This article top of best office chairs for short person in the UK is written by ergonomic experts.
As a short person, finding the perfect office desk chair can feel like an endless struggle. Most office chairs are designed to fit the average individual, but if you’re under 5’8″ for males or slightly under 5’3″ for women, you may have experienced the discomfort and frustration that comes with using a chair that just doesn’t suit your smaller stature.
I know this struggle all too well, as I’ve spent weeks tirelessly testing various office chairs, seeking the ideal fit for my petite frame.
The term “ergonomic chair” is often thrown around as a solution, but even these seemingly comfortable chairs can prove to be a source of aches and pains for short individuals like myself. The one-size-fits-all approach rarely caters to our specific needs, leading to discomfort and even potential health issues down the line.
Ergonomic considerations are crucial for everyone, but for short individuals, they become even more essential. A chair that is too deep might cause lower leg circulation problems, while a chair that is too high can hinder proper blood flow to the lower extremities.
It’s vital to find a chair with the right seat depth, height, seat pan width, and adjustable lumbar support to ensure a comfortable and healthy sitting posture.
Unfortunately, many office chairs on the market cater to people in the 5th to 95th percentile, leaving those of us in the shorter percentile struggling to find suitable options.
A petite person, standing at 5’2″ tall, falls into the 5th percentile, which means that most chairs simply don’t provide the proper fit.
In this blog post, I will be sharing my firsthand experiences and insights on some of the best office chairs available in the UK for short individuals.
I’ve put these chairs to the test, considering their dimensions, adjustability, and overall comfort to help my fellow petite individuals make an informed decision when investing in an office chair that caters to their unique needs.
Top 10 Best Ergonomic Office Chair For Short (Petite) Persons UK At a Glance
- SIHOO M76 (Must Buy) – 84% satisfaction rating – – Available at a price offer.
- Hbada Size A – 82% satisfaction rating – – Available at a low price offer.
- COMHOMA – 82% satisfaction rating – – Available at a low price offer.
- BASETBL (Recommend) – 90% satisfaction rating – – Available at a low price offer.
- YOUTASTE – 94% satisfaction rating – – Available at a low price offer.
- Kerdom – 88% satisfaction rating – – Available at a low price offer.
- Devoko – 82% satisfaction rating – – Available at a low price offer.
- Herman Miller Size A – 84% satisfaction rating – – Available at a price offer.
- Techo Sidiz – 84% satisfaction rating – – Available at a price offer.
- Exofcer – 80% satisfaction rating – – Available at a price offer.
Lower Seat Height
Ideally, a chair that can be adjusted to around 18 inches or even lower works best. Most office chairs have a seat height range of 18 to 22 inches, so it’s essential to look for one that can go as low as 18 inches to ensure comfort and proper posture.
Now, don’t get me wrong, seat depth is also essential for us short folks. But the good news is, it’s easier to work around a chair that might not go as low as we need. In such cases, using a footrest can make all the difference, allowing us to achieve that perfect sitting position with our feet flat on the ground.
Taking into account the thickness of my shoes, I could figure out the proper seat pan height that worked for me. It’s amazing how a few inches can make such a significant impact on comfort and support.
After some research, I found that a typical office chair has a height ranging from 17 to 22 inches. For us short individuals, the sweet spot is around 18 inches or lower. This ensures that we can sit comfortably, with our feet resting firmly on the ground, promoting better posture and reducing strain on our bodies.
Remember, it’s essential to choose a chair with a seat height less than 18 inches if you’re on the shorter side. If the chair comes with a movable footrest, even better, as it provides that extra flexibility in achieving the perfect fit.
To give you a better idea, if you’re around 5 feet 2 inches in height (153.48 cm), a seat height as low as 14 inches will allow your feet to rest flat on the floor comfortably. Similarly, a height of 15 inches would be more suitable for someone around 5 feet 6 inches tall.
