Are you still searching for an office chair with a footrest? The right footrest should be supportive, made from eco-friendly materials, and ergonomically sound.
Today, we’ll introduce the materials, types, and uses of footrests, and recommend two popular styles of office chairs with footrests.
The Role of a Footrest in Ergonomics
Compared to adjustable lumbar support and seat height, footrests are often overlooked, but an ergonomic office chair with a footrest can help you maintain proper sitting posture and reduce pressure on your lower back and legs.
Footrest Types
Separate Footrest
This type of footrest exists independently of the office chair, typically providing support under your feet while working.
If your desk is high and the chair’s height adjustment is high, preventing your feet from reaching the floor and resting flat on the floor, a footrest can help you maintain a proper sitting posture. Place a stand-alone footrest under your feet for a more comfortable sitting position.
This type of footrest can be used with any office chair you find comfortable.
Integrated Retractable Footrest
A footrest integrated with the office chair primarily allows you to elevate your feet when leaning back. This type of office chair and footrest also integrate work and leisure functions.
You can pull it out from under your office chair when you need it, and retract it directly under the seat cushion when you don’t.
A retractable footrest can only be used with a fixed office chair and is primarily used for taking a break, such as reading a magazine, contemplating, or gazing into the distance.
Footrest Material
Plastic
Reinforced plastic is a common material used in chairs. This material not only makes it easier to shape footrests into ergonomic shapes but also provides sturdy support.
Plastic footrests have a relatively smooth surface and are easier to clean.
Plastic Classifications:
- Virgin plastic: Plastic made from new raw materials, which offers increased safety and performance.
- Recycled plastic: Plastic that is typically recycled and remade into secondary plastic. It is less expensive but offers greater flexibility.
Foam
Footrests padded with foam are often covered in leather or fabric. High-density foam provides greater support, allows for easy leg and foot sliding, and is also softer and more comfortable.
Foam Classification:
- Virgin foam: Made from a single piece of foam, it’s both environmentally friendly and comfortable, making it a common material for the high-end ergonomic chair with footrest.
- Rebonded foam: Recycled from industrial waste, it may contain harmful substances and is generally not used in footrests, and caution is advised.
- Cold-cured foam: Commonly used as a filling material for high-end seat cushions, it requires integral molding and has a higher density and higher return than standard foam.
Recommended Office Chairs With Footrests
Office chairs with integrated retractable footrests are now commonplace, combining both work and leisure functions. Integrated retractable footrests are becoming a trend in home offices.
EP460
The EP460 is a mesh office chair with an integrated retractable footrest. When you need to use the footrest, simply extend it from the bottom of the chair.
This office chair also features a headrest and a backrest that can tilt up to 135°, providing support for the head, waist, and legs. Perfect for both leisure and work.
The footrest of this office chair is made of virgin plastic, making it safe, environmentally friendly, and easy to clean.
Master Rex
The Master Rex can be used as both a gaming chair and an office chair. It features an integrated, retractable footrest, also located beneath the seat cushion, that extends out when needed.
The backrest of this office chair can recline up to 165° and is 76cm long, providing effective support whether you’re working or relaxing.
The footrest of this office chair is padded with virgin foam, providing excellent support and environmental friendliness, making it safe to use.
Who Should Use an Ergonomic Footrest?
1. Feet Can’t Rest Flat on the Ground
If your feet are dangling, you need a footrest to support your body and provide stability.
2. For Those Who Work or Play for Long Periods of Time
For those who need to relax and stretch, a footrest is essential, allowing you to rest your legs while you rest.
3. For Those With Special Health Needs
If you have leg problems, perhaps after surgery or under doctor’s orders to stretch your calves to promote blood circulation, you should look for a suitable footrest.
Summary
A footrest is most effective when your feet are comfortable. Using an ergonomic chair is essential for comfort and well-being, both at work and at leisure.
Holding a Master’s in Library and Information Science from the University of Illinois, Josh Clarke has dedicated more than 15 years to managing and disseminating information across various platforms. His professional journey includes significant experience as a research librarian, where he developed an expertise in sourcing and providing accurate and comprehensive answers to diverse questions. In 2018, Josh brought his rich experience to our platform, quickly establishing himself as a reliable source for general FAQs. He has been overseeing our information curation since then, combining his research skills with a flair for engaging content delivery. When not involved in information management, Josh enjoys exploring digital photography and participating in local quiz competitions, hobbies that complement his inquisitive nature and love for learning.
