Choosing the right office chair starts with precise measurements: seat height, seat depth, and seat width. Additionally, you should ensure that the lumbar support and all other elements are infinitely adjustable.
This guide will teach you how to measure your personal values, the role each setting plays, and how to conveniently select your ideal chair online – without having to try it out in a store.
Which key parameters are crucial?
Precise adjustment of these three dimensions immediately ensures better support and less tension.
| measure | Area | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| seat height | 38–56 cm | Distance floor to seat, feet flat |
| seat depth | 36–47 cm | Distance from seat edge to back of knee, 2–4 cm clearance behind knee |
| Seat width | 40–60 cm | Space for hips; ≥ 50 cm for taller people |
How do I choose based on height?
Find your row to set the correct dimensions or select them when purchasing.
| Height (cm) | Seat height (cm) | Seat depth (cm) | Seat width (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | 38–42 | 36–40 | 40–46 |
| 160 | 40–44 | 36–42 | 40–48 |
| 170 | 42–48 | 38–45 | 45–52 |
| 180 | 45–50 | 40–48 | 48–55 |
| 190 | 48–54 | 45–50 | 50–60 |
| 200 | 52–56 | 48–55 | 55–65 |
Steps:
- Measure lower leg length with work shoes or barefoot + heel
- Find your height in the table
- Adjust or buy a chair so that the three measurements fit.
Why is lumbar support so important?
An adjustable lumbar support
- preserves the natural S-shape of the lumbar spine
- relieves pressure on the intervertebral discs and back muscles.
- prevents one from “sinking” forward and developing chronic pain.
Tip: When trying out the seat, check whether the lumbar support can be easily adjusted to your individual depth and height using a lever or rotary knob.
How important is general adjustability?
Flexibility in everyday life
- Seat height +/- 10 cm: suitable for various daily routines and sitting positions.
- Seat depth adjustable via sliding mechanism: ensures optimal lower leg support
- 3D/4D armrests: adjustable in height, width and angle for relaxed typing
- Tilt and tilt mechanism: enables active switching between upright and slightly reclined sitting positions.
Why this matters: Only stepless and smooth adjustment paths guarantee that users actually adjust more often – for healthier breaks from sitting.
What measurement details should I pay attention to?
Here's how to measure correctly:
- Always measure lower leg length while wearing typical work shoes or barefoot and add heel height.
- Use the “two-finger rule” for seat depth: two fingers behind the hamstring and the edge of the seat (≈ 4 cm clearance).
- To measure the lumbar support height while sitting, measure from the seat cushion to the middle of your back (approx. 15–25 cm above the seat).
Extra tip: Mark your measuring points with sticky notes – this makes it easier to compare manufacturer specifications.
Which advanced features are worthwhile?
| feature | Area | When is it important? |
|---|---|---|
| Lumbar support | Adjustable in depth and height | for prolonged sitting and back health |
| Armrest height | 17–27 cm above seat | for a relaxed 90° angle in the elbow |
| Base diameter | ≈ 70 cm Ø | for stable rolling freedom |
How do I test your office chair online?
Even without trying out a chair in the store, you can check online whether it fits:
- For example, the Sihoo office chair offers a 360-degree view, allowing you to digitally assess seat height and width.
- Filter customer reviews: Pay attention to comments regarding the fit for your height.
- Compare manufacturer dimension drawings: Download PDF datasheets and digitally check your dimensions
- Check return and trial offers: Choose shops with a free trial month or return guarantee.
FAQs
What seat height should I choose for my height?
The ideal seat height depends on your height. A simple rule of thumb is that the seat height should be about 25% of your height. For example:
- For a height of 160 cm, the seat height should be between 40–44 cm.
- For a height of 190 cm, a seat height between 50–56 cm is suitable.
Make sure your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are bent at a 90° angle to find the correct seat height.
How do I measure the correct seat depth for my office chair?
The seat depth should be adjusted so that there is approximately 2–4 cm of space between the front edge of the chair and the back of your knees. For most people, the seat depth is in the range of 36–47 cm, but the exact depth depends on your leg length. A seat depth that is too shallow or too deep can cause discomfort, so you should ensure that the backrest supports your back while maintaining a comfortable distance to your knees.
When do I need an XXL office chair?
An XXL office chair is necessary if you have a higher body weight or are taller. These chairs are specifically designed for users weighing up to 200 kg and offer wider seats (50–60 cm) and thicker padding (75–80 mm). Therefore, if you have a larger build or are taller, an XXL chair provides extra comfort and stability.