Smaller Seat Depth
I’ve noticed that when a chair’s seat pan is too deep, it can cause circulation issues, especially in my sensitive inner thighs. With my feet hanging off the ground, the pressure on my thighs becomes uncomfortable and distracting during long hours of work. That’s why I highly recommend looking for an office chair with a seat depth of around 18 inches or less.
Adjustability is key when it comes to finding the perfect fit, so having a chair with depth adjustment options is incredibly helpful. To determine the ideal seat depth for me, I measured the distance between the ends of my buttocks and inner thighs in a sitting posture. This helped me figure out the optimal seat depth that allows for proper circulation and comfort.
An important tip I learned is to ensure there’s a 2-inch gap between the back of my knees and the chair’s seat. This small space at the end of the seat prevents any obstruction to the blood flow in my thighs, making a world of difference in how I feel during long hours of sitting.
Many standard office chairs have seat depths ranging from 17 to 18 inches, which can be too much for shorter individuals like me. That’s why it’s essential to seek out chairs with smaller seat depths, preferably 16 inches or less, especially if you’re 5 feet 6 inches or shorter.
One great option I found is chairs with adjustable seat depths that can go as low as 15 inches. This level of customization is fantastic for ensuring a perfect fit and a more comfortable sitting experience. For instance, a seat depth of 16 inches or less would be an excellent match for someone around 5 feet 5 inches tall.
Lumbar And Fully Adjustable Armrest
Having proper lumbar support is essential for maintaining a healthy sitting posture and avoiding back pain. I made sure to choose an office chair with an adjustable backrest, allowing me to customize the lumbar support to suit my specific needs. This feature is pretty helpful, as it keeps my lower back well-supported throughout long hours of work, promoting better comfort and reducing strain.
When it comes to armrests, I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to have fully adjustable ones. It might seem like a small detail, but being able to customize the armrests to fit my body perfectly has been incredibly beneficial. Especially for shorter individuals like me, having armrests that can be adjusted in height and breadth is a game-changer.
Standard office chairs often have armrest lengths of around 17 to 18 inches, which may not be ideal for us. That’s why I recommend seeking chairs with armrest differences of 16 inches or less for a better fit.
In my experience, having narrower armrests, around 13 inches, has been a perfect match for my shorter frame. This ensures that my neck and shoulders don’t strain and that I have ample space to move comfortably.
Moreover, soft cushioning in the armrests is preferable over firm padding. Not only does it increase overall comfort, but it also reduces the risk of pain and pressure on my arms during extended sitting sessions.
Recline Tilt
Two features that also have made a significant difference in my comfort are back height and forward tilt.
Having the ability to adjust the backrest’s height ensures that I get the right level of support for my spine’s natural curve. This not only provides comfort but also promotes stability, allowing me to sit for longer periods without feeling strained.
Another critical feature for me is the forward tilt adjustment. It’s essential for preventing the need to awkwardly balance on the edge of the seat, which can put unnecessary strain on my lower back. With a forward tilt option, I can tilt the backrest slightly forward, usually around 5 to 15 degrees, to find that perfect balance of support and comfort. This slight tilt alleviates pressure on my lower back and helps me maintain a healthier sitting posture.
Top 10 Best Ergonomic Office Chair For Short (Petite) Persons UK: Tried and Tested
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1. SIHOO M76
If you’re a short person in need of a reliable, adjustable office chair, I highly recommend this one. After spending a lot of time researching and reading reviews, I finally settled on this SIHOO M76 chair, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. The build quality is excellent for the price, and it’s designed for comfort and support.
The assembly was straightforward, taking only around 20 minutes, with clear instructions and even gloves to keep everything clean. The chair is well-made, with sturdy plastic parts, a comfortable seat pad, and smooth, silent casters. It’s also designed with ergonomics in mind, making it ideal for sitting at a desk for long hours.
What stood out to me most was the height adjustment feature. As a shorter person, I often struggle to find a chair that’s both comfortable and properly adjusted for my size. This chair fits perfectly and provides excellent lumbar support, which is a must for me. The back support is positioned just right, and I didn’t feel any discomfort after sitting for hours. The adjustable lumbar support is particularly helpful in giving extra lower back comfort.
