Finding a good office chair can be really hard if you’re short. Most chairs are made for taller people, with bigger seats and higher backs that don’t fit smaller frames. That’s why it’s crucial to look for Best Office Chairs for Short People that offer proper support and a customizable fit.
If you’re under 5 feet tall, it’s even more difficult. Many chairs don’t go low enough, so your feet don’t touch the ground, and that can hurt your legs and back. Even the best ergonomic chairs don’t work if they’re too high.
You might think a drafting chair or a task chair with a footrest could help, but they often don’t provide the right support. Most office chairs are designed for the average height—about 5’9” for men and 5’4” for women—which is why shorter people usually struggle to find a good fit.
But don’t worry! We’ve found some office chairs that actually work for shorter people. And the good news is, they don’t all cost a ton. In this guide, we’ve listed some affordable and comfortable chairs that might just work for you.
Steelcase Amia
Best Office Chair for Short Heavy People
The Steelcase Amia is a great choice if you’re short and heavy. It offers an adjustable back tension, flexible lumbar support, and a sliding seat depth adjustment, ensuring a comfortable and personalized fit. The chair features a sleek black frame and Buzz2 black fabric, combining both style and durability. Designed to support various body shapes, the Amia prioritizes comfort, stability, and long-lasting support.
Pros
- Seat Depth Adjustment
- 4D Armrests
- Live Back Technology
- No Complicated Setup
Cons
- Slight Tilt Design may not suit everyone’s preference
Why It’s Worth It:
Compared to the pricier Steelcase Leap V2, the Amia offers a similar ergonomic experience at a lower price point. The seat depth adjustment is a standout feature, which many office chairs don’t offer but is crucial for short legs.
You also have customization options—choose different materials like fabric, leather, or mesh for your seat and backrest.
Overall, the Steelcase Amia provides a premium ergonomic experience, solid build quality, and customizable features that deliver comfort and support for short, heavy individuals.
Read More: Steelcase Amia Office Chair Review
Herman Miller Sayl
Best Stylish Office Chair with Eco-Friendly Design
The Herman Miller Sayl is a standout choice for a sleek, modern office chair that combines design, functionality, and eco-conscious construction. It features a flexible, spineless backrest made of breathable plastic mesh, offering a dynamic, adaptable support system that conforms to your movements. The chair includes seat height, depth, and tilt adjustments, plus a forward tilt function not often found in high-end chairs. With a lightweight construction, a stunning design inspired by the Golden Gate Bridge, and minimal environmental impact, the Sayl delivers style, comfort, and sustainability.
Pros
- Flexible, spineless backrest for better support
- Forward tilt adjustment not common in many chairs
- Sleek, modern design
Cons
- Not as supportive for taller or heavier individuals due to mid-back design
Why It’s Worth It:
The Herman Miller Sayl offers a visually stunning and environmentally conscious design at a price point that’s more accessible than other Herman Miller chairs. The forward tilt adjustment and flexible backrest provide functionality and movement support, while the chair’s eco-friendly design aligns with sustainable values.
If you want a chair that delivers style, flexibility, and a unique design, the Herman Miller Sayl is a strong choice—ideal for modern offices and eco-conscious workspaces.
Steelcase Leap V2
Best Overall Ergonomic Chair for Long-Term Support
The Steelcase Leap V2 is a top choice for anyone seeking unmatched ergonomic support, adjustability, and long-lasting comfort. With its LiveBack technology, it mimics the natural shape of your spine, offering continuous support throughout your back. The chair features customizable back tension, seat depth adjustments, and a flexible seat pan that adapts to your movements. Its 4-way adjustable arms provide a stable, supportive experience without wobbling, ensuring optimal comfort for prolonged sitting sessions. Despite a more streamlined design with lightweight plastic components, the Leap V2 maintains a robust build with a 400 lbs weight capacity.
Pros
- LiveBack Technology for dynamic, adaptable back support
- Customizable back tension and seat depth adjustments
- Solid build quality with a 400 lbs weight capacity
Cons
- No built-in headrest
- Narrower armrest shape may offer less elbow supoort than older mode
Why It’s Worth It:
The Steelcase Leap V2 delivers excellent ergonomic support with a perfect balance of adjustability, comfort, and durability. It offers a well-designed backrest that can cater to a wide range of users while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic. This chair provides value for long-term comfort and support without reaching the premium cost of higher-end models.
Read More: Steelcase Leap V2 Office Chair – is it worth the investment?
