Many short people know the problem: The chair in the office is too big, their feet dangle, their back stays in the air – and at the end of the day everything hurts.
This is not a luxury problem, but a classic ergonomics flaw.
The good news: There are ergonomic chairs that have been specially designed for smaller people.
Here you'll learn which models really fit – and why.
Why standard office chairs are unsuitable for short people
Most manufacturers design their chairs for people between 170 and 185 cm tall.
Those who are smaller often experience three typical problems:
- Seat too high: The feet cannot reach the ground, blood pools in the legs.
- Seat too low: The back does not reach the backrest – the lumbar spine remains unsupported.
- Armrests that are too high: The shoulders are pushed upwards, causing tension.
These seemingly small differences eventually lead to back pain, neck problems and exhaustion.
But you don't have to adapt – the chair should adapt to you .
The best office chairs for short people (with actual dimensions)
Here are two ergonomic models from Sihoo that are particularly suitable for smaller people.
Both offer flexible adjustment options and are designed to provide optimal back support in any position.
Sihoo Doro C300
- Ergonomic highlight: Dynamic, self-adjusting lumbar support ("Domino system") for natural back support.
- 4D armrests: Adjustable in height, depth, width and angle – ideal for petite users.
- Comfort: Flexible backrest with three recline positions (110°, 120°, 130°).
Suitable for users between 155 and 175 cm tall (recommended seat height 47–55 cm). Ideal for anyone who appreciates dynamic sitting and high flexibility.
Sihoo C300 Ergonomic Office Chair
The Doro C300 combines a 135° backrest, dynamic lumbar support, 4D armrests and breathable premium mesh with a weight-sensitive mechanism for optimal seating comfort – optionally with an integrated footrest for perfect relaxation in the home office or office.
Sihoo M59AS
- Compact design: Shorter seat depth (approx. 43.5 cm) – ideal for shorter legs.
- 3D armrests: Foldable to fit more closely to the body or table.
- Dual back support: Flexible lumbar support for smaller back shapes.
Recommended for users between 155 and 175 cm tall (seat height 46.5–56.5 cm, seat depth 43.5 cm). Offers a compact yet stable seating geometry for smaller bodies.
In the practical test by Testsieger.de, the Sihoo M59AS received top marks for ergonomics and value for money.
Sihoo M59AS Ergonomic Office Chair
The Sihoo M59AS combines space-saving design with comprehensive ergonomic support. The two-part backrest adapts to the natural curve of the spine, ensuring optimal stability and relief.
The M59AS impresses with its more compact seating geometry, while the Doro C300 scores points with its automatic back support.
Both models offer enough adjustment range to allow even smaller people to sit ergonomically correctly.
Why these chairs really work
Both models – the Doro C300 and the M59AS – are not coincidentally popular with shorter people.
Its design follows clear ergonomic principles , specifically tailored to bodies with shorter legs, a smaller back arch, and a lower seat height.
To understand why they work – and what you should pay attention to when adjusting them – let's now look at the scientific basis of ergonomic sitting.
Why ergonomics are different for smaller bodies
Seat height – stability begins at the feet
The ideal seat height allows both feet to be flat on the floor while the knees are bent at a 90° angle.
Seat height = lower leg length + approx. 2 cm (shoe sole)
For people under 165 cm, this means a seat height of about 36 – 42 cm .
Every centimeter too high changes the pressure on the thighs and pelvis – this is the main reason for fatigue and pain after hours of sitting.
Seat depth – the underestimated factor
If the seat is too deep, the back cannot lean back properly. This creates a gap between the lumbar region and the backrest – precisely where the spine most urgently needs support.
A seat depth of 40-43 cm is ideal for shorter people.
Lumbar support & backrest
In smaller bodies, the lordosis (the natural curvature in the lower back) lies lower.
That's why short people need a height-adjustable backrest so that the support is positioned exactly where it's needed.
The recommended dimensions and seat heights are based on the anthropometric data of DIN 33402-2:2005-12 (“Ergonomic design of ergonomic workplaces”) as well as on findings from studies on seating ergonomics and body geometry of smaller people (e.g. Fraunhofer IAO 2020, Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health – BAuA).
This standard defines guideline values for seat heights, seat depths and table heights based on body size distributions in the German population.
Smart adaptations for short people
Not everyone can or wants to buy a new chair right away. Fortunately, many problems can be solved easily and inexpensively .
- Footrest: Ensures contact with the ground, relieves leg strain and promotes blood circulation.
- Seat or wedge cushion: Effectively reduces the seat depth and improves pelvic posture.
- Adjust the table height: The tabletop should be at elbow height; a height-adjustable table is ideal for shorter people.
Ergonomics is a system: chair, table and body must fit together.
FAQ
What seat height is appropriate for a person who is 150 cm tall?
Approximately 37–39 cm. The main thing is that the feet are stable on the ground.
Is the IKEA Markus suitable?
Unfortunately not – the seat is too high and too deep for small people.
Can a child's chair work for adults?
Only for short periods. They are not designed for extended use.
What to do if the chair is too high, but otherwise fits perfectly?
A stable footrest solves the problem immediately.
Conclusion
An office chair for small people is not a niche product, but a tool that takes your body seriously.
Ergonomics begins with the person, not the piece of furniture.
When you know your measurements, choose the right seat height, and adjust your workspace to your needs, you will feel: sitting can finally feel easy, stable, and natural.
All recommendations mentioned here are based on current ergonomic standards (including DIN 33402) and practical experience from over 10 years of ergonomic workplace consulting.
