I am trying to work out which is the best manual wheelchair, but there is too much variety! Any tips?

Which chair is best is only applicable to the person using the chair. Each individual need can vary greatly from others. That's why there are so many options in chairs. Some may need a traditional-style folding chair, some can use rigid frames, some need suspension, some like the stiffest ride possible. All is dependent upon the individual user.

Edited to add--When looking for a chair, it is always a good idea to talk to an occupational therapist and a wheelchair fitter/supplier. They should be of great help.

Hi,
Shop around & try as many wheelchairs as possible to get a feel for them, any good suppliers will be able to give you demo in different chairs.

Personally, this is a pic of my dream one... though, currently I am using a Quickie GT rigid frame. Never had a problem with Quickie wheelchairs. I just changed from complete fold-up to rigid, so it will be easier to put up.

After dealing with a rehab chair for waaaaaay too long, I'm thinking about a little Quickie Titanium. Is anyone else using this chair, and what do they think? My big worry will be how quickly it will be to disassemble, assemble, and push through the snow and ice!

I've got a Quickie GTi. Warning--get the bigger front casters. makes for less issues in the snow/grass. If you opt for the high frame angle, the smaller casters catch really easily, and that can cause a forward tipover problem (experience). As for [dis]assembly, pretty straightforward. I can disassemble the chair and have it in the truck about as fast as the lift coming round and attaching the chair, and swinging the lift back round.

my husband just got a colors spazz, he hates it. I think that he was measured wrong, there isn't enough leg room. Going to try to sell it and reorder one from quickie with the swing away legs.

I use a Quickie Ti and I like it. Go to the Mobility forum and check out the "Quickie Ti" thread I started a while ago. Lots of info and reviews. As for snow and ice, it's not the chair that's going to make a big difference but the tires you have on it. All you need is a good pair of knobby tires.