Best Pediatric Wheelchairs in 2022 (Best Wheelchairs For Children)

When you need a wheelchair for a child or teen you will have some great choices for both long-term and short-term use.   The best pediatric wheelchairs are faster, lighter, and easier to use than ever before.  Not to mention they come in colors and styles that are more kid-friendly.

Manual wheelchairs for kids offer a great option for parents and caregivers if they need to push the wheelchair for them as well. Like some pediatric mobile standers wheelchairs are excellent devices to gain mobility.

Having a simple pediatric wheelchair that is built well, moves fast and smooth, and can be used both indoors and outdoors is highly recommended.  Walkers and gait trainers are also excellent devices when needed or when recommended by your doctor. With that said let’s take a look at the best pediatric wheelchairs for kids below. 

What is a Pediatric Wheelchair?

Pediatric wheelchairs are just like standard manual or electric wheelchairs and should not be thought of as say a category but more of a size of the wheelchair.   Just like adult wheelchairs the features are mostly the same.  Folding, reclining, tilting, and so forth.  It is just that unlike an adult typically wheelchair a pediatric wheelchair has the ability to expand or adjust as the child grows.

Seat Height

The height of a seat on a pediatric wheelchair typically falls into the range of 8″ and 20″.  The difference will depend on what model you are looking at. 

Seat Depths And Widths

When searching for a child wheelchair seat depth is important along with the width.  Most pediatric wheelchairs will have a depth and width from anywhere of 10″ up to 16″.

Back Height of A Pediatric Wheelchair

Back adjustment heights can easily be moved around on some models.  The typical height of a back height will be around 8″  and 20″.  This will depend on the child and what is best for him when he or she sits in a wheelchair. 

pediatric wheelchair Comparison Chart

Key Specs	Excel Kidz Pediatric Wheelchair	Invacare IVC 90000 Jymni Pediatric Wheelchair	Zippie Iris Pediatric Wheelchair	Invacare IVC 9000 Jymni Recliner Wheelchair	Drive Kanga Tilt-in-space Wheelchair
Weight capacity:	250 lbs.	125 lbs.	225 lbs.	125 lbs.	200 lbs.
Product weight:	38 lbs.	31 lbs.	22.80 – 35.8 lbs.	40 lbs.	40 lbs.
Seat width:	14″	10″ – 16″	10″ – 18″	10″ – 14″	10″ – 14″
Seat depth:	12″	10″ – 15″	10″ – 18″	10″ – 14″	15″ -19″
Back height:	16″	14″ – 15″	16″ -25″	16″ -27″	22″ – 26″
Seat-to-floor height:	20″	15″ – 17″	13″ -19″	15″ – 17″	17″

1. (Best Overall) Excel Kidz Pediatric Wheelchair

The Excel Kidz Pediatric Wheelchair is our top choice when it comes to a really great choice for a child wheelchair.  This manual wheelchair comes standard with dual seat-to-floor height.  Not to mention the swing-back arms with a standard armrest release that are padded.  This is a lightweight kid’s wheelchair that can hold up to 250 pounds and is one of the most comfortable wheelchairs on the market.

The swing-away and detachable footrests also come standard with this pediatric chair so getting in and out of the wheelchair easier and safer.  For optional purchase, these wheelchairs can also come with elevating leg rests and are really comfortable as well. 

This wheelchair is very user-friendly for both users and caregivers. and while not the most advanced in terms of features it’s priced right and users can get many years of use from this chair. 

2. Invacare IVC 9000 Jymni (Pediatric)

This is another basic but versatile pediatric wheelchair that you should be able to get many years of use from.  With padded armrests, an easy-to-push chair for caregivers, or manual propel by the child this chair is a great choice among children’s wheelchairs.

It has adjustable front riggings and a smile seat-to-floor height adjustment of 15″. 16″ and 17″

The Urethane rear rites mounted on no-flex wheels make this a smooth ride.

3. Zippie Iris Pediatric Wheelchair

This pediatric wheelchair uses a patented rotation technology that allows the seat frame to rate around the child’s center of gravity.  This performs a few things that are worth noting.  once it helps the child remain comfortable and stable while in the wheelchair. 

This all allows for more security while in the tilting position giving the parent or caregiver more control.  All making for a safer and more comfortable time in the wheelchair. 

