An outdoor wheelchair, both manual and battery-driven, comes in different styles which can allow the user to travel over rough terrain such as gravel, dirt, grass, sand, snow and even into water, when supervised. Equipped with oversized balloon-type wheels that help provide stability and maneuverability, all terrain wheelchairs can easily travel over a multitude of surfaces. All terrain wheelchairs are made with non-corrosive materials so they can stand up to different kinds of weather and are available in manual and battery powered models as well as stroller models designed for younger children. Rehabmart also offers poolside wheelchairs and ADA Complaint Pool Lifts to make your public or private swimming pool more accessible.
Related Articles and/or Buying Guides: Who Manufactures Outdoor / All Terrain / Beach Wheelchairs?
Rehabmart is pleased to offer a number of different all terrain wheelchair models from such prestigious manufacturers as Aqua Creek, MJM International and Invacare.
Who Uses Outdoor or All-Terrain Wheelchairs?
Many nature preserves and hiking trails often have limited or no handicapped-accessible areas. All terrain wheelchairs are designed for wheelchair bound individuals who want to have the freedom to go “off trail” and enjoy the beach, rocky trails, grassy areas and even venture into the lake or ocean. All terrain wheelchairs or off road wheelchairs help open the world of the outdoors to the disabled population and let them experience nature close up and personal. These special wheelchairs may even allow them to feel the surf beneath their feet and the spray of waves on their face.
What Features Should I Look for in an Outdoor Wheelchair?
All terrain wheelchairs offer many of the same features as regular wheelchairs including padded seating, seat belts, parking brakes, reclining backrests, folding footrests and swing away armrests. Most all terrain wheelchairs are constructed with non-corrosive materials such as PVC and nylon wheel bearings. Oversized balloon flotation tires give the wheelchair extra stability and prevent the chair from tipping when traveling over uneven ground. Many models are equipped with swiveling rear wheels for greater ease in maneuvering around obstacles. Quick drying, mildew resistant and bacteria resistant mesh fabric on the wheelchair seat helps keep the user dry and comfortable.
Special convenient features to look for in all terrain wheelchairs include on board umbrellas, storage bags, drink holders, sliding footrests and even fishing pole holders. Some models also break down into separate pieces for quick and easy transport.
Although not everyone can afford to have a wheelchair dedicated for outdoor use, more and more beach and recreational facilities rent or lease all-terrain wheelchairs, leading to a feeling of freedom that comes with getting out and enjoying nature for wheelchair users.
Mike Price, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CTO
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