How to Check If Your Ergonomic Chair Is Good, Well-Made, and Worth the Price

Ergonomic chairs are an investment in your comfort, health, and productivity, but not all ergonomic chairs are created equal. To make sure you’re getting a chair that’s truly worth the price, it’s important to consider key factors like mechanisms, materials, and overall build quality. This blog will guide you through how to evaluate your ergonomic chair to ensure it's a high-quality product.

1. Mechanisms: The Heart of a Good Ergonomic Chair

A good mechanism in a chair is like the engine in a car—without it, the rest of the structure simply doesn’t function. At Pelicanwork, we take this seriously by incorporating Italian DONATI and German BOCK mechanisms, ensuring that our chairs offer top-tier functionality and durability. These high-quality mechanisms provide the precision and reliability needed for smooth tilt, tension control, and long-lasting ergonomic support, allowing users to commit thousands of comfortable hours to their work.

• Tilt Mechanism: A good ergonomic chair will offer a synchronized tilt mechanism that allows the backrest and seat to tilt together at a predefined ratio. This supports the spine's natural curve while keeping your feet on the ground.Tilt tension control and tilt lock are crucial features for any ergonomic chair, especially when customers will be committing thousands of hours to sitting on it.
  
  Tip: Check if your chair has a synchronized tilt with tension control, like the Model 77 from Pelicanwork, which offers a luxurious tilt feature with four tension options. This ensures that the chair moves smoothly with your body and offers ample back support. All Pelicanwork chairs comes standard with most advanced synchronized tilt features along with tension control and tilt locks.

• Seat Depth Adjustability: A well-made chair will allow you to adjust the seat depth to ensure your thighs are fully supported. The ability to adjust seat depth ensures the chair accommodates different leg lengths, helping maintain circulation and comfort. All Pelicanwork chairs come with this feature as standard.

• Lumbar Support: Look for adjustable lumbar support that can move up and down and in and out to support the lower back. Ergonomic chairs like the Model 92 are equipped with adjustable lumbar support that conforms to the spine’s natural curvature.

A good mechanism is easily visualized on ergonomic chairs, and has a certain heft to it and controls are ergonomically placed. Check the Italian DONATI mechanism of model 11:

2. Materials: Durability and Comfort Go Hand in Hand

The materials used in the construction of an ergonomic chair are another indicator of its quality. Well-made chairs use durable, breathable materials that provide long-lasting comfort.

• Mesh Backrest: High-quality ergonomic chairs typically feature a mesh backrest, which promotes airflow and keeps you cool during long sitting sessions. Look for durable, tensioned mesh that doesn't sag over time, like the one used in Model 53.

• Seat Cushioning: A good ergonomic chair should have high-density foam that doesn’t flatten with extended use. The cushioning should offer a balance between firmness and comfort to prevent pain and discomfort after prolonged sitting.

  Armrests: Adjustable armrests that can move in height, depth, and width are essential for reducing shoulder and neck strain. Look for chairs with 4D armrests that provide full adjustability, such as those on the Model 77.

3. Build Quality and Frame

A chair’s frame plays a crucial role in its durability and longevity. Cheap plastic frames are prone to breaking, while steel or aluminum frames are much more reliable and long-lasting.

• Frame Material: Opt for chairs with a steel or aluminum frame for enhanced durability. Chairs like the Herman Miller Embody and the Pelicanwork Model 77 are made from high-quality materials that ensure stability and long-term use.

• Caster Quality: Ensure the wheels or casters are smooth and sturdy, especially if you work on carpeted surfaces. High-quality chairs use dual-wheel casters for smoother movement.

4. Warranty and After-Sales Service

High-quality ergonomic chairs usually come with extended warranties, which reflect the manufacturer’s confidence in the product. Look for chairs that offer at least 5 to 12 years of warranty, like Herman Miller or Steelcase, or brands like Pelicanwork, which offers excellent after-sales support for their premium chairs.

Conclusion

To ensure that your ergonomic chair is truly worth the investment, focus on the quality of its mechanisms, materials, and build. Features like synchronized tilt, adjustable lumbar support, and premium materials like mesh backrests and high-density foam can make all the difference in comfort and durability. Chairs like the Model 77 provide these premium features, making them a smart choice for anyone looking to invest in a high-quality ergonomic chair.