Wheelchairs are a blessing for those who suffer from mobility issues; whether they were born with disabilities or acquired them due to an accident, something as simple as a folding wheelchair can return some semblance of control to their lives. Although there are many types of wheelchair alterations available based on individual wants or needs, one of the most important aspects you must consider when purchasing a wheelchair is its tires.

Think about your personal needs: are you frequently active or live in a place that has rough terrain, or do you spend most of your time at home? The wheelchair tires you choose must match your personal lifestyle; if they don't, you may get stuck with costly repairs or replacements. Here are the three types you can choose from and their respective benefits.

• Pneumatic: Also known as air-filled, these tires are most effective for those who need to traverse rougher terrain. They are light, excellent at absorbing shock, and offer good traction on most terrains. However, they require the most maintenance; you must constantly check the air pressure as low or flat pneumatic wheelchair tires can compromise the sidewalls and cause them to crack.


• Urethane: These tires are filled with solid urethane rubber, making them puncture-proof and extremely low maintenance. While they are excellent for indoor or sport use, they do not have as much give as pneumatic tires, so rough terrain is extremely uncomfortable. Since they're made of solid rubber, they can also make wheelchairs a lot heavier.


• Foam: Foam tires are filled with a dense soft polyurethane rubber with flexing characteristics similar to that of an inflated tire. They are 100% maintenance free, have more grip than a urethane tire, and can hold up to 400 lbs, making them a prime choice for power chairs and scooters. Foam tires offer the benefits of both pneumatic tires and urethane, providing users with the most versatile option.

Though 98% of public transportation options offer accommodations for people in wheelchairs, sometimes you're going to need to venture off the beaten path; if and when that moment comes, the right wheelchair tires will make the ride a whole lot smoother.