Despite the variety of office chairs, most of them are still made for people of average size and weight. If you fall in the big and tall category, the search for a quality, comfortable chair can be a little more difficult.
That’s why we have compiled a list of six chairs that can accommodate the needs of larger users without sacrificing any benefits. Below, check out the best ergonomic office chairs for heavy people and find out which one is right for you.
Herman Miller Aeron Ergonomic Chair, Size C – Best Overall
Pros:
- Highly breathable, supportive mesh
- PostureFit technology
- Forward seat tilt
- Adjustable tension
- Adjustable armrests
- Supports 350 pounds
- Made of 39% recycled material, 91% recyclable
- 12-year warranty
Cons:
- Very expensive
- No seat depth adjustment
- No back height adjustment
- No width adjustment on armrests
Most people who have searched for quality office chairs have probably encountered the Herman Miller Aeron Chair.
The Size C version is specifically designed for heavier users with a weight capacity of 350 pounds. It features a high-quality build that is durable and fits together without any wiggles or squeaks.
Both the seat and back are made out of breathable, 8Z Pellicle mesh, which many people love. However, some users find the mesh seat to be less comfortable than a traditional fabric-covered cushion. The seat is designed with side bolsters that give you a sensation of sitting “in” the seat instead of on it. For some people, this feature may limit their range of motion.
The backrest features PostureFit technology that consists of two adjustable pads in the lumbar and sacrum region. Users have found that it provides very good support.
The 3D-adjustable armrests can move up and down, forward and back, and they also pivot. They are well padded and very comfortable. However, they aren’t adjustable in width, which could be an issue for very large users.
A key feature on the Aeron is the forward tilt function that allows people to tip forward when typing.
In an effort to be eco-friendly, the Aeron is made out from 39% recycled material, and it is 91% recyclable. It is Greenguard Gold Certified and has minimal offgassing.
The Aeron comes with a 30-day, free return policy and a 12-year warranty that covers all the parts. If you have problems with the chair, Herman Miller can send technicians to your house to help you.
Duramont Ergonomic Office Chair – Best Value
Pros:
- Holds 330 pounds
- Adjustable headrest
- Adjustable lumbar system
- Adjustable armrests
- Adjustable backrest
- Adjustable tilt tension
- Breathable mesh
- High-density foam seat
- Easy assembly
- 5-year warranty
- Roller-blade casters
Cons:
- Only reclines to 120 degrees
- Armrests can’t adjust four ways
The Duramont Ergonomic Office Chair is a solid chair with plenty of adjustability for under $400. It can hold people up to 330 pounds and features a sturdy, aluminum base with rollerblade casters that work equally well on both carpet and hardwood.
The seat cushion is critical to your comfort, and the Duramont’s is made of a medium-firm, high-density foam that will hold up to long hours of use without going flat. Unfortunately, the seat depth is not adjustable, but most chairs in this price range don’t offer that.
The mesh backrest reclines up to 120 degrees and can lock into position at 90, 100, and 120 degrees. You can also adjust the tilt tension to rock back and forth.
The cool, breathable mesh makes the workday much more pleasant for those who tend to overheat. It flexes with your movements for natural support and is easy to clean.
There is a multi-way lumbar support system that can be moved up and down and in and out to give your lower back the perfect amount of support. This is one of the best features of the chair, especially at this price point.
The armrests are covered in smooth PU leather and adjust for height and width. Some users prefer ones with more movement capability, but this comes down to personal preference.
To assemble the chair, you’ll need 20-30 minutes. The instruction guide contains easy-to-read instructions and diagrams and only has eight steps.
Duramont offers a generous 5-year warranty on the chair and a 90-day, 100% money-back guarantee.
Furmax High-Back Gaming Office Chair – Budget Pick
Pros:
- Large backrest accommodates wide users
- Supports 300 pounds
- Excellent lumbar support
- Reclining backrest to 150 degrees
- Rocking function
- Very affordable
Cons:
- Armrests aren’t adjustable
- Lower weight capacity
- Seat may be too narrow for some users
For less than $100, you can get an ergonomic gaming chair that holds people up to 300 pounds. This gaming chair comes in black, so it easily fits into a professional environment. Although it doesn’t have the weight capacity of the other chairs on this list, it is an incredible value for the price.
The Furmax gaming chair reclines back to 150 degrees, which is further than most traditional office chairs. It also can rock back to 25 degrees. The backrest is almost 22 inches wide and easily accommodates big and tall users.
The adjustable lumbar cushion provides strong support that some users found to be very effective in reducing back pain. Others thought it was a bit too firm.
