STEPS FOR CHOOSING AN ERGONOMIC CHAIR

Staying comfortable at work is essential for your health, productivity and safety. Achieve maximum comfort when you invest in an ergonomic office chair that promotes good posture. Because ergonomics can vary between brands, look for these features as you learn how to choose the right ergonomic chair.

Choose an Adjustable Chair

One size does not fit all when it comes to the best ergonomic office chair. You definitely need one that adjusts to your body shape and size.

Height Matters

Your height determines the optimal height of your chair. Often, chairs that are 16 inches to 21 inches from the floor allow you to keep your feet flat on the floor, your hips and arms even with your desk, and your knees slightly lower than your hips.

Look at Seat Depth and Width

When you sit in your chair, you should be able to fit two fingers between the front of the seat and the back of your knee. The width should give you at least 1 inch on both sides, and usually 17 inches to 20 inches is adequate.

Support Your Back

The best office chair for your back includes a backrest that adjusts to a height of 12 inches to 19 inches. It supports your lumbar region and locks in place to prevent it from moving as you sit. A depth adjustment is another necessity, since it prevents slouching and reduces pressure on your spine. Consider reclining at a slight angle of 110 degrees to 130 degrees, too. This feature of the best ergonomic chair for back pain supports your upper body weight and relieves lower back pain.

Rest Your Arms

Adjustable height armrests that extend 7.1 inches to 10.6 inches above the compressed seat height are essential since they support your arms. Select armrests with adjustable width, too, and they should extend or contract lengthwise so your forearms do not touch the armrest as you type.

Protect Your Head

Support your head and neck with a chair that includes a strong headrest. It prevents neck and shoulder issues and should adjust to your height.

Weigh in on Weight

Rather than judge a chair solely by its weight capacity, consider all the above features, as well. Combined, they help you stay comfortable all day.

Swivel or Not to Swivel?

Because you move as you work, your chair should move with you. Select an ergonomic desk chair that rotates easily and allows you to reach items on your desk without straining or stretching.

Stability

Prevent tipping or rollovers when you pay attention to the chair's wheelbase and casters. At minimum, the best ergonomic chairs have five spokes, and the casters easily glide over multiple floor surfaces.

Select a Seat Material

Choose an office chair with padding, since you'll be sitting for extended time periods. Cloth breathes better than hard material, but leather is easier to clean.