Respira Back Support now available!
- Marketing
- Nov 1, 2023
- 1 min read
Updated: May 19
OVERVIEW
Symmetric Designs has launched the Respira Back Support in select countries worldwide. Respira is a new wheelchair back support system built around ventilation and postural function — designed for users who require both effective positioning support and improved skin and tissue health over long periods of seated use.
THE PROBLEM RESPIRA SOLVES
Heat and moisture accumulation at the seating interface is a major contributor to skin breakdown and pressure injury risk in wheelchair users who spend extended time seated. Conventional back supports, particularly those made with closed-cell foam or solid contoured shells, block airflow between the user's back and the support surface, creating a warm, humid microenvironment that accelerates skin breakdown.
Respira addresses this directly. The back support is built with an open, breathable structure that promotes continuous airflow across the back. The result is a significantly improved microclimate compared to standard foam or solid-back alternatives.
POSTURAL SUPPORT
Ventilation alone is not enough, a back support must also provide effective postural support. Respira is designed to support neutral spinal alignment, pelvic positioning, and trunk symmetry. The system includes lateral support configurations (including L.U.B.S., available separately) for users who require additional postural control.
MATERIALS
Respira is built with breathable cushioning that allows air to move freely through the support structure. Symmetric Designs originally used Stimulite foam in the Respira Sport and other variants; the company has since transitioned to Air Fibre, a next-generation polymer filament material that offers the same ventilation and comfort benefits with improved responsiveness and cleanability.
AVAILABILITY
Respira Back Support is now available in select countries. Visit the Respira product page or contact your local distributor for ordering information
