Initially, this type of wheelchair was designed in order to be used in sports, such as tennis, basketball or road racing. Later on it was discovered that a sport wheelchair can be used as an everyday chair. Sport chairs are also called lightweight wheelchairs or ultra-light chairs. They are manual, not powered chairs.
These chairs may be used by people with a good upper-body mobility. However, there are some devices that help people with an upper extremity paralysis use a sport wheelchair as well. This model is not recommended for people who weigh more than 113kg. In spite of these precautions, lightweight chairs are often purchased by anyone who can use a manual wheelchair. A sport wheelchair is ultra-light (only 8 -13 kg.). It is designed to withstand high speeds and quick changes of direction. This is why the materials used for the manufacturing of lightweight wheelchairs are aluminium, steel, titanium or chrome. Coverings such as plastics, spandex or vinyl are used for the seats.

There are many things to consider when buying a sports wheelchair, such as the user needs, the price or the brand. The design of a sport wheelchair varies between the purpose it is used for. There are specialised lightweight wheelchairs, such as court, races, tennis, skiing, hand-cycle or beach chairs. When Purchasing a wheelchair that will be used in a sporting event you should check the durability and the life expectancy it should come with at least a one year warranty. It should be tested to make sure you can properly move around in it for your advantage in the game. Even If you don't play sports a sport wheelchair can sometimes be better quality then a regular manual wheelchair and often much lighter.