If you have a desk job, you are likely to spend a great deal of time sitting in an office chair. The prolonged sitting position and using an inappropriate chair can add stress to the spine, which eventually leads to several health conditions associated with poor posture. Some of these health conditions include chronic lower backache, stiff neck and shoulder muscles, and hip muscles and joint problems. To avoid these health concerns and make your prolonged sitting experience comfortable so you can work productively, it is important to invest in an ergonomic office chair.

An ergonomic office chair is designed to support your spine and the entire body so you can maintain good posture and avoid health concerns associated with prolonged sitting, and work comfortably and productively. But given the overwhelming choice of ergonomic chairs, it is natural to feel confused about which one to get for your office.

No single type of ergonomic office chair is best for you. But certain features are very important to consider when looking for an ergonomic office chair, which we have highlighted in this post. Here, we share some of the features that you should consider to make a better selection and get the best ergonomic chair for your conventional or home office.

So without further ado, let’s get started.

10 Features to Look for When Choosing an Ergonomic Office Chair

Some of the features that you should consider so you can make the right choice for an ergonomic office chair include the following.

The Height Adjustment Feature

Seat height adjustment is one of the most critical features you should consider. It offers optimal flexibility and allows you to adjust the height slightly lower and higher than your ideal setting. However, if you get an ergonomic office chair from a reliable brand such as Flexispot, the ergonomic office chairs they offer have a large seat height range and allow you to adjust the seat height while sitting on the chair easily.

By adjusting your ergonomic office chair to the most appropriate height, you can reduce the stress on your knees and spine and enjoy a more comfortable sitting position.

Seat Pan Size

Another important feature you should consider when choosing an ergonomic office chair is the pan size. Your seat pan should be deep enough to support part of your upper leg but not so deep that it gets in touch with the back of your knees when you are sitting on the chair.

Moreover, the width of the seat should be at least one inch wider than your hips, but it shouldn't be wide enough that your arms remain far away from the armrests.

Seat Pan Depth

Apart from the size of the seat pan, the seat pan depth should also be a critical consideration. A properly positioned seat pan allows for two to four fingers to fit between the back of your knee and the front of the seat. Hence, a proper seat pan depth is critical for the user as it allows them to position the seat's curve that aligns with the natural curve of the lumbar spine and provides adequate support to the entire lower body.

There are two ways of adjusting the seat pan depth. One is through the seat slider, which is a lever on the seat that allows you to slide the seat in and out while remaining seated on the chair. The other adjustment can be made through the back depth knob that moves the back support in and out instead of changing the position of the seat. Adjusting the back is hard to do while sitting and you may need some help changing the back position to adjust the seat pan depth.

Seat Material

The seat material is one of the most critical features to consider when choosing the right ergonomic office chair. Make sure you choose an ergonomic office chair that's made from high-quality material, as your choice of material can have a significant impact on the strength of the chair and on the level of comfort your chair has to offer.

Apart from the cloth fabric, you should also consider the chair's padding. Make sure you choose an ergonomic chair that has enough padding on the seat and back to ensure that you enjoy a comfortable sitting experience.

Backrest

An ergonomic office chair's backrest is another critical consideration that you must consider before choosing an ergonomic chair for your office. Typically, the backrest of an ergonomic office chair should be 12 to 19 inches wide. Moreover, it should support the spine's natural curvature. So before you choose your ergonomic office chair, you need to consider whether the backrest is separate from the seat or is attached as a single piece.

Furthermore, if the office chair has the seat and backrest together as a single piece, ensure that the backrest can adjust with the forward and back angles and has a locking mechanism. This way, it offers appropriate safety and security to the person sitting on the chair.

Recline

The recline of your ergonomic office chair is one of the essential features that can help you make the right choice. Since it supports the weight of your upper body, it relieves pressure from your lower spine. However, when looking for an ergonomic office chair, go for chairs with a locking back angle, so it adds to comfort and safety as you recline.

Armrests

While backrests are an integral feature of an ergonomic office chair, armrests are an equally critical feature that you should consider before choosing your ergonomic office chair. The armrests of your ergonomic office chairs should be height adjustable. When adjusted at the lowest point, your armrests should be below your thigh height, so they don't interfere with the movement of your elbow. Moreover, it’s best if the arms of your chair are width adjustable and fore-aft as it allows for a more personalized fit.

Headrest

A headrest is also an important feature of an ergonomic office chair. However, it’s not always required.

A headrest can provide adequate support to your head and neck, so if you have neck and shoulder issues or any other health concern associated with your upper back, it's best to go for ergonomic office chairs that have a headrest.

Wheel Base and Casters

When choosing an ergonomic office chair, don't forget to consider the wheelbase and the quality of the casters. It's best to opt for ergonomic office chairs with at least five-spoke bases as anything less than five tends to tip over as you recline your chair.

Moreover, consider the casters' quality as they allow you to glide the chair freely on several floor surfaces. You can also find ergonomic office chairs that offer a complete 360-degree swivel on any surface.

Chair Adjustment Mechanism

While it is last on the list of features you should consider before choosing an ergonomic office chair; it should be an important consideration. Before you choose an ergonomic office chair for your conventional or home office, it is critical to consider the mechanism controls of the chair, as in how the seat and backrest move in and out. Typically there are levers and knobs under the seat or behind the back for such adjustments. However, it is best to opt for ergonomic office chairs with an easier chair adjustment mechanism.

The Best Ergonomic Office Chair for You

If you are looking for the best ergonomic office chair, then Flexispot ergonomic chairs are what you need.

Flexispot offers various ergonomic office chairs in different price ranges with exceptional features so you can get the one that best suits your needs and fits your budget. Whether you need a fine office chair designed for comfort, luxury, and flexibility or are looking for an affordable ergonomic chair for home office without losing several important features, Flexispot has something for everyone.

Flexispot ergonomic office chairs are designed for flexibility, affordability, durability, and comfort without compromising your budget. From luxurious and comfortable leather ergonomic office chairs to breathable, mesh backrest office chairs, you can find ergonomic office chairs that best suit various users' needs. Moreover, at Flexispot, you can find an ergonomic chair for people of all ages. So whether you need one for your home office or are looking for an ergonomic chair for your kids so they can make the most of their virtual learning experience, you can find one for both.

In all, when you are shopping for an ergonomic office chair, make sure you consider all the factors highlighted above and choose a reliable dealer like Flexispot to get the best chair for yourself or your loved ones.