The design is clean and modern, fitting seamlessly into my workspace without being bulky. I also appreciate the adjustable armrests, which, while fixed in height, are at a comfortable level for me. Even with the fixed armrests, they provide just the right amount of support, and I haven’t experienced any discomfort.
In terms of price, this chair is great value for money. It’s a solid choice for anyone who needs an adjustable office chair but doesn’t want to break the bank. Overall, it’s comfortable, supportive, and looks fantastic in any modern office. I highly recommend this chair for short people who want a practical and affordable solution for their office space.
2. Hbada
I recently purchased the Hbada Size A office chair for a home office setup, and I’ve been thoroughly impressed. As someone who’s always struggled with finding a comfortable chair that fits my smaller frame, this one was a game-changer. The assembly was quick and easy, taking no more than 15 minutes. The included tool made it simple to put together without needing extra assistance.
Once assembled, I immediately noticed the comfort. The chair provides excellent back support, which is a huge benefit for me, especially with long hours of sitting. The mesh back allows for air circulation, which I’m looking forward to during the warmer months, and the seat cushion is firm but comfortable, offering great support. The height adjustment works perfectly for my needs, and I love the smooth rocking function, which is great for relaxing between tasks.
I particularly appreciate how well-suited this chair is for someone of my size. It’s not too bulky or wide, and I feel fully supported without feeling overwhelmed by the chair’s size. It’s sturdy and feels durable, and I’m confident it’ll last a long time based on its build quality.
I’ve been using the Hbada Size A chair daily, and it’s made a noticeable difference in my comfort levels during work. It’s an affordable, high-quality option for short individuals looking for a comfortable and stylish office chair. If you’re in the market for a chair that’s easy to assemble, supportive, and perfect for smaller frames, I highly recommend the Hbada Size A chair. It’s truly been a great addition to my workspace!
3. COMHOMA
I recently purchased the COMHOMA office chair for short person, and I have to say, it’s been a great addition to my home office setup. As someone who’s always on the lookout for affordable yet comfortable office chairs, this one definitely stands out.
The chair was incredibly easy to assemble, taking only about 15 minutes. The instructions were clear, and all the necessary tools were included. Once assembled, the chair immediately felt sturdy and well-built. The mesh back provides great support and keeps me cool, which is especially important during those long work sessions. It also has a nice, simple grey color that fits well with my office decor.
What I really appreciate about the COMHOMA chair for short person is how comfortable it is, even after hours of sitting. The seat is firm yet comfortable, offering just the right amount of support. It’s not too soft, but it’s definitely not hard either. The armrests are another highlight—they’re adjustable, which allows me to flip them up when I need to move closer to my desk or simply get them out of the way.
I’ve also noticed how lightweight and easy to move it is across different surfaces, making it perfect for quick adjustments during my workday. Whether I’m switching between tasks or just taking a break, the chair stays comfortable and doesn’t cause any discomfort.
Overall, I’m really pleased with the COMHOMA office chair for short person. For anyone looking for an affordable, comfortable chair for a home office, I highly recommend this one. It offers excellent value for the price, and I believe it will last a long time with regular use. If you’re in the UK and searching for a reliable office chair, this one’s definitely worth considering!
4. BASETBL
I recently purchased the BASETBL office chair, and I couldn’t be happier with it. As someone who spends long hours at a desk, I was looking for a comfortable chair that would help alleviate my back pain, and this chair has certainly delivered.
The assembly was a breeze. It came neatly packed, and I had it set up in no time. The chair’s design is simple yet stylish, and it fits perfectly in my office. I opted for the grey color, which matches my office decor beautifully.
What really stood out to me was how comfortable the chair is. The seat cushion is soft and supportive, and I love the high back that offers excellent support for my back. It’s perfect for long hours of sitting, as it reduces discomfort and keeps my posture in check.
