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5 Best Wheelchairs for Amputees [Buying Guide]

Written By: William Rivers
Reviewed By: William Rivers
Published: November 8, 2022
Last updated: September 30, 2024

It can be hard and tough to live without a limb, but it’s a reality that amputees have to face. Using wheelchairs can help them function better in society. When it comes to finding the best wheelchair for an amputee, there are a few things you need to take into consideration.

Choose whether a manual or electric-powered wheelchair will suit them better. Manual chairs are easy to transport and suitable for amputees with enough upper body strength. Electric wheelchairs can move independently but are expensive and require frequent maintenance. 

In addition to those factors, you should also consider the types of wheels, weight capacity, adjustable seating, and detachable footrests. These factors are essential to get a wheelchair that’s comfortable, easy to use, and provides ample support for the amputee.

Top Wheelchairs for Amputees

Here are some of the best wheelchairs for amputees:

1. Invacare Tracer IV Wheelchair

Invacare Tracer IV Wheelchair

The Invacare Tracer Wheelchair is an affordable, customizable wheelchair with superior durability and rollability. It has a weight capacity of 350 lbs and has an adjustable armrest, leg rest, seat height, and other customizable features. 

However, this is not a lightweight wheelchair due to its heavy-duty frame. In spite of that, it's foldable and still easy to transport, and hospitals like it because it's durable and customizable. 

The armrests can either be desk-length or full-length, while the seat can be adjusted to your height. Leg rests can be standard swingaway, swingaway with heel hoops, economy hemi footrests, or elevating swingaway. You can also customize the upholstery color, caster, and more. 

This is the ideal wheelchair for amputees who needs a heavy-duty and durable wheelchair that can accommodate high-weight capacity. 

2. Blue Streak Wheelchair

Blue Streak Wheelchair

If you’re looking for the most affordable wheelchair for amputees, the Blue Streak wheelchair is your best choice. It has nylon upholstery that makes it easy to clean and comes with a blue-colored frame. The weight capacity is only 250 lbs making this wheelchair fall in the light-to-medium category. 

However, the lighter frame makes this a foldable chair ideal for transporting. It also comes with detachable and flip-up armrests and elevating footrests. Since this is already priced low, you need to purchase cushions separately. The design is also simple with basic features, and there are fewer customizable options than the others on this list.

This wheelchair is a good option for those who don’t foresee themselves using it for a long time, like those who will only use it during recovery or rehabilitation. It can also be an excellent first wheelchair for amputees who are getting used to the lifestyle. 

3. Majestic Buvan Ultra Lightweight Electric Power Wheelchair

Majestic Buvan Ultra Lightweight Electric Power Wheelchair

If you have the budget, consider getting an electric-powered wheelchair with customizable options. Amputees, especially those with insufficient upper body strength, can benefit from powered wheelchairs, which they can control with a joystick. 

The Majestic Buvan electric-powered wheelchair is also reclining and portable. It’s approved for airline travel, made from durable, lightweight material, and only weighs 49 pounds without the battery. The chair can carry 286 pounds, and the battery has a 10-mile range before needing recharging. 

Folding the chair is easy by using its automatic button. Seat cushions can be easily removed for quick cleaning.  

For its features, the price is justifiable and already affordable considering other power wheelchairs in the market. Spending on a top-quality wheelchair is the same as spending on the best chair lift for your loved one’s comfort.

4. Porto Mobility Ranger Quattro Ultra Electric Wheelchair

Porto Mobility Ranger Quattro Ultra Electric Wheelchair

This powered wheelchair is one of the most expensive on the market, but it has several benefits that justify its price. It’s an excellent wheelchair for leg and arm amputees because it's easy to maneuver. 

It has two 300-watt powerful motors and can go for as far as 30 miles on a single charge. It can accommodate 400 lbs making it a heavy-weight product. However, it’s also 57 pounds, making it heavy to transport for most people. 

There’s also a learning curve in this wheelchair because it comes with a Sensi-Touch joystick that can be navigated using a single finger. It also has an electromagnetic brake and can double as a manual wheelchair. Cushions are removable and breathable. 

This is one of the best wheelchairs for amputees because it’s a solid investment with all the great features. This one is for you if you want a durable and long-lasting wheelchair with all the powerful features. It’s also airline-approved, making it safe for travel. 

5. Rubicon Lightweight Foldable Electric Wheelchair

Rubicon Lightweight Foldable Electric Wheelchair

If you want a super lightweight electric wheelchair, the Rubicon Portable Wheelchair is your best choice. It’s versatile and convenient, can be used indoors and outdoors, folds quickly, and can be stored in a trunk. 

It has all the conveniences you’d expect in an electric wheelchair, like electromagnetic brakes and powerful motors. Batteries can go for 10 miles on a single charge. 

Purchasing a wheelchair for an amputee is the best gift you can give them to help ease their life. For newly amputated seniors, a lightweight manual chair can be an excellent option to transition them to their new life. But if you can afford a more powerful wheelchair, motorized wheelchairs are better options. 

Senior Strong provides other helpful resources like this on its blog. Check out our list of the best senior activities

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William Rivers is an editor with a master’s degree in Human Services Counseling at Maine State University. He has more than 20 years of experience working in the senior healthcare industry.
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