How to choose the right computer chair for an adult or child

As search query statistics show, people have begun to buy furniture and all kinds of items for home comfort more often. Everything is clear here: you will have to stay at home for a long time.

Many have switched to remote work, although previously all they did at home was check email on a laptop and respond to very important messages in chats. Life has changed a little, let's be honest. You need to adapt to changes. How long you will have to forget about the office is unknown. It will be good if everything ends by autumn, but who knows.

Staying at home: what the Wylsa.com editorial jobs look like

Kostya Baranov

13 April 2020

We told you how the editorial office of the site works at home, we also published photographs of our readers’ workplaces and we plan to continue the column - you send a lot of photos of your workplaces. Today we will talk about one of the main components of any work setup - a chair.

I started looking for a chair because my back was starting to complain a little about my wooden chair that I bought many years ago. Yes, it was time to choose something else much earlier, but before my self-isolation (and I live in Belarus, there is no official quarantine here, life goes on as usual) I constantly ran somewhere for an hour or two days, thereby walking, accelerating blood and exchanging my not the most comfortable chair for exactly the same one, but in an establishment.

Now the day consists of constant sitting. I try to warm up, but it's not enough. Sometimes I move to the kitchen to change the environment, but even there the chair is not the most comfortable for working.

It was decided to choose a normal computer chair. As it turned out, this is not so easy to do: there are a lot of them, they cost differently, some look minimalistic, and some resemble instruments of torture. In general, an unskilled person will definitely get confused.

My updated workspace looks like this

I am not an expert and do not claim to be one. Rather, this is my personal experience that I want to share with you. First of all, I advise you to contact a vertebrologist (a doctor who treats the back and specializes in the diagnosis and prevention of spinal diseases - editor's note), get a consultation and find out what's wrong with your back, which chair is definitely not suitable for you, and which one is worth it note. If you have the opportunity to go somewhere and look at a chair before buying, do it, taking all precautions. I decided to order the chair with delivery, which is why I had to change it later, but more on that later.

Purpose

A computer chair is a special piece of furniture necessary to support the body in the correct position while working. It has a whole list of features that distinguish it from ordinary chairs:

1. Elastic soft seat.
2. Elastic high back of a concave shape for high-quality support of the spine.
3. Armrests.
4. Possibility of adjusting the position of the seat and backrest.
5. Ability to change height for optimal placement in front of the monitor.
6. Reliability of the supporting structure.
7. Wheels for easy movement around the room.
8. Covering made of high-quality materials that allow air to pass through.

Soft seat

Concave back

Armrests

Adjusting the height and position of the backrest

Reliability of the supporting structure

Availability of wheels

High-quality coating
A correctly selected computer chair has the following useful properties:

• prevention of intervertebral hernia, osteochondrosis;
• maintaining posture, correcting poor posture;
• elimination of back pain, neck stiffness;
• reducing fatigue, increasing labor efficiency, training.

It is necessary to choose a chair carefully, taking into account the time spent at the computer, the individual characteristics of the person, and the purpose of the models. Low-quality products are harmful to health, provoke curvature of the spine, and negatively affect the condition of the arteries, which subsequently leads to headaches and pressure surges.

Before choosing a computer chair, you need to identify for yourself the purpose and purpose of using the structures. There are several types of models:

1. For adults. When used at home, the design and dimensions of the products are of great importance. Sizes are selected individually to ensure a comfortable fit. The external design should fit organically into the interior of the room.
2. For a schoolboy. The products have a practical lightweight design and are designed for use from 5 to 13 years. Modern furniture provides for height adjustment of the seat and backrest. Orthopedic chairs for a student child are selected only if there are problems with the musculoskeletal system or vision.
3. For gamers. The main distinguishing features of the chair are structural strength, which is ensured by a metal frame, ergonomics, and many functions. The models are designed to relieve tension in the lower back, shoulders, and wrists, which quickly get tired due to monotonous body position.
4. For managers. A special type of furniture with a high level of comfort. In the manufacturing process of the chair, modern technologies, fashion trends, and presentable materials are used.
5. For workers. They are equipped with a spring-screw mechanism for reliable back support, a soft seat, a cross on wheels, and armrests. In a comfortable chair, office employees will be able to work for 8 hours without feeling fatigue or discomfort.

