When you work in an office, it’s essential to have a good office chair.
But what makes a good office chair? There are many factors to consider!
This blog post will explore some of the key features that make a good office chair.
We will also discuss some of the different office chairs available today.
So, keep reading if you are shopping for a new office chair…
See also:
What Are the Best Office Chairs?
Usually, the best office chair for everyone is an ergonomically designed chair.
It is not cheap but can have at least 3 key features such as adjustable armrests, tilting seats, and an ergonomically designed seat with lumbar support.
Big companies and experienced workers that spend vast amounts of time working while sitting in a chair have all invested in great quality seats that provide them with hours of comfortable sitting.
See also – What Are Office Chairs Made Of?
Features a Good Ergonomic Office Chair Possesses
A good office chair should ease the strain on your back and maintain excellent health without interfering with your ability to perform your job.
To make sure you acquire the greatest ergonomic office chair, we at Posturion consider the 10 features below.
Lumbar Support
The most crucial factor when choosing an ergonomic chair is adjustable lumbar support.
Your office chair’s curved backrest will provide your back with the comfort and support it need. Choose a desk chair that follows the natural curve of your spine.
Your lower back curves inward at a slight angle, and sitting for long periods without proper support can cause pain and discomfort.
When it comes to lumbar support, there are 3 types – fixed, adjustable, and dynamic.
When lumbar support is fixed to the backrest, it is referred to as Fixed. On the other hand, adjustable lumbar support can be adjusted in terms of height, depth, or firmness. When you have dynamic lumbar support, your weight and seating position are automatically taken into account.
Choosing the right chair with proper lumbar support is essential to avoid getting lower back pains.
A quality office chair will provide enough lumbar support. In order to prevent sagging as the day goes on, your lower back should be supported so that it is slightly arched at all times.
It is best to test out this feature to ensure that you have access to lumbar support when you require it. To reduce pressure or strain on the lumbar discs in your spine, good lower back or lumbar support is crucial.
A good ergonomic chair supports the lumbar region and other features that allow you to adjust the depth of the curve to fit your own back.
Adjustability
Another critical factor to look for in an ergonomic chair is adjustability.
Your office chair should at least have 3 adjustable features- adjustable seat height and seat depth, adjustable backrest height, and adjustable armrest height.
This will allow you to find a position that is comfortable for you and that supports your back and neck correctly.
Your office chair’s height should be able to be changed to fit your height. You should be seated with your thighs parallel to the floor for the most comfort. In order to raise or lower the seat, look for a pneumatic adjustment lever.
Your backrest should be adjustable so that it is in the best position for your task. You should be able to adjust the backrest forward or backward if it is connected to the seat.
To prevent the back from suddenly tilting backward, a locking mechanism that keeps it in position is a smart idea. In addition to being height-adjustable, a backrest that is independent of the seat should also be able to be angled to your preference.
See Also – Desk Office Chair Height (how high should your seat and desk be?)
Material
The material of the chair is also essential.
You want a breathable fabric that will not cause you to sweat. Leather is a good option, as it is breathable and easy to clean.
However, it can be expensive. Mesh is another good option, as it is also breathable and often more affordable than leather.
There should be ample padding on the seat and back of the office chair for long periods of time-consuming sitting. A breathable fabric material is preferable over a surface that is tougher.
When sitting on your workplace chair for long stretches, breathable material is more pleasant. Although fabric is a fantastic option, many modern materials also have this feature.
It is preferable to stay away from seats that are either too soft or too hard and the padding should be pleasant to sit on. After a few hours, a firm surface will hurt, and a soft one won’t provide enough support.
See also – Mesh vs Leather Office Chairs
Backrest
The chair’s backrest should be adjustable to find the perfect angle for your back.
It should also be wide enough to support your entire back and have a contoured design to support the natural curve of your spine.
An ergonomic office chair’s backrest should be 12 to 19 inches wide. If the backrest is separate from the seat, it needs to be height- and angle-adjustable. Again, special attention should be devoted to adequate support of the lumbar area. It should be able to maintain the spine’s natural curve. If the seat and backrest of the office chair are one piece, the backrest should be movable in both the forward and back directions, with a locking mechanism to prevent it from moving too far backward after the user has chosen the proper angle.
Headrest
Some ergonomic chairs come with a headrest, while others do not.
