Adaptive Pants NZ: Side-Opening & Tear-Away Pants

Looking for adaptive pants that are easier to put on and take off? Our side-opening and tear-away pants open along the leg, helping reduce the need to step in, pull clothing over painful joints, or stand during dressing.

Choose from full side-opening designs with Velcro or zip closures for men and women. They can be especially helpful during post-surgery recovery, for wheelchair users, people with arthritis or limited mobility, and anyone who needs easier seated or assisted dressing.

  • Full Side Opening

    Opens along the side of the leg so the pants can be positioned without stepping in or pulling them over the affected leg.

  • Velcro or Zip Closures

    Choose easy-access Velcro or zip styles depending on dexterity, dressing assistance and personal preference.

  • Easier Seated Dressing

    Designed to make dressing from a chair, bed or wheelchair easier, including when assistance from a carer is needed.

How to Choose Adaptive Pants

The right style depends on how the pants will be put on and what needs to be accommodated.

For post-surgery recovery: Full side-opening or tear-away pants can help when bending, lifting a leg, or pulling standard trousers over a cast, brace or dressing is difficult.

For seated or assisted dressing: Pants that open along the side can be positioned while seated or lying down, reducing the need to stand during dressing.

For limited hand strength or dexterity: Velcro closures are generally easier to grip and adjust than small buttons or standard fastenings.

For everyday wear: Choose the fabric and closure style that suits the season and level of assistance needed. Our range includes options for men, women and unisex wear.

Pants FAQs

What are tear-away pants?

Tear-away pants open along the side of the leg using Velcro, zips or similar fastenings. Unlike standard trousers, they can be opened widely for easier dressing, access to a brace or dressing, or clothing changes while seated.

Can these pants be put on without standing up?

Yes. Our full side-opening pants are designed specifically for seated dressing. They open completely flat along the side, so they can be positioned around the leg while seated in a chair or wheelchair, then fastened with Velcro or zip from the outside. No standing, stepping in, or lifting required.

What is the difference between the Velcro and zip versions?

Both open fully along the side seam. The Velcro version is easier to fasten with one hand or reduced grip strength, and allows micro-adjustment of the fit. The zip version has a cleaner look and may feel more like regular trousers. If dexterity is a concern, we recommend the Velcro option. Both are available in the full side-opening unisex style.

Are these pants suitable after hip or knee surgery?

Yes. Side-opening and tear-away pants can be especially useful after hip or knee surgery when bending, lifting the leg, or pulling standard trousers on and off is difficult.

The full-opening design allows easier access around dressings, braces or a swollen leg, and can make dressing simpler while seated or with assistance from a family member or carer.

Choose the closure style and size that best suits your recovery needs, and always follow any clothing or wound-care advice provided by your healthcare team.

What are the catheter pants and who are they for?

We stock two styles of catheter-support pants: one with an internal hidden pocket and one with a discreet external pocket, both designed to hold a catheter bag securely and out of sight. They are suitable for anyone managing a long-term or post-surgical catheter at home or in daily life, and are designed to look like regular trousers when worn.

Are these suitable for wheelchair users for everyday wear?

Yes. The soft waistbands, roomy seat, and side-opening design all make these pants significantly more comfortable for full-day wheelchair use than standard trousers. The side-opening also means a carer can assist with dressing without the patient needing to stand or transfer.

What sizes are available and how do I choose the right one?

Please refer to our size guide for exact measurements before ordering. If you are between sizes, we generally recommend sizing up for comfort, particularly if the pants will be worn over dressings, a catheter bag, or a brace. Our NZ-based team is also happy to help with sizing questions before you order.

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Still not sure what you need?

Every condition is unique. If you need help choosing the right size or style, our friendly NZ-based team is here to guide you. Reach out to us for a personalised recommendation.

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