Wheelchair Caster Wheel Selection
Modern wheelchairs are often custom-made, offering various options for size, color, backrests, rear wheels, tires, casters, and more. Here, we’ll focus on the most common caster wheel choices. Noting that each choice has pros and cons associated with each.
3" Caster Wheel
The 3-inch caster wheel is the smallest commonly available. Typically used on sport or court wheelchairs, its small size and light weight offer excellent directional response and maneuverability, ideal for hard, flat surfaces like basketball or tennis courts.
- **Pros:** Ultra-maneuverable, great for tight spaces.
- **Cons:** Poor performance on rough terrain; more prone to
4" Caster Wheel
- **Pros:** Good balance between agility and stability; smooth ride indoors.
- **Cons:** Less shock absorption on uneven surfaces.
5" Caster Wheel
- **Pros:** Improved obstacle clearance; stable yet agile.
- **Cons:** Slightly reduced maneuverability compared to smaller
6" Caster Wheel
- **Pros:** Enhanced shock absorption; smoother ride on rough terrain.
- **Cons:** Bulkier, may reduce tight turning ability.
8" Caster Wheel
- **Pros:** Best for outdoor use; rolls over cracks and bumps easily.
- **Cons:** Less maneuverable in tight spaces; heavier.