The patented XLOCK folding cross brace also fully locks for extra stability.  

We love how this wheelchair also has the ability to fold smaller than you would think allowing for travel to be easier.

The adjustable stroller handle has a 260° of angle.  For an option, this frame has up to 4″ of build-in-depth growth and 2″ of built-in width growth. 

4. Invacare IVC 9000 Jymni Recliner Wheelchair

The Invacare IVC 9000 Jymni Recliner wheelchair is a very versatile and easy to maneuver wheelchair that is really catered to the needs of the smaller users.   First off the recliner can provide reclining from 95 to 160 degrees. and uses a carbon steel frame that is not only long-lasting but is really low-maintenance. 

Caregivers and parents will love the ergonomic and removable stroller handles that make pushing this pediatric wheelchair simple and easy to do. 

The dual-sealed precision bearings are almost a maintenance fee.  For those looking for a great pediatric wheelchair that is for a smaller child with almost no maintenance, this wheelchair should be on your list. 

5. Drive Kanga Tilt-in-Space Wheelchair

There are a lot of reasons to like this pediatric wheelchair.  For one most kids can grow into the next size with this chair without any additional components. 

The newly reinforced frame is height adjustable and removable T-style armrests make folding this to a smaller size much easier.  In-fac the frame is also foldable and has a 45° tilt.

This is a top choice for pediatric wheelchairs and would make an excellent addition for a new child wheelchair. 

Other worthy alternatives to our top 5 children wheelchairs.

The below wheelchairs will also make a great choice for pediatric wheelchairs.

Circle Specialty, Ziggo 12” Seat Width Pediatric Wheelchair for Kids

Besides the fun and colorful design of this chair that a child will love it has some great features that are known for almost all of the Circle Speciality-designed pediatric wheelchairs.

This particular model has a 12″ seat width for children along with a safety belt that can help keep your child safely in the seat while in motion

The fold-away feet rest make it easy to get out and in the chair especially when limited mobility issues are present. 

This model is our number one choice when it comes to a pediatric wheelchair because its lightweight design makes it easy for a child to properly themselves when they can and easy for someone to push the wheelchair when they have to. 

The upholstery is comfortable and easy to sit on and when extra cushions are needed you can also ways use a wheelchair cushion. 

This particular model only weights 28 pounds so it can be easily transported.

Inspired by Drive Wallaby Pediatric Folding Wheelchair

Our runner up for the best pediatric wheelchair is the Wallaby Pediatric Folding wheelchair.  This chair makes a great pediatric wheelchair as it utilizes some features that make a child more comfortable and safe while using this chair.

For one, you get a height-adjustable push handle that allows anyone of any height to adjust the handles so it is comfortable to use.

Another great feature of a child wheelchair is the pelvic belt.  This makes for a better support system and keeps the child in place easier.

This wheelchair is easy to travel with because of a few features.  The flip-back armrest makes this easier to get into vehicles and travel.

The Anti-tippers this wheelchair utilizes helps prevent tipping backward and it also has a push to lock wheel lock.

The weight capacity of this wheelchair is 150 pounds and has a seat dimension of 14 inch W x 14 inch Deep.

Medline Kids Pediatric Wheelchair, 14″ Wide Seat

The Medline kids pediatric wheelchair with a 14″ wide seat in yellow makes a great wheelchair for almost any child.  Like other top models, the telescoping handles can adjust to fit most people who are pushing the wheelchair making it easier to do so.  

This wheelchair has detachable elevating leg rest that makes a child’s leg or footrest more comfortable.  

We love that this chair has a larger weight capacity at 250 lbs and is higher than some other models within its same class. 

The chair folds in half and the seat can be pulled up making transport easier as well. 

Circle Specialty, Ziggo 14” Seat Width Pediatric Wheelchair for Kids

Like many of the Circle Specialty Pediatric Wheelchairs, this chair is a 14″ seat width that is really lightweight that is designed for the child or young adult.  

The foldable design makes it ideal for a family to pack and take it with them on vacation or to move it from vehicle to vehicle.  

It comes with a pelvic belt buckle and padded desk-length armrests for comfort and adjustable and swing-away footrests.

This is a really good choice when it comes to a pediatric wheelchair.

