In today's fast-paced environment, many of us spend most of the day working. What is more, even when the office hours are over, we lack the energy to be active and make up for our bodies for the entire day of sitting. Sooner or later, we end up with back pain, weak knees, and muscle cramps.
Luckily, smart innovators found many ways to deal with this problem.
For example, Hans Christian Mengshoel discovered in 1979 a balance chair. I doubt you heard about it, but it served as a prototype for kneeling chairs, widely-sold today.
Kneeling chairs are ergonomically designed chairs that supposedly take away the pressure from the lower back and divide it between shins and glutes. These chairs are fantastic because they prevent the lower back pain and support the natural position of the spine.
In this text, we replied to the most frequently asked questions about these chairs and singled out the best kneeling chair on the market, so If you're an office worm, you might want to check it out!
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Top 3 Recommendations
Best Kneeling Chair - 2020 Selection
Our most luxurious offer comes from Dragonn, a customer-oriented manufacturer determined to win over the market with its high-quality products and matchless customer service.
First of all, this kneeling chair features an ergonomic design, specially constructed to help you maintain the upright position and keep your spine at its natural curve.
DRAGONN Ergonomic Kneeling Chair is perfect for replacing your standard office chair as it allows full mobility due to four high-quality casters of which the front two can be locked.
It features a heavy-duty metal base that provides stability and strength and extra-thick padding for ultimate comfort. On top of everything, we can find a mesh cover that is highly breathable and, therefore, does not heat up after some extended periods of time. Also, the mesh is water-resistant and pretty straightforward to clean.
Another great advantage of this chair is the adjustable height that makes it suitable for a great variety of users. You can modify the height from twenty-one to thirty-one inches and achieve the perfect posture no matter how tall you are. However, it does have a specific weight limit. Namely, the maximum weight capacity of this office star is 250 pounds.
This kneeling chair is angled at 90 degrees, which is an optimal position for your entire body. However, you should start with use gradually. Start with an hour or so, and each day prolong the periods you sit at it to get used to the position.
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The runner up kneeling chair we found is another high-quality product with almost the same characteristics as our top pick, yet slightly different design.
In comparison to Dragonn kneeling chair, this model from the Defy Desk is somewhat more elegant. It features an all-black design with a sturdy metal base and sleek leather upholstery. The leather feels great on the skin and definitely looks more sophisticated than mesh, but it is not as breathable.
Furthermore, this kneeling chair also has four casters for 360 degrees mobility and adjustable height. However, the height on this model can be adjusted from 21 inches to 28 inches, so you get a bit more freedom in height modifications with our top pick.
The chair is, of course, ergonomically designed and incorporates three inches thick foam cushions for an ultra-comfortable experience and shin protection. Plus, it has a 250 pounds weight limit, so pretty good endurance, and strength.
When it comes to negative aspects, I haven't noticed anything significant. Namely, some customers complained that they did not receive assembly instructions, so you might need to check the internet for help. Also, if you're buying this chair for your office, check the table height, since it goes up to only 28 inches.
It is essential to mention that Defy Desk gives a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so If you're not satisfied with your kneeling chair, you get a full refund.
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When it comes to the best kneeling chairs, there are literally no offers under $100 worthy of attention. Therefore, we selected this Ergonomic Kneeling Chair, Adjustable Stool for Home, as one cost-efficient kneeling chair that does not differ from the best in the branch and yet won't break the bank.
Our budget-pick comes from Papafix and features an ergonomic, height-adjustable design, specially intended to make sitting for long periods of time more convenient and less detrimental for your back.
The kneeling chair is medium-sized and can withstand up to 250 pounds, which is the standard weight capacity of the best kneeling chairs.
Additionally, it has an adjustable height that ranges from 21 inches to 28 inches, the same as our runner up model from Defy Desk.
Just like any standard office chair, this kneeling chair features a sturdy iron frame that will provide stability and won't break easily, one set of four plastic casters and artificial leather upholstery. The padding, on the other hand, is quite innovative, made of molded foam, proven to be softer and more comfortable for sitting. The foam is super-thick and therefore decreases the risk of hurting your shins after a long day of sitting.
The manufacturer gives a 3-months return policy, but there were some cases of unfortunate experiences with their customer service, so you might want to be sure you want this chair before you buy it. Also, customers noted that hardware could be of better quality.
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Maxkare Ergonomic Kneeling Chair hasn't risen to fame on Amazon yet, but it definitely has the potential to become one of the best sellers. I think the reason why not many people reviewed this product is its compact size that makes it suitable only for people from 3.6 ft to 5.58 ft., but overall it's one high-quality kneeling chair with advanced design.
