I was so torn when choosing between love and hate, and while hate is a little strong I definitely hate these a little more than I love them…
I get what they’re trying to do here, but the last thing you want is your wheelchair being mistaken for a wheelie bin now is it?
http://www.wheelie-bin-art.co.uk/wheeliebincovers.asp
Nice try but I think smart and simple is the more stylish option when it comes to wheelchairs.
Understand what you’re saying here, but maybe the picture above isn’t the best example. Think it really depends on the style of wheelchair and the images chosen for the spoke guards. I’ve seen people who’ve kitted out their wheelchairs with spoke guards that look really cool, one example that springs to mind was a sporty looking wheelchair with skull and crossbones spoke guards. Think it’s really important for people to have the option to customise their wheelchair to suit their personality and taste, so it’s up to them whether to or not and if so which design to choose : )
I don’t hate the idea at all – it’s a bit like skins and stickers for laptops – and I agree with Denise here.
Having said that, it does depend on the image chosen!
Was just thinking about this post and was sure that I was so taken by the wheelchair I saw with the skull and crossbones spoke guards that I posted it as a ‘Love’ and here it is:
http://enabledbydesign.org/lovehates/2009/03/skull-crossbones-customised-wheelchair.html
Unfortunately I wasn’t able to take a photo, but hopefully you get the idea…
Via @Jackyboy86 on twitter:
Eurgh! Matt black ones might be OK, though…
God no. Spend your life constantly trying to make sure they were upright and both wheels the same angle. Nightmare!
OK the skull and crossbones are pretty badass I’ll give you that…
Hmm, I feel it’s one of those things that’s very much down to individual taste and individual budget…
Personally I’m a fan of subtle but I have seen spoke guards that make a pattern as you go along (both on children’s and on athletes wheels)
If spoke guards aren’t for you, Spinergy (and other brands) provide a range of quick release wheels with less visible (unless you want them to be!) spokes. http://www.spinergy.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=21_5 A number of UK based companies can supply these, but sadly not the NHS
You can also have different designs and colours for your castors too (including L.E.D light up ones if that’s your bag!).
http://www.gblwheelchairs.com/shop/product/3530/ http://www.epc-wheelchairs.co.uk/products/125/4–and-5–flashing-light-up-wheelchair-caster—andpound-24-95-each.htm
Sadly all these options cost is money
Somewhat wheeliebin cover in these pics, but I’d definitely go for something in the same blue as my wheelchair frame - well, I think would. I don’t want to be too accessorised and ott. Looks like I’m talking myself into a hate. lol!