Are high end office chairs worth the investment? In terms of productivity, staff morale and even cost, the answer is yes.

When your employees spend up to 8 hours a day sitting in the office, the choice of what they sit on is not something to be taken lightly. A well-designed chair can improve staff morale and productivity. And it’s more than reviews and employee opinions that back up such a claim. Medical studies support the use of ergonomically designed office furniture. A high-end office chair is much more than just a status symbol.

Why Design Matters

 Medical studies prove how a poorly designed office chair contributes to workplace injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. The wrong kind of chair leads to a seated working posture that creates musculo-skeletal problems with the neck, shoulders and back. This can lead to real health issues like chronic pain, eyestrain and carpal tunnel syndrome. Not only do medical complications disrupt productivity, it also creates daily discomfort that routinely interrupts workflow and contributes to lower morale.

What To Look For

The key features to look for in the design of a high-end office chair that will contribute to a healthier working environment:

  • Adjustability: One-size-fits all is a concept that rarely works in real life.
  • Plush Cushion: Comfort becomes a top priority when a chair is the place where duties are performed eight hours every day. Insufficient padding can contribute to nerve pain in the buttocks and thighs. 
  • Back Support: The most commonly reported health problem reported by office workers is chronic back pain. A high-end, ergonomically designed office chair provides the support employees need if they are working at their desks for hours at a time.
  • Soft Armrests: A well padded armrest is designed for the contours of an arm manipulating a mouse. Lower carpal tunnel risk for staff with softer, well-designed armrests.
  • Recline: Frequently changing positions is key to reducing neck and back strain. A recline feature also reduces workplace injury since employees will no longer resort to tipping their chair back or leaning backward in a full stretch only to fall over.

Cost Considerations

Yes, a high-end, ergonomic office chair can be expensive. But there is a happy medium of mid-market seating options from $250 to $600. If this still feels like a lot, consider the total cost of owning a good office chair for 10 years will be the same whether you buy a cheap new office chair every year for 10 years or one good office chair that lasts 10 years.

it’s also worth noting that all higher end chairs have extensive warranties, and usually cover all parts against defect for 10-15 years or ‘limited lifetime warranty’ (which, for all intents and purposes, is around 15 years).

The final consideration for your decision may be linked to the logistics of your business. Will you still be around in 10 years? Are you expecting (most) of your employees to stick around for an appreciable duration? The answers to these questions can guide you to determine how much you care to ultimately invest.