Seat size (WxD)
Dimensions of the seat installed in the chair in width and depth (from the back to the front edge). For models with variable depth (see "Adjustments"), the maximum value is taken into account when the seat is pushed forward to the stop.
Most modern chairs are designed for the average adult, so paying attention to size is primarily for people of a large, or, conversely, miniature physique. In width, the average is considered to be 45 – 55 cm, the narrowest models are up
to 40 cm wide, in the widest it can
exceed 60 cm. Similarly, a depth of less than 40 cm is considered small, up to 60 cm — medium, more than 60 cm — large.
Seat height
Seat height from the floor. The optimal height for a person of average height is considered to be 40 – 50 cm, however, this moment is largely subjective, and the comfort of the chair for a particular user depends heavily on his preferences and physique. Thus, many models have the ability to change the height in a certain range (see "Adjustments"). To choose, it is best to determine “live” at what height you are comfortable sitting, and find a model with the appropriate characteristics.
Footrest
The presence of an additional
footrest in the design of the chair. Such a stand is usually made folding and located under the seat, and when unfolded it rises forward to a horizontal or almost horizontal position; On some models, the tilt of the stand can be adjusted. Anyway, this feature allows you to unload the legs, which not only provides additional comfort, but also has a positive effect on the ligaments and joints.
Height from the seat
The height of the armrests installed in the chair relative to the seat. In models that have the ability to adjust the armrests in height (see "Adjustments"), the range of such adjustment is usually indicated.
The overall comfort of using the chair depends on the height of the armrests, but this parameter is largely subjective: even people of the same height can differ in physique and personal preferences. So if comfort is of fundamental importance to you, it is best to check live what armrest height is optimal and choose a chair with the appropriate specifications.
Seat material
The material from which the chair seat is made directly. Note that individual models can be produced in several versions, differing in the material of the seat.
— Textile.
The fabric can have many varieties, and specific characteristics depend on the price category of the chair. And this material is found in all categories — from low-cost models to rather expensive products. The common properties of all types of fabric are low cost, durability, as well as undemanding maintenance.
— Skin. The main distinguishing features of genuine leather are the rich appearance and the corresponding cost. Thus, this material is considered "image" and is used not only for comfort, but also to emphasize the status of the owner. Accordingly, most chairs with
leather seats are designed for executives (see "Appointment") and are in the premium class. On the practical side, the leather is durable, quite pleasant to the touch, but poorly breathable (which can create discomfort in hot weather).
— Leatherette. A variety of artificial materials that mimics the natural leather described above. The quality and properties of a particular leatherette, usually, directly depend on its cost (and the price category of the chair in general), but even the most expensive options are usually cheaper than leather — despite the fact that outwardly and even in sensations they can be almost indistinguishable from i
...t. In addition, this material is not so demanding to care for. Thanks to this , leatherette seats are quite common. Their main disadvantages are the tendency to scuffs and, in general, a shorter service life than leather ones (but again, a lot depends on the price).
— Plastic. Plastic seats are typical of the most inexpensive chairs designed for visitors — or for staff who do not have to sit in one place for a long time. This material is characterized by low cost combined with strength, reliability and an abundance of colours. At the same time, it has one key drawback, which actually nullifies all the described advantages — hardness; Simply put, sitting on plastic is uncomfortable. Because of this, even among the models mentioned, all-plastic seats are very rare.
— Wood. The word "wood" in the case of seating for office chairs usually refers to plywood. This material is in many ways similar to the plastic described above, but it also has some differences: on the one hand, it has an aesthetic appearance with original patterns and is considered more pleasant to the touch, on the other hand, it costs more and provides relatively few design options. However, such a disadvantage as hardness is also characteristic of this material, which is why it is also used only in isolated cases.
— Net. Seats in the form of a rigid frame, in which a fabric or synthetic mesh is stretched. The main advantages of such designs are light weight and good breathability. The design of the nets allows them to be used even in executive chairs. Of the noticeable shortcomings of mesh seats, one can only single out a slightly lower reliability and greater complexity of repair than those of largely similar fabric seats (see above).
