Best Wheelchair Back Cushions in 2023

For those who sit for an extended period of time in a wheelchair using the proper cushions is important to stay comfortable. Along with standard wheelchair cushions that a lot of us are familiar with you may not be aware that you can also use wheelchair back cushions to get the support you need for your back as well. The best wheelchair back cushions allow for a more comfortable sitting experience while in a wheelchair.

When you properly support your lower back, head, and neck you can sit longer with less pain while in any type of wheelchair. This includes electric wheelchairs or even scooters. We reviewed a lot of wheelchair back cushions to bring you our list of the top choices to keep you going longer and more comfortable while sitting.

What are the Benefits of using a wheelchair back cushion?

• Wheelchair back cushions are designed to help with three important things. One they help to reduce pressure and pressure sores that can develop with sitting for long periods of time. They make the user feel more comfortable while sitting.
• Helps to allow the skin to breathe and reduce sweating and skin irritation. The way cushions are designed and the materials that are used help to promote cooling of the skin so it can breathe more easily. This helps to reduce skin irritation and more.
• Helps to improve posture while sitting in the chair. Having wheelchair cushions and wheelchair back cushions helps to improve posture and gives lumbar region support. Depending on what type of back support cushion you are using you can even get side support.

What are the Best Wheelchair Back Cushions?

Our Rank	Wheelchair Back Cushion	Our Score
1.	Lateral Support Assembly	4.7/5
2.	Acta-Back Cushion	4.6/5
3.	Varilite Icon Back System Deep	4.5/5
4.	Verilite Evolution Back System Regular	4.6/5
5.	Varilite Icon Back System Tall	4.5/5

Wheelchair Back Cushions Comparison Chart

	Lateral Support Assembly	Acta-Back Cushion	Varilite Icon Back System Deep	Verilite Evolution Back System Regular	Varilite Icon Back System Tall
Weight Capacity:	N/A	N/A	300 lbs.	250 lbs.	300 lbs
Cushion Type:	N/A	Three-layer foam	Air, foam	Air, foam	Air, foam
Attaches with:	Hook and loop	Patented compass hardware installs and adjusts easily	Adjustable Varilock hardware	Pre-installed mounting hardware	Mounting hardware

2. Acta-Back Cushion

3. Varilite Icon Back System Deep

This is a lateral support system that easily installs over the existing sling back of a wheelchair in seconds. Not only is it really easy to install but it helps with relieving pressure while sitting. The adjustable side-by-side pads are also adjustable so they can fit the person in the chair easily and properly.

The lateral wings easily attach with a simple hook and loop attachment system. This is available in either 6″ or 4″ deep pads. and will fit most wheelchairs that are from 15″ – 22″ wide.

We love that this is also fluid-proof, anti-microbial, and is soft on the users skin.

4. Verilite Evolution Back System Regular

This lightweight back cushion system is easy to use, comfortable, and will bring more enjoyable time spent sitting in a wheelchair. For anyone that is looking for an easy to mount back cushion that needs moderate to maxium support this wheelchair back cushion is for you.

This particular system can be removed with one hand and is ideal for those that suffer from fine motor skills. Because the hardware is pre-installed it easily provides a wide range of seat-depth, seat-to-angle, and lateral adjustments. The cover also provides excellent padding and protection and has a four-way-stretch mesh top fabric that wicks moisture.

5. Varilite Icon Back System Tall

For those who need a taller back support system with padding the Varilite Icon Back tall system could be right for you. It supports the back all the way to the top of the shoulders also including the scapula. For those that have decreased trunk control this type of back cushion system might be good for you.

The curve-shaped shell provides moderate back support. For those that opt for a headrest, it can be installed onto the shell for even more position options. There is a minimal effort in getting this system attached to the wheelchair is will make for a more comfortable experience because of the soft foam.

For those who have used back systems before you may know you could have issues with the edge of the shell. This system uses an innovative rollover cushion that protects you from the edge of the shell.

Choosing the right Wheelchair backing

Like other types of wheelchair cushions, wheelchair cushion backings make the wheelchair more comfortable. Not only can it make for a more comfortable experience but it can also help to promote better posture, keep you secure in the chair, and promote longer, healthier times in the chair

Backing materials

Wheelchair back cushions come in a few different types of materials. These are some important features in terms of materials you should look at.

Foam wheelchair back cushions

Foam is the most common for wheelchair cushions and wheelchair back cushions. This is because they provide a lightweight and strong material that can be used for years. They are great at preventing pressure issues and sores. The disappointing part of foam is it will eventually lose its shape over prolonged use.

Gel material

Liquid gel is also a popular material and comes in two different types. You will find it in liquid and solid. Liquid gel is very comfortable because it contours to your body shape when you sit on it. Solid gel while harder can feel uncomfortable because it doesn’t disperse enough resulting in uncomfortable and hard feelings.

Keep this in mind when making a purchase Gel is still a very comfortable material but keep these in mind when making a prucahse.

Air cushions

Air cushions are another popular option. These are simple, easy to clean, and maintained for the most part. They have some downsides as well. They can lose air because of holes, they do not retain heat well. Because it has to always have the proper amount of air it can feel hard when sitting for prolonged periods.

Durability

Make sure the wheelchair back cushion you want to purchase is durable. There are some cheaper models out there and they definitely may be cheaper but over the long haul, they might cost you more because they will not hold up and require you to purchase another system. One way to help get a longer life out of your cushions is to make sure you have a removable cover that can be washed. It also helps to protect the inside of the cushion.

Comfort is important

Because you will be sitting in a wheelchair you want anything that can help with the comfort of being in a chair. This goes for sitting on or against a cushion. While some backing may be too hard, others may be too soft leading to discomfort.

Know the warranty

When you purchase an expensive piece of equipment we believe in knowing what warranty you will be getting. Even expensive pieces can break sooner than we like. Mobility scooters, walkers, and other mobilty aids should have a warranty that stands behind the equipment.

Depending on the company you can aspect to see warrants from six months or 1-year warranties on the products that are offered.

Our final thoughts on the best wheelchair back cushions

You want to make sure that the wheelchair back cushion you are purchasing not only fits your needs but has other options like materials, warranty, and overall comfort you will need when spending a lot of time in a wheelchair.

Not only can use a back cushion for your wheelchair but a seat cushion, armrest pads, trays, and other accessories to help you safely, and comfortably while using your wheelchair.