I also appreciate the thoughtful design of the backrest. The material feels durable and pleasant to the touch. It’s clear that comfort was a top priority in the design of this chair, and it truly shows.
One of my favorite features is the adjustable recline. It allows me to lean back and relax when I need a break, which adds to the overall comfort. The armrests are fixed but are at a comfortable height, giving my arms proper support while typing or resting.
Overall, I highly recommend the BASETBL office chair. It’s comfortable, well-built, and perfect for anyone who spends a lot of time at a desk. Whether you’re working from home or setting up a study space, this chair is a great choice. It’s been a game changer for me in terms of comfort and back support, and I’m sure it will be for you too.
5. YOUTASTE
I tried out the YOUTASTE Office Chair, hoping it would provide the comfort and support I require during long hours of work.
The chair’s dimensions seemed promising for someone of my stature, with a total height ranging from 81 to 93cm and a seat height of 44.5 to 56.5cm. Its compact size, with a total width of 50cm and total depth of 49cm, was suitable for smaller spaces like my home office.
Assembling the chair was a breeze, and the instructions provided were clear and straightforward. Once assembled, the chair had a nice and stylish appearance, which complemented my workspace.
However, there were some drawbacks that I noticed during my testing. The chair lacks armrests, which would have added extra comfort during prolonged use.
While the chair’s hydraulic lift functioned smoothly, the cushioning on the seat was good as I would have liked. For longer sitting sessions, I found it slightly enough cushiony compared to other office chairs I have used.
Overall, the YOUTASTE Office Chair is a good option for individuals seeking a compact and stylish chair for smaller spaces.
6. KERDOM
I recently purchased the Kerdom office desk chair, and I must say it has made a huge difference in my work-from-home setup. I was specifically looking for a chair that would be comfortable and supportive, especially since I’m on the shorter side. The chair fits me perfectly and is incredibly comfortable for long hours of sitting.
Setting up the chair was straightforward, and I had it assembled in no time thanks to the clear instructions. The quality of the chair is excellent, and the materials feel durable yet soft to the touch. I opted for the black color, which looks sleek and professional in my office space.
What I really love about the Kerdom office chair is the comfort it offers. The seat is just the right size, and it provides great support for my back. I don’t experience any discomfort, even after sitting for long periods, which was a huge concern for me before purchasing. The armrests are adjustable, which is great because I can customize them to the right height for added comfort.
One feature that I found particularly helpful is the ability to push the chair all the way under my desk. The armrests lift up easily, giving me more space in my small office. It’s a simple yet thoughtful design that maximizes space and convenience.
Overall, I’m really happy with my purchase of the Kerdom office desk chair. It’s comfortable, easy to assemble, and perfect for anyone looking for a chair that supports long hours of work. If you’re on the shorter side and need a chair that fits well and provides excellent back support, I highly recommend giving this chair a try.
7. Devoko
Devoko is the best home office chair for short person and is specifically designed for individuals between 4 feet 9 and 5 feet 7 inches.
During my testing, I found the chair’s dimensions to be well-suited for a short person like me. The seat width and depth provided a comfortable sitting experience, and the chair’s height from the floor was just right for my stature. The armrests were appropriately low, offering the right amount of support.
The assembly process was straightforward, and I appreciated the chair’s easy setup, which is great for those who may not be experienced with tools. Once assembled, the chair felt solid and sturdy, and it offered a comfortable height to sit in.
I particularly liked the chair’s foldable armrests and breathable mesh, which not only saved space but also reduced the chances of experiencing backaches during prolonged use. The back of the chair was shorter than usual, which was ideal for my petite frame.
For short individuals like me who do not use the chair for extended periods, the Devoko Office Chair is a suitable option. It offers comfort, style, and space-saving features, making it a valuable addition to my workspace.
However, I must point out that this chair may not be the best choice for individuals of normal height. It may lack the stability and comfort required for taller users.
