Choosing an office chair is a big decision, as most people spend a large part of the day sitting in it. Sitting for long periods of time puts pressure on your spine. Fortunately, the right office chair eliminates pressure and provides comfort. To ensure that a chair is healthy for your body, there are several features to keep in mind.
A fully adjustable office chair
1. Adjustability:
One of the top features people look for when buying an office chair is its adjustability. Ideally, you should be able to reach the controls while seated, when it’s easier to position. Adjust the chair so the desk is at elbow height when your feet are on the floor. Consider adjustable armrests, which allow you to rest your arms comfortably without slouching. A high quality chair that is adjustable is better for your back, helps you to be more productive and may even make you less grouchy.
Seat Depth Measurement
2. Depth:
In order to find the right office chair, you need a seat that is wide and deep enough to fit your body. Big and tall chairs are a great option for larger body types. A shallower seat is preferable by employees who are not very tall. To test the chair, sit up straight, with your back against the backrest. For maximum comfort, look for a chair that leaves 2-3 inches between the back of your knees and the seat. For reference, a standard seat is about 20″ in depth. This typically fits most users unless you are on the smaller or larger side.
Spinning in chair for no reason = fun
3. Casters and Rotation:
Mobility plays a large part in a chair’s usefulness. Being able to rotate the chair and move between different work areas is an important feature for many shoppers. Casters control mobility on different floorings, including, wood, carpet, and laminate. In addition, a few chairs only turn 90 degrees in each direction, while most do rotate a full 360 degrees. Being able to spin your chair around to talk to your boss or co-worker is much easier on your neck and back.
4. Material:
Office chairs are available in a variety of materials, including:
- Top grain leather: The ultimate in style and prestige plus it’s easy to maintain
- Imitation Leather: An inexpensive option to leather that is durable and thicker
- Mesh: Offers ventilation so that air flows along your back and keeps you cool
- Executive Fabric: A quality alternative to leather that can be matched to any décor
- Molded foam: Standard office chair material covered in a wide range of fabrics
Chair foam should not be too soft, or too firm
5. Padding:
When it comes to padding, Goldilocks knew what she was doing. The chair shouldn’t be too hard or too soft. We all want a chair that feels “Just Right.” Chairs that are too soft don’t provide enough support. Hard office chairs can be uncomfortable. Office Chairs Unlimited has a large selection of office chairs with a variety of padding options.
To find the office chair that’s right for you, call us toll-free 800-410-7494 or visit OfficeChairsUnlimited.com today!
Long time blog writer for Office Chairs Unlimited. Who knew that office furniture could actually be interesting!
