Rear wheels are critical to the performance of a wheelchair.
There are typically three types of tires:
1. Pneumatic (air-filled) tires provide a softer ride, but need to be kept inflated. Because pneumatic tires are softer than urethane tires, they are harder to push, with more resistance to the shoulders.
2. Pneumatic Flat Free (foam-filled) tires provide a stiffer ride compared to air-filled tires, and will never go flat.
3. Urethane (solid, flat-free) tires provide the quickest and stiffest ride. And they will not go flat.
Tire Tread also affects the wheelchair ride. Tires with very little tread offer a quicker ride and turn more easily because there is less rubber in contact with the ground, causing less friction. "Knobby" tires with deep treads are helpful on unpaved and rougher surfaces, yet offer less maneuverability. A 1 3/8" treaded tire is a good basic tread for everyday use.