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In South Africa, the selection of modern, stylish office chairs is simply inspiring. Retailers showcase a vast array of options, from breathable mesh designs to luxuriously upholstered styles. Each seller proudly presents their chairs as the ultimate solution for comfort and elegance, making your workspace feel inviting and productive. While some claim unparalleled luxury and others emphasize superior back support, it’s essential to remember that a great chair can transform your working experience. So...what remarkable benefits do modern mesh office chairs offer, and do they really improve comfort?
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The Modern Office Chair
Modern office chairs, whether executive, task or visitors, increasingly feature a mesh backrest. Mesh back chairs first appeared in October 1994 with the release of the Herman Miller Aeron chair. Ironically, this chair was originally intended for use by the elderly in their homes, and not for the office! Nevertheless, breathable mesh back chairs thrived from then on, and today most office chairs are of this type. The Latest Trends in selecting a Comfortable Office Chair.
1. Advantages of a modern mesh office chair
a. Improved ergonomic support for your back
A traditional office chair has a plywood or plastic shell that is covered in foam and upholstered with fabric, vinyl or leather. The support provided by these chairs depends on the contoured shape of the shell and foam.
Because the contoured shape of the backrest is not adjustable, these chairs are only suitable for a specific group or range of users. Chairs with an adjustable backrest can be set up to suit a broader spectrum of people.
Modern mesh office chairs “mould” themselves into the shape of your back, which makes them more supportive and comfortable than an upholstered chair. By doing so, they can help to improve posture and reduce aches and pains associated with musculoskeletal disorders. The consequences of sitting on the wrong chair.
In addition to moulding themselves to suit the shape of your back, these stylish ‘breathable’ office chairs typically have an adjustable lumbar support.
The greater adjustability of mesh chairs ensures that they can be set up to provide better back support for a broader range of users. Back support for an office chair – why it’s important
For greater luxury and comfort, most mesh office chairs have an upholstered seat that provides ergonomic support for your thighs and buttocks. Read our guide on whether a High-Back or Mid-Back Office Chair is right for you.
b. Breathable
Traditional upholstered office chairs act as insulators trapping heat between your body and the chair. This can result in uncomfortable sweating, especially in a hot climate. Mesh office chairs use a breathable membrane that keeps you cool, comfortable and dry.
c. Stylish and modern
Mesh office chairs are modern and stylish. Manufacturers have focused their designs on creating chairs that have tremendous aesthetic appeal for both home and office use.
While many of the original mesh office chairs were fairly bland, modern versions like the Leila, are state-of-the-art in their design.
Why The Leila Is The Best Value Ergonomic Office Chair in South Africa
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Discover our inspiring collection of ergonomic office chairs! Designed to enhance your comfort and elevate your style. Make each workday an extraordinary experience!
d. Easy Maintenance
Mesh chairs are a breeze to clean and maintain. Spills and stains can be quickly wiped away with a damp cloth, eliminating the need for costly shampoos or treatments. Furthermore, the quick-drying nature of the mesh material prevents moisture from lingering, reducing the risk of odours or mould growth. This convenience translates to a longer-lasting and well-maintained chair.
e. Allergen-Free
Traditional upholstered chairs can trap dust, pollen, sweat and other allergens, leading to discomfort for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues. Mesh chairs, on the other hand, are less likely to accumulate allergens, providing a cleaner and healthier seating option.
f. Durability
Modern, good quality mesh chairs retain their shape well and are extremely durable. They are usually more resistant to wear and tear than fabric upholstered office chairs.
g. Modern office chairs offer greater value for money
Mesh is more cost efficient than fabric or leather upholstery. Because it is usually more durable than fabric upholstery, modern office chairs offer greater value for money.
h. Environmentally friendly
Mesh chairs are environmentally friendly as they are manufactured using significantly less material, and in most cases, these materials are easily separated and recycled. Because the foam and fabric in traditional upholstered office chairs is glued to the plywood or plastic shells, the materials are more difficult to separate and recycle.
2. Disadvantages of Modern Mesh Office Chairs
a. Less choice in design
As the popularity of mesh office chairs grows, there are a limited number of colour options available, typically black or grey. Although some manufactures offer a series of bright colours, they are often more expensive and may not fit in with your home or office décor. As a word of caution, bright colours are more prone to showing dirt and stains compared to darker mesh options.
b. Sagging of poor quality mesh
As with most products, quality does not come cheap. Poor quality mesh is prone to sagging, which not only makes the chairs less comfortable, but also reduces their aesthetics in your home or office.
c. Lack of Cushioning
Unlike heavily padded upholstered chairs, mesh chairs may lack the plush cushioning that some individuals prefer. While the ergonomic design provides support, those who prioritise softness and a "sink-in" feeling might find mesh chairs less comfortable. To address this concern, some manufacturers offer mesh chairs with additional cushion inserts to enhance comfort. In all instances, it's essential to test the chair to ensure that it provides adequate support and cushioning for your specific needs.
d. Initial Adjustment Period
Switching from a traditional upholstered chair to a mesh chair may require an initial adjustment period for some users. The firmer support and different feel of the mesh might take some time to get used to, and a few individuals may not find them immediately comfortable.
3. Price and Budget Considerations
Modern mesh office chairs, particularly those equipped with advanced ergonomic features, tend to be priced higher than traditional upholstered office chairs. The costs associated with materials, design, and engineering that are integral to the development of a modern ergonomic chair, may result in an elevated price point. For anyone on a tight budget, this may prove significant. Nevertheless, it's important to evaluate the long-term advantages and intrinsic value of investing in a high-quality modern office chair. Features that Affect the Price of Ergonomic Office Chairs
The ergonomic features and comfort afforded by modern ergonomic chairs can lead to greater productivity and overall wellbeing. This makes them a worthwhile investment for anyone spending long hours sitting at their workstation.
4. Understanding Your Needs and Preferences
Before buying an office chair, it is crucial to evaluate your individual needs and preferences. What Is An Ergonomic Chair And How Do I Select My Ideal Seat? Ask yourself the following questions:
- How many hours per day will you use the chair?
- Are you very tall or short?
- Do you have specific back problems and require an orthopedic chair?
- How important is breathability and airflow to your comfort?
- What is your budget?
5. Try Before You Buy
Before buying a modern office chair, it's always advisable to try before you buy.
Visiting our showroom allows you to evaluate the various models and experience their comfort and ergonomic features firsthand.
Need A Modern Office Chair?
Discover our inspiring collection of ergonomic office chairs. Designed to elevate your comfort, style, and sense of luxury while you work!
Conclusion
A modern mesh office chair offers greater luxury and comfort compared to it's traditional counterpart. Because the breathable mesh moulds itself to your back, it provides greater ergonomic comfort and support for your back. Add the adjustability, aesthetic, environmental and value for money benefits, and these chairs become the obvious seating solution for your home or office.
Remember however, that the comfort and support of any office chair is subjective and depends on the user. There is no one size fits all.
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