wheelchair does vary. Here are the different types, which wheelchairs they are on, and the benefits of each.

• Pneumatic Wheels

  Pneumatic wheels are very similar to the tires that go on your car. The thicker tread is capable of absorbing uneven terrain to provide a smooth ride with overall less bumping and shaking. The rear wheels on our Power Wheelchair are solid pneumatic, meaning they are made of rubber and are puncture resistant.

• Solid Inflate Free Tires

  These types of wheels are conveniently puncture proof and allow for easy maneuvering over all different types of terrain. Since they are not filled with air, there is no need to worry about flat tires or tire pressure. All four of the compact power wheelchair wheels are solid inflate free tires. Along with the front two wheels of the standard power wheelchair.

• TPU Wheels

  TPU plastic consists of both hard and soft properties and bridges between a sort of rubber and plastic material that is somewhat flexible or elastic. Using this material for our Wheelchair Rollator and Transport Wheelchair provides a smooth ride over any surface. It’s resistance to oil, grease, abrasions, and punctures; plus these wheels won’t leave marks on your floor.

Battery

Our electric wheelchairs have either a 12V 35AH or 24V 10AH rechargeable battery. The voltage determines the power level supplied to the device and the capacity (AH) indicates how long the battery can supply power before needing a recharge.

Each power chair has a battery indicator lights to help identify the battery charge level while charging and operating.

Speed

The Vive Mobility power wheelchairs reach up to 3.7 mph or 4 mph drive speed. This is relatively standard and has been tested to be both safe and convenient for users.

Control Panel

The control panel is a key component of any power wheelchair. Our wheelchairs are designed with very similar, intuitive, controllers equipped with a joystick, battery gauge, on/off button, speed indicator, acceleration control, horn and charging socket. The control panel can be installed on either the right or left side armrest so that you have access to all the important controls at your fingertips.

Additional Features

Added features may help you make your buying decision. Here are some to look for:

• Shock Absorbers

  The Vive Mobility Power Wheelchairs feature front shock absorbers for a smooth and stable ride over any terrain, including grass, gravel, pavement, carpeting and other hard surfaces.

• Battery Charge Indicator

  Located on the control panel of both Vive Mobility power chairs, the battery indicator light will let you know your current charge status. This displays while the power chair is in use and while charging.

• USB Charging Port

  Conveniently charge your smartphone or other small devices while using your power wheelchair.

• Travel Bag

  The power wheelchair comes with a large pocket located on the back of the seat and our wheelchair rollator includes an attachable bag that hangs below the seat; making it easy to store personal belongings on the go.

  If your wheelchair or power chair does not include a bag we offer a variety of compatible add-on bags.

• Cushioned Seating

  A comfortable seat is a must. Our wheelchair seats are designed with maximum width and contour comfortably to any body type. For each model, we chose durable materials and seat padding that can withstand long term use. While all equally comfortable, the sizes, fabrics, and materials do vary from model to model.

  Check the seat seat dimensions of each model below:

  Models	D x W
  Wheelchair Rollator	12” x 17”
  Transport Wheelchair	16” x 19”
  Lightweight Transport Chair	16” x 18”
  Air Frame Wheelchair	15.5” x 18”
  Heavy Duty Wheelchair	16” x 20”
  Compact Power Wheelchair	16” x 18”
  Power Wheelchair	18” x 18”
  Model V Electric Wheelchair	20” x 18”
  Model C Electric Wheelchair	14” x 17”

Add-On Accessories

• Wheelchair Bag

  Consider purchasing a portable wheelchair bag that will easily store all your personal belongings on the go. The Vive Wheelchair Bag attaches to the back of any style wheelchair with adjustable buckle straps. Take the bag on and off as needed, using the shoulder strap for convenient carry when not in your chair.

• Cup Holder

  Check out the Vive Cup Holder Attachment. It’s super convenient and attaches not only to most wheelchair designs, but you can attach it almost anywhere (i.e. power scooters, bikes, desks, benches, exercise equipment, and so much more)

• Armrest Covers

  Extra armrest padding goes a long way, especially when using your wheelchair long-term. These (latex-free) faux-sheepskin covers will help protect against soreness, skin irritation and nerve pain.

• Seat Cushion

  Depending on your personal preference, you may want to consider adding a seat cushion to your wheelchair. There’s a huge variety of options ranging from lumbar and coccyx supports to tailbone and pressure relief cushions.

  How to Find the Right Seat Cushion for Your Needs