Basic Features

The following are the must-have features every task chair should offer for basic sitting comfort and health.

Adjustable Seat Height
Task chairs adjusted to a proper height help to evenly distribute body weight and allow for a healthy knee angle of at least 90 degrees with feet firmly planted on the floor. The height adjustability control should be easy to access while seated in the chair.

Capability to Recline
Research has found that for optimal comfort and minimal stress on the intervertebral discs, users should work in reclined postures. The ability of the chair to provide supported recline is therefore critical.

Adjustable Lumbar Support
Lumbar requirements vary widely among individuals, so adjustable lumbar support is important in reducing stress on the back and upper body that can lead to discomfort and possible injury.

Adjustable Armrests
Armrests must be adjustable to reduce muscle loading and accommodate a variety of tasks. For instance, the ability to lower the arms below thigh level is critical for proper keyboarding postures. Sufficient padding is also an important feature.

Arm Supports that Connect to the Backrest
Armrests that are attached to the backrest of the chair-not the bottom of the seat pan-will move with users so they are optimally positioned while reclining or upright.

Adjustable Seat Pan
A frequent requirement for users of shorter stature, adjustable seat pans can eliminate contact stress on the backs of the legs and encourage use of the backrest.

Features to Avoid

Manual Recline Tension
Cumbersome spring tension knobs are seldom used, leaving chairs incorrectly adjusted and users in vulnerable work postures.

Recline Locks or Limiters
Recline locks and limiters restrict movement. Users should be able to move freely in their task chairs.

Mesh Seating Surfaces
Despite their popularity, mesh seat pans do not distribute weight as well as contoured foam or gel cushions and are therefore not preferred for task work. Research also shows no correlation between mesh seats and thermal comfort.

High-Performance Features

High-performance options are found most often on more expensive models but are worthwhile investments for maximum ergonomic benefit.

Dynamic Weight-Sensitive Recline
A sufficiently tensioned backrest that enables spontaneous recline and encourages regular, natural movement aids in maintaining long-term comfort and reducing spinal pressure. Users are more likely to work in healthy reclined positions when cumbersome knobs are not involved.

Dynamic Lumbar Support
Chairs that automatically adjust to the unique needs of each individual's body ensure adequate support.

Synchronously Adjustable Armrests
Armrests that adjust in tandem prevent possible discomfort that could result from uneven arm positioning.

Gel Seat Cushions
Gel-topped seat cushions displace weight and reduce contact stress more effectively than foam-only cushions for more comfortable long-term sitting.

Dynamic Headrest
Headrests offer added support in reclined positions to reduce upper body muscle loading. Position-sensitive headrests that move into place during recline, and out of the way when upright, are preferred.