If you're a medical professional, artist, or office worker, choosing an ergonomic saddle chair requires careful consideration. The stool or chair needs to be practical, ergonomically comfortable, highly adjustable, and easily maneuvered. According to Mary Gale, an Occupational Therapist, saddle chairs allow you to sit with the best possible posture, preventing deformities from developing or deteriorating. Additionally, they encourage active sitting, making them an excellent choice for those concerned about the dangers of prolonged sitting.
To save you time researching, here are some of my favorite saddle chairs on the market.
Best Overall Saddle Stool
FRNIAMC Adjustable Saddle Chair
"High Quality Multi-Purpose Saddle Chair"
Used by hair stylists, tattoo artists, and dog groomers, the FRNIAMC adjustable saddle chair is a versatile choice. It can be adjusted to a height of up to 29.5”, making it suitable for taller individuals. The seat and backrest are padded and covered with high-quality leather, providing comfort in any temperature. Supported by a sturdy aluminum base and legs, this chair can withstand up to 350 pounds of weight. The heavy-duty nylon wheels allow for effortless and quiet movement on most indoor surfaces.
While some customers find it challenging to get used to the seat, those who give it time are highly satisfied.
Pros:
- Adjustable seat height of 20” to 29.5”, ideal for taller individuals.
- Sturdy and noiseless heavy-duty nylon casters.
- Padded seat covered with high-quality leather for maximum comfort.
Cons:
- Seat not wide enough for wider individuals.
Most Ergonomic Saddle Chair
HAG Capisco Ergonomic Saddle Chair
"The Rolls Royce Of Saddle Chairs"
The HAG Capisco chair is a hybrid of an ergonomic chair and a saddle stool, combining the best of both worlds. Endorsed by Joe Rogan, who spends over 10 hours seated daily, this chair offers exceptional comfort and value. While it comes with a higher price tag, the quality and comfort it provides make it worth the investment. For more details, check out our HAG Capisco review.
Best Active Sitting Saddle Stool
Varier Move Tilting Saddle Stool
"Great Option For Both Sitting & Standing"
The Varier Move Tilting Saddle Stool is a high-quality Norwegian ergonomic stool designed to engage your core while sitting correctly. Tested by the Mayo Clinic, it has been proven to burn 18% more calories compared to regular stools. Its innovative design follows every movement of your body, with a swiveling seat and a base that tilts for flexibility. This chair is also suitable for use as a standing desk stool, providing comfort and freedom of movement.
What customers are saying: Customers are overwhelmingly satisfied with the Varier Move stool, with only a few individuals not accustomed to saddle stools expressing any dissatisfaction.
Pros:
- Versatile construction that moves in all directions with your body.
- Exceptionally durable and long-lasting materials and Norwegian design.
- Seat with rounded edges for maximum freedom of movement.
Cons:
- Lack of backrest and wheels for mobility.
Saddle Chair With Back Support
Salli ErgoRest Multiadjuster Split Saddle Stool
"The Most Comfortable Saddle Chair"
The Salli ErgoRest Multiadjuster Split Saddle Stool features a unique design that supports the hands and upper bodies of professionals during repetitive tasks. The seat can be tilted backward and forward at a 30-degree angle or placed upright. It redistributes pressure building up in your buttocks and strengthens core muscles. Recommended for surgeons, dentists, tattoo artists, and professionals under upper limb stress, this chair offers excellent adjustability with its multi-adjuster feature.
What customers are saying: Customers love the black aluminum base and frame of this chair, although they mention a high risk of damaging the ErgoRest handles when used for support while getting out of the chair. The handles come with a 2-year warranty, while the seat has a 10-year warranty.
Pros:
- Unique design made for professionals.
- Features exceptional ergonomic solutions.
- Highly adjustable.
Cons:
- Risk of damaging the ErgoRest handles if used for support when getting out of the chair.