The orthopedic chair is ergonomic and allows you to adjust the seat height and backrest position to individual parameters. The cost of such models is quite high. If there are no problems with the spine, you should give preference to simple products.

For adults

For schoolchildren

For the gamer

For the manager

Orthopedic

Design

If a computer chair for home and office is intended for long-term work, you need to make sure that it is as comfortable and safe as possible. Manufacturers equip their products with anatomical seats, adjustable backrests, armrests, and footrests. The standard design is a chair on a stand with a five-beam cross. The product is capable of rotating around its axis and is complemented by armrests and rollers.

Seats should have a round shape and a smooth surface. It is desirable that the upholstery allows air and water to pass freely and does not emit toxic substances. Softness is provided by a thick layer of flooring materials and built-in springs. This is what ensures comfort during long-term use. Rigid products are made of elastic materials, without flooring. This option has serious disadvantages: the body quickly becomes numb, the person experiences severe discomfort, so it is not suitable for constant use.

The choice of a computer chair also depends on the features of the backrest. Using special adjusting screws, its parameters are changed. To set the optimal height, you need to sit in a chair, place your feet flat on the floor and feel good support for all the curves of your back. The depth depends on the person’s favorite pose. It is not recommended to lean back far, lean against the structure with force, or lean forward. You need to take the most comfortable position and adjust all the parameters to suit it.

A chair for working at a computer is equipped with a variety of mechanisms. One of them is a gas lift, which is necessary to change the height of the structure. The adjustment lever is located under the seat. The elastic corset back takes on an anatomical shape when exposed to load, relieves tension from the spine and sacral region. The lumbar roll helps relax the back muscles, maintaining its natural curve.

The presence of armrests provides reliable support when a person stands up or sits down. But while working, your hands should not rest on them, as this limits movement and quickly leads to fatigue. The brushes are placed on the table at a right angle, while moving they lightly touch the surface of the handles. Based on this rule, the optimal height for them is established. The stand is used in cases where it is impossible to place your feet flat on the floor.

Sizes come in a variety of sizes. Before choosing a chair for the sofa, you need to clearly understand how such a tandem will fit into the interior. Workspace is usually limited, so the use of furniture should bring comfort without interfering with free movement around the room. The short back reaches 60 cm, the high back reaches 90 cm. The width varies between 45–60 cm. The depth of gaming models can vary by 5–6 cm to ensure a tight fit.

The thickness of the seat usually does not exceed 5 cm, the width parameters will be the same as those of the backrest. The seat is located at a height of 45–55 cm from the floor.

In the interior

Regulatory mechanism

Armrests

Dimensions

No. 4. Chair seat

The seat, to the same extent as the backrest, is responsible for comfort, the health of the spine and blood flow. Its height is adjustable even in the simplest office chairs and allows you to adjust the model to a certain height of the workplace and the height of the person sitting. In more advanced models, you can also adjust the planting depth . We all differ in height, body proportions and build, but for comfortable sitting it is necessary that the back rests on the backrest, and the distance between the outer edge of the seat to the inner bend of the knee is equal to the width of the palm. If it is less, the person sitting will slide; if it is more, he will lean on his legs, which will lead to constant tension on them.

It is better if the seat is round or rounded, somewhat concave in the middle. The edge should be sealed and curved so that the blood vessels in the legs are not pinched and the blood flow in them is not disrupted.

According to the degree of seat rigidity, there are:

• hard. Not the most preferable option, they are made of dense flooring materials;
• semi-soft - a better option. The quality depends greatly on the type of filler;
• soft seats include a large layer of filler and the presence of a spring block.

Product materials

The most comfortable chair for the office and home should be reliable and stable. The frame is made of durable plastic or metal. Products made from lightweight, durable aluminum that last up to 100 years are common. Chrome is often used in other materials to enhance strength and aesthetics.

The seat and backrest can consist of a base and a cover; there are also models with filler. Most manufacturers use foam rubber and polyurethane foam to add softness. They take their original form a few seconds after the person gets up. High-quality materials last a long time and do not lose their original properties.

People who have to spend a long time in front of a monitor should choose a computer chair with massage zones. Multifunctional models provide warming, general and targeted effects. There are products supplemented with many modes necessary for therapy and relaxation.

