Ask yourself the following questions before you buy a wheelchair. Your answers will help guide you toward the right wheelchair choice.

The answer to this question dictates the size and type of wheelchair required. A larger user may require a wheelchair with a sturdier frame, whereas a smaller user (like a child) might be able to get by with a lighter frame.

If the wheelchair will be used on flat terrain or an indoor environment, a non-electric wheelchair could serve your purposes.  For rough outside terrain or sports use, however, a sturdier wheelchair with durable wheels would be necessary.

Many basic wheelchairs are lightweight and compact, so they're easy to take from place to place.

Some wheelchairs are even collapsible; this is convenient if you’ll be traveling in a vehicle or on a plane with the wheelchair.

Find out if the manufacturer offers any sort of guarantee on the wheelchair you’re looking at.

This is especially important if the wheelchair will be used frequently and/or if a lot of strain will be put on the chair.

Most basic non-electric wheelchair models share some common features. You'll want to consider the following when browsing different units.

If you want a wheelchair that’s easy to transport, look for a chair that can collapse in on itself. This makes the wheelchair much easier to carry and store.

Most wheelchairs include footrests. Some footrests are permanently attached; others can be pushed out of the way. Armrests are a part of the package, but some are more comfortable than others. If comfort is a concern, look for a wheelchair with extra arm padding.

If you can’t test a wheelchair before buying it, you should at least check out what others have to say about its comfort and overall quality.

A poorly designed chair can cause back pain and other discomforts.

Lightweight wheelchairs are easier to move and navigate whether they are being propelled by the user or someone else.

Make sure the chair you choose doesn't put additional strain on your body by requiring too much force to move it.

Although this buying guide focuses on non-electric wheelchair models, there are several wheelchair types available on the market that suit a variety of needs.

This type of wheelchair gives the user a choice between being pushed and manually propelling the wheelchair. Standard non-electric wheelchairs are usually more durable than transport wheelchairs. They also tend to be lighter and more maneuverable.

Power wheelchairs run on electricity; they do not require physical strength to move. This type of wheelchair is intended for users with more severe disabilities.

This type of wheelchair is often used in hospitals to transport patients from one place to another. The user cannot manually move this kind of chair; someone else must push it to propel it forward.

Transport wheelchairs are usually very basic with few, if any, bells and whistles.

A sports wheelchair is suitable for active individuals who require superior mobility. This type of wheelchair is ultra-light and maneuverable.

If you’ll be making quick, agile movements, this could be the right choice for you.

• A folding wheelchair is an excellent choice for short-term use.

• If you're not sure whether you need footrests, opt for a wheelchair with a footrest component that can easily swing out of the way.

• If your home, workplace, or school has narrow doorways, make sure your chosen wheelchair is small enough to fit through them.

• If you will often be maneuvering your wheelchair over uneven terrain, consider getting a wheelchair with some kind of suspension system.

• Renting a wheelchair is certainly an option if you'll be needing it for only a short period of time.

Q. How much does a wheelchair cost?

A. The cost of a wheelchair ranges from approximately $100 to $800. Pricier wheelchairs will be lighter, heartier, and easier to move. Transport models are usually priced lower than most other units. Powered wheelchairs tend to cost the most money.

Q. Is purchasing a used wheelchair a good option?

A. If you’re on a tight budget and your health insurance won’t help you purchase a new wheelchair, you may be tempted to buy a used wheelchair. However, you'll want to make sure the wheelchair is in working order before committing to the purchase. Make sure the tires are still functional, the upholstery is still in good condition, and the chair fits your body comfortably.

Q. Is it essential to get fitted for a wheelchair?

A. Yes, this is a crucial step to take if you’re buying a new wheelchair. Getting a good fit is extremely important for your comfort and long-term physical health. An improperly fitted wheelchair could end up being the root cause of all sorts of aches and pains. Ask an expert to help you with selection and fit.

Q. I no longer have a use for the wheelchair in my home. What are my options?

A. You could try to sell your used wheelchair. Alternatively, you could donate it. Many hospitals and other healthcare facilities gladly welcome wheelchair donations.

Q. Why choose a standard non-electric wheelchair over a powered one?

A. For people who don't require additional assistance, a non-powered wheelchair provides much better control. Non-electric chairs are usually lighter and can fit in places a powered chair cannot. They are also much more economical.