Most of us spend hours at a time seated in front of a computer. To ensure there’s minimal stress on your backs, legs, shoulders and arms, it’s essential to invest in an ergonomic office chair.
Flexible body architecture, adjustable backrests and seating and full mobility are key features that define a good computer chair.
Because not all body shapes and sizes are the same, there also isn’t just one ideal set of dimensions for an office chair. The best approach is to find a computer chair that can be adjusted to suit your shape and that fits snugly to the natural curves of your body.
All over adjustability
A good computer chair is fully adjustable. You should be able to adjust the height of the chair, the depth of the seating and the elevation of the armrests.
Ideally, your feet should be resting flat on the ground, and your arms and shoulders supported on armrests situated close to your body, and set at the same height as the desk.
A gap of approximately 8 to 10 centimetres between the seat and the back of your knees is optimal.
Optimal lumbar support
A good computer chair offers proper support for the lower back. The body architecture of the chair should be designed to replicate the natural curvature of the spine.
You should be able to adjust the backrest forwards or backwards to promote best posture. A well-supported spine equates to good blood circulation and less strain and fatigue.
Contoured seating
A good computer chair has sculptured waterfall seating. The slightly rounded and dropped edges of the seat automatically take pressure off the upper thighs.
This ensures that the edge of the seat doesn’t interfere with blood circulation or put unnecessary pressure on the muscles of the upper legs.
Flexibility
A good office chair moves effortlessly with your body. You should be able to recline and relax your back in one easy motion.
The chair should allow you to swivel from side to side when leaning across the desk to answer the phone, or pick up a document. You can enhance manoeuvrability by opting for a computer chair with a wheel base.
Padded upholstery
A good computer chair has padded upholstery that’s easy to clean. You’ll want to feel cool and comfortable in the summer, and snug and warm in the winter.
Leather, mesh and fabric are all comfortable upholstery solutions but they do have distinct pros and cons. A general rule is to choose upholstery that offers a bit of extra padding. This translates to extra comfort, given long hours spent in front of your computer.
Warranty
A good computer chair is always sold with a warranty. This shows that the manufacturer is confident about the quality, durability and longevity of the chair.
If anything goes wrong before the warranty period has elapsed, you’ll have a written guarantee that any repairs or a replacement will be covered.
At K-Mark, we specialise in manufacturing high quality, ergonomic computer chairs, all available with long warranties.
