Span America Short-Wave Wheelchair Seat & Back Cushion
Model: Short-Wave Seat and Back Cushion with Cover (16″, 18″, 20″ wide)
Availability: In Stock – Ready to Ship
A One-Piece Seat and Back Cushion With Segmented Foam Fins
The Span America Short-Wave is a single cushion that covers both the seat and the backrest of a wheelchair. Its foam surface is cut into segmented fins arranged in two different zone orientations, so the fins can flex in more than one direction as the user moves; Span America designs the pattern to reduce shear. The cushion is thicker in the lumbar area and under the thighs, which helps the user resist sliding down in the chair.
The removable, zippered cover has a non-slip top fabric and a durable non-skid bottom, attaches easily to the chair and wipes clean with neutral suds or an approved cleaning agent. It is lightweight, supports up to 300 lbs, and comes in 16-, 18- and 20-inch widths to match standard wheelchairs. Span America notes that it can also be used on office chairs, spectator seats and in vehicles.
Key Features
- One-piece seat and back cushion
- Segmented foam fins — two zone orientations, designed to reduce shear
- Thicker lumbar and under-thigh areas — help resist sliding down
- Removable, zippered cover — non-slip top, non-skid bottom
- Wipe-clean cover
- 300 lb weight capacity
- Lightweight and non-powered
- Three widths — 16″, 18″ and 20″
- Also suits office chairs, spectator seats and vehicles
Equipment Specialist Insight: Choose the width that matches the wheelchair’s seat, measured between the armrests or side guards. Because it covers both seat and back, the Short-Wave is a quick way to add comfort to a standard sling wheelchair. Place the thicker lumbar section at the small of the back, and check footrest and armrest positions once it is in place. A seating specialist or therapist can confirm that this cushion suits the user before ordering.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Span America |
| Product Line | Short-Wave |
| SWAVE16-01 | 16″ wide |
| SWAVE-01 | 18″ wide |
| SWAVE20-01 | 20″ wide |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Construction | One-piece foam seat and back with segmented fins in two zone orientations; thicker lumbar and under-thigh areas |
| Cover | Removable, zippered; non-slip top fabric, non-skid bottom; wipe clean |
| Power | Non-powered |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size?
Measure the wheelchair seat’s width between the armrests or side guards and choose the 16″, 18″ or 20″ width that matches.
Does it cover the seat and the back?
Yes. The Short-Wave is a single piece that runs from the seat up the backrest, with a thicker section at the lower back.
Can it be used on chairs other than wheelchairs?
Yes. It is designed for standard wheelchairs and can also be used on office chairs, spectator seats and in vehicles.
Can I return it if it isn’t right?
No. Because this cushion is a personal-use seating product, it cannot be returned or refunded once it has shipped, including after a trial sit. Please confirm the size before ordering.
Please note: this item is final sale. For hygiene reasons, seating cushions cannot be returned, exchanged or refunded once they have shipped, and this includes cushions that have been sat on to test fit or comfort. Please measure the wheelchair seat and confirm the size and weight capacity before ordering.
Specifications are compiled from manufacturer and vendor documentation and are subject to change without notice. Verify current details before purchase. Information on this page is for general reference only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider or seating specialist about cushion selection and skin checks, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65): This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
