Resource guide

Chair Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Office Chair

Choosing an office chair online is easier when you start with fit, not features. Use these five steps to compare chair dimensions, adjustments and materials before you order.

The best chair is one that fits your body, your desk and the way you work.

Step 1:

Start with how you will use the chair

First, consider where the chair will be used and how long you expect to sit.

Everyday desk work: Prioritize adjustability, seat fit and comfortable movement.
Shared workstation: Look for a broad adjustment range and controls that are easy to reset.
24/7 or multiple-shift use: Choose a chair specifically rated for intensive use.
Elevated work surface: Confirm the cylinder height and plan for a footring or footrest.

Step 2:

Take three measurements

Sit on a firm, armless chair with your feet flat and your usual work shoes on. Then measure:

Lower-leg height: Floor to the crease behind your knee. Use this to compare seat-height ranges.
Upper-leg length: Back of your buttocks to the crease behind your knee. Use this to compare seat depth.
Seated hip width: Across the widest part of your hips or thighs. Use this to compare usable seat width.

Do not shop by height alone. People of the same height can have very different proportions!

Step 3:

Match your measurements to the chair

Once you have your measurements, you'll want to compare them to the specifications of the chair you are looking at. On each product page, you'll be able to see a table with the complete dimensions for each chair model. You'll want to compare the following:

1. Seat height

The published range should include your lower-leg measurement. Your feet should be supported and the seat edge should not press into the underside of your thighs.

2. Seat depth

The seat should support most of your thighs without pressing behind your knees. Aim for approximately 1–2 inches of clearance. Adjustable seat depth provides more room to fine-tune the fit after delivery.

3. Seat width

Compare your hip measurement with the chair's usable seat width, not its overall width. Leave enough room to sit and shift position comfortably.

4. Backrest Size

A mid-back chair allows more upper-body freedom. A high-back chair provides more upper-back contact and may suit longer sitting or frequent reclining.

Step 4:

Choose adjustments and add-ons

Beyond the basic chair measurements, you'll also want to see if there are other chair features, adjustments, or addons that would allow you for a more comfortable setup.

For example:

Recline or tilt: Allows you to change position instead of holding one posture all day.
Seat depth: A seat slider which allows you to move the seat forward and backwards to find the perfect
Lumbar support: Fixed support may be enough when it fits well; adjustable height or depth allows more precise placement.
Adjustable arms: Should support relaxed forearms without raising your shoulders or blocking access to the desk.
Headrest: Most useful when reclining. It should support the head without pushing it forward.
Memory foam or upgraded cushioning: Changes the feel of the seat but does not replace correct sizing.

More adjustments are not automatically better. Prioritize the ones you will actually use.

Step 5:

Choose the right material

Compare materials on breathability, cleanability and durability as well as appearance.

Woven fabric: Comfortable and often breathable. Stain resistance and cleaning instructions vary by textile.
Mesh: Provides strong airflow. Support and long-term feel depend on the chair's construction.
Performance fabric: May provide enhanced stain, moisture or cleaning performance. Check the specifications for the exact textile.
Coated upholstery or urethane: Usually easier to wipe clean but less breathable. Verify compatibility with the cleaners used in your space.
Leather: Offers a premium, wipeable surface but requires appropriate care and provides less airflow.

A fabric grade generally indicates its pricing group, not necessarily its durability. Review the specifications and care instructions for the exact material.

Important things to consider before ordering

Weight capacity: Stay within the published rating. Capacity does not guarantee that the chair's dimensions will fit.
Cylinder: Confirm that the selected cylinder provides the seat-height range you need.
Base and casters: Choose casters suited to your flooring and a stable five-point base.
Desk clearance: Check the chair and armrest heights against the desk, drawers and keyboard tray.
Use rating and warranty: Confirm that both suit your expected schedule, especially for multiple-shift use.
Exact configuration: Options can change dimensions, lead times and return eligibility. Review the final specifications and policies before ordering.

Final online fit check

Before adding a chair to your cart, confirm:

I chose a chair made for my work setting and daily sitting time.
I selected all the add-ons I need.
I measured my lower-leg height, upper-leg length and seated hip width.
The material suits my airflow, cleaning and durability requirements.
The seat-height, depth and width ranges match those measurements.
I checked the cylinder, casters, capacity, warranty and ordering terms for my exact configuration.