Working professionals with desk jobs spend an awful amount of time sitting in a chair. No matter if you work at a conventional office or home office, the right office chair is crucial to your productivity and comfort. An improper chair can lead to back pain and other health concerns, while the apt chair will help you stay focused and content throughout the day.

Choosing an office chair is a significant decision as it impacts your overall productivity and affects your daily well-being. With so many office chairs to choose from, it might feel daunting to make a decision. Fortunately, this guide will make it easier for you.

What features to look for in an office chair?

• Height adjustability 

The height of your office chair must be adjustable so that you can adjust it to your height. For optimum comfort, your thighs must be horizontal to the floor when you’re seated. Most chairs come with a pneumatic adjustment level that helps the seat be higher or lower.

• Adjustable backrests 

An adjustable backrest ensures that you can position your chair according to your task. You must be able to move the backrest backward or forward for your comfort. It is also desirable to get office chairs in Kolkata that comes with a locking mechanism. So, the backrest will be held in its place, and there won’t be any sudden movements. If the backrest is separate from the chair, opt for one whose height can be adjusted.

• Lumbar support 

A contoured backrest will give the support and comfort your back needs. Choose an office chair designed to match the contour of your spine so that you get good lumbar support. Your lower back must be supported so that it is arched slightly, which will prevent you from slumping as the day progresses. Office chairs offering good lumbar support are essential for minimizing compression or strain on the lumbar discs in the spine.

• Sufficient seat width and depth 

The seat of your office chair must be deep and wide enough to let you sit comfortably. Typically, you must be able to sit with your back against the backrest, and between the seat of the chair and the back of your knees, there should be two to four inches. If you are taller, the seat must be deeper. If you’re not very tall, the seat must be shallower. Also, it would be great if you can adjust the seat backward or forward according to how you choose to sit.

• Look for sufficient padding and breathable material

Office chairs are meant to offer comfort for extended periods. So, look for materials that allow your body to breathe. Fabric is a good option. Furthermore, the padding must be comfortable to sit on, and it shouldn’t be too hard or too soft. No matter if you’re getting executive medium back chairs or low chairs, the seating must be adequate and comfy.

• Armrests 

To take the strain off your shoulders and neck, pick an office chair with armrests. It is best to adjust the armrests so that whoever is sitting on the chair can adjust and position the armrest accordingly.

• User-friendly adjustment controls

 Getting office chairs with adjustable features is not enough. Ensure the adjustment controls can be reached from a seated position. It would help if you didn’t have to strain to reach them. You must be able to go lower or higher, tilt or swivel without getting up from your position.

• Look for swivel and casters 

The usefulness of office chairs increases when they allow you to move around in them. You can look for chairs that can be rotated easily so that different spots in your workplace can be reached easily. Casters offer mobility but ensure to get the ideal ones for your floor. Chairs with casters are ideally designed for different floor surfaces like carpet or hard surfaces. The swivel feature will maximize your efficiency, whether you are getting a low back chair or a high back chair.

Popular office chair options 

• Ergonomic chairs – Complete with various adjustments, ergonomic chairs are designed to support individuals’ unique needs fully. Some of the adjustments include knee tilt, seat depth, lumbar support, and back height.
• Conference chairs – Designed to be a bit forward-leaning, conference chairs allow people to engage in discussions and meetings. These seating have minimal adjustments because they’re not intended for seating for long periods.
• Accent and reception chairs – Not all chairs in the office are intended to be used constantly by the staff. A set of reception chairs are set visitors at ease, and accent chairs can impress clients. They’re ideal for small meetings. They offer the right blend of comfort and professionalism. These chairs can be used to add aesthetic appeal, along with comfortable seating.
• Drafting stools and chairs – Drafting chairs are designed to be paired with standing height desks, drafting tables, and counter-height meeting tables. Many of them even feature a foot ring to support the feet of the users. Moreover, the height can be adjusted.
• Executive chairs – Executive high back chairs are designed to look impressive. They come with ample cushion.
• Computer chairs – Also known as task chairs, computer chairs are specifically designed to be paired with either a computer or a laptop desk. These chairs feature ergonomic adjustments and are meant for seating for longer periods. The adjustments allow users to customize the chair according to their comfort needs. Most of them come with rolling casters to make sure smooth movement.

The right office chair can make a huge difference to your productivity and health. Ensure the chairs in your office or home office are comfortable and offer back support. Without the right office chair, you’ll complain of backache, headache, and other health issues. Your work will be hampered, and you may have to take a lot of sick leaves.