Chairs, Ergonomics
How to Choose a High Back Office Chair and Other Features to Consider
There are so many factors to consider when selecting the perfect office chair that it can be difficult knowing where to start. The good news is we’ve compiled a list of resources to help guide you through this process – check out our blog to find out everything you need to know about ergonomic office chairs, setting up a home office geared for success, productivity hacks, and so much more.
Let’s talk backrests – why are they important?
The right office chair can help to decrease discomfort experienced while working – improving productivity and reducing potential health risks. When selecting a new office chair, or any piece of office furniture for that matter, it’s important to look at every feature and function to ensure that it’s the right fit for you. Although overlooked at times, the backrest of your future office chair deserves careful contemplation as different types of backrests offer different kinds of support.
Mid back, high back or extra high back?
The general rules of thumb are as follows:
- Mid back chairs provide support below the shoulder blades with emphasis on the lumbar region
- High back chairs help to provide support up to the shoulder blades
- Extra high back chairs can provide upper back support and may offer a headrest for head support, too.
So when determining the right backrest for your needs, always consider whether there is a certain area of your body which requires additional support. For example, medium back chairs are often useful for reducing lower back pain while high back chairs can help reduce shoulder pain.
Ready to start browsing? Take a look at our range of high back office chairs.
What other features are worth exploring when choosing a new office chair?
Adjustable backrests
Whether you prefer a mid, high or extra high back rest, we would suggest looking out for chairs with adjustable backrests if you want to be extra sure you are seated in the optimal position for your body. Adjustable backrests allow you to move the seat backwards and forwards to ensure the backrest is well positioned for your height and shape – as no two bodies are totally alike.
TOP PICK: Merryfair Wau Ergonomic Chair with height adjustable headrest and adjustable backrest for height and lumbar depth
Adjustable lumbar support
Ideally, you want to select a chair with a backrest that suits the shape of your body and offers lumbar support that mirrors your spine’s natural curve and keeps you in an upright seating position. Chairs with adjustable lumbar support allow you to adjust the support to the correct height and depth for your body while seated, in order to provide additional comfort and support.
TOP PICK: Merryfair Flux Ergonomic Chair with synchro mechanism, adjustable lumbar support and height adjustable headrest
Synchro mechanism
Chairs with a synchro mechanism may be best suited for users with back conditions or chronic back pain. With a synchro mechanism, you can adjust the angle of the seat and the backrest separately from another – allowing for an infinite number of angle combinations.
TOP PICK: Leaf Chair with synchro mechanism sliding seat and padded back support