If you have neck pain, a headrest can be beneficial, allowing you to rest your head comfortably.
However, if you do not have neck pain, a headrest is not necessary.
Armrests
The chair’s armrests should be adjustable to find a comfortable position for your arms. They should also be wide enough to support your entire forearms.
The armrests must be movable and, if feasible, adjustable. Armrests should be between 7″ and 10″ above the height of the seat pan. They have to be comprehensive and comfortable so that the forearms and elbows may rest comfortably on them while typing.
When choosing an ergonomic chair, it is essential to consider all of these factors to find a chair that is comfortable for you and supports your back and neck correctly.
Swivel
The chair should be able to swivel so that you can reach items on your desk without having to get up out of your chair.
This is important for both ergonomics and productivity.
Price
Ergonomic chairs can be expensive, but they are worth the investment if you sit at a desk all day.
If you are on a budget, many affordable options will still provide you with the support and comfort you need.
Posturion offers ergonomic chairs ranging from $100 to $350 which you can check out on our website.
When choosing an ergonomic chair, it is essential to consider all of these factors to find a chair that is comfortable for you and supports your back and neck correctly.
Seat Height
One of the first things you’ll want to look for when choosing an ergonomic chair is seat height adjustment.
This will allow you to find a position that is comfortable for you and that supports your back and neck correctly.
The seat depth of the chair is also essential.
You want a deep seat to keep your thighs, but not so deep that your knees are higher than your hips.
The seat height of office chairs should be simply adjustable. The simplest way to achieve this is via a pneumatic adjustment lever. For the majority of people, a seat height of between 16 and 21 inches off the ground should be enough. This enables the user to sit with feet flat on the ground, thighs horizontal, and arms at a desk-height angle.
Seat Width and Depth
The chair’s seat should be wide enough to support your entire thighs and have a contoured design to support the natural curve of your spine.
You should be able to adjust the seat height, seat depth, backrest height, and armrest height.
The seat should be wide and deep enough to accommodate any user comfortably. The usual width is between 17 and 20 inches. The ergonomic office chair’s seat should be deep enough (from front to back) to allow the user to sit with their backs against the backrest and leave 2 to 4 inches or less between the back of their knees and the seat. The seat should be able to tilt either forward or backward.
This will allow you to find a position that is comfortable for you and that supports your back and neck correctly.
The seat depth of most office chairs is typically between 17 and 18 inches deep. This can be too big for people who are short. For short people seeking an ergonomic chair fit, seat depths of 16 inches or less are appropriate.
What to Look for in a Good Ergonomic Office Chair
There is a variety of chair types in the marketplace that claim to be ergonomic but do not meet the necessary criteria.
If you plan on buying ergonomic office chairs, consider these to have an optimal ergonomic comfort level for your workplace.
Movement and Stability
The chair should allow you to move freely and not be too unstable.
You want a chair that will support your weight without tipping over.
However, you also want a chair that allows you to move around to reach items on your desk or in your office.
Manufacturing and Warranties
When choosing an ergonomic chair, it is essential to consider the manufacturing and warranties.
You want a chair that a reputable company makes and has a good warranty. Upon initial purchase, it is good if the manufacturer offers 1 or 2 years of warranty.
This way, you can be sure that the chair will last for many years and that you will be able to get your money back if there are any problems.
Choosing the Right Ergonomic Office Chair
There are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when choosing the correct ergonomic chair.
Posturion listed 6 of the important things to consider when choosing the right ergonomic office chair.
First, you’ll want to make sure that the chair is adjustable to find a comfortable position.
Second, you’ll want to look for a chair with lumbar support to support your lower back.
You’ll also want to ensure that the chair is wide enough to support your entire thighs.
You should feel supported in all the right places when you sit in a chair.
Your back should be straight, and your legs should be at a 90-degree angle.
You should also feel comfortable and supported when you recline in the chair.
If you find a chair that meets all of these criteria, you’ll be well to finding an ergonomic office chair that is right for you.
Tips on Sitting Properly
Sitting for too long in a day is not suitable for your health.
Sitting in the same position for too long can lead to some health problems.
Here are 4 typical health issues caused by improper posture and prolonged sitting.
Muscular Imbalances
When you sit in the same place for too long, specific muscles tighten while others weaken.
