Whether you are teaching online or in the classroom, a quality chair is a piece of equipment you shouldn’t neglect.
Many teachers tend to focus more on the tools of the trade such as computers, headsets and lighting, but their health matters, too. Here we’ll look at a few of the best teacher desk chairs that are comfortable and non-distracting, allowing you to complete your work fast and effectively.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
Our Top Picks
★★★★★
A simple but ergonomic desk chair offers multi-adjustments and a durable five-star wheeled base for mobility.
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★★★★☆
With a steel frame, legs and good back and seat padding, this classic-style chair fits in with any workspace.
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★★★★☆
A fully adjustable ergonomic desk chair is made from the highest quality materials certified by BIFMA standards.
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What Kind Of Chair Is Suitable For Teaching?
If you work in the classroom, then you probably spend a lot of time on your feet. When you do get to sit down, it’s important that you have a chair that is comfortable and will not cause problems with your back. However, if you work online, then you sit all time. There is no chair that is specially made just for teachers. Every ergonomic chair that increases your comfort and efficiency is good for teachers.
Chair Types You Can Choose From
There are several chair types you can choose from, that include standard ergonomic chairs, kneeling chairs, non-wheeled chairs and stools. Ideally, you will try the chair before buying.
Ergonomic Chairs – Standard ergonomic chairs are usually equipped with thick and cushioned seats, curved backrests, adjustable armrests, headrests, wheels and many adjustment features. They provide all-day comfort allowing you to adjust it to your body type and size. It’s appropriate for online lessons or classrooms.
Kneeling Chairs – A bit unusual desk chairs that require acclimation time because you’ll use different muscles in a kneeling chair. These chairs could have a backrest and wheels, but it’s not a rule. They are very comfortable while reducing pressure on your spine, hips and buttock. Since it requires a bit unusual position, it’s purposed for home use during online lessons and time for preparing materials.
Chair With Legs – Some teachers prefer non-wheeled chairs that are stable and don’t produce annoying noise while moving. They come with armrests and adequate back support that keeps you supported and still during your teaching.
Stools – Of course, there are many various stools on the market, they can come with/without backrests, a stable base or with wheels, etc. On our list, you can read about a stool that promotes active seating and keep your core muscles engaged. This leaning chair is good for the classroom since it allows you to quickly stand up so it improves your mobility needed during the class.
How it Will Improve Your Teaching?
The right ergonomic chair that supports prolonged sitting will improve your posture and comfort for long durations of teaching in front of the computer or your class. The main goal is to provide good lumbar support and reduce the stress that ensues when sitting for long periods of time on your lower back discs. A good ergonomic desk chair will distribute your weight evenly, reduce pressure on your buttock and legs, and take the pressure off of your shoulders and neck. It’s worth your money.
Comprehensive Guide For the Best Chair
In this guide, we are going to break down what you need to look for in an ergonomic chair that is appropriate for an online class or classroom teaching.
Chair Size
There are tons of options to choose from when it comes to office chairs based on different office chair dimensions. It’s vital to find a chair that is specific to your needs and that will fit your body type and size. There are three main sizes of desk chairs:
- Standard Desk Chairs – They work for most people as they are built for an average size adult that has a general weight of 250 pounds and who is between 4 to 6 feet.
- Petite Desk Chairs – These chairs are smaller than standard size as they accommodate users who have a smaller posture. They are narrower, have a shorter back and the seat is shallower.
- Big Desk Chairs – They are designed for users who have a larger stature and height. These chairs are suitable for people taller than 6 feet. Also, they have different weight capacities that range from 300 to 500 pounds.
Material & Build Quality
The material of the backrest and seat of the chair will also impact how well the chair supports your body and keeps you comfortable. Mesh is ideal if you run hot since it’s most breathable. Leather is also very comfortable and easy to clean. The construction of a chair should be made of metal or steel, they ensure a long lifespan.
Adjustability
The best chair for teachers should have many adjustment features. They allow you to adapt the chair to your body size and type. Some of them are seat height (the seat can be raised or lowered to suit your height), backrest (tilt and tilt tension adjustment), armrests (adjustable for both height and width), headrest (height and angle of headrest).
Adequate Support
A good desk chair should support your body, so look for a chair with appropriate lumbar support, backrest and seat support. The backrest and seat should be well-padded to support your body during sitting hours. High-density sponge or memory foam are good choices, they won’ deform easily.