What makes this kneeling chair unique on the market is its upgraded design that does not consist of simple construction with only two cushions. This model additionally has a padded backrest and two padded handles for more convenience in use.
It also stands out for its ultra-high weight capacity of 330 pounds, which proves how sturdy and robust the construction is. As for the construction, this Maxcare knee chair has a steel base, thick rebound foam padding, and PVC leather upholstery. This means it is water-resistant and pretty simple to clean- some water and a cloth will do it.
The seat height can be adjusted between five different heights. It goes from 19.3' inches to 22.4 inches, and this, to my mind, is the weakest point of this chair. Hardly any office desk will be suitable for a chair this short. Hence this could be another reason why this model hasn't lived up to its potential.
Overall, the model looks really elegant, features durable construction and upgraded design, therefore, If you happen to be from 3.6 ft to 5.58 ft tall and have a suitable desk, you should definitely go for it.
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Here we have another budget-friendly offer with pretty standard characteristics for the products of this kind, very reliable and efficient.
All kneeling chairs have a pretty similar design, two cushions, a base, and four casters, and so does this Himimi model. The base features robust iron tubes and four plastic wheels; therefore, it is very strong and can endure up to 250 pounds. Instead of poor quality recycled foam, this ergonomic kneeling chair from Himimi has the molded foam, thicker and softer.
Fitting this chair in your interior won't be a problem since it exhibits a very subtle yet elegant design. I especially like that the tubes are also black, so the entire chair looks more sophisticated.
When it comes to the cover, Himimi used artificial leather. Hence the maintenance won't cause too much trouble. Yet, keep in mind that it probably won't be as breathable as a mesh chair.
Just like the previously reviewed keeling chairs, this model has an adjustable height that can be modified from 21 inches to 28 inches, and the seat is angled at 90 degrees.
What is important to realize about these chairs is that it takes time for your body to get used to them. Therefore, although some customers complained about this model only enhancing their back pain, I am sure it happened due to improper use.
Yet, if you change your mind about the chair, a replacement will be very tiring and cost you some extra money.
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Now, what we have here is the only original kneeling balance chair designed by Peter Opsvik and produced by Varier. Just by looking at it, we can notice the difference between this chair and the other models on our list; it features an honestly sturdy construction and first-grade quality.
The reason why people just love Scandinavian furniture, to my mind, is the blend between modern design and minimalistic style that looks incredibly expensive but also subtle.
What I just described is essentially this Varier Variable Balans Original Kneeling Chair. Norwegian design combined with European craftsmanship brings this ergonomic kneeling chair, great for your back and even greater for your interior.
It features a sturdy, slightly curved base made of natural Ashwood, therefore safe for your skin and environment and very stylish. The wood is furthermore covered with ash top veneer and non-toxic finish. As for the seat material, this chair features soft textiles, excellent for the skin, and not so demanding to maintain.
This chair does not include casters, so it can not be moved around. But it does not weigh too much, so you can transport it from one place to the other easily.
You can also notice that the height can not be adjusted on this model, and thus you should check the dimensions and whether they fit your body type. But, to be honest, I would instead buy an original balance chair and trust its traditional design than cheap and slightly advanced alternatives.
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Now, we move on to one slightly upgraded kneeling chair from Sleekform. It comes at a mid-range price yet with many innovative additions.
Sleekform kneeling chair features a standard design with an ultra-sturdy steel base, four plastic casters, and two cushions. The cushions, however, are way thicker than the ones you can find on cheaper models. They are made of 100% recyclable foam, four inches thick, so that you won't hurt your shins.
The height can be adjusted from twenty-one inches to twenty-eight inches, but this chair also has an adjustable seat angle. Namely, while the other kneeling chairs we reviewed thus far have a seat angled at 90 degrees, this one can be adjusted from 91 to 117 degrees, which gives you the freedom to create the perfect position for your spine.
The manufacturer recommends this kneeling chair from people from 5'2" to 6'6" tall, and it can withstand up to 265 pounds. But with so many adjustments you can make, I believe anyone can find a suitable position in this chair.
If you wonder whether this chair fits your desk, you'd be glad to hear the manufacturer made it to be suitable with any standard 29 inches high desk. And also, the wheels are specially designed not to scratch or damage your floor and can be easily replaced in case they break.
On top of everything, we can see a durable, black leather, easy to clean, and pleasant for your skin, so overall, it is one reliable and functional model.
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ProErgo brings another high-quality kneeling chair with an improved customer-centered design that makes adjustments easier and sitting more convenient.
We are mostly used to our standard swivel office chair that has a lever for height adjustments and does not require special effort; everything is handy and accessible. Standard kneeling chairs do need you to stand up and manually adjust the height, which may be annoying. That is why ProErgo designed a kneeling chair with pneumatic height adjustment, so you don't have to bother.
