As the corporate world changes rapidly and becomes more competitive, every company, irrespective of its industrial background, wants 100% effort and dedication from its employees.
So, for long working hours, finding the best chair is important to secure a comfortable working condition for employees. Here, we explore 5 factors to consider when identifying a top-rated ergonomic office chair.
Ergonomic chairs are mostly office chairs, designed with human posture. Going beyond mere aesthetics, designers focus on providing comfort and optimal support. These chairs reduce risks regarding musculoskeletal disorders by securing a healthy posture.
Meticulously engineered to maintain a reliable and natural human body curve, these chairs allow long-term comfort for longer hours. But what should you look for while identifying a top-rated ergonomic office chair? What should be your priority when selecting an office chair in SG (Singapore)? Let’s find it here.
Adjustable Lumbar Support
Check the lower back or lumbar support, as it prevents slouching.
Remember, a top-rated ergonomic office chair offers a proper backrest with a curve, fitting the spine’s natural S-shape.
Key Features to Check
- Height adjustment, allowing users to move the lumber pad to match the curve of the lower back.
- Pressure adjustments through dials or knobs, to customise the pressure level.
- Controls the gap between the lumber spine and chair.
Benefits and Usage
- Proper support, developed by adjustable and lumber support, reduces muscle fatigue in the lower back.
- The improved posture offered by the office chair in SG encourages an aligned posture, keeping shoulders and hips aligned.
- Personalised fit, more effective than non-adjustable or fixed supports.
- The support fills the curve of your lower back, above the belt line.
- The support should fill the curve of your lower back, usually just above the belt line.
Seat Height and Depth Customization
A reliable ergonomic office chair is expected to adapt to body proportions to ensure proper circulation and muscle relaxation. So, how do the seat height and depth customisation work?
Seat Height Customization
- 16 to 21 inches is the ideal range to accommodate users, and when seated, check whether your feet rest flat on the floor and your knees are parallel to the ground or not.
- Check the pneumatic lever to lower or raise the seat. Using a footrest can be beneficial if the chair is too low.
- For petite users, it requires lowering seat heights typically 15-17 inches, while for tall users, it needs up to 22-23 inches.
Seat Depth Customization
- The distance from the backrest to the front edge of the seat is typically the depth.
- Check the range, as the target seat is 16-18 inches, while adjustable seats mostly range from 14-22 inches.
- You can check for a seat slider, allowing the seat pan to move backward or forward.
High-Quality Material and Breathability
Since comfort is the fundamental goal for office chairs, check the materials and their quality and breathability. Materials directly impact both the lifespan and comfort of an office chair in SG.
Mesh
Breathable, high-quality ergonomic chairs feature high-tensile, premium mesh, such as TPEE, elastomeric or nylon, ensuring heat regulation and maximum airflow. Better to look for a high-grade elastomeric mesh chair, as they do not sag over time.
Steel or Aluminium Frames
These frames ensure longevity, durability and stability, developing a supportive ergonomic structure.
Aniline Leather
Look for the leather quality. Find a premium and durable option, offering better breathability compared to standard PU leather.
Padding
Moulded or high-density seat foam, securing a durable support with comfort without being flattened over time.
Adjustable Armrests (3D or 4D)
Armrests in top-rated ergonomic office chairs are expected reduce the shoulder and neck strain, which is a common issue among corporate employees. So how do the 3D and 4D armrests work?
3D Armrests
Check the adjustability, including inward or outward rotating, up and down (height) and forward and backward (depth). Make sure that the chair allows moving close to the desk, not compromising wrist or shoulder support.
4D Armrests
Including all the 3D features, check horizontal width adjustment, since the pivot function is beneficial in angling inward to support forearms when typing.
Best for specialised roles like programmers or wide shoulder users, looking for precise positioning.
Ergonomic Benefits
- Efficiently reduces the strain of the trapezius muscles in the shoulders and neck.
- Secures a relaxed and neutral posture during long office work.
- The adjustability prevents wrist extension, which is a key risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Recline and Tilt Mechanisms
During the peak hours, a reliable and functional chair allows you to shift positions to reduce constant strain on the spine.
What to Look For
Check for an office chair in SG with reclining mechanisms. Make sure the chair has a tilt lock, allowing it to secure the backrest.
Check that the chair is adjustable to the tension, so that you do not feel any unwanted force to the front or feel loose when you’re reclined.
Benefits of Proper Recline Mechanism
- Improve spinal health by reducing pressure on spinal discs and maintaining proper lumbar lordosis.
- Reduce leg strains by securing effective blood circulation under the thighs.
- Encouraging body movement throughout the day, instead of a rigid and static posture.
A Quick Checklist for Reliability
- Check for a 5-star base, as the stability of a top-rated ergonomic office chair is ensured through it.
- Do not forget to check the warranty. High-quality chairs often offer a 3-10 years (in some cases 3-12 years) warranty.
- Check for TUV or BIFMA certifications, indicating chairs with credible durability and safety.
Final Thoughts
So, whenever you look for a reliable ergonomic chair, do not compromise on comfort and durability. Check materials and seat depth and height, securing your comfort during work with breathability. Check for adjustable lumber support as well, and a tilt mechanism with durable options. However, check chair brands with reliable brand reviews to find the best one. Don’t forget to check the pricing transparency to find the most convenient one within your budget.
Are you looking for a reliable, top-rated ergonomic office chair in Singapore?
Not sure about the quality and durability? Check the best brand near you and get the most efficient and durable office chair, securing comfort and peace.