Knoll ReGeneration Chair
Best Flexible Office Chair with Exceptional Support and Sustainability
The Knoll ReGeneration Chair is a standout choice for an office chair that excels in flexibility, adaptability, and eco-conscious design. Known for its ability to move and adapt with your body, it offers a dynamic support system that encourages a variety of sitting positions without compromising back health. The chair combines comfort, adjustability, and a minimalist aesthetic with sustainable materials, making it a practical and eco-friendly choice for long-term office use.
Pros
- Ultra-flexible 270 degree back support
- Adjustable Seat
- Made with 44% recycled plastic, eco-conscious construction
Cons
- Thin armrests made of plastic may feel rigid and uncomfortable
- Smaller Seat size may not be ideal for larger individuals
Why It’s Worth It:
The Knoll ReGeneration Chair offers a unique combination of ergonomic support, flexibility, and customization options. With an adaptable backrest, a well-designed seat, and a focus on sustainability, it’s a fantastic choice for users seeking a chair that supports movement, comfort, and eco-conscious living without the high costs of top-tier brands like Herman Miller or Steelcase.
Steelcase Gesture Chair
Best High-End Ergonomic Chair with Exceptional Adjustability and Dynamic Support
The Steelcase Gesture Chair is a premium choice for an ergonomic office chair that prioritizes adjustability, long-term comfort, and durability. Designed to accommodate a wide range of body types and work postures, it features a dynamic backrest, customizable armrests, and a flexible seat pan. Known for its sturdy build and thoughtful design, the Gesture ensures that you stay comfortable and supported throughout long working hours, while its sleek and robust construction guarantees lasting quality.
Pros
- Superior 10-inch armrest adjustability for a personalized fit
- Dynamic Backrest support adapts with micro-movements
- Robust build quality with a 400 lbs weight capacity
Cons
- Higher Price Point Compared to other ergonomic chairs
- Optional Lumbar Support adds an extra cost
- Backrest cannot be completely locked upright
Why It’s Worth It
The Steelcase Gesture Chair offers a top-tier ergonomic experience with exceptional adjustability and dynamic support. It combines a flexible backrest, customizable seat depth, and highly adjustable armrests, ensuring a comfortable fit for a diverse range of users. While it comes at a higher price, its robust construction and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a reliable, long-lasting chair that adapts seamlessly to every posture and movement.
Staples Carder Mesh Back Chair
Best Budget-Friendly Office Chair with Solid Adjustability and Comfort
The Staples Carder Mesh Back Chair offers impressive value for a budget-friendly office chair, combining practicality with a solid set of features that often exceed expectations in the $200 price range. It includes a recline function, tilt tension control, and customizable lumbar support — features that many chairs at this price point lack. The mesh backrest offers breathability and a subtle curve that conforms to your spine, ensuring decent support for prolonged sitting sessions.
Pros
- Affordable Price with essential Ergonomic Features
- Adjustable Lumbar Support for long-lasting back comfort
- Recline and tilt tension controls for customizable comfort
Cons
- Seat cushion sinks too quickly and lacks bounce-back
- Build materials may wear down faster over time
Why It’s Worth It
The Staples Carder Mesh Back Chair offers standout value with adjustable lumbar support, a breathable mesh backrest, and tilt features at an accessible price. While the seat cushion could be better, the chair’s overall comfort and ergonomic support make it a solid choice for budget-conscious users who need a reliable and adaptable workspace companion without spending a fortune.
COLAMY Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair
Best Ergonomic Office Chair with Dynamic Support and Comfort
The COLAMY Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair offers a high-back design with dynamic lumbar support, a built-in footrest, and a fully adjustable setup. Crafted with high elasticity mesh fabric and a 3D armrest design, it focuses on providing a personalized ergonomic experience, ensuring long-lasting support and superior comfort. The chair’s sturdy build and advanced adjustments make it a reliable choice for those seeking productivity and comfort at work.
Pros
- Dynamic Lumbar Supoort for Back Comfort
- Built-in footrest for relaxation
- Breathable, durable mesh material
- Supports up to 300 lbs
- 2-in-1 tilt lock and height adjustments
Cons
- Bulky Design may not suit short users
- Complex assembly process
Why It’s Worth It:
The COLAMY Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair combines dynamic support features with a sturdy design, offering a premium ergonomic experience. It provides solid stability, customizable adjustments, and built-in features like a footrest that enhance long-term comfort, productivity, and overall support for various body types.