Overall, the Devoko Office Chair is a great option for short and petite individuals who need a well-designed and space-saving office chair. The positive customer reviews from the UK further reinforce the chair’s cozy, reliable, and back-supportive features.
8. Herman Miller Size A
The Herman Miller Aeron Chair in Size A caught my attention, and I decided to put it to the test.
This best office chair for short heavy person comes in three sizes, and Size A is specifically designed for shorter individuals like me, with a height range of 4’10” to 5’9″. The seat depth is just 16 inches, which might seem small, but it actually worked perfectly for me. The seat height range of 15 to 19 inches was highly beneficial, and I found it to be an excellent fit.
The chair’s adjustable features allowed me to customize the armrest and backrest for optimal comfort. The individual backrest pads provided ample lumbar support, promoting a healthier seated posture. The high-tech mesh and fabric design with eight distinct stress zones ensured proper support and temperature control, even for my smaller frame.
The Aeron Chair may have a higher price tag compared to other office chairs, but it’s worth considering the 12-year manufacturer’s warranty and the overall comfort it offers. I believe it’s a worthwhile investment for those seeking long-lasting comfort backed by years of engineering expertise.
The chair’s reclining motion is exceptionally comfortable, and the arm adjustment range was perfect for shorter individuals like me. However, some users might find the lack of adjustable seat depth a downside.
9. Techo Sidiz
The Techo Sidiz T50 best office chair for short person with back pain turned out to be an excellent choice for those with smaller frames like mine.
The chair’s fully adjustable features allowed me to find the perfect height and seat depth to support my back and waist comfortably. With a seat height range of 15 to 19 inches, it was just right for my shorter legs, ensuring that my feet stayed firmly on the ground without any discomfort.
One of the standout features of the Sidiz T50 is its forward tilting function, which significantly reduced strain and pain on my thighs and hips while seated. The waterfall seat edge was also beneficial in improving circulation and reducing any pressure on my legs.
The chair’s sliding seat adjustment was particularly appreciated, as it allowed me to customize the depth to 18.3 inches, making it ideal for individuals under 5 feet tall.
The Sidiz T50 comes at an affordable price and offers excellent value for money compared to other high-end office chairs like the Aeron chair. However, I did find the seat cushion to be a bit firm, which might not suit everyone’s preferences. Additionally, the fabric used for the chair may not be to everyone’s taste.
One aspect to consider is that the rolling caster works best on carpeted surfaces, and it might not be as smooth on hard floors.
Overall, the Techo Sidiz T50 is a great mid-range ergonomic office chair for back pain for shorter individuals. Its adjustable features, forward tilting function, and supportive design make it a worthwhile option. While the cushioning might not be the softest, it still provides comfortable seating for moderate periods.
10. Exofcer
Firstly, the assembly process was manageable, but I would recommend having someone else help you with it, as certain parts may require an extra hand. Once the chair was fully assembled, I noticed that the seat width and depth were on the smaller side, which is perfect for someone like me.
One great feature of this chair is its adjustable height range, which goes from 15 to 19 inches. This height range worked well for me and allowed my feet to rest comfortably on the ground while sitting at my desk.
I appreciated the simple and straightforward design of the chair, which blended well with my office setting. The chair’s price was also quite reasonable, making it a good value for the money.
On the downside, the chair may not be the most suitable option for bigger individuals, as it is better suited for shorter people like me.
Overall, the Exofcer Office Chair is a decent option for short and petite individuals seeking a functional and budget-friendly office chair. It served my needs well during moderate sitting sessions, and I was satisfied with its overall performance.
How We Test
To test short office chairs, we conducted a comprehensive evaluation focusing on key factors crucial for petite individuals. We selected a diverse range of office chairs designed for shorter users and performed hands-on tests. Our team of short individuals rigorously assessed each chair’s seat height, seat depth, lumbar support, armrest adjustability, and recline tilt. We analyzed how well each chair accommodated different heights, evaluated comfort during extended sitting periods, and noted any strain on the back, neck, and shoulders. Through realistic scenarios, we gauged overall fit, ergonomics, and user satisfaction. The findings informed our recommendations, ensuring accurate guidance for short individuals seeking the perfect office chair.
