Selecting the right wheelchair cushion is a critical decision. At Permobil, trust and transparency are at the core of everything we do, and we strive to provide the highest quality products to meet each individual’s unique needs.
One of the ways we ensure the safety and reliability of our wheelchair cushions is by adhering to the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) test standards. These standards help validate that our cushions meet specific criteria for performance, safety, and durability.
What are ISO test standards?
ISO test standards provide an objective, measurable way to assess the performance of wheelchair cushions. By putting our products through rigorous testing, we can ensure that they deliver consistent pressure relief, postural support, and durability. However, there are Benefits and Limitations of ISO and RESNA Standards as well.
A tool, not the decider
While ISO standards are incredibly important for ensuring quality, it’s equally important to understand that these tests should be used as tools in the decision-making process—not as the sole factor in selecting a cushion. Every individual has unique needs, and choosing the “best” cushion requires more than just test results. Factors like individual preference, skin integrity, posture, and functional goals should all be taken into account. A cushion that performs well on ISO tests may not be the ideal solution for every person.
Personalized care over standardized results
ISO tests help guide us in the right direction, but wheelchair seating solutions are not one-size-fits-all. Our cushions are designed with adaptability in mind, allowing them to support a wide range of individuals with different body types, medical conditions, and daily activity levels. The best cushion for an individual is the one that meets their specific clinical and lifestyle needs, not necessarily the one that scores the highest on a standardized test.
Commitment to you
We’re proud to follow ISO test standards as a marker of safety and quality, but our commitment goes beyond the numbers. We believe in providing transparent information and supporting individuals with expert guidance to ensure they get the right cushion—not just the one with the best test score. By combining high-quality standards with personalized solutions, we strive to deliver products that promote health, comfort, and independence for every individual.
In the end, choosing the right wheelchair cushion is about trust. Trust in the standards, trust in the product, and most importantly, trust in the individual’s unique needs. Permobil is here to guide that journey with transparency and care. Learn more at Trust & Transparency.
Commercial Product Manager - Permobil Americas
Nicole B. LaBerge, PT, ATP is a Physical Therapist with 18 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings. She currently works for Permobil as a Commercial Product Manager of Seating and Positioning products. Her past clinical practice has included seating and mobility for adult and pediatric populations, with a focus in neurological rehabilitation, power standing and wound care. Nicole has presented at the State and International Levels, has multiple publications in peer reviewed journals and enjoys sharing her passion for patient advocacy, efficiency, and clinical outcomes. She served as an Executive Board Member for the Clinician Task Force for 3 years and is currently an active member in the CTF.
