What Are The Mistakes You Can Make When Buying a New Office Chair?

 

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As a company that has bought and sold tens of thousands of office chairs over the past seven and a half years, we've seen it all. While there are many factors to consider when purchasing an office chair, three common mistakes consistently stand out. Avoiding these can save you time, money, and back pain. The third one, in particular, is the most crucial.

1. Taking Recommendations from Friends and Family

One of the most common mistakes people make is taking recommendations from friends and family without considering their own unique needs. What works for one person may not work for another. People come in different shapes, sizes, and postures. For example, a chair that suits someone who is 5'10" may be entirely unsuitable for someone who is 6'5".

Additionally, individual needs vary based on factors like weight, height, and any specific ailments. A person who is athletic will have different requirements from someone who is not. Therefore, it's essential to recognize that recommendations should be tailored to the individual. A chair that fits one person perfectly may be uncomfortable or even harmful for another. This is why chairs like the Herman Miller Aeron Classic and Herman Miller Aeron Remastered offer multiple size options to accommodate different body types.

2. Not Considering How Long You'll Be Sitting

The amount of time you spend sitting in your chair is a critical factor. If you only sit for short periods—20 to 50 minutes—a basic chair might suffice. However, if you spend long hours—five to ten hours—in your chair, you need to invest in a high-quality, ergonomic chair.

Extended sitting sessions require better support to prevent discomfort and long-term health issues. A chair that is comfortable for short stints may not provide the necessary support for prolonged use. Therefore, consider your daily sitting time when selecting a chair to ensure it meets your needs.

3. Believing Popular Chairs Will Become Comfortable Over Time

This is the most significant mistake people make. Many believe that a popular chair, which might be uncomfortable at first, will become more comfortable over time. They convince themselves that they will adjust to the chair. However, this is rarely the case.

In reality, the initial comfort level you experience in the first 10 minutes is often the highest it will be. As time goes on, your comfort tends to decrease. Your body and mind start to fatigue, making the chair feel less comfortable. Therefore, if a chair doesn't feel right immediately, it's unlikely to get better with time. It's crucial to choose a chair that feels comfortable from the start. That's why the Herman Miller Mirra 2 and Steelcase Leap V2 can be good options as popular chairs with an affordable price tag, especially if you get them used or even better, renewed for a fraction of the price.

Conclusion

When buying an office chair, remember that personal comfort and support are paramount. Avoid relying solely on recommendations, consider how long you'll be sitting, and don't expect a chair to become more comfortable over time. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can find a chair that truly meets your needs and enhances your productivity and well-being.