A supportive desk chair helps with efficiency and productivity at work, as well as comfort and physical health. A problematic office chair - which could mean a good chair for the wrong person - could lead to aches and pains, repetitive strain injury, headaches and more. Whether you’re fitting out an office for fifty or setting up a home-based office for one, with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming when it comes time to choose. So we've put together this guide so you know what to look for when making your decision. The right ergonomic chairs will offer the following features:
Adjustment
Height adjustment, arm width and seat angle are just some of the adjustment options that a good office chair will offer. Our sit stand desks all come in different heights, shapes and sizes, so a chair that tailors to your unique needs is crucial. Office chairs should be easy to adjust in height. Feet should be flat on the floor (or a footrest) with thighs parallel to the ground. An adjustable seat depth/seat slide function allows you to slide the seat forward and backwards to suit your leg length. Armrests should be adjustable so they can provide additional support while working or resting. Adjustable armrests allow you to get closer to work, provide correct arm height and can also pivot.
Lumbar Support
A good office chair needs to support your lower back. Lower back pain, leg pain and sciatica are all common complaints among office workers, so it’s in your best interest to support yourself or your staff with a supportive chair. Having proper support can make a world of difference to your comfort levels. Your lower back should fit comfortably against the lumbar support.
Recline
Having the ability to recline limits the pressure placed on your spine and seat bones. Reclining while you work or rest improves comfort during long periods of sitting.
Base
Make sure your office chair is on appropriate wheels (there are different requirements for carpet than for hard surfaces or mats) and moves around and swivels easily. You want your movements to be free, easy and unimpeded to get the most out of your time at your desk.
Material
Choose a quality office chair that is made out of comfortable and breathable material. You’ll likely be sitting in this chair for eight hours a day, so you need comfort over style. Look for chairs with breathable material and quality seat cushioning for ultimate comfort. Choosing a chair with visual appeal can certainly add enjoyment to your office set-up, however comfort is crucial so make sure your chosen chair will ensure you are comfortable as you work, and will help to prevent pain and discomfort. We have a wide range of ergonomic task chairs available to suit different requirements. View our ergonomic chair collection here or contact us if you would like more information.