Circle Specialty, Ziggo 16” Seat Width Pediatric Wheelchair for Kids

This pediatric wheelchair for kids allows for a really lightweight but fun color design for kids that make this wheelchair a top choice for kids and younger adults.  It has a portable folding design that allows the wheelchair to be taken with you wherever you go easily.

We love this wheelchair because it has some really great features.  A secure pelvic belt buckle, padded flip-back armrests, height-adjustable footrests that also has a swing-away design so it’s easy to get into and out of.

It is comfortable to sit in as well.  It uses very comfortable nylon upholstery and has a built-in back pocket that can store essential items.  

This wheelchair for kids also has premium, treaded PU tires in the back and has PVC constructed front wheels that allow for long-lasting use. 

Pediatric Wheelchair Buying Guide

If you have a child that needs to be in a wheelchair or are looking for a different pediatric wheelchair then this guide is for you.  Wheelchairs for children should be lightweight, easy to travel with, and conducive to your child’s need when it comes to sitting in a wheelchair.  Let’s take a look at some important things you should be aware of when looking to purchase a new pediatric wheelchair. 

Types of pediatric Wheelchairs

Type of Pediatric Wheelchair	Designed For:	Great For:
Folding wheelchair	Children with changing needs. They can grow with your child.	Travel, and tight spaces.
Tilt-in-Space Wheelchairs	Children with low upper body control. Help to control child positioning to allow for feeding, pressure reduction, respiratory issues.	Adjustments to the chair to allow for growth of our child.
Rigid Wheelchairs	A child or young adult who can move themselves independently. Excellent performance.	Active children.
Strollers	Small children who are dependent on someone else and who currently do not fit into a pediatric wheelchair.	Folding, compact design, and travel.

Weight of the pediatric wheelchair

The actual weight of the pediatric wheelchair is important.  This is because you most likely will be transporting this wheelchair with you in your vehicle.  Look for a wheelchair that is light enough for you to pick up and place in your trunk or backseat.  Most of these pediatric wheelchairs are in the weight range of 25 to 40 pounds.  

Ability to adjust as your child grows

Pediatric wheelchairs should allow for the growth of your child.  This helps in two ways.  One, pediatric wheelchairs are expensive and this will help you from having to purchase multiple wheelchairs as your child grows. 

Second, it allows your child to stay comfortable as they grow.  Pediatric wheelchairs have different adjusting features like the width and height of seats and backrests.  Be sure to check that the pediatric wheelchair you are looking at has the ability to adjust to your child’s growth. 

Comfort

A lot of wheelchairs today are much more comfortable than they were years ago.  Advancements in technology have helped.  Look for armrests that have padding and leg rests that can move up and down to accommodate just the right height of your child’s leg lengths. 

Not to worry if the chair is not as comfortable once you get it because there are many accessories that can be purchased that can take a chair that is just comfortable to really comfortable. 

Wheelchair seat cushions, cup holders, blankets, and more all can be purchased after the fact to make the wheelchair comfortable is best. 

Safety features on a pediatric wheelchair

When your child is in a wheelchair you want them to be as safe as possible.  Some safety features that you can look for when purchasing a wheelchair may be:

• Pelvic seatbelt.
• Hand brakes
• Anti-tippers to the wheelchair doesn’t tip backward

These are just some of the most common safety features that a standard pediatric wheelchair may have on it to keep your child safer when in the chair. 

Ability to travel with your childs wheelchair

Taking your pediatric wheelchair with you probably is high on your list.  Because of this, you should make sure that the wheelchair can travel easily.   A wheelchair that can fold, remove leg supports, and fold or remove arms can become smaller resulting in storing and transporting easier than those that cannot. 

Most of the ones we list above all have the ability to fold smaller and make transport much easier.

Weight is also important.  As we spoke above be sure the pediatric wheelchair is not too heavy in the event you find yourself alone and need to lift and move it. 

What is the average cost of a pediatric wheelchair?

Like a lot of standard wheelchairs, pediatric wheelchairs fall into a range of pricing similar to that of adult wheelchairs.  You can expect to see pricing in the range of 225.00 all the way up to a thousand or more.   Most people will pay in from the 200’s to the 400’s for a good pediatric wheelchair. 

So, what are the top pediatric wheelchairs?