The 7 Best Beach Wheelchairs
This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in January of 2019. There is no reason you or a disabled family member shouldn't get to enjoy a day at the beach. Unfortunately, trying to push a traditional wheelchair across soft sand is not just frustrating, but practically impossible. Luckily, these all-terrain models feature extra-large wheels specially designed for that task. Some even float, allowing the rider to feel safe while playing in the water. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Challenger Mobility Hippocampe Vipamat
2. Deming DeBug All Terrain
3. Sand Rider Custom
Editor's Notes
September 25, 2020:
As comfortable and reliable as a standard wheelchair may be, it’s not likely suited for the soft and often bumpy sand you’ll encounter at the beach. That's where these beach-friendly models come in, and they provide extra-large wheels that make them easy to push over sand. In this update, we added another versatile all-terrain model to the list that’s just as suited to snow-covered sidewalks and forest trails as it is to sandy beaches. The Deming DeBug All Terrain is designed with comfort in mind, as it provides reliable full-body support, an adjustable telescopic leg rest, and a rear suspension that articulates around 20 degrees for stability on uneven surfaces. It’s got sturdy stainless steel tubing and fabric that’s conveniently machine washable. We still like the Challenger Mobility Hippocampe Vipamat, since it’s hard to beat when it comes to versatility and comfort. It conveniently can be towed or pushed, and can float in the water without capsizing. If you wish to use it on uneven terrains other than at the beach, you can swap out the tires with a compatible set of all-terrain ones. The frame is also compatible with a ski kit that can be purchased separately and lets you attach front and rear skis.
For a model that features a large buoy on each arm and air-filled tires for floating on water, check out the colorful and cheery Waterwheels BWC, which comes with a stylish blue and white striped fabric and straps to keep you safely in place. It accommodates users of up to 250 pounds and incorporates a shock-absorbing front fork for your comfort. If you prefer a selection that includes an umbrella, look to the Health Line Products Rolleez, which helps keep you comfortably in the shade. It’s also equipped with a handy bag that attaches to the arm, so your small necessities are always close at hand. It’s got a UV-resistant frame and rear wheels that pivot for easy navigation. In this update, we also removed the MJM International E720 Echo because, other than the wheel color, it’s nearly identical to the Fields Outdoor Supplies Collapsible.
January 22, 2019:
When selecting the best beach wheelchairs, we put a lot of thought into how they will be used, and in what environment. We felt it necessary to select the models that had the best chance of withstanding years or saltwater and sun exposure without deteriorating, rusting, or otherwise degrading. We also did our best to find options that would be easy to push, even in the softest of sand.
Special Honors
Sand Helper This patent-pending four-wheel-drive electric beach wheelchair can help you navigate with ease over sand. It’s made in the United States and holds two rechargeable batteries, running off one and using the other as a spare. On a single charge, it will go for approximately eight miles. It’s available for purchase, and it also can be rented in seven states that serve more than 30 coastal cities in total. sandhelper.com
Beach Cruzr This motorized beach chair features large balloon tires and a sturdy powder-coated aluminum frame in your choice of red, blue, white, yellow, and more. It can accommodate up to 275 pounds with batteries. The 19-1/2-inch height of the seat allows for easy transfer, and the seat can be manually reclined for your comfort. It reaches speeds of six miles per hour, and can travel up to 15 miles per charge. The armrests and footrests are both independently adjustable and removable. It’s backed by a one-year warranty on the electronics, motors, and gearbox, and a three-year warranty on the frame. It can also be purchased with all-terrain knobby tires for getting around campgrounds, golf courses, and more with ease. hotshotproducts.org
4. Waterwheels BWC
5. Aqua Creek Articulated
6. Fields Outdoor Supplies Collapsible
7. Health Line Products Rolleez
Karen Bennett lives in Chicago with her family, and when she’s not writing, she can usually be found practicing yoga or cheering on her kids at soccer games. She holds a master’s degree in journalism and a bachelor’s in English, and her writing has been published in various local newspapers, as well as “The Cheat Sheet,” “Illinois Legal Times,” and “USA Today.” She has also written search engine news page headlines and worked as a product manager for a digital marketing company. Her expertise is in literature, nonfiction, textbooks, home products, kids' games and toys, hardware, teaching accessories, and art materials.