If you've recently transitioned to a standing desk, it's essential to complement your new setup with a suitable standing desk stool. According to experts from the Mayo Clinic, incorporating ergonomic precautions is vital for a healthy and productive work environment. So, how do you choose the right stool or chair?
Factors to Consider
When selecting the ideal standing desk stool, several factors come into play. These include build quality, comfort, overall features, and most importantly, active sitting. Engaging your core while sitting is crucial for maintaining good posture and preventing discomfort.
To make your decision easier, we have compiled a list of the best standing desk stools and chairs available in the market. These options prioritize both your posture and calorie-burning, ensuring a safe and productive work experience.
How We Assessed the Stools
To provide you with accurate recommendations, we consulted independent massage therapists, other practitioners, and conducted extensive research. Our evaluation incorporated five key factors: seat comfort, build quality, adjustability, stability, and overall value.
Seat Comfort
Seat comfort is one of the most significant features contributing to user satisfaction. Ergonomic chairs available on the market, such as those designed for longer hours of work, offer cramp-free support. Some stools come with additional padding that can be either soft or hard. Personal preference determines the choice, but opting for a slightly harder cushion can provide better back support.
Build Quality
Durability is an important aspect to consider when purchasing any product, including standing desk stools. The cost of the stool does not always reflect its quality and longevity. To determine which stools can withstand the test of time, we relied on user feedback and their experiences with the product.
Adjustability
Most people prefer a stool with some degree of adjustability, especially when multiple individuals will be using it. Height adjustability is crucial, as it should align with the height of your standing desk. Additionally, certain drafting chairs offer adjustable lumbar support, accommodating a wider range of body types.
Stability
Given that standing desk stools are used for extended periods, ensuring stability is paramount. Most stools are rated to withstand up to 300 lbs of body weight. Consequently, investing in a stable and well-manufactured stool is crucial for long-term comfort and support.
Overall Value
Evaluating the overall value of a stool involves assessing if it meets your requirements within a specific price range. Our goal was to identify stools that offered the best combination of features, quality, and affordability.
Our Favorite Standing Desk Stool: Learniture Adjustable-Height Active Learning Stool
Among the numerous options available, the Learniture Adjustable-Height Active Learning Stool stood out as our personal favorite. Combining comfort, affordability, and core strengthening, this stool ticks all the right boxes.
The Learniture Active Learning Stool boasts a sleek and attractive design suitable for adults and children over 10 years old. Its base, made from thick foam, allows for rocking movements, engaging your core muscles while you work.
This stool is not only lightweight and easily maneuverable but also available in five different colors. Inspired by educators who champion active classrooms, the Learniture stool keeps you productive and supports proper posture.
Customer Feedback
Customers who have purchased the Learniture stool have expressed high levels of satisfaction, particularly in terms of core strengthening. However, maintaining the correct posture is crucial for optimal benefits. Assembling the stool proved challenging for some due to the absence of instructions.
What we like:
- Sleek design
- Easy adjustability and portability
- Improved posture support
What we don't like:
- Assembly can be frustrating for some
Best Value Desk Stool: VARIChair Pro
For those familiar with standing desks, the Varidesk brand is likely recognizable. Renowned for their exceptional products, Varidesk offers the VARIChair Pro, an excellent standing desk stool that delivers superior value.
Designed to promote active sitting, the VARIChair Pro features a low backrest to support proper posture while allowing rocking movements. It comes in a stylish black color and offers a cushioned seat. The chair's height can be easily adjusted to suit individual preferences.
Assembly is hassle-free, as the stool arrives fully assembled and can support up to 220 lbs.
Customer Feedback
Initial discomfort was reported by some customers, but after a brief adjustment period, they found the stool to be highly comfortable. The price range may deter some potential buyers, but the Varidesk brand's reputation for quality and durability justifies the investment.
What we like:
- Stylish design
- Arrives fully assembled
- Promotes active sitting
What we don't like:
- Higher price range
For more in-depth information on the Varichair and other standing desk stools, check out our comprehensive review of the Varichair series.
Premium Standing Desk Stools: AERIS Muvman Sit-Stand Stool
The AERIS Muvman Sit-Stand Stool, winner of the prestigious 2011 RedDot design award, offers an exceptional sitting experience.
With two design options available, both the standard and high seats provide impressive height ranges. The Muvman boasts a pneumatic lift and is tilt-forward enabled, allowing for dynamic movement while you stand and work. The rubber base ensures stability, preventing slips.