It has a high-quality metal base and can withstand up to 250lbs, plus it features thick, comfortable fabric padding and does not compress easily.
Instead of faux leather, this model features Textile, so you'll find it more breathable and pleasant for your skin, especially after a tiring day at work.
The height goes from 19.5 inches to 25.5 inches, which is slightly lower than standard, yet still pretty good. When it comes to assembly, it will take approximately 5-10 minutes to set the chair up.
All in all, the ProErgo chair is one high kneeling chair that comes with many advantages but most probably won't fit taller people. Aside from this minor disadvantage, everything else is quite handy and functional.
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Our final model is one old school balance chair that pretty much resembles the Varier Variable Balans kneeling chair. It comes from Predawn and has a sturdy, high-quality construction and a beautiful vintage design.
As I mentioned, this is another balance chair that does not have casters or variable height settings. On the contrary, it features a sturdy wooden base, elastic sponge padding, and breathable linen cover. This makes it perfectly safe for the skin and environment, yet very comfortable and durable.
Due to robust construction, the chair has pretty high weight endurance, 330pounds, and the seat height measures 21.26 inches. So, it is pretty much strong enough to withstand corpulent users, but you'll need a bit lower desk to fit it right.
While this chair is angled at 90 degrees to eliminate the back pain and promote a healthy posture, it also rocks back and forth and thus reduces stress and anxiety.
You can easily fit it into your office or whatever interior since it looks pretty subtle and very modern. The frame comes at Pecan color, while the breathable linen is colored in beige.
Importantly, for this item, Predawn provides a five-year warranty to back up your purchase. If anything breaks or does not function properly, you get a completely new chair.
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Buyer's Guide: All About Kneeling Chairs
Kneeling chairs have been on the market for quite a while now; however, there are still many people who haven't heard of them. Well, to make things simple, these are ergonomic chairs that remove pressure from your lower back and distribute the force of your body weight between the shins and your buttocks.
Knee chairs are fantastic because they eliminate back pain, activate your muscles, and keep you at a natural posture while you are sitting. However, you should not start sitting on a kneeling chair for eight hours right away. Although ergonomically designed, the kneeling chair can intensify your back issues if you don't give your body time to get accustomed to its design. Therefore, start with short periods of an hour or so and then gradually prolong the period each day.
Kneeling chairs have a pretty standard design. They all feature a sturdy base and two cushions: one seat cushion and one knee support. Now, we can spot a difference between traditional balance chairs and modern alternatives.
Traditional chairs like Variable Balans feature a wooden, slightly curved base and no wheels, while modern alternatives usually have a metal base and four casters for mobility. They furthermore offer adjustability in terms of height and possibly seat angle, while traditional chairs do not.
Now, I guess you're wondering which model is better?
I believe that traditional balance chairs follow the original patent more consistently and look way more stylish than modern alternatives. However, it is better to adjust the chair's height to your body type, so If you're a taller consumer, consider some of the modern models.
What you should also care for is the thickness of the cushions, so your shins don't get injured; whether the model supports your body weight and, of course, the price point of the knee chair. The ideal padding would be memory foam, but these are very rare, so just make sure the cushions are not below three inches thick. As for the price range, don't expect to find anything under $100, but do expect some genuinely reliable and stylish models for around $150.
If you're skeptical about whether to spend so much money on this item, here is one useful video on how the cheap and expensive kneeling chairs differ:
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do Kneeling Chairs Really Work?
Kneeling chairs actually do eliminate back pain, as they remove the pressure from your lower back and transfer it to the buttocks and legs.
However, If you sit in this position for a long time, your shins can start hurting as the circulation is blocked. So, you should alternate between this chair and a regular chair to achieve the best result.
2. What Are the Benefits of a Kneeling Chair?
A kneeling chair reduces back pain, engages your core, and thus keeps it activated and helps you maintain the right posture while sitting.
3. Can You Use Kneeling Chairs All Day?
It is not advisable to use a kneeling chair all day, or any chair for that matter. When it comes to working hours, you should alternate between it and a regular office chair.
4. Are Kneeling Chairs Good for Back Pain?
Yes, kneeling chairs are excellent for back pain since they remove the pressure from your spine and instead activate your glutes more while sitting.
Final Thoughts
And here our talk about kneeling chairs unfortunately ends. I honestly hope you found some useful tips in this article and that it helped you decide what model to buy. If you're still having doubts, I once again recommend our top pick - DRAGONN Ergonomic Kneeling Chair.
Let me remind you that it is the only model with a breathable mesh seat that goes up to 31 inches and features extra-thick padding.
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