How to Choose an Ergonomic Office Chair | Office Chairs & Repairs Perth

How to Choose an Ergonomic Office Chair in Australia

Choosing an ergonomic office chair sounds simple—until you start comparing seat depths, lumbar controls, synchro-tilt mechanisms, and warranty terms. In Australia, you also need to consider our warmer climate, the way many of us work (hybrid home office and commercial office environments), and whether the chair will suit different body types across your team. The good news is that by focusing on a few key features and understanding how a chair should fit your body, you can confidently choose a chair that improves comfort, posture, and productivity for years.

If you’re short on time, many customers start by browsing our best-selling ergonomic office chairs, which have been tried, tested, and trusted by Perth businesses and home office users alike.

 

Start with your body and your workday

Before you look at brands or price, think about how you’ll use the chair:

  • Hours per day: If you’re seated for six hours or more, you’ll benefit from higher adjustability, stronger lumbar support, and quality cushioning.
  • Type of work: Computer-based roles require good arm support and upright posture, while phone-heavy or creative roles benefit from supportive recline options.
  • Body size: Ergonomic chairs must fit the user. Seat depth, back height, and armrest position all play a role in long-term comfort.

True ergonomics isn’t about finding one “perfect” chair—it’s about finding a chair that can be adjusted to suit you.

 

Seat height and posture support

Correct seat height allows your feet to rest flat on the floor (or footrest), with knees roughly level or slightly lower than your hips. If the seat is too high, pressure builds under the thighs; too low, and your pelvis tilts backwards, placing strain on your lower back.

A quality ergonomic chair should offer smooth height adjustment and a stable base, making it suitable for standard desks, sit-stand desks, and home office setups commonly used across Australia.

 

Seat depth and long-term comfort

Seat depth is often overlooked but critical for comfort. When seated correctly, there should be a small gap—around two to three finger widths—between the front edge of the seat and the back of your knees. This improves circulation and reduces leg fatigue.

For shared workspaces, seat depth adjustment is especially valuable. Look for:

  • Supportive foam that doesn’t flatten over time
  • A waterfall-style seat edge to reduce pressure on the legs

Many of our best-selling chairs include these features because they suit a wide range of users and working environments.

 

Lumbar support is essential

Lower back support is one of the most important features of an ergonomic office chair. Many standard office or dining chairs offer little to no lumbar support, which can lead to discomfort over time.

Ideally, your chair should include:

  • Height-adjustable lumbar support
  • Adjustable firmness or depth

This ensures the chair supports the natural curve of your spine rather than forcing you into an unnatural posture.

 

Backrest movement and recline

Good ergonomics encourage movement throughout the day. A chair should support you when sitting upright and when leaning back. Features to look for include:

  • Synchro-tilt mechanisms
  • Adjustable recline tension
  • Multiple tilt lock positions

These features allow you to change posture while staying supported, reducing stiffness and fatigue during long workdays.

 

Armrests and upper body comfort

Armrests directly affect neck and shoulder comfort. Adjustable armrests help reduce strain by supporting your arms at the correct height and width. Ideally, armrests should be:

  • Height adjustable
  • Width adjustable
  • Angle or pivot adjustable

Proper arm support helps maintain relaxed shoulders and a neutral upper body posture.

 

Materials suited to Australian conditions

In warmer climates like Perth and throughout Western Australia, chair materials make a noticeable difference. Mesh-backed chairs are popular for breathability, while upholstered seats provide comfort and durability when made from quality materials.

Choosing the right material depends on your workspace, temperature, and personal preference.

 

Quality, warranty, and long-term value

An ergonomic office chair is an investment. Look for durable construction, a strong five-star base, and a sensible commercial warranty. Chairs that can be serviced or repaired often offer better long-term value than cheaper, disposable options.

If you have questions about warranties, maintenance, or choosing the right chair for your needs, our FAQ page covers many of the most common concerns.

 

Final tip: choose confidence, not guesswork

Whether you’re fitting out a commercial office or improving your home workspace, the right ergonomic chair should feel supportive, adjustable, and comfortable throughout the day. If you’re unsure where to start, explore our best-selling ergonomic office chairs or visit our FAQs for practical guidance & of course feel free to contact us with any questions you have.