The thick seat cushion is made of integrated, molded foam that is wrapped in premium PU leather. People found it to be comfortable even after a full day’s work. However, the seat is more narrow than our other picks and may not be suitable for people with very wide hips.
Assembly is straightforward and takes around 20 minutes for handy people, longer for first-timers.
The chair comes with a 30-day, money-back return policy. For warranty information, customers must contact Furmax directly.
Steelcase Leap Plus – Premium Pick
Pros:
- Exceptionally comfortable
- LiveBack technology
- Good for people with back discomfort
- Adjustable seat depth
- Adjustable upper back tension
- Adjustable lower back support
- Tilt lock
- Classy style
- Supports up to 500 pounds
- Lifetime warranty
- Indoor Advantage certification
- 98% recyclable, made with 30% recycled materials
Cons:
- Very expensive
- No back height adjustment
- No forward seat tilt
If you want to invest in a top office chair that is truly designed for large users, the Steelcase Leap Plus could be the one for you. Based on the original Steelcase Leap, the Leap Plus has a wider seat, back, and higher. It comes in at just under $1,900.
The chair itself weighs almost 60 pounds, but it can support up to 500 pounds. It solves common problems like broken chair backs and malfunctioning lifts. Instead of repeatedly buying less expensive chairs, some people prefer to invest in a high-quality one that will last longer.
The backrest features Steelcase’s LiveBack technology, which enables the back to move with you. It is 20 inches wide, and there are slats in the back for extra breathability. You can tilt back and lock it in position. The upper and lower back has separate controls to adjust the tension and support.
The seat depth is adjustable, and the seat itself features a durable, high-density foam. It is a generous 22.75 inches wide. The added space gives the chair an unmistakable “big” feel when users sit in it.
Users enjoy the 4-D armrests that can be moved to the ideal angle, height and width..
For those concerned about the environment, the Leap Plus is made with 30% recycled materials and is 98% recyclable. It also has minimal offgassing and received the Indoor Advantage certification.
Steelcase offers a lifetime warranty for the Leap Plus, as well as customer support that is just a phone call away. They ship out replacement parts for free when needed.
HON Wave Mesh Big and Tall Executive Chair – Best Executive Alternative
Pros:
- Classy, executive look
- Holds 450 pounds
- Very comfortable
- Adjustable armrests
- Adjustable recline
- Adjustable lumbar support
- 5-year warranty.
Cons:
- Cheap coasters
- Armrests tend to wear out
The HON Wave Big and Tall Executive Chair is a modified version of the classic executive style and features a high weight capacity of 450 pounds, adjustable lumbar support, and 5-year warranty.
The seat cushion is 19 inches deep and a generous 3.5 inches thick and is made of supportive foam that maintains its shape even after long hours of use. It is covered in a very comfortable mesh fabric that promotes air flow.
This chair has a knee tilt mechanism that allows users to recline back and adjust the tilt tension.
The adjustable lumbar support can be moved up and down up to 6 inches. It is pronounced, but not to the point of being overbearing for most users.
The armrests can be adjusted for height and width, but some people found that their outer surfaces wore out prematurely.
Bigroof Big and Tall Office Chair – Best Massaging Chair
Pros:
- Supports 400 pounds
- Adjustable lumbar support
- Massaging function
- Extra-thick, 6-inch cushion
- Mesh backrest
- Adjustable backrest
- Rocking mechanism
- Reclines back to 120 degrees
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- Armrests only adjust in height
The Bigroof Big and Tall Office Chair is on the lower end of the price spectrum, but it packs in a lot of noteworthy features.
The mesh backrest is breathable and reclines back to 120 degrees. It features a USB-powered massage function to relax any tension in your lower back. A noteworthy feature is the ability to move the backrest up and down to best fit your spine.
The seat cushion is a whopping 6 inches thick to support even the heaviest users, and it is 23 inches wide for ease of movement. The seat depth is almost 22 inches. Users with extra-wide hips found the seat to be roomy and extremely comfortable.
The armrests only move up and down, which some people may not like. But for this price, the chair packs a lot of value.
Assembly takes about 20 minutes, depending on your handyman skills. Some people needed a second set of hands to put the pieces together.
Although no warranty information is listed, the company does state they have a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.
Conclusion
Although being on the big and tall side presents its own challenges when looking for a quality office chair, there are options that fit any budget. If you are looking to invest in a chair that will last for years, the Herman Miller Aeron and the Steelcase Leap Plus are great products.
For those on a budget, the Furmax Gaming Chair offers incredible value and features for under $100.
For those who are in the middle of the financial spectrum, there are several chairs that provide comfort and durability. Now, you have a place to start when looking for the best ergonomic office chairs for heavy people.