With or Without Wheels
This is a debatable question and there is no one answer. The chair with casters will allow mobility, you can easily reach what you need without standing up and straining. On the other side, some experts think that you don’t need casters because you don’t want your chair to move when teaching. It’s on you.
Best 6 Teacher Desk Chairs
The best teacher chair means having the right features for the right learning environment. Check out our great selection of the best chairs and you’ll easily find the one that suits your needs.
OFM Essentials Office Chair
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 27.1” x 28” x 45”
Weight: 39 lbs
Chair Type: Ergonomic
Base: Five wheels
Designed for comfort and durability, the OFM Essentials office chair features many adjustments and good ergonomics. It is tested to support 250 pounds. This quality chair has a five-star base for increased durability. The base is fitted with smooth-rolling casters for easy mobility.
It features breathable mesh and a seat that conforms to the body for added comfort. This material promotes airflow that keeps you dry and sweat-free during your working day. You can easily customize your chair’s seat tilt, lower back support, and seat height.
Also, the OFM chair has adjustable arms, you can adjust the arm’s height to support your upper body and reduce tension in your shoulders. A tilt lock prevents unintentional tilting back in your chair while tilt tension controls the rate and ease of reclining.
Support:
Durability:
Functionality:
PRICE
approx:$115 – $230
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart, eBay) and seasonal sales
PROS
- Features tilt lock and tilt tension
- Adjustable lumbar support
- Armrests are adjustable
CONS
- Armrests aren’t padded
Amazon Basics Desk Chair
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 27.4” x 23.6” x 35.8”
Weight: 24.7 lbs
Chair Type: Armchair
Base: Legs
This Amazon Basics is a classic-style chair with a simple design that should fit in with almost any workspace. It is a comfortable teacher desk chair suitable for people of all sizes. With a high-quality metal frame and legs, Amazon Basics will last for many years. It bears up to 250 pounds.
This desk chair offers a professional look in any setting. Smooth, durable, bonded faux leather upholstery covers padded back, seat and armrests. It is easy to wipe clean. The assembly is required and you’ll need to spend some time finishing it.
Amazon Basics is certified by BIFMA – a strict standard for quality and safety. A well-padded backrest and seat will keep you comfortable during a long working day. This model comes in a versatile black color, you can easily integrate it with surrounding home office or classroom decor.
Support:
Durability:
Functionality:
PRICE
approx:$100 – $160
determined by online offer (Amazon, eBay) and seasonal sales
PROS
- Well-padded backrest and seat
- Durable metal frame and legs
CONS
- The chair height isn’t adjustable
Duramont Ergonomic Office Chair
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 26” x 23.6” x 42”
Weight: 42 lbs
Chair Type: Ergonomic
Base: Wheeled
Duramont is a high-quality ergonomic office chair made to last. With a max weight capacity of 330 pounds, this chair is suitable for the majority of people. Simple instructions provided enable anyone to put this office chair together in a few simple steps.
This chair for teachers has pneumatic control which allows you to raise and lower the seat. Also, you can adjust the armrests, headrest and back tilt. You can effortlessly find an ergonomic position that meets your needs. It features adjustable lumbar support that alleviates back pain.
The mesh back breath well, so you don’t feel overheated or sweaty. A W-shaped soft cushioned seat provides comfort and enough support for your buttock. Duramont is equipped with five smooth-rolling casters allowing you to move easily across your workspace.
Support:
Durability:
Functionality:
PRICE
approx:$250 – $360
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart, eBay) and seasonal sales
PROS
- It bears up to 330 pounds
- Adjustable kumbar support mechanism
- Adjustable armrests, headrest and back tilt
CONS
- A bit firm seat cushion
Dragonn by Vivo Kneeling Chair
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 13” x 27.1” x 21”
Weight: 23 lbs
Chair Type: Kneeling chair
Base: Wheeled
This is a bit unusual desk chair – it’s a kneeling chair with back support. With a sleek back style, this kneeling chair is perfect for your office and classroom. Dragonn by Vivo is designed with a strong metal base and it’s constructed to last for many years. It will support up to 250 pounds.
