Top 10 Best Wheelchair Seat Cushions

Customers have ranked the The NYOrtho Gel Foam Wheelchair Cushion as one of the best gel cushion for wheelchairs. It has a high-density foam cushion with a dual-chambered gel insert that's great for relieving pressure and providing support for those at risk of pressure-related injury. It has a fantastic list of favorable features. The cover has a nonslip bottom and is water- and mildew-resistant. It's made of a low-shear fabric that is not only breathable but also has built-in antimicrobial properties. The cushion even comes with quick-release straps that keep it secured to the wheelchair for safety and comfort.

Top Features

• Antimicrobial low-shear cover
• Promotes proper positioning
• Reduces sitting pressure
• Mildew resistant

 

Specifications

• Cushion type: Gel and foam
• Size options: 16 x 16", 18 x 16", 20 x 16", 20 x 18", 22 x 18", 24 x 18"
• Depth options: 2", 3" 
• Weight capacity: 
• Water-resistant: Yes 

Pros

• ✓  Non-slip bottom:
• ✓  Dual-chamber gel insert
• ✓  Water-resistant antimicrobial cover
• ✓  Quick-release straps secure the cushion

Cons

• ❌  No listed weight capacity
• ❌  Water resistant but not waterproof

The Gel and Foam Gel-U-Seat Cushion is Drive Medical’s comfortable cushion that helps relieve pressure with gel distributed through two chambers instead of one, which prevents the gel from becoming uneven within the cushion. The cushion conforms to the body while also preventing the skin from getting chafed and irritated. The cover is made out of a low-shear stretch material that protects from moisture. It has two tie straps that attach to the wheelchair so there's minimal slip and slide risk.</p>

Top Features

• Helps to prevent skin irritation and pressure sores
• Low-shear cover

 

Specifications

• Cushion type: Gel and foam
• Size options (inches): 16 x 16", 18 x 16", 20 x 16", 20 x 18", 22 x 18", 24 x 18"
• Depth options: 3"
• Weight capacity: 275 pounds (up to 20"), 500 pounds (22" and up)
• Water-resistant: Yes

Pros

• ✓  Dual-chamber gel insert keeps gel evenly distributed
• ✓  Ties secure cushion to chair
• ✓  Waterproof base
• ✓  High weight capacity

Cons

• ❌  Cover top is water-resistant but not waterproof
• ❌  Shape flattens over time for some users
• ❌  Complaints that the cushion slides around

The Drive Gel "E" Wheelchair Seat Cushion is a gel bladder contained within a fire-retardant foam shell. It allows pressure to be redistributed, so it’s great for reducing pressure points. What's nice about this cushion is that it's not only comfortable but also water-resistant, and it has a handle for easy transport. Its nonslip vinyl base holds securely in place. It also offers one of the highest weight capacities: up to 500 pounds, depending on the cushion size you choose.

 

Top Features

• Pressure redistributing to help manages pressure ulcers
• Fire-retardant foam shell
• Removable waterproof cover

 

Specifications

• Cushion type: Gel and foam
• Size options: 16 x 16", 18 x 16", 20 x 16", 22 x 18"
• Depth options: 2", 3"
• Weight capacity: 275 pounds (up to 20"), 500 pounds (22" and up)
• Water-resistant: Yes

Pros

• ✓  Convenient carrying handle
• ✓  Nonslip bottom prevents sliding
• ✓  Waterproof base
• ✓  High weight capacity
• ✓  Economical

Cons

• ❌  Cover top is water-resistant but not waterproof
• ❌  Single gel bladder only
• ❌  No ties or straps to secure cushion to chair

The Comfort Foam Wheelchair Cushion is a therapeutic foam shell designed for those with low to moderate risk of skin breakdown. The cushion redistributes pressure away from the tail and pelvic bones.The sleek black cover is waterproof and easy to clean.

Top Features

• Redistributes pressure away from bones
• Easy-to-clean, waterproof cover
• Not made with natural rubber latex

 

Specifications

• Cushion type: Foam
• Size options: 16 x 16", 18 x 16", 20 x 18"
• Depth options: 3"
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds
• Water-resistant: Yes

Pros

• ✓  Cover is waterproof
• ✓  Easy to clean
• ✓  5-year warranty

Cons

• ❌  Not for those at high risk of skin breakdown
• ❌  Available in 3-inch thickness only
• ❌  No ties or straps to secure cushion to chair
• ❌  Weight capacity is 250 pounds

The Gel Foam Pressure Redistribution Wheelchair Cushion by Medline is a gel pad sandwiched between two layers of soft but high-resiliency foam that redistributes pain away from bony areas. The cushion keeps its shape while supporting up to 300 pounds. The cover, which is made of Nylex and vinyl, is durable, waterproof, and easy to clean, making it great for daily use or travel.

Top Features

• Made with resilient foam
• Takes pressure off bony and sensitive areas
• Helps with sitting for extended periods of time
• Easy-to-clean outer cover

Specifications

• Cushion type: Gel and foam
• Size options: 16 x 16", 18 x 16" 
• Depth options: 2", 3"
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Water-resistant: Yes

Pros

• ✓  Foam keeps its shape
• ✓  Easy to clean
• ✓  Made with durable materials
• ✓  Cover is waterproof

Cons

• ❌  Moderate pressure relief only
• ❌  No ties or straps to secure cushion to chair
• ❌  Weight capacity is 300 pounds

The Drive Gel-U-Seat Lite offers the same benefits of the 3-inch Gel-U-Seat ranking at No. 2 on this list but with a 2-inch thickness. It's made with both gel and high-density foam. The dual gel pad design redistributes weight  to prevent skin irritation and keeps the pelvis in contact with the cooling gel. The nylon cover top resists moisture, making it ideal for long sitting times, and the vinyl cover bottom is completely waterproof. It has ties that connect the seat to the wheelchair, keeping it steady and in place.