The upholstery is made of natural and artificial leather, textiles, and mesh. Each material has special characteristics:

1. Genuine Leather. An expensive option with a luxurious appearance, softness depends on the quality of workmanship. It is characterized by high strength and resistance to external factors. Disadvantages include low breathability, high maintenance requirements, and high cost. The chair is suitable for a manager and will organically fit into a stylish home interior.
2. Faux leather. It is characterized by softness and durability, retaining its original appearance for a long time. You can choose a chair for a schoolchild or an adult, as well as for office employees.
3. Textile. The most popular synthetic fabrics are: microfiber, polyester, nylon. All of them allow air to pass freely and are characterized by strength and wear resistance. Suitable for children and adults.

Genuine Leather

Faux leather

Textile

Mesh
Modern mesh options are breathable and provide comfort in any weather. The models are suitable for the office; they are often used not only by employees, but also by the manager. The chair is suitable for a teenager, as well as an adult working at home. What is better - each user decides independently, based on personal preferences.

Computer chairs are equipped with lifting mechanisms. The piastra allows you to raise the seat; it is a small plate with a lever. Permanent contact is a spring-screw design that serves to adjust the seating depth, tilt angle and back height.

Gas lift is a special lifting mechanism that is equipped with all computer chairs. This device must not be disassembled. The integrity of the glass must not be damaged; it cannot be repaired. If there is a breakdown, you will have to replace the damaged element with a new one.

No. 2. Chair base

Office chairs can be divided into mobile and stationary models . It is easy to guess that the former can be easily moved using wheels, the latter stand firmly on legs or on a base.

According to the type of design, stationary chairs are:

• with a “conference base” - these are chairs on four separate support legs or on a rectangular spring-loaded frame;
• “swivel podium” chairs are a structure consisting of a base stand and a rotating seat;
• “stationary pedestal” chairs resemble ordinary mobile chairs with a cross-shaped support, but do not have wheels.

Stationary chairs are usually used in conference rooms; they can also be used to organize employee workplaces and to receive visitors.

Mobile models rest on a cross- or star-shaped base with caster wheels. It is believed that the more supports , the more stable, reliable and durable the chair will be. The minimum is 4 supports, but most modern chairs have 5, and they are made in the shape of a star. The frame can be made of metal or plastic. Most of us believe that metal will be more stable and durable, but we are not in a hurry to draw conclusions - modern furniture plastic is almost as strong as metal. It can last for ten years without deformation or damage, and at the same time costs much less. The choice is, of course, yours.

How to choose the right one

Models are selected based on individual requirements and preferences. To determine which chair is best for working at a computer, you need to consider several important factors:

1. Load capacity. Almost all products are designed for 110–120 kg. It is rare to find a large computer chair that can support up to 160–200 kg.
2. Duration of operation. If a person spends no more than 3 hours a day in front of a monitor, there is no need to spend money on an expensive design. If games and communication on social networks take 4–5 hours, you will have to think about convenience. For constant computer work, it is better to select orthopedic products with additional functions.
3. Material of support and adjustment mechanism. Must have high quality, reliability and durability. Typically plastic, chromed aluminum, and wood inserts are used.
4. Upholstery material. Wear-resistant, low maintenance, attractive in appearance options are suitable. Before choosing chairs for your sofa, it is important to think in advance about how they will fit together.
5. Availability of a headrest. The element provides ease of use and promotes muscle relaxation.
6. Armrests. They will be useful during long-term use and increase comfort when typing.
7. Footrest. This is useful if, at the optimal height of the chair, your legs do not reach the floor.
8. Quality and coating of wheels. Solid polypropylene and nylon rollers are suitable for use on stone and tile surfaces. Soft polyurethane will preserve the integrity of laminate and parquet.
9. Brand. Today, many companies specialize in producing furniture for working at a computer. Chinese companies produce ordinary chairs and functional models, Italian companies produce expensive products, European companies produce products that have an optimal price-quality ratio.

Knowing how to choose the right chair for working at a computer, you can maintain your own health and increase your ability to work. As for the price, each consumer independently decides how much he is willing to pay for the model he likes.

