If you spend long hours sitting at a desk, you may have experienced some discomfort or pain in your back, neck, shoulders, or hips. One way to reduce the risk of these common work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) is to use an ergonomic office chair. Ergonomic chairs are designed to support your natural body posture and movement, promote good circulation, and minimize pressure points. In this article, we will explore the top brands of ergonomic office chairs, their key features, and their best models.
I. Introduction
Ergonomic chairs are more than a luxury or a trend. They are a necessity for many office workers who face health risks from prolonged sitting. According to a study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), WMSDs affect about 34% of workers who use computers for more than 4 hours per day. The good news is that ergonomic chairs can reduce the prevalence and severity of WMSDs by up to 50%. However, not all chairs are created equal, and not all brands are equally reputable. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of the top 10 brands of ergonomic office chairs, based on their quality, comfort, durability, adjustability, and affordability.
II. Top Brands of Ergonomic Chairs
Herman Miller
Herman Miller is a well-known and respected brand of ergonomic office chairs, founded in 1905. Their chairs are designed to enhance productivity, comfort, and health, using advanced materials, technologies, and ergonomics. The key features of Herman Miller chairs include adjustable arms, lumbar support, tilt and recline mechanisms, breathable mesh or foam upholstery, and a variety of sizes and styles. Some of the best Herman Miller chairs are the Aeron, Embody, Sayl, and Mirra 2.
Steelcase
Steelcase is another prominent brand of ergonomic office chairs, established in 1912. Their chairs are known for their versatility, durability, and sustainability, using recycled and recyclable materials. The key features of Steelcase chairs include adjustable seat depth, height, and angle, lumbar and pelvic support, synchronized tilt, 3D or 4D armrests, and a wide range of fabrics and colors. Some of the best Steelcase chairs are the Gesture, Leap, Think, and Amia.
Humanscale
Humanscale is a relatively new but innovative brand of ergonomic office chairs, founded in 1983. Their chairs are based on the principles of ergonomics, ecology, and simplicity, using minimalist designs and natural materials. The key features of Humanscale chairs include weight-sensitive recline, self-adjusting lumbar support, armrests that move with your body, and eco-friendly fabrics and foams. Some of the best Humanscale chairs are the Freedom, Diffrient World, Smart Ocean, and Liberty.
Haworth
Haworth is a global brand of best ergonomic office chair, established in 1948. Their chairs are designed to balance comfort, health, and aesthetics, using innovative technologies and materials. The key features of Haworth chairs include adjustable lumbar and thoracic support, synchro-tilt and backrest angle adjustments, waterfall edges, and 3D or 4D armrests. Some of the best Haworth chairs are the Zody, Fern, Soji, and Very.
Knoll
Knoll is a renowned brand of ergonomic office chairs, founded in 1938. Their chairs are crafted to embody elegance, simplicity, and functionality, using premium materials and technologies. The key features of Knoll chairs include responsive suspension, active backrests, seat sliders, and adjustable armrests, as well as a variety of upholstery options and colors. Some of the best Knoll chairs are the ReGeneration, Remix, MultiGeneration, and Chadwick.
Serta
Serta is a well-known brand of ergonomic office chairs, founded in 1931. Their chairs are designed to provide comfort and support for long hours of sitting, using high-quality materials and technologies. The key features of Serta chairs include contoured lumbar support, adjustable height and tilt, layered body pillows, and bonded leather or fabric upholstery. Some of the best Serta chairs are the Big and Tall Executive Chair, Smart Layers Executive Chair, and MyFit Executive Chair.
Boss Office Products
Boss Office Products is a popular brand of ergonomic office chairs, established in 1990. Their chairs are known for their affordability, simplicity, and functionality, using basic yet effective designs and materials. The key features of Boss Office Products chairs include pneumatic seat height adjustment, tilt tension control, and passive ergonomic support. Some of the best Boss Office Products chairs are the B991-CP Heavy Duty Double Plush Executive Chair, B7601 Executive Chair, and B316-BY Perfect Posture Deluxe Office Task Chair.
Flash Furniture
Flash Furniture is a budget-friendly brand of ergonomic office chairs, founded in 2001. Their chairs are designed to offer basic ergonomic support and comfort, using durable and easy-to-clean materials. The key features of Flash Furniture chairs include adjustable seat height and tilt, lumbar support, and breathable mesh or leatherette upholstery. Some of the best Flash Furniture chairs are the Mid-Back Mesh Swivel Task Chair, High-Back Mesh Executive Swivel Chair, and HERCULES Series Big & Tall Executive Office Chair.
HON
HON is a reliable brand of ergonomic office chairs, founded in 1944. Their chairs are designed to meet the needs of different users and settings, using innovative and practical features and materials. The key features of HON chairs include synchro-tilt and posture lock, adjustable lumbar support, 4D armrests, and various upholstery options. Some of the best HON chairs are the Ignition 2.0, Nucleus, Endorse, and HVL844.
Eurotech Seating
Eurotech Seating is a specialized brand of ergonomic office chairs, founded in 1979. Their chairs are designed to combine style, comfort, and performance, using cutting-edge technologies and materials. The key features of Eurotech Seating chairs include synchronized tilt, adjustable lumbar support, waterfall seat edges, and breathable mesh or leather upholstery. Some of the best Eurotech Seating chairs are the Ergohuman, Vera, Lume, and iOO.
III. Conclusion
Choosing the right ergonomic office chair can make a big difference in your health, productivity, and overall satisfaction at work. By considering the top brands of ergonomic office chairs, their key features, and their best models, you can find a chair that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a Herman Miller Aeron or a Boss Office Products B316-BY, make sure to test the chair before buying it, and consult the manufacturer’s specifications and warranty. Investing in a good ergonomic chair can save you from the pain and cost of WMSDs, and improve your quality of life.