The most comfortable chair is one which fits you properly, and distributes your weight equally across your forearms, bottom, thighs, and feet.
While a chair which automatically rises can help you to move, we still encourage you to get up from your chair without help if you can. Physical activity, like standing up from a chair, has numerous health benefits.
Deciding on your chair size
Buying a cosy chair is not as easy as it seems. It's important to find one which fits you well. To check how well a chair fits you:
- Your feet should be flat on the floor.
- Your spine should be in a neutral position, with your bottom at the back of the chair.
- Your thighs and knees should be at 90° (in other words - your thighs flat on the seat, your knees bent, and your feet flat on the floor)
- The seat should cover the back of your thighs, with a space of 2 to 2.5cm behind your knees.
- Your forearms should be supported by both armrests, without your shoulders sagging or lowering.
Common seating difficulties
Chair is too high. This encourages you to slide your bottom forward to place your feet on the floor, which makes a C-shaped curve in your lower back.
Chair is too low. If your knees are raised higher than your pelvis, this will make a C-shaped curve in your lower back.
Chair is too wide. This can lead to uneven pressure on your buttocks from leaning to one side for support on the armrests.
Chair is too deep. This encourages you to slide your bottom forward to place your feet on the floor, which makes a C-shaped curve in your lower back.
Armrests at the wrong height. This reduces support when you stand up, and reduces arm support when you're sitting. The front edge of the seat cushion should be reached by the armrests to make standing from a chair easier. Wooden ends are more comfortable to grasp.
Other things to think about
Upholstery. Ideally the upholstery should be warm and non-slip. Vinyl is easy to clean, but it can cause excessive sweating.
Seat. Chair seats are filled with foam or contain springs. A seat which is too hard could be uncomfortable to sit on, but if it's too soft, you might be able to feel the chair frame through the cushion. Less expensive foams provide enough support at first, but they can sag after a few months.
Some manufacturers now include pressure-relieving features in their regular seats. If you have trouble changing positions or sitting for a long time, these features might help you.
Legs. Chair legs can be straight or splayed. Splayed legs give more stability, especially when you're applying weight to the armrests. But they may be a tripping hazard if they stick out too far.
You might not be able to fit your feet under the chair if the front legs are covered with upholstery or attached by a crossbar. This can make it harder to stand up.
More information
If you need more information, the charity Living Made Easy offers advice about choosing a chair. You can read their advice by clicking the 'Guide to choosing a product' button.
You can also call 0300 999 0004, email lme-enquires@shaw-trust.org.uk, or visit the Living Made Easy website.
Legal disclaimer
The Council is providing this information with the best intentions and cannot be responsible for any errors or omissions.
Furthermore, if you choose to follow any of the guidance, you do so at your own risk and you are responsible for ensuring that you follow it correctly.
The Council excludes any and all liability to the fullest extent permitted by law, for any loss or damage suffered by you as a result of any use or perceived use of this information.