How to Pick The Best Chair for Your Office
Tips on choosing the most important piece of equipment in the room
At first thought it may seem like your telephone or computer is the most important piece of equipment in your office. But it's actually your chair. So if you’re currently working at your desk in a cast-off from a friend or on a dining room chair, think about replacing it immediately. Your office chair, where you spend hours at a time, affects how you work and how you feel each day.
What Does an Office Chair Cost?
The cost of a quality office chair runs the spectrum. Plan to spend anywhere from $350-$1000 at a minimum. And that’ s not for executive plush, but just a well–designed chair with good lumbar support. Investing in a $1000 ergonomically correct chair can actually increase your productivity. If you're more comfortable you won't fidget and get up so often. Instead, you 'll find it easier to stay at your desk and focus.
Shop Slowly and In Person
Go to several stores and sit in every chair, and for quite a while, not just a minute or two. Take your time. Play with the adjustments, bounce around in the chair and try rolling across the floor to see how easily (or not) the chair moves with you in it.
It’s important to sit in any chair you’re considering to be sure it supports your back, doesn’t interfere with the movement or the position of your arms and that it distributes and absorbs your weight. And actually sitting in the chair is the only way to be sure the seat is deep enough to support your legs.
Chair Features Are Important Too
Look for a seat that adjusts forward and backward as well as up and down. A waterfall seat with a rounded front will help prevent restricted circulation. A lumbar support adds comfort while arms are a personal preference and not critical. Large casters insure mobility and are best on wood, vinyl or very low pile carpet. A five- arm or star- shaped base provides stability when you (or your seven- year-old) roll around your office.
While it may seem a simple question of taste, chair fabric choice is more than an aesthetic decision. Fabric choice affects the comfort and durability of the chair. Leather costs the most, but it is the most durable, wipes clean and is cool in summer and warm in winter. Modern microfiber fabrics are attractive, tough and stain resistant. Do avoid vinyl, which can be uncomfortably warm or cold. Finally, make sure if the chair you choose has arms that they fit under your desk.
Best advice: if possible, shop where you can arrange an in-home trial. This is one item you should not buy from a catalog or online unless you can return it. (Check on the shipping and/or any re-stocking fees first.)
Don't base your final decision on price alone. Shop where you can sit in the chair and try all the functions Choose a chair that fits your body and leg length. And try to buy where you can return the chair if need be.
Office Chairs Vary in Size and Shape
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