Best Portable Saddle Chair
Humantool Portable Saddle Chair
"Ideal For Beginners & Transporting To The Office"
Designed in Finland, the Humantool Portable Saddle Chair brings daily ergonomic experiences to office workers. Its portability allows it to be used on any type of seat, instantly transforming it into a saddle chair. The swinging motion of the chair relaxes your back while maintaining an upright position. It engages your core and muscles as you strive to stay balanced. Although some customers have mentioned issues with the carpeted base not lasting, it provides relief while sitting.
What customers are saying: The Humantool chair is highly praised by yoga practitioners, office workers, and individuals who work around high counters. It raises seat height by 3.9" and provides relief while sitting. Some customers suggest adding grippy material to the base.
Pros:
- Portable and easy to take to work.
- Keeps you upright and engages your core.
- Works with a swinging motion.
Cons:
- Base needs better grip.
Best Dental Saddle Chair
Dr Lomilomi Hydraulic Saddle Massage Stool
"Preferred Among Dental Hygienists"
The Dr Lomilomi hydraulic massage stool is an excellent choice for dental professionals. With an adjustable height of up to 27" and a sturdy construction, it offers both comfort and ergonomic support. The seat is filled with CF-free molded foam and covered with high-quality PU leather. Its base and frame are made from high-quality materials, providing a weight capacity of 350 pounds.
What customers are saying: Customers appreciate the feel and performance of the stool, with the only complaint being the plastic wheels, which may not be suitable for all surfaces.
Pros:
- Well-designed seat offering back and spine support.
- Powerful and sturdy base and seat plate for longevity.
- Foam seat covered with coated PU vinyl.
Cons:
- Wheels may not be up to standard compared to other saddle stools.
Best Split Saddle Stool
Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Stool
The Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Stool is a high-quality split seat chair designed for comfort and durability. Its ergonomic design keeps you comfortable during any task, and the split seat enhances airflow, which is ideal for hot summer days. Although the padding is minimal due to the split nature of the seat, the leather upholstery is of excellent quality.
What customers are saying: Most customers are satisfied with this chair, especially considering its budget-friendly price. Some find the split saddle lacks padding, but that is typical for this type of chair.
Pros:
- Top-grain leather upholstery for comfort and durability.
- Adjustable height, with the largest size reaching up to 37".
- Split saddle reduces stress on pressure points and relieves back pain.
Cons:
- Cushion may be lacking for some individuals.
Other Recommended Stools
Ergonomic Rolling Saddle Stool Chair With Backrest
The ergonomic rolling saddle stool chair is a budget-friendly option for individuals looking to improve their sitting posture. The seat can be tilted to match the S-shaped curvature of your spine, and the chair is adjustable in height, making it suitable for use with sit-stand desks. While it may take some time to get used to, it offers more padding compared to other models.
Capisco Ergonomic Office Chair with Saddle Seat
For individuals seeking extra softness and comfort, the Capisco ergonomic saddle style chair is an excellent choice. The seat and backrest are cushioned for added comfort, and the seat height is adjustable from 23" to 33". The chair also allows you to reverse your seating position and lean into the backrest. With a weight capacity of 250 lbs, it's a versatile option.
Master Massage Berkeley Ergonomic Split Style Saddle Stool
The Master Massage ergonomic split style saddle stool is a lightweight option ideal for daily use. It provides excellent comfort with its 2" cushioned seat and is recommended for massage therapists and tattoo artists who spend long hours in one position. The stool is adjustable in height, with the lowest setting being 21" and the tallest 28".
Salli Swing Fit Saddle Seat
The Salli Swing Fit Saddle Seat is designed to relieve lower body pressure. With customizable options for base color, upholstery, pole height, and casters, this chair can be tailored to your preferences. It offers 5 years of warranty for the base, tilt mechanism, lift, and casters, and 10 years of warranty for the seat component.