Customer Feedback
Customers are enthusiastic about the Muvman stool, praising its comfort and flexibility. Users appreciate the option to sit fully or lean while standing, particularly those in professions that require extended periods of computer work. The stool's sturdiness and durability receive positive reviews, although the higher price tag may deter some potential buyers.
LeanRite Standing Desk Chair
The Ergo Impact Stool is another premium stool that comes highly recommended. It combines the functionality of a chair and standing mat into one product.
Featuring three positions—lean, sit, and perch—the chair allows you to distribute your weight between your core and legs. It has been endorsed by orthopedists and accommodates individuals ranging from 5'0" to 6'4" in height. The chair can also be adjusted up to an impressive 46.3", making it the tallest chair in our list. The Ergo Impact Stool has won multiple design awards for its innovative design.
Customer Feedback
Customer reviews highlight the easy assembly process, although a few mentioned receiving mismatched screws, resulting in an unexpected foot pillow. Some individuals found the sitting position less comfortable, but overall, customers highly recommend this stool for its design and orthopedic endorsement.
What we like:
- Award-winning design
- Orthopedist recommendation
- Easy assembly
What we don't like:
- Sitting position may not be comfortable for everyone
Varier Move Tilting Saddle Stool
Tested by the Mayo Clinic, the Varier Move Tilting Saddle Stool offers a unique design that follows your body's contours. Lightweight and easy to maneuver, this stool aims to maximize space and provide exceptional comfort.
Featuring a gas lift and adjustable tilting, the Varier Move stool allows for personalized adjustments. The seat cushion, with nearly 2" of padding, ensures a soft and supportive sitting experience, while remaining replaceable.
Customer Feedback
Customers praise the saddle seat design, finding it effective for easy movement around their workspace. The seat cushion provides exceptional comfort while maintaining proper posture. However, the higher price point may not be affordable for everyone.
What we like:
- Booty-friendly seat design
- Thick cushion
- Swivels for ease of use
Other Chairs for Standing Desks
Several other standing desk chairs offer unique features and benefits suitable for diverse preferences.
Songmics Swivel Ergonomic Standing Stool
The Songmics Swivel Standing Stool boasts an attractive design and an auto-return feature. The stool includes two handles on the sides, facilitating mobility and providing arm support. Seat height adjustment is conveniently located beneath the seat, and the chair swivels 360 degrees.
Stand Up Desk Store Active Sitting Chair
The Stand Up Desk Store Active Sitting Chair provides a simple yet effective design that promotes active sitting. The chair's base counterbalances your movements, allowing you to rock, lean, and tilt while working. It features a padded seat, easy assembly, and excellent value for the price.
Kore Office Wobble Chair
For those seeking a minimalistic design, the Kore Office Wobble Chair is an excellent choice. This stool keeps your core engaged through its weight counter-balancing technology. The stool's rubberized base prevents slippage and floor scratches. While it may not be suitable for leaning, customers enjoy its simplicity and core-engaging benefits.
Modway Veer Drafting Stool-Chair
The Modway Veer Drafting Chair's futuristic design is visually striking. It features a foot ring for added comfort and support during extended work sessions. The chair's backrest is adjustable and lockable, providing customizable lumbar support. The Modway stool offers easy height adjustment with a pneumatic lift, and its armrests can be adjusted and flipped up to 90 degrees.
Flash Furniture Mid-Back Mesh Drafting Chair
Similar to the Modway stool, the Flash Furniture Drafting Chair incorporates breathable mesh material and a unique waterfall seat design. The chair's front edge alleviates leg pressure and promotes better circulation. Specifically marketed for professions that require elevated seating or eye contact, the chair supports up to 250 lbs.
Modway Stealth Drafting Chair
The Modway Stealth Drafting Chair provides a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise comfort or style. With a padded waterfall seat and lumbar support, this chair caters to your ergonomic needs. The dual-wheel casters ensure easy maneuverability, and it is available in black.
References
To ensure accurate and up-to-date information, we relied on reputable sources such as the Mayo Clinic, PubMed, Monash University, Ergonomics Health, and the Hospital for Special Surgery. These references provide valuable insights into the benefits of standing workstations and the importance of ergonomic seating.
Now armed with this comprehensive guide, you can make an informed decision when selecting the best standing desk stool for your needs. Enhance your ergonomic setup and enjoy a healthier and more productive work experience.