If you’re ready to start decorating your home or work office space, one of the first things you'll need to purchase are executive office chairs. While some people prefer ergonomic office chairs, others feel more focused and comfortable in a large and inviting leather swivel.
Understanding the differences between both will help you determine which executive office chairs belong in your workroom, and which ones can take a seat.
How to Select Ergonomic Office Chairs
Ergonomic office chairs are the best option for reducing bodily stress and to alleviate back pain while seated. If you suffer from poor posture, lower back aches, or simply want to prevent strain or injury while stationary for prolonged periods at your desk, ergonomic office chairs are the best option.
There are several things you need to consider before purchasing executive office chairs. Finding the right model will ensure your comfort for long hours at your desk, and that’s the goal if you are suffering from back pain or other discomforts.
Standard options for ergonomic models are height/seat and arm adjustment controls. To make the chair much more custom, purchase one with a seat slide adjustment so the seat pan can accommodate the length of your legs. You may also consider tilt and tilt lock functions. Some chairs have headrests and adjustable lumbar supports so as to fully customize for your seating comfort.
The normal chair has a weight capacity of up to 250 pounds, so if you require a heavier duty model this is something to consider. Some chairs are also rated 24/7 which is for heavy duty round the clock use-if you or your firm will be needing that, add this to your checklist, along with the following points, before you commit to an ergonomic model.
Seat Height
Ergonomic office chairs should be fully adjustable in height so that anyone can be seated with their feet firmly positioned on the ground. This will help improve posture and prevent lower back strain. Most models can extend anywhere between 16-21 inches in height.
It’s About Depth
Don’t go too narrow or shallow on the width and depth of your executive office chairs. In order to be seated comfortably, the seat should be adequately large. Test out different models to ensure your backside has enough wiggle room.
Upholstery
For maximum comfort, executive office chairs should be manufactured from materials that “breathe”. While leathers and faux materials might look distinguished, they can cause perspiration during prolonged periods of use. Lightweight and easy-to-clean upholstered executive office chairs are a versatile, timeless, and smart option.
Lumbar Support
Whether or not you have the tendency to slouch, lower lumbar support is necessary when selecting executive chairs. With proper lumber support placed at the curve of the spine, your body will experience less strain and discomfort, which can take their toll over time.
Alternative Ergonomic Office Chair Options
If you’re not certain traditional ergonomic chairs are the best choice for your workstation, there are a few other options that also offer continuous lumbar support. Why not consider a saddle or a kneeling ergonomic seat? Although these backless models might seem a little intimidating at first glance, the body is designed to support its spine when seated in these non-traditional chairs. Some people prefer their minimal details and grow accustom to not having armrests. With prolonged use, a saddle design ergonomic chair might even strengthen back muscles.
Where to Buy Ergonomic Office Seating
With all the benefits of ergonomic seating, it’s a wonder anyone would sit in a basic “chair” to perform their day to day work tasks and duties. When you’re comfortable and pain-free, you can focus on all the other important matters at hand. Mid-day aches and jolts can distract, and keep you from performing at your best.
When you’re ready to purchase executive office chairs, you have plenty of shopping options. You can visit an office furniture retailer who specializes in selling commercially designed furniture, or shop from online retailers. If possible, it’s always best to check out office chairs in person to ensure the comfort of the design.
Ergonomic chairs vary in price dependent upon the manufacturer name brand, and if they are local or imported. There can also be a wide range of adjustment options that drive the cost.
Investigate the warranty thoroughly-some offer a full lifetime warranty on all moving parts. A good chair can cost anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to several thousand, so read the reviews and try as many as you can before you make your decision.
Some office chairs will be a little hard, some will be a little soft, and then there will be one that is just right.
Image Source: Josh Puetz