Top Features

• Dual-chamber gel insert encased in foam
• Helps to prevent skin irritation
• Filled with cooling gel
• Low-shear, removable stretch cover

Specifications

• Cushion type: Gel and foam
• Size options: 16 x 16", 18 x 16", 18 x 18", 20 x 16", 20 x 18", 22 x 16", 22 x 18", 24 x 18"
• Depth options: 2"
• Weight capacity: 275 pounds (up to 20"), 500 pounds (22" and up)
• Water-resistant: Yes

Pros

• ✓  Dual gel chamber insert keeps gel evenly distributed
• ✓  Ties secure cushion to chair
• ✓  Waterproof base
• ✓  High weight capacity

Cons

• ❌  Cover top is water-resistant but not waterproof
• ❌  Shape flattens over time for some users
• ❌  Complaints that the cushion slides around

The MobiCushion is a portable electronic seat cushion that has alternating cycles to reduce pressure and prevent pressure sores. It's fully adjustable with customized pressure with the choice of static or alternating cycles with time settings to meet the user's needs. The four-way stretch coverlet protects the seat and is water resistant.

Top Features

• Five comfort level settings
• Battery or AC plug power options
• Pressure sensor to fit the user
• Low shear cover

 

Specifications

• Cushion type: Air cells and foam
• Size: 17 L x 17 W x 4 H inches
• Pressure Range: 40 to 100 mmHg
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds
• Water-resistant: Yes

Pros

• ✓  Alternating or static pressure
• ✓  Visual and audible operating status
• ✓  Rechargeable battery
• ✓  Reduces the risk of pressure sores

Cons

• ❌  Only 12 hours of use on a single charge
• ❌  Available in 3-inch thickness only
• ❌  Controller could get in the way

The ROHO Low Profile Single Compartment Wheelchair Cushion is a 2-inch air-filled seat cushion that can be easily adjusted to perfectly fit the user's unique body shape. It's designed for individuals with compromised skin and helps with skin protection by reducing friction and redistributing pressure. The cushion doesn't have a weight limit as long as you choose the one with the appropriate dimensions. It comes with a hand inflation pump and repair kit, since the neoprene cushion can be patched and repaired to extend its life. The cushion is easily cleaned with soap and water, and the cover is machine washable.

Top Features

• Maximum pressure redistribution
• Adapts incredibly well to the user's shape and movements
• Decreases shear and friction
• Cleans with soap and water
• Machine washable cover

 

Specifications

• Cushion type: Air-filled
• Size options: 15 x 15", 16 x 16", 16 x 18", 18 x 16", 18 x 18", 18 x 20"
• Depth options: 2"
• Weight capacity: Unlimited (provided cushion is appropriately sized to user's body)
• Water-resistant: Yes

Pros

• ✓  Strong protection for damaged or at-risk skin
• ✓  Patchable and repairable
• ✓  Adjustable seat depth
• ✓  Accommodates any user weight as long as cushion is properly sized to the individual

Cons

• ❌  Inflation and adjustment take time
• ❌  Worries about deflation/damage due to inflatability feature
• ❌  High price

 

The Roho High Profile Single Compartment Cushion is an inflatable cushion that reaches 4 inches in height. It carries the same benefits as the Roho Low Profile cushion – redistributing weight to reduce pressure and protect the skin  from breakdown and pressure sores – but features a higher 4-inch profile. It comes with a heavy-duty, machine-washable cover and a repair kit so you can patch up the cushion to make it last longer.

Top Features

• Adapts incredibly well to the user's shape and movements
• Maximum pressure redistribution
• Decreases shear and friction
• Easily cleaned with soap and water
• Cover is machine washable

 

Specifications

• Cushion type: Air-filled
• Size options: 16 x 15", 16 x 16", 16 x 18", 18 x 16", 18 x 18", 20 x 18"
• Depth options: 3"
• Weight capacity: Unlimited (provided cushion is appropriately sized to user's body)
• Water-resistant: Yes

Pros

• ✓  Patchable and repairable
• ✓  Strong protection from pressure-related skin damage
• ✓  Adjustable seat depth
• ✓  Accommodates any user weight as long as cushion is properly sized to the individual

Cons

• ❌  Most expensive on the list
• ❌  Worries about deflation/damage due to inflatability feature
• ❌  Inflation and adjustment take time

The breathable fabric of the CareActive Pressure Reducing Pillow covers all parts of the wheelchair – seat, back, sides, and arms – for a secure, comfortable feel. It reduces numbness, soreness, and discomfort while stimulating circulation. The breathable fabric comes in attractive colors: burgundy, light blue, hunter, navy, and pink floral.

Top Features and Specifications

• Soft filling
• Breathable fabric
• Lightweight
• Reduces pressure
• Comes in burgundy, hunter, light blue, navy, pink floral

 

Specifications

• Cushion type: Full-chair polyfill
• Size options: One size
• Depth options: 3"
• Weight capacity: No Weight Capacity
• Water-resistant: No

Pros

• ✓  Long-lasting, machine-washable materials
• ✓  Covers the entire seat, not just the bottom
• ✓  Works with armchairs and recliners too

Cons

• ❌  No foam or gel
• ❌  May not be comfortable for heavier individuals
• ❌  Doesn’t attach to wheelchair
• ❌  Awkward to carry and transport

Live life in comfort with one of the best pressure relief seat cushions for wheelchair users. By comparing and contrasting the above list of product with their unique features, you’ll be able to find the best product to suit your needs. You can also check out our selection of Mobility Aids and the 10 Best Lightweight Transport Wheelchairs 2022 blog for more information about mobility aid products.