These Stylish Office Desk Chairs Look as Good as They Feel

Over the last couple of years, people across the country started working from home more than ever. Switching office work for either 100% remote work or a hybrid model where you're at home some of the time requires a good home office setup. And if you're noticing lower back or spine pain, now is the perfect time to consider making some upgrades. One improvement you definitely won't regret: a stylish ergonomic chair.

Sitting in the same position for hours can put a lot of strain on your body—and our not-so-temporary office chairs like couches aren't exactly helping. "Working from home definitely took a big toll on people's spines and backs," says Natalia Ruiz, a senior physical therapist at NYU Langone Health who is also certified in office ergonomics. In fact, a 2020 study published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that over 70% of participants who were working from home complained of pain, particularly at the low back and neck. And minor aches aren't the only concern: "In the long term, people can develop more severe issues like degenerative disc disease, permanent posture issues, chronic lower back pain, and muscle atrophy," Ruiz says.

The good news: The best ergonomic chairs can help! In general, they are designed to support the human body and promote good posture, but Natalia recommends looking for a few specific features. The first is adjustability, since the proper height of a chair as well as any back and armrests won't be the same for everyone. (According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, your chair is properly adjusted if your feet rest flat on the floor, your torso is vertical or slightly reclined, and your forearms are at a 90 to 100 degree angle with your upper arms.) Natalia also suggests looking for a chair with mesh fabric, a soft seat pad, a tilt mechanism, and a lumbar support.

If you're ready to purchase one, this guide includes some of the best, most stylish ergonomic chairs on the market.