When shopping for replacement wheelchair footrests or elevating leg rests, you may see terms like top latch and bottom latch.

These terms refer to where the locking mechanism is located on the hanger when the footrest attaches to the wheelchair.

Knowing which style your chair uses is important because a top-latch footrest and a bottom-latch footrest are not automatically interchangeable.

What Is a Top Latch?

A top latch footrest has its locking or release mechanism positioned near the upper portion of the hanger, close to where the footrest attaches to the wheelchair frame.

If you look at the attachment area and the latch or release lever is located near the top, you likely have a top-latch style.

What Is a Bottom Latch?

A bottom latch footrest has the locking mechanism positioned lower on the hanger assembly.

Instead of the latch sitting near the top attachment point, the release or locking hardware is located farther down.

This difference may seem small, but it changes how the footrest connects and locks onto the wheelchair.

Why Does the Latch Position Matter?

Two footrests can look very similar and still use different mounting systems.

Even if the hanger length, footplate, or overall shape looks the same, a different latch position can mean the replacement will not fit your wheelchair correctly.

That’s why it’s important to check more than appearance alone.

How Can I Tell Which One I Have?

Look closely at the hanger where the footrest connects to the wheelchair.

Ask yourself:

• Is the latch or release mechanism near the top of the hanger?

• Or is it positioned lower on the hanger?

If you’re unsure, take a clear photo of the entire attachment area from the side.

It can also help to keep your original footrest nearby for comparison.

Before You Order

Check:

• Top latch or bottom latch

• Pin spacing

• Hanger length

• Left or right side, if applicable

• Wheelchair make and model

• Original part number, if available

The latch style is only one part of compatibility, so it’s important to compare the full mounting setup before ordering.

Know Your Latch Before You Order

A replacement footrest may look right but still use the wrong attachment style.

Check the latch position. Check the pin spacing. Match the mounting setup.

A few quick measurements and photos can make finding the correct footrest or leg rest much easier.