PVC wheelchairs? NO NO NO!

This is the WORST idea for beach wheelchairs, and I will go toe to toe and argue anyone who thinks and says otherwise. This is a cheap way to make a device that should be comfortable for people with special needs. PVC was meant for carrying water, not our loved ones. In the sun, the PVC and the glue will deteriorate. It squeaks and wiggles. Most chairs don’t have articulating wheels, so the rider experience is one of being shoved around. At that point, this is a wheelbarrow for your family or friend.

But let’s not miss the MOST important issue here–the seat is about 10″ taller than a standard wheelchair. Getting in and out of these is complex, to say it nicely. I will never have a nice thing to say about these, I will never own or build one, and I will never suggest it. Organizations think they’re doing something good for their special needs community by purchasing these for donation. Municipalities think they’re being smart, saving money, and still helping. But they have no idea just how bad an idea this is. If you ask someone with special needs, they’ll tell you what works. Don’t buy this thinking you’re doing a good deed. Spend the extra money to buy something like a DeBug, made of stainless steel, comfortable to ride in, and steers easily.

I used to say “in the absence of anything, this will work.” However, I’m taking that back. Don’t use it. Your beach experience will not be as smooth as it could be, and you’ll have a tainted view of the type of service I offer. I take significant pride in putting my client’s comfort at the top of the hierarchy. That’s why you don’t see these in my fleet, not ever.

If you want to purchase one of these as a kind gesture to a community, please reconsider, and get a DeBug or similar. Avoid these please.