It’s been said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But when some beholders agree that ergonomic chairs are ugly, perhaps it’s time to take another look and see for ourselves.
Ergonomic chairs can seem like overstuffed monstrosities with their excessive cushions, headrests, and multiple levers.
Add in designs that were meant for comfort rather than sleekness, and you have the opposite of the contemporary, minimalist design many people want. Gaming chairs are major culprits in this area despite their plush offerings.
Is there a reason? Why do some ergonomic chairs look unappealing? Are there any stylish models?
We will answer all those questions below by looking at the purpose of ergonomic chairs, different types, and some stylish options that still offer the comfort you need.
What is the purpose of ergonomic chairs?
Ergonomic chairs are made to promote healthy posture and reduce discomfort while working. Essentially, they must be supportive and conform to each user’s body.
That means there are certain adjustable features found in ergonomic chairs:
- Height
- Recline/Tilt
- Headrest (if included)
- Seat depth (on more expensive chairs)
- Lumbar support (unless it’s built-in)
- Armrests
The ability to customize the chair to your body is what sets ergonomic chairs apart and may improve your experience of work.
A chair that supports the lower back and natural curvature of the spine promotes healthy posture. This in turn may reduce muscle tension and strain in the neck and lower back.
It can also increase comfort for people with pre-existing physical issues.
Why are ergonomic chairs ugly?
In an effort to provide abundant comfort, a streamlined appearance can be deemed a minor factor.
Therefore, bulging lumbar pillows, angular shapes, and unsightly levers are considered normal and acceptable. Sometimes, the overall shape can seem awkward due to the design.
What are the different types of ergonomic chairs?
In recent years, the ergonomic chair market has exploded to the point where there is a bewildering amount of options. Below, we will separate them into four basic categories according to price and features.
Inexpensive ergonomic office chairs (under $300)
Affordable ergonomic chairs under $300 encompass many different models, but most have some of the same features.
- Limited adjustable armrests – many can only be adjusted in height
- Less comfortable than pricier chairs
- Less durability
- Shorter warranty – many are 1 to 3 years
This is a popular category for many people on a budget who still want a healthier chair option.
Standard tilt task chairs ($300-$600)
Standard tilt task chairs in the $300-$600 range are considered the middle of the road in regards to quality and cost. For many, this is a good option that offers the necessary comfort benefits and impressive value for the price.
- Standard tilt – the seat remains stationary when you lean back
- Conventional mesh backrests instead of high-tech, adaptive mesh
- Adjustable lumbar support
- Decent warranty length – 3 to 5 years
Chairs in this category have many of the features of expensive models but at a fraction of the price. People that can’t afford Herman Miller chairs can often find a quality alternative.
PC gaming chairs ($100-$600)
Gaming chairs, which are designed after racing seats, have a very distinctive style. Although they are not like the typical office chair, they do offer many ergonomic benefits and have become popular for home offices. Here are some of their defining features.
- Seat that hugs the body
- PU leather upholstery
- Headrest pillow
- Lumbar pillow
- Thick seat cushions
- Reclines to 180 degrees
- Retractable footrest (on some models)
- Adjustable armrests – from 1-D to 4-D
- Offered in a variety of color schemes
- Varying warranties – 1 to 5 years
- Affordable
These chairs offer a lot of comfort and the ability to fully recline and stretch out. People working from home have found them to be ideal for long hours. Some models come in black for a slightly more understated, professional look.
Sync-tilt task chairs ($600-$1,500)
Sync-tilt task chairs are at the top of the price and quality spectrum. They use exceptional materials, innovative designs, and offer the best comfort and support.
- Synchronous tilt – the seat tilts up as you recline back
- Adaptive backrest – the back and lumbar support naturally flexes with your movement
- Very durable
- Long warranty – they range from 5 to 12 years
High-end chairs from top companies like Herman Miller and Steelcase use cutting-edge science, technology and materials in their products.
Because of their formidable price, buyers look at them as a health and work investment that will pay off for a long time. There are also used options available that are less expensive.
Can ergonomic chairs be stylish?
Yes! Good news! The growth in ergonomic chairs has also inspired designs that easily fit into a modern setting without sacrificing the comfort and support you need.
Some models employ adaptive materials that move with you and don’t need to be manually adjusted. Others have fewer adjustable features but still provide good spinal support for healthy posture. High-tech mesh can replace bulky, foam cushions.
Below are several chairs that maintain a sleek profile while still offering ergonomic benefits.
Herman Miller Aeron
Known as the “Rolls-Royce of office chairs,” the Aeron incorporates advanced technology in its mesh for even pressure distribution, improved circulation and unparalleled support.
The back has an adjustable central spine and flexible ribs that flex to conform to each user’s body. It also has a PostureFit SL Lumbar Support composed of two pads that can be individually adjusted.
Herman Miller Sayl
The Sayl is a modern, airy-looking chair with a frameless back that flexes with the user and a foam seat that contours to the body.
Its use of advanced, 3D intelligent suspension technology provides natural support without the need for manual controls.
That being said, the Sayl does have an impressive amount of adjustability within its sleek design. The seat depth and armrests can both be customized to your needs.
Steelcase Leap
The Steelcase Leap has a live lumbar technology that flexes with your movements to ensure all-day comfort.
It features fabric-covered cushions and eight adjustable areas with intuitive controls. Although it lacks the ultra-modern design of some of the others on this list, it still has a classic, streamlined appearance.
Humanscale Diffrient World Office Task Chair
This mesh chair features a weight-sensitive recline mechanism that automatically adjusts when the user leans back.
The tri-panel mesh provides excellent lumbar support without the need for an external system. The seat depth is adjustable, and the elasticity in the mesh provides a soft, springy experience.
SOHO Ribbed Management Office Chair
Fans of the mid-century modern look will love the sleek design of the SOHO Management Chair. It is sleek and comes in a variety of colors.
It doesn’t have all of the adjustable features of other chairs, but its ergonomically-shaped back provides good lumbar support. It also tilts and has removable armrests.
Final Thoughts
For many people, “ergonomic” may mean comfortable, but it doesn’t necessarily mean pretty. In many cases, aesthetics are willingly sacrificed for one’s comfort and health. However, today’s professional world demands both.
If you’re looking for an ergonomic chair that can seamlessly fit into a stylish environment, it’s important to know what features are necessary. Adjustability and comfort are the priorities in ergonomics, and your chair must accommodate your particular needs.
In regards to style, we have shown that looks don’t have to be dismissed when shopping for a comfortable office chair. The list above is just the beginning of available models that use a minimal design to achieve the maximum results.