Best Office Chair For Short Person UK: FAQ’s
What makes an office chair suitable for a short person?
An office chair designed for a short person is specifically tailored for individuals with lower stature or smaller frames. These chairs, often referred to as petite or small ergonomic chairs, feature adjustments to accommodate the needs of smaller users, such as a smaller seat size, adjustable seat depth to prevent perching, and reduced width of the seat and backrest.
How can I determine if I need a small office chair?
While many ergonomic chairs offer extensive adjustment options, it’s important to ensure that the chair can be adjusted to fit your specific frame size. Taking measurements and considering factors like seat depth, backrest support, and gas lift height can help determine if a small chair is necessary. You can also use our “Chair Builder” chart tool on ergonomic chairs.co.uk to find chairs tailored to your frame and size.
What are the key features of an office chair for short individuals?
Office chairs for short individuals typically include a smaller seat size, adjustable seat depth to prevent perching, reduced width of the seat and backrest, and a lower gas lift option to allow comfortable feet placement on the floor. These features ensure proper ergonomic support and comfort for smaller users.
Why is it important for short individuals to use a chair that fits their frame?
Using a chair that fits your frame is crucial for maintaining proper posture, preventing discomfort or strain, and promoting overall comfort during long hours of sitting. A chair designed for short individuals provides optimal support and ergonomics tailored to their specific needs.
How can I find the right office chair for my height and frame in the UK?
You can find the right office chair for your height and frame by considering factors such as seat size, seat depth, backrest support, and gas lift height adjustment. Our “Chair Builder” chart tool can guide you in selecting chairs that match your frame, size, and physical characteristics for a comfortable seating experience.
Related Resources:
Hello, We team the ergonomic expert at Best Ergonomic Office Chairs UK. With a passion for workplace wellness and comfort, We have dedicated years of research and experience to become a leading authority in the ergonomic furniture industry. Our mission is to help you find the perfect ergonomic office chair that promotes better posture, reduces discomfort, and boosts productivity. Trust my in-depth expertise and reliable recommendations to create a healthier and more productive workspace for you.
Anthony
Anthony is a trusted ergonomic expert with extensive experience in the field of office chairs and workplace wellness. As a dedicated advocate for comfortable and productive workspaces, he has spent years conducting in-depth expert reviews and hands-on testing of various ergonomic office chairs. Anthony's expertise and authority in the industry make him a reliable source of information for those seeking the best seating solutions.
With a passion for helping individuals make informed decisions, Anthony's tried and tested evaluations provide valuable insights into the design, comfort, and performance of office chairs. Trustworthy and knowledgeable, he is committed to empowering users with the knowledge needed to create healthier and more ergonomic work environments.
Gareth Thomas
Meet Gareth Thomas, your go-to expert on all things related to ergonomic office chairs at Best Ergonomic Office Chair. With a passion for workplace wellness, Gareth holds extensive expertise in evaluating and recommending top-notch seating solutions. As a trusted authority in the field, his in-depth testing and unbiased reviews help users make informed decisions for comfortable and productive workspaces. With years of experience, Gareth's mission is to ensure you find the perfect ergonomic chair tailored to your needs, backed by his reliable insights. Trust Gareth Thomas to guide you towards the best ergonomic office chair, supporting your health and productivity journey.
Henry
Meet Henry James, an esteemed authority in the realm of ergonomic office chairs. With a wealth of expertise and experience, Henry has become a trusted source for in-depth expert reviews and recommendations. Having tried and tested numerous chairs, his insights are valuable to anyone seeking the perfect ergonomic solution for their workspace. Renowned for his commitment to accuracy and trustworthiness, Henry's reviews provide unparalleled guidance to make well-informed decisions. Whether you're a professional or an individual, trust Henry James to lead you towards the best ergonomic office chair, ensuring optimal comfort and productivity in your daily work life.