When it comes time to buy a wheelchair for yourself or a loved one, there are several factors to consider. It is imperative to explore all points so that you choose the best reclining wheelchair.
Knowing what to look for and having a shortlist of some of the best reclining wheelchair choices makes the process easier. It will allow you to narrow down your choices so that you pick the best reclining wheelchair for yourself or a loved one.
In A Hurry? The Best
Reclining Wheelchair Options
The 5 Best Reclining Wheelchairs
1. ProBasics Reclining Manual Wheelchair
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.1800wheelchair.com/product/probasics-full-reclining-wheelchair/?acc=49182f81e6a13cf5eaa496d51fea6406″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK CURRENT PRICE[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The ProBasics Reclining Manual Wheelchair has a slide tube steel frame to ensure durability. It can also accommodate people up to 400 pounds with one model. The finish on the frame is chip resistant.
The wheels on this chair are a composite mag type. The precision bearings have a dual seal to protect them and to prevent debris and dirt from accumulating and damaging them.
The wheel locks push easily, allowing you to lock the wheels in seconds. At the rear of the chair are anti-tippers, so that you do not fall over when you are riding in the chair or reclining.
Reclining is smooth and fast. The enhanced reclining mechanism uses a finger trigger release to lay the back of the chair down into the reclining position that you desire.
The seat and back are a vinyl upholstery. It resists mildew and bacteria. There is enough padding to keep you comfortable when you are reclining and during rides. The armrests and leg rests also have padding. You can elevate the leg rests when you recline.
On the backrest, there is a chart pocket. You can extend the headrest attached to the back of the chair so that you have good head and neck support when you are reclining or sitting upright.
Summary
This is one of the best reclining wheelchairs because it comes in different size options. One has a weight capacity of 300 pounds and the other 400 pounds. There is thick padding on the chair and you can remove the full-length armrests.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Like
- You can adjust the recline quickly
- The frame is durable and sturdy
- It is a comfortable chair
- The chair does not rock, so it makes you feel safe when you are in it
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- There are no hand brakes for the person pushing the chair
[/su_note]
2. Invacare Tracer SX5 Recliner Wheelchair
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.1800wheelchair.com/product/invacare-tracer-sx5-recliner-wheelchair/?acc=49182f81e6a13cf5eaa496d51fea6406″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK CURRENT PRICE[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The Invacare Tracer SX5 Recliner Wheelchair has a carbon steel frame that is chrome-plated. The upholstery is strong and it resists bacteria, cold-cracking, mildew and UV damage from the sun. The upholstery is also flame retardant.
The armrests are desk-length and padded. You can remove them when someone is transferring into and out of the wheelchair.
The seat and the seatback have an inner lining. This ensures that they maintain their shape and do not stretch. There are two versions of this chair. One accommodates up to 250 pounds and the other allows for up to 300 pounds.
The wheels are no-flex for optimal durability. The rear wheels are made of urethane so that they offer stability when you are in the chair. The bearings are dual-sealed to protect them against damage and debris accumulation. There are anti-tippers on the rear wheels.
Summary
This reclining wheelchair is durable and the upholstery is dual-embossed to prevent it from damage when you use the chair frequently. You can recline 90 to 180 degrees in this chair.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Like
- The chair can lie flat
- It is easy to push
- This chair has a strong frame
- The seat is comfortable
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- This chair is heavier than comparable wheelchairs
[/su_note]
3. Silver Sport Full Reclining Wheelchair
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.1800wheelchair.com/product/silver-sport-full-reclining-wheelchair/?acc=49182f81e6a13cf5eaa496d51fea6406″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK CURRENT PRICE[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The Silver Sport Full Reclining Wheelchair by Drive allows for reclining up to 180 degrees. This means that you can lay flat when necessary. The armrests have extensions so that your arms have adequate support when you are in a reclined position. Depending on the model, this chair can accommodate up to 350 pounds.
The wheels do not require any maintenance and they are lightweight. They are a compositive mag style. The position of the wheels is back a little further than a traditional wheelchair. This anti-tipping feature provides stability when you are fully reclining.
The wheels have a push-to-lock feature so that the chair does not move when you are reclining, or exiting or entering the chair. The eight-inch caster wheels on the front of the chair make it easier to maneuver when you are operating it.
Summary
This is one of the best reclining wheelchair choices because it is made of a strong carbon steel frame. It has a headrest extension so that you can maintain a neutral posture in all reclining positions. The headrest also has a cushion.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Like
- You can remove the armrests to get into and out of the chair easily
- This chair is very comfortable
- The nylon upholstery is easy to clean
- The wheels do not leave marks on floors
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- It may be a little heavy for seniors who are using the chair on their own
[/su_note]
4. Karman Reclining Back Wheelchair
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.1800wheelchair.com/product/karman-reclining-back-wheelchair/?acc=49182f81e6a13cf5eaa496d51fea6406″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK CURRENT PRICE[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The Karman Reclining Back Wheelchair has rubber tires and mag wheels on the back. These are 24 inches. The front tires are rubber and a caster style. These are eight inches. They allow for flexibility when you are steering the wheelchair.
The leg supports are adjustable so that you can make changes when you recline in the chair. You can also remove them for safer entering and exiting of this chair. This wheelchair reclines to a full 180 degrees.
