Across the country, people work from home now more than ever. Switching office work for either 100% remote work or a hybrid model where you're at home some of the time requires a good home office setup. And if you're noticing lower back or spine pain, now is the perfect time to consider making some upgrades. One improvement you definitely won't regret: a stylish desk chair.
Sitting in the same position for hours can put a lot of strain on your body—and a not-so-temporary work space like the couch isn't exactly helping. "Working from home definitely took a big toll on people's spines and backs," says Natalia Ruiz, a senior physical therapist at NYU Langone Health who is also certified in office ergonomics. In fact, a 2020 study published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that over 70% of participants who were working from home complained of pain, particularly at the low back and neck. And minor aches aren't the only concern: "In the long term, people can develop more severe issues like degenerative disc disease, permanent posture issues, chronic lower back pain, and muscle atrophy," Natalia says.
The good news: ergonomic chairs can help! In general, they are designed to support the human body and promote good posture, but Natalia recommends looking for a few specific features. The first is adjustability, since the proper height of a chair as well as any back and armrests won't be the same for everyone. (According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, your chair is properly adjusted if your feet rest flat on the floor, your torso is vertical or slightly reclined, and your forearms are at a 90 to 100 degree angle with your upper arms.) Natalia also suggests looking for a chair with mesh fabric, a soft seat pad, a tilt mechanism, and a lumbar support.
If you're ready to purchase one, this guide includes some of the best, most stylish ergonomic chairs on the market.
This Amazon Basics chair is a bestseller for good reason. Not only does it have a chic soft leather look, but it also features super-comfortable padding, as well as height adjustment, a tilt-tension knob, and smooth rolling casters for easy mobility. Plus, 28,000+ reviewers agree!
This affordable task chair has a contoured mesh back, adjustable seat height, tilt controls, and 360-degree swivel. Add a pop of color to your desk with the pink version, or go the neutral route with light gray or black. It's a great bargain for a lot of functionality!
You've probably never seen a gaming chair in pink before! It's a great option if you share your home office with any teens who like to game—think of it as sneaking them something healthy. The chair's design helps to correct poor posture over time by supporting all three of the regions that make up the spinal column. The best part: It comes with a footrest!
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4
Most Adjustable
Modway Articulate Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair in Red
4
Most Adjustable
Modway Articulate Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair in Red
This ergonomic chair comes in six distinct colors, so you can have your pick to match your current decor! The Modway is built with a breathable, supportive mesh fabric. Its triple adjustability allows you to personalize the seat height, chair height, and tilt angle.
If you're looking for a simple, modern chair, check out this faux leather option. Though it doesn't ergonomic arm rests, it does save on space if you have a small room or nook to work in. It also has the necessary height adjustment, swivel capability, and a curved cushioned seat and back.
Many of the most sophisticated ergonomic chairs retail for over $1000. The HON chair is unique in that it's under $500 but doesn't sacrifice critical ergonomic features: seat-depth adjustment, tilt tension, tilt lock, seat height, and height-adjustable arms. Its smooth black design also makes it a sleek option that's not too obtrusive.
Neo Chair is known for its affordable desk and gaming chairs. This new model is adjustable and has ergonomic features like a curved back made of breathable mesh for lumbar support and a cushioned seat.
This compact gray task chair would look great in just about any home office setup. You can adjust the height of the seat, which also has a rocking mode for added ease. With lumbar support and breathable seat fabric, you'll be comfortable and cool as you work.
Many quality office chairs have adjustable seats and armrests, but this chair goes a step further: You can also raise or lower the lumbar support. The modern white frame and chic fabric colors are added bonuses.
With an on-trend mid-century aesthetic, this office chair would add some sophistication to your work nook. In addition to the sleek look, it has ergonomic features like an adjustable seat height, 360-degree swivel, and a padded seat. It also comes in nine gorgeous colors.
This highly-rated chair sports many of the ergonomic features Natalia mentioned: high adjustability, lumbar support, and a tilt mechanism. If rose gold accents aren't your thing, it comes in gold, chrome, and black with seat option in white, black, and grey.
Branch is all about home office furniture that's comfy and stylish but won't break the bank, and their best-selling task chair is no exception. It has a bunch of ergonomic features, including a curved lumbar rest for lower back support, a comfortable nylon seat cushion, and padded, adjustable armrests to help with posture. The frame can be paired with four cool fabric colors: sky blue, linden green, slate gray, and black.
Wait, the company known for comfy beds makes office chairs? Yes! This upholstered chair has extra cushy padding, lumbar support, tilt lock, and swivel functionality. We love that the armrests are padded, too!
With an eye-catching silhouette, stylish colorways, and adjustable features, you can't go wrong with this ergonomic chair. It has adjustable height, armrests, back tilt and tension for a ton of customization. Plus, the mesh back and seat are comfortable and breathable. It's also made from recyclable materials!
In addition to high adjustability and a headrest, this attractive executive chair has a backrest that's designed to bend and move with you throughout the day for spine support. Choose from cloth, tweed, and flannel fabric designs.