Office Chairs – Finding the Right One for You
They seem so basic, but office chairs are a major purchase – whether you’re outfitting your home office or your corporate cubby. In fact, finding the right one is one of the most important things you can do when you set up your new office!
The best office chairs conform to you – to your height, your weight, and your specific comfort level. Remember, you are going to spend at least 8 hours a day, 5 days a week in this chair. You need something that’s comfortable. If you pick the wrong one, you’ll end up with sore muscles – and a miserable working environment.
So, how do you narrow down the near-endless array out there?
Start by focusing on what type of chair you need. There are a variety of specialized office chairs, including:
1. Office chairs for bad backs
The wrong chair causes bad posture – and bad posture can lead to back problems, or make existing back pain even worse. If you suffer from back problems, you need to look at “ergonomic office chairs” that are specially-designed to give you extra support. These chairs offer special lumbar support and a wide range of adjustment options – like various height and tilt options.
2. Office chairs for heavy people
Did you know that the average office chair can only support about 200 pounds?
Even if you weigh slightly less than that, your chair won’t last very long. Luckily, there are office chairs out there that are designed to hold heavier people. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find chairs that can hold 450 pounds or more!
In addition to a weight limit, there are some other key features you need to look out for, though. Check to make sure that your prospective office chair has sturdy wheels, armrests that are far enough apart so that you won’t feel squished, and that it’s made out of something sturdier than plastic.
3. Office chairs for tall people
Designed for people who are over 6’ tall, these chairs come with longer seats that can fully support your thighs and taller backrests so that you don’t slump over.
If you’re seriously considering one of these chairs, look for one that comes with a cylinder that enables you to move the entire seat up and down. Ideally, your knees should bend at a 90 degree angle, with your feet flat on the floor.
4. Office chairs for short people
Tall people aren’t the only ones who find it tough to get comfortable in a regular office chair! If you’re too short for the average office chair, look for one that has a special lift. That way, you won’t be forced to sit at an awkward level – or look up at your computer.
You will need a chair that allows you to keep your feet on the floor. Otherwise, it puts too much strain on the rest of your body. If you need some extra floor support, invest in a footrest.
And, if you really want to get comfortable, look for mesh office chairs. Because they’re made out of a mesh fabric, they keep you much cooler than traditional leather office chairs. With them, air can flow freely through your seat – meaning it won’t get as hot when you spend hours sitting in it.
Mesh chairs are getting more and more popular, so it’s easy to find specialty chairs made with mesh – even on models that are designed for heavier people.
Whether you’re tall, short, heavy, or slender, you don’t have to spend a fortune on the right office chair. In fact, if you look around, you will see that there are some great office chairs on sale and even used chairs that can give you plenty of bang for your buck!
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