Dragonn has a functional design that gives your posture benefits of standing and sitting – all in one. Thanks to its design, this chair will keep your back a an upright position and distributes your weight evenly throughout your buttock and legs.
The mesh 3-inch thick cushion on the seat and knee rest provides you with ample support. Dragonn base is equipped with four rolling casters allowing you to move around. Also, you can adjust the chair height and there are supportive bars that help you to keep your balance when getting in and out of the chair.
Support:
Durability:
Functionality:
PRICE
approx:$140 – $160
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart, eBay) and seasonal sales
PROS
- Functional design that supports your body
- Ergonomic back support
- Lockable casters
CONS
- Required time to acclimate on this chair
Flash Furniture Mid-back Office Chair
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 25.5” x 24.5” x 41”
Weight: 31 lbs
Chair Type: Ergonomic
Base: Wheeled
Flash Furniture is available in several colors – black, blue, grey, white, tan, red and others. You can easily find the model that fits in your workspace. Proven commercial-grade quality means this chair is made from high-quality and durable materials.
This chair conforms to ANSI/BIFMA standards for quality and safety. Its heavy-duty base is equipped with five dual casters which increase stability and ease of movement. Flash Furniture has many adjustments, there is a pneumatic adjustment lever that allows you to adjust your seat to the desired height.
The tilt-lock mechanism tilts/rocks the chair and locks it in an upright position. The tilt tension knob adjusts the chair’s backward tilt resistance. Padded flip-up armrests can be flipped up, then you can tuck the chair under the desk. The ergonomic back and cushioned seat provide all-day comfort.
Support:
Durability:
Functionality:
PRICE
approx:$160 – $180
determined by online offer (Amazon, Walmart, eBay) and seasonal sales
PROS
- Padded flip-up armrests
- Meets ANS//BIFMA standards
- Adjustable backward tilt resistance
CONS
- Armrests height isn’t adjustable
Learniture Active Motion Stool
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 14.2” x 14.2” x 25”
Weight: 12 lbs
Chair Type: Stool
Base: Stable
Learniture made this cute active motion stool suitable for classrooms, offices or homes. It features a lightweight design that makes mobility and storage simple. This stool weighs only 12 pounds. Its frame is made from durable and easy to clean polypropylene material.
The seat height is adjustable, you can adjust it from 19.7” to 25.6”. It probably doesn’t look like that, but Learntiure office chair holds up to 300 pounds. The curved rubber base allows you to quietly wobble and rock while sitting on the chair.
A non-slip rubber button prevents sliding and won’t damage your floor. Its design will improve your body posture, balance and stability. Also, it allows gentle movement to enhance focus and attention. Learniture is available in green, black, blue, red and grey colors.
Support:
Durability:
Functionality:
PRICE
approx:$xy – $xy
determined by online offer (Amazon) and seasonal sales
PROS
- Makes your body active during sitting
- Different colors your students will find attractive
- Lightweight design makes it easily portable
CONS
- requires good balance skills
Health Issues Related to Teaching
Teachers spend much of their time standing, sitting, and they have to bend, stretch and lift to use educational equipment. This put them at risk for varicose veins and for injuries, including strains, pulled muscles, and back injuries. Also, for teachers who spend a lot of time using a computer, the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome is also a concern. They often complain of pain in their back, hips, neck and shoulders.
What Chair To Use In The Carpet Time?
If your lessons include carpet time, you need to use a chair that is easy to relocate. The good options are rolling chairs and lightweight chairs such as wooden, plastic or leaning chairs. Since the carpet time doesn’t last for long, you can take any of the kids’ chairs from the classroom.
Should I Use A Wooden Chair?
For the carpet time and in the classroom if you’re on your feet most of the time, then a wooden chair is a pretty good option. However, if you sit most of the lesson time, and especially if you have health problems, then you should avoid sitting in the wooden chair for long. If you don’t have any other choice, put a soft pillow on the seating area to make sitting more tolerably.
Final Verdict
If you are still in dilemma, we would like to recommend the OFM Essenials office chair. This simple but ergonomic office chair conforms to your body and offers seat tilt adjustment, adjustable lower back support, swivel feature and seat height adjustment. Its wheeled base ensures smooth movement. These desk chairs are designed for prolonged sitting, so offer high ergonomic features and multi-adjustments to provide max comfortable position which is important for teachers.
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