Extreme Motus All-Terrain Wheelchair: Conquering Sand & Snow (2026)
Quick answer
Yes — the Extreme Motus all-terrain wheelchair handles both sand and snow better than any other manual wheelchair on the market. The 16-inch Wheeleez polyurethane balloon tires distribute weight so well that the chair floats over loose sand at Little Sahara and Coral Pink Sand Dunes — and rolls across packed snow without sinking. Powder is harder; expect a workout in deep snow. Use it for: beach trips, dune adventures, ice fishing, packed snow trails, sledding hills, and snowshoeing. $4,500 standard.
Sand and snow are the two surfaces that defeat almost every other wheelchair. The Extreme Motus was designed specifically for them — and after years of customer use across coastal beaches, sand dunes, ice-fishing setups, and Utah powder, we have a clear picture of what the chair can and can’t do in each.
Find your all-terrain wheelchair
Why the Motus works on sand and snow
Two design choices do the heavy lifting:
- Wheeleez balloon tires. Large, low-pressure polyurethane tires — the same family used on commercial beach carts. They distribute rider weight across enough surface area that they float across what would sink narrow tires.
- 49-lb total chair weight. Light enough that the rider’s weight is the dominant factor — and even with rider, the contact patch keeps things on top of soft surfaces instead of pushing through.
On sand: beaches and dunes
Honest report: the Motus often rolls across sand more easily than humans walk in it. At Coral Pink Sand Dunes I watched my own boots sink while the chair rolled across the surface. The Wheeleez tires really work that well.
- Wet, packed sand (typical beach near the water): easy. One person can push it.
- Soft dry sand (above the high-tide line, dune transitions): doable, more effort, often easier with two people.
- Loose dune sand (climbing): possible but a real workout. Going down dunes is a riot.
On snow: trails, ice, and the occasional sledding hill
- Packed snow (groomed trails, plowed paths, lake ice): excellent. Customers ice-fish on the Motus all winter.
- Fresh dry snow up to ~6 inches: doable, more effort.
- Deep powder: real work. Plan for a strong helper or two.
- Wet slush: the only condition that really slows the Motus down. Avoid if possible.
- Sledding: yes, see our sledding post.
Vs. traditional wheelchairs and powered alternatives
Daily wheelchairs sink in sand and slip on ice. Powered track chairs (Action Trackchair, Magic Mobility X8) handle some of these surfaces but cost $15,000–$30,000+, weigh several hundred pounds, and need a truck and trailer to get to the trailhead. The 49-lb Motus is a fraction of the price and weight, and goes places powered chairs physically can’t.
→ Try the Motus on real sand or snow.
Several beaches and adaptive sports programs in our network keep an Extreme Motus available for visitors year-round. Find a location near you on our interactive map → — 59 spots across the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. Roll one on real terrain before deciding whether the $4,500 chair is for you.
FAQ: Sand & snow with the Extreme Motus
Will the Motus actually float in water?
The Wheeleez tires displace enough water to keep the chair afloat in shallow pits and slow water (we’ve taken it through Dirty Dash mud pits and along beach edges). It’s not a boat — don’t try to cross deep currents.
Can I take the Motus ice fishing?
Yes — customers do every winter. Wide tires distribute weight well across solid ice. Stick to ice you’d trust on foot. Full ice-fishing post here.
Do the Wheeleez tires need special maintenance after sand or snow?
Rinse with fresh water after exposure to salt water. Let bearings dry fully. Re-grease moving parts every 6–12 months of regular use. The polyurethane itself is incredibly durable — we’ve documented 15-year track records.
How much does the Motus cost?
$4,500 standard, plus around $375 shipping. 2026 price guide compares it to other manual and powered all-terrain options.
Get out there
If you have a specific beach, dune, or winter trail you’re wondering about, send me an email — we’ve probably been there or know someone who has.
Ryan Grassley
Owner, Extreme Motus
ryan@extrememotus.com
See the Extreme Motus · 2026 Price Guide
Since 2019, Sam and Ryan have been demonstrating that nature is wheelchair accessible with the Extreme Motus All Terrain Wheelchair. From National Parks to Skateparks, their adventures prove that a manual off-road wheelchair can offer laughter and joy while navigating diverse terrains.
Join us as we continue to share these inspiring journeys.
Light, comfortable, and compact, the Extreme Motus glides over sand, rocks, grass, gravel, and even floats in water.
It’s more than a outdoor wheelchair; it’s your ticket to freedom. Embrace the outdoors with confidence, knowing our off-road wheelchair is engineered for durability and ease of use.
Be the first to hear about new gear, upcoming adventures, and exclusive offers. As a welcome gift, enjoy $10 off your first Motus T-Shirt when you subscribe.
By subscribing you agree to receive marketing communications from Extreme Motus, including product updates, promotions, and special offers. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.