Every office needs chairs. That is non-negotiable. But how easy is it when choosing the right ergonomic chair for your office?
In today’s age, people spend extensive amounts of time sitting at our desks. Studies show that ergonomic chairs and health are intrinsically linked: choosing the right ergonomic chair can impact posture, back pain, musculoskeletal health. For example, if a chair is so high that your feet dangle off the ground, it can lead to poor blood circulation and increased pressure on your knees. If a chair doesn’t align with the way your back is shaped, you will eventually have poor posture and potentially chronic back pain.
That’s why choosing the right ergonomic chairs are crucial for the office. Ergonomics in the context of the workplace are the study and design of equipment and tools aimed to suit the needs of the human body. Ergonomic chairs are a cut above all other office furniture because they are made with our health in mind. They should be able to accommodate diverse body types, improve posture, and enhance productivity.
What are some factors to consider when looking for an ergonomic chair?
Look for customization. Every aspect of an ergonomic chair is designed with purpose so it can be tailored to the individual’s needs.
Photo: Friant Zone Too Chair
Considering Seat Pan
Seat pans are the flat surface that you sit on. It is important that the seat pan is not too long or short for your legs; otherwise, it will prevent you from fully leaning back from the lumbar or will not properly support your knees and put pressure on them. If you cannot find a chair with adjustable seat pan, the general rule is to find one where there is a half-inch gap between the seat pan and the back of your knees.
Photo: HÅG SoFi Ergonomic Task Chair
The Right Lumbar Support
Lumbar support is the back of the chair that you lean on. Adjustable lumbar support is critical to an ergonomic chair because it helps you keep your lumbar region, the lower back, aligned and prevents slouching. Choosing the right ergonomic chair that supports the natural “S” curve of your spine is necessary; if it doesn’t, it’ll tilt the pelvis and jam the joints of our lower back.
Lumbar support must be both depth adjustable and height adjustable to cater to different people.
Photo: OFS Sladr Ergonomic Chair
Make Sure It’s Height-Adjustable
Your knees should bend at a 90-degree angle and your feet should always be flat on the floor to promote proper posture, better circulation, and rested legs. For this reason, even non-ergonomic chairs often come with height customization. The chair should height-adjust to accommodate people of various heights when choosing the right ergonomic chair.
The Addition of Headrests
Not all ergonomic chairs come with headrests, and that’s fine. It’s simply another aspect to consider. However, headrests are a common feature because they can keep your head and neck properly aligned with the spine.
When You Need Armrests
Armrests are an optional addition, but when ergonomic chairs do have them, they should be adjustable. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to chairs, and the same applies here. Adjusted accordingly, armrests provide crucial support for the arms and shoulders and reduce strain on the neck and back muscles.
Photo: Humanscale Freedom Ergonomic Chair
Choosing the Right Ergonomic Chair Recline
The ergonomic chair moves with your body, no matter how small that movement may be. That’s why options such as recline should be a factor to consider when choosing a chair. Not all work is done sitting straight up; the ability to lean back is necessary to support and relax the lower back.
Photo: OFS Butterfly Chair
Choosing the Right Ergonomic Chair Base
The base of the chair is an often overlooked, but crucial feature of seating. A good ergonomic chair has wheels and a swivel base to allow users to turn their whole body instead of just their neck, preventing strains and sprains.
Photo: Senator Circo Ergonomic Task Chair
Selection of Materials
The consideration you put into buying a chair should extend past ergonomics. Materials are another significant aspect to think about the choosing the right ergonomic chair. Materials can impact daily comfort and productivity.
Mesh is a popular lightweight fabric made with interwoven polyester or nylon fibers that promote airflow and prevent sweat. Their flexibility easily conforms to the user’s body for comfort.
Leather offers a premium experience and is durable and long-lasting. Cleaning takes minimal effort. However, cons include the high-cost of the material and possible discomfort when the weather gets hot.
High-density foam provides lasting comfort and retains their shape and supportive properties longer. They are a reliable choice for high-use environments. On the downside, they can feel too hard and rigid for some, lacking the flexibility that mesh has in spades.
Photo: Humanscale World Chair, Freedom Headrest Chair and Summa Chair
Wrapping Up
There are many factors to consider when buying a chair because they must be as unique as the person using them. The multitude of options can be overwhelming, but it’s all a matter of preference.
At the end of the day, there’s a chair for everyone. Ergonomics ensures it.
Get Expert Help in Choosing the Right Ergonomic Chair
Stay updated with the team at 2010 Office Furniture on the latest ergonomic chair trends, and let us assist you in planning all your professional work spaces, including providing work-from-home office solutions. We design environments that enhance employee engagement and boost overall productivity.
To get started, contact us today and share your project details and requirements. From large businesses, non-profits, government projects and small business, our office furniture experts are here to help!
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Main Photo: Humanscale Collection of Chairs
Resources & Special Thanks to Respective Product Manufacturers: HÅG, Friant, Humanscale, OFS & Senator