This wheelchair has anti-tippers to ensure stability even when you are reclining fully. It also has a seatbelt to help the rider remain in place. The toggle wheel locks are adjustable so that you can use the level that you want for added safety.
Summary
This is one of the best reclining wheelchairs because it is fully customizable. You can recline up to 180 degrees. It also folds so that you can travel with it or store it easily.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Like
- The recline feature operates smoothly
- There are two weight capacity options: 250 and 300 pounds
- The armrests are full-length
- The seatback has a strong and supportive feel
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- It weighs about 50 pounds, so it is heavier than a standard travel wheelchair
[/su_note]
5. McKesson Reclining Wheelchair
[su_note note_color=”#ffffff” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
[su_button url=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079Y63P7P/?tag=b34r9-20″ target=”blank” background=”#D62828″ color=”#ffffff” size=”11″ center=”yes” radius=”0″ rel=”nofollow”]CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON[/su_button]
[/su_note]
The McKesson Reclining Wheelchair is one of the best reclining wheelchair choices because of its versatility. It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds and the seat is 18 inches wide. This chair reclines to 180 degrees.
The frame is made from carbon steel, ensuring optimal durability over the long-term. The tires are a urethane material, so you do not have to worry about them wearing down prematurely. The finish on the frame protects it against the elements.
This chair has a nylon upholstery that is breathable and lightweight. It is easy to clean as necessary. The bearings have a precision seal to protect them against premature wear and debris.
Summary
You can operate this wheelchair on most surfaces. The seat is comfortable and various components do not contain latex, making this is a good option for those with latex allergies.
[su_note note_color=”#00FF33″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Like
- This chair is reliable and long-lasting
- It is sturdy even in the full recline position
- The backrest is comfortable
- The reclining motion is smooth and easy to adjust
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#cccccc” text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]
What We Didn’t Like
- The armrests may be difficult to remove
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#D9EDF7″ text_color=”#111111″ radius=”1″]
Reclining Wheelchair Buying Guide
Before buying the best reclining wheelchair, it is important to understand the features and specifications. This information will ensure that you make the best choice. Here you will learn more about the following:
- What is a Reclining Wheelchair?
- Are These Wheelchairs Adjustable?
- What is an Anti-Tipping Mechanism?
- What is Hydraulic Assist?
- Do These Wheelchairs Have Comfort Padding?
- Do Reclining Wheelchairs Have Head Support?
What is a Reclining Wheelchair?
A reclining wheelchair is a recliner and a wheelchair in one. The back of the seat tilts back like with a traditional recliner. This makes it easier to change your position without having to transfer from your wheelchair to a recliner.
How much the chair reclines depends on the wheelchair that you choose. Some of them allow you to lie flat because they recline to 180 degrees.
Most of these chairs have a leg lift feature like a traditional wheelchair. However, the leg rests are usually to the sides and not across the full bottom of the chair like with a traditional recliner. You can adjust the leg rests to your reclined position for comfort.
Are These Wheelchairs Adjustable?
All reclining wheelchairs have at least some adjustability. This allows you to choose the adjustments that will keep you comfortable. The back of the seat, headrest, armrests, and leg rests are usually adjustable. The adjustability usually has several levels so that you can customize it to your needs.
Consider your size and the level of adjustability you need. This will help you to pick the best reclining wheelchair. For example, consider your height, how much head support you want, your weight and your hip-width to pick a chair that can accommodate your measurements.
What is an Anti-Tipping Mechanism?
When you fully recline your wheelchair, if there is no anti-tipping mechanism, the chair can fall backward. When this mechanism is present, you do not have to worry about this.
Look for the anti-tipping mechanism that is attached to the chair’s back tires. It adds stability to your chair so that it remains in place no matter how far you recline.
What is Hydraulic Assist?
Whether a hydraulic assist is necessary depends on the person who is using the chair. This feature lowers the chair when you pull a lever or push a button. If you are able to operate the reclining element of your wheelchair on your own, this is a convenient feature to have.
The hydraulic assist makes reclining easier and safer for the person operating the chair. If a caregiver is helping the person in the chair, this feature can also help them to lower the person slower and safer.
Do These Wheelchairs Have Comfort Padding?
A reclining wheelchair is one that people tend to spend a lot of time in, so it must be comfortable. Look for padding at the seatback, the seat, the headrest, armrests, and leg rests.
When there is enough padding, this reduces the risk of skin breakdown and pressure sores for people who spend a lot of time in their reclining wheelchair. A headrest with a roll-stop feature is also a good idea to help people with muscle coordination and weakness issues to keep their head in a comfortable position.
Do Reclining Wheelchairs Have Head Support?
When you recline your wheelchair, it is important to have a headrest. This allows you to keep your head in a neutral and comfortable position. Ideally, your headrest is adjustable so that you can move it into the proper position.
Consider your height when you are picking the headrest options for the best reclining wheelchair. It should support your whole head when you are in all reclining positions.
[/su_note]
[su_note note_color=”#D4DFF8″ text_color=”#000000″ radius=”1″]Guide For Buying is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase through our links we get a commission, at no additional cost to you.[/su_note]
Lastly, I suggest you also check The Best Lightweight Wheelchair That’s Easy To Push And Everyone Can Lift