Perch Saddle Stool With Back For Hard Floors
The Perch Saddle Stool features rubberized casters that prevent damage to hard floors. It provides upright sitting support, and the seat and backrest are height adjustable, making it suitable for use with standing desks. The stool can also be raised and tilted with a one-touch lever for added versatility. Manufactured in the US with high-quality materials, it comes with a 12-year warranty.
Jobri BetterPosture Saddle Chair
The Jobri BetterPosture Saddle Chair features an ergonomic "waterfall effect" seat design and a sturdy base and legs. Although the chair's wheels may not match the overall quality, its supportive seat design makes up for it.
Master Massage Ergonomic Swivel Saddle Stool
The Master Massage ergonomic swivel saddle stool provides excellent comfort and can withstand up to 550 pounds of weight. It features a padded seat and a swivel mechanism for easy movement.
Grace & Grace Professional Saddle Stool Series
The Grace & Grace Professional Saddle Stool offers versatility and durability. Its metal base and frame provide stability, and the comfortable seat allows for prolonged sitting sessions.
Antlu Ergonomic Saddle Chair
The Antlu Ergonomic Saddle Chair features a soft and firm seat covered with high-quality leather. It swivels in all directions and has an adjustable height of up to 29.5".
Medical & Spa Stools
Saddle chairs come in various styles and designs, catering to different professional needs. Here are some recommended medical and spa stools:
JMU Mica Dental Operator Chair
The JMU Mica Dental Operator Chair is fully adjustable and offers improved lumbar support. With adjustable seat height, armrest height, and backrest height, it provides a comfortable and customizable experience. The seat is cushioned with molded foam and covered with waterproof, oil-resistant, and scratch-resistant PU leather.
Spa Luxe Rolling Stool With Back Support
The Spa Luxe rolling stool features a PVC vinyl upholstery that is easy to clean. It has three adjustment levers for controlling seat tilt, backrest position, and chair height. Although the hard plastic wheels may be stiff, the stool provides comfort and a natural posture. The backrest can also be removed if desired.
Kaleurrier Rolling Stool Salon Chair
The Kaleurrier salon chair is designed to provide extra comfort during busy workdays. With a high-density sponge seat and backrest, rubberized castor wheels, and adjustable height, it offers a great sitting experience. It can hold up to 400 lbs and rotates a full 360 degrees.
SkinAct Esthetician Saddle Stool
The SkinAct saddle stool supports lumbar areas, evenly distributing weight. Its anatomic design helps those who lean forward while working. The seat can be tilted and adjusted in height from 21" to 27". This chair is perfect for professionals looking for comfort and support during extended periods of sitting.
Saddle Chair Features
When choosing a saddle chair, there are several features to consider:
One Seat Vs. Split
Saddle seats come in two styles: one seat and split seat. The split seat is recommended for individuals who tend to feel warm when sitting for extended periods. It can be adjusted to relieve pressure on the pelvic area or prostate.
Firmness
Initially, all saddle chairs may feel firm, but with time, your body will adjust and experience the benefits. Give yourself some time to adapt to the firmness of the saddle seat.
Saddle Tilt
The ability to adjust the tilt of the seat is essential for comfort. Experiment with different positions until you find the right balance for you.
Leg Position
Your legs play a significant role in supporting and balancing your body. Some models have the balance point at the front, which may be challenging for individuals with stiff limbs. Others have the balance point beneath the body, providing more stability.
Seat Height
Adjusting the seat height is crucial for a comfortable saddle chair experience. Sit slightly higher than your usual sitting height and maintain a 135-degree angle between your thigh and torso.
Contour
Less contoured designs are suitable for beginners, while more contoured ones provide better support but require a precise sizing choice.
Width
Saddle chairs are wider to keep you stable and upright, similar to riding a horse. Individuals with stiff hips may require some time to adjust. Start by using the seat for one hour each day and gradually increase the duration to allow your hips to loosen up. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis.
Remember to choose a saddle chair that suits your specific needs and preferences. With the right saddle chair, you can enjoy improved comfort and support throughout your workday.