How to choose a color for your wheelchair

Personalization can go in many different directions and can be as unique as you are. Whether you are a minimalist who loves a sleek neutral, or a maximalist who wants to be the center of attention with a vibrant wheelchair color, we have you covered!

To make this important decision, we have gathered a few pointers to help you choose the right color for your wheelchair.

The look and feel of the wheelchair

Consider what you want from your wheelchair; do you want it to be more neutral? Do you prefer it to “blend in”? Or do you want the wheelchair to be a pop of color in your life?

If you are leaning more towards a practical choice or a more neutral color, the obvious choice is to go with one of the classics, black or white.

One of the practical reasons people may choose white or another pale color is because they think a lighter color, like white, will require less cleaning than a dark color, such as black.

Conversely, a good reason to choose black is that it may “blend in” better and put the focus on the person rather than on the wheelchair.

Trends can also be part of the final decision. Make sure you consider that a trendy color right now won’t necessarily be trendy in two to three years. A safe option, in that case, is to opt for a more “classic” and “toned-down” color, like our new matte Desert Sand, Khaki Green, or a glossy finish on our new White.

^{Dessert Sand, Khaki Green and White HELIO A7}

Color Commitment: What does it mean?

It is important to keep in mind that the color of the wheelchair is a decision that usually requires a 5-year commitment. Try to think about your color choice and picture where you see yourself in 5 years. Do you think that this color will still appeal to you in the near future? If you are unsure, you should probably pick a “safer” option and go with a more classic approach.

Scratches are normal in any metallic frame wheelchair.  The most forgiving colors to disguise the look of bumps and scratches are colors that have a silver undertone, like our Steel Blue, and Pink Pearl colors.

^{Pink Pearl and Steel Blue VELOCE}

Color psychology plays a role in the decision you ultimately make for your wheelchair. Of course, it can be a great way to express yourself and your colorful personality. However, that does not mean that every single wheelchair user is ready to commit to a flashy wheelchair color.

A bit of color psychology: what do you want to communicate with your wheelchair color?

Color psychology is the study of how colors affect your behavior, mood, and the impression that you leave on others.

If you are the type of person that wants their wheelchair color to reflect your personality, here is what color psychology says about your favorite color, and what it communicates to others.

Red

Red has to be one of the most evocative and powerful colors in the color spectrum. It is known for being associated with strong energy, strength, passion, and love.  

Red has even been proven to increase our heart rates. It attracts attention more than any other color, which is why it is not uncommon to see it in sports cars. If red is your favorite color, you probably are a person who is not afraid of being the center of the attention, you love feeling empowered, and you are not afraid to show it.

Related colors: Ferrari Red, Burgundy, and Black Cherry.

^{VELOCE in Ferrari Red}

Green

Green is a secondary color that comes from a mix of blue and yellow. This color is often associated with nature because it represents freshness and growth.

Green is a color that is related to tranquility and calmness. If green is your favorite color, you probably are a person who loves taking a moment to disconnect from work and everyday activities to relax and reconnect with nature. You are also a sincere person who appreciates continued learning and growth.

Related colors: Monster Green, Acid Green, and Khaki Green.

^{Apex C in Khaki Green}

Blue

In contrast with red, blue is often associated with serenity over passion. This color represents nurturing and peaceful minds.

Blue has even been proven to help lower heart rates and slow metabolisms. If your favorite color is blue, you are probably a person who is enthusiastic, compassionate, and empathetic. You are a person that likes to self-reflect and values integrity in your relationships.

Related colors: Sapphire Blue, Steel Blue, Caribbean Blue, and Sky Blue.

^{VELOCE in Caribbean Blue}

Orange

Orange is a bright and persuasive color, resulting from the combination of yellow and red. It is a color that denotes optimism and cheerfulness, mixed with passion and intensity.

Orange is often associated with the sun and tropical areas. People who love this color are often extroverted, and love to communicate freely. If orange is your favorite color, you probably are a person who tends to be creative and determined.

Related colors: Sunkissed Orange

^{Apex C in Sunkissed Orange}

Pink

Pink is a color with a LOT of personality! It is one of the most contradictory colors because it varies greatly depending on its context. It represents a gentle type of love and youth.

Pink is often linked to innocence and sweetness. If your favorite color is pink, you are probably a person who is optimistic, hopeful, and kind.

Related colors: Fuchsia, and Pink Pearl.

^{HELIO C2 in Pink Pearl} 

Purple

This is a complex color that comes from the mixture of energy and passion of red and the stability and calmness of blue. Purple is often associated with luxury and power.

Purple is a color that symbolizes wisdom, dignity, and independence. If your favorite color is purple, you probably are a person who is independent, creative, loves magic, and is mysterious. 

Related colors: Electric Purple, and Plum Purple.

^{Apex C in Electric Purple}

White

White is the universal symbol of purity, elegance, and serenity. It is considered to be a color that reflects new beginnings and freedom.

White is a color that invites reflection, openness, and creativity. This color is associated with light, goodness, innocence, and purity. If your favorite color is white, you probably are a person who is extremely efficient, a perfectionist, and overall positive.

Related colors: Dessert Sand.

^{HELIO A7 in White}

Black

Black has to be the most complex of colors in the spectrum.  There are many possible connotations, as it is a highly versatile color that can be seen as very mysterious or elegant.  

If your favorite color is black, you probably are a person who likes “classic” designs, are comfortable looking mysterious, and you like to convey strength and power.

Related colors: Black, and Charcoal.

^{HELIO C2 in Carbon Finish}

Ultimately, no matter what color you end up choosing, try to remember that there are many ways of personalizing your wheelchair. Don’t overthink it too much and try to have fun when selecting your wheelchair color and the accessories that go with it. Whether you are a person who likes more muted tones, or a rolling rainbow, the decision is entirely yours! We are sure that it will be a perfect way of expressing your unique personality and style.  

Click here to learn more about our latest additions of color, and all the mix-and-match possibilities for personalization.

References

van Braam, H., & Cadjenovic, M. (2021). The Psychology of Colors and Their Meanings. Retrieved from Color Psychology: https://www.colorpsychology.org/