This can lead to pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and back.
Poor Circulation
When you sit for long periods, your blood flow slows down, and your muscles don’t get the oxygen they need. This can lead to fatigue, cramping, and other problems.
Reduced Joint Mobility
Sitting in the same position for too long can cause the joints in your hips, knees, and ankles to stiffen up. This can make it challenging to move around and can lead to pain when you try to stand up.
Bad Posture
Slouching in your chair can cause the lumbar spine to curve abnormally, leading to back pain and other problems.
Tips for Prolonged Sitting
The majority of our tasks as office workers need us to sit in front of our monitors, so we can’t avoid sitting for too long.
Here are 5 helpful tips for dealing with prolonged sitting.
Make sure your chair’s armrests are adjustable.
If your chair has armrests, ensure they’re adjustable to position them correctly. Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle when you’re typing, and the armrests should support your forearms without putting pressure on your wrists.
Use a footrest if your feet don’t reach the ground.
If your feet don’t reach the ground while sitting in your chair, use a footrest to support them. This will help improve your circulation and reduce fatigue.
It is important to always keep your 2 feet flat on the floor for a relaxed posture.
Get up and move around every 30 minutes.
To avoid the health problems associated with sitting for too long, get up and move around at least once every 30 minutes. Go for a walk, do some stretches, or stand up and move around your office. This will help keep your muscles active and your blood flowing.
When you look forward, your eyes should align with the top of your monitor or laptop.
If you’re looking at a screen all day, it’s essential to ensure your eyes are aligned appropriately. When sitting up straight in your standard chair, your eyes should be level with the top of your monitor or laptop. This will help reduce eye strain and prevent headaches.
Your knees should be at a 90-degree angle when you’re sitting.
Your knees should be at a 90-degree angle when sitting in your chair. This will help improve your circulation and reduce the risk of pain in the knees, hips, and lower back.
5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Office Chair
If you work at a desk, you probably spend a good chunk of your day sitting in an office chair. And while a comfortable chair is essential for maintaining productivity and preventing back pain, it’s not meant to last forever. Here are 5 signs that it’s time to replace your office chair:
- The cushions are flattened or poked through.
- The upholstery is ripped or stained.
- The base is wobbling or creaking.
- You can’t adjust the seat height or backrest.
- It just doesn’t feel comfortable anymore.
If your chair shows any of these signs, it’s time to upgrade. A new chair can make a difference in comfort and support, so don’t wait until it’s too late.
How to Choose the Right Office Chair for You
With so many options on the market, choosing the right office chair can feel like a daunting task. However, Posturion listed 3 key factors to keep in mind that will help you narrow down the field and find the perfect chair for your needs.
- First, consider how long you will sit in the chair each day. If you only need it occasionally, you can probably get away with a less expensive model. However, if you plan on spending hours in your chair, you will want to invest in one that is more comfortable and adjustable.
- Second, think about your posture and how the chair will support your back. If you have lower back pain, look for a chair with built-in lumbar support.
- Finally, consider any particular features you may need, such as adjustable armrests or a swivel base. By keeping these factors in mind, you can be sure to find an office chair that is perfect for you.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a few critical factors to consider when choosing an office chair. A comfortable, supportive chair is essential for maintaining productivity and preventing pain. When shopping for a new chair, consider how long you’ll sit in it daily, your posture, and any special features you may need. With some research, you can find the perfect chair to keep you comfortable all day.
FAQs
Q: How often should I get up and move around if I’m sitting in an office chair all day?
A: You should aim to get up and move around at least once every 30 minutes. This will help keep your muscles active and your blood flowing.
Q: What is the best way to position my eyes when looking at a computer screen?
A: Your eyes should be level with the top of your monitor or laptop. This will help reduce eye strain and prevent headaches.
What are the qualities of a good office chair?
A good office chair should be comfortable, adjustable, and durable. It should also provide good back support and be easy to move around.
What is the best office chair for sitting for long hours?
The best office chair for sitting for long hours is the one that is most comfortable for you. It should also be adjusted to your needs and have good back support.
How often should you get up and move around when sitting in an office chair?
Getting up and moving around at least once every 30 minutes when sitting in an office chair is recommended. This will help reduce the risk of developing long-term health problems associated with sitting.