Load capacity

Duration of operation

Adjustment mechanism

Upholstery material – genuine leather

Comfortable headrest

Comfortable armrests

Footrest

Quality and coating of wheels

German brand Brabix

Requirements for children's furniture

Any products that a child uses must be as safe and useful as possible. When choosing a high-quality child seat, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics:

1. Height adjustment. Babies grow very quickly, so you will have to use this function many times.
2. Seat with beveled edge. This shape prevents pinching of blood vessels in the knee area.
3. Adjustable seat depth and back height. Functions are necessary to fully comply with a comfortable body position.
4. Anatomical properties. A chair for a first-grader is selected taking into account height, weight, and age. This will help reduce the stress on the spine.
5. No armrests. This is not a disadvantage at all, but an advantage. The child will not be able to lean his elbows, so he will always keep his back straight. As a result, the muscular system is strengthened and correct posture is formed.
6. Environmental Safety. The materials from which the body, filling, and upholstery are made should not emit toxic substances.

Parents, based on the above requirements, will be able to choose a computer chair for their student that will be useful and safe. Another important criterion is that the model must fit organically into the interior of the nursery and be liked by the child.

Height adjustment

Seat with beveled edge

Seat depth adjustment

Anatomical properties

No armrests

Environmental Safety

No. 3. Office chair back

To remove the maximum load from your back while sitting, you need to take a chair with an anatomically shaped backrest . This means that its design is such that it follows the shape of the back as accurately as possible and comes into contact with it at as many points as possible. That is why it is better to give preference to models with a headrest and a bolster under the lumbar deflection.

In advanced chairs, the backrest angle can be adjusted within a wide range. Doctors say that the optimal tilt is just over 90 degrees in relation to the seat - this way the lumbar region will relax normally when leaning back. In some models, the backrest angle and seat height are adjusted together - this is very convenient. There are chairs in which you can adjust the height of the backrest.

Separately, it is worth noting models where the basis of the backrest is not a rigid frame, but a mesh. Its elasticity makes the design ergonomic and allows it to take the shape of the spine.

Features of models for gamers

Chairs for video game fans differ from similar products in their increased structural strength, the presence of a metal body, a large number of additional functions, and ergonomics. The models allow you to sit in front of the monitor with great convenience. Using a gas lift, the seat is installed at the optimal height. Headrests and armrests provide a natural, relaxed body position.

When choosing the right computer chair for your home, you should definitely pay attention to the adjustment range in order to customize all the parameters to suit your individual requirements. The main goal of the products is to reduce the loads that are most exposed to the lower back, shoulders, and wrists.

Some models are complemented by special designs to accommodate the keyboard. With them, the whole body relaxes, providing comfort for the muscles and eyes.

Gamer chair in the interior

Gamer chair with stand

Popular manufacturers

Each company has its own range of products, which differ not only in functionality, but also in cost. You can choose a chair for a boss, a schoolchild or an adult from among the products of popular brands:

1. Chairman. A domestic company that has released 14 collections of furniture for working at a computer. Up to 1 million units of products are created per year. The number of additional functions is small - gas lift, swing.
2. Brabix. A German brand with a wide range of models, the design of which can be laconic or creative. Many products are equipped with armrests, headrests, and mesh backrests. Chairs are created that can withstand up to 200 kg.
3. College. The company pays special attention to the comfort and ergonomics of the backrests. Numerous soft inserts allow you to take a comfortable position with minimal muscle tension.
4. Metta. One of the best manufacturers of office furniture. Only steel is used to create frames, which increases the strength and service life of the models.

Chairman and Metta produce comfortable products with a presentable design. It is worth paying attention to the range of these companies if the pressing question is how to choose a managerial chair. Stylish models give special status and provide comfort throughout the working day.

Computer chairs for home and office, for adults and children, must have strength, reliability, and anatomical properties. When choosing, design features, materials, additional functions, and design are important.

Chairman

Brabix

College

Metta

No. 6. Armrests and headrest in an office chair

Armrests are a mandatory attribute of an office chair for an executive. Staff models can do without them. Armrests are necessary to facilitate the process of sitting down and standing up, as well as to relieve stress from the arms and shoulders during rest and work.

The armrests should be positioned so that the elbow bend angle is 90 degrees, and since we all have different heights and builds, it is important that the height of the armrests can be adjusted.

The headrest is present only in premium chairs; it allows you to relax the cervical spine and the corresponding muscle group. In the most expensive chairs, the angle of the headrest is adjusted to provide the person with the maximum level of comfort.

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