Steelcase is a well-known brand in the office furniture industry, known for its high-quality products. Their chairs are no exception, with a reputation for being comfortable, durable, and stylish. Yet, with a price tag that is often higher than other office chair options, it’s natural to pop the question: Are Steelcase chairs worth it?
Yes, Steelcase chairs are worth it. They are worth the investment due to their durability, comfort, and adjustability. In addition, they offer a wide range of chair designs to suit different needs, including ergonomic chairs designed to support good posture and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
In this article, we will explore the key reasons why we believe Steelcase chairs are worth the investment and the key features and benefits of Steelcase chairs to help you make the right choice.
What Makes Steelcase Worth It?
Here are five factors that may make Steelcase chairs worth the investment: their durability, comfort, adjustability, long warranties and wide range of options. However, it’s important to note that these are just a few reasons Steelcase chairs may be more expensive than other options, and purchasing a Steelcase chair is not really necessary.
Durability
Steelcase chairs are renowned for their durability, so they don’t suffer much wear and tear even with frequent use. In addition, they have chosen to make their chairs out of sustainable materials. To clear the oceans of trash and give it a new use, they have created textiles like SEAQUAL yarn, which comes from recycled marine plastic. In addition to SEAQUAL, Steelcase has assessed the environmental and health effects of over 1,600 different materials.
Comfort
Their owners highly praise Steelcase chairs’ comfort and ergonomic support. These chairs have structures to support the neck and head’s natural curve and promote proper posture. As a result, it can significantly impact comfort and long-term health. Physiotherapist and ergonomic consultant Jan Tissing has compared using a cheap, simple chair to using a “horse-and-buggy”, while Steelcase chairs are like “hybrid cars that give speed, comfort, and safety.” However, obtaining seats with this level of ergonomic support may require a higher price.
Adjustability
A significant characteristic of many Steelcase chairs is adjustability, and the company provides a variety of alternatives to meet various demands. While some chairs offer basic adjustments, others have more sophisticated features like a weight-sensitive recline mechanism or a synchro-tilt system that synchronizes the backrest’s movement with the seat. An adjustable chair might be crucial for maintaining a comfortable posture and support while working. In addition, it enables users to arrange their bodies in the best possible way, lowering the risk of joint problems and improving general health.
Long Warranties
One of the best warranties in the furniture industry is the limited lifetime warranty provided by Steelcase on their chairs. This warranty demonstrates the company’s faith in the quality and durability of its products. It cannot be transferred and is only available to the chair’s first owner. The guarantee is valid for chairs purchased in the Americas, which includes Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Range of Options
Another factor that makes Steelcase chairs worth it for some people is the wide range of options available. Steelcase offers a variety of chair models to suit different needs and preferences, including ergonomic, task, and executive chairs.
The design of ergonomic chairs supports good posture and helps reduce fatigue by providing adjustable lumbar support, responsive backrests, and flexible seat edges. These chairs are ideal for those who spend long hours sitting at a desk and want to maintain a healthy and comfortable working posture.
The design of Task chairs is for work involving frequent movement and posture changes, such as answering phone calls or typing at a computer. These chairs typically have a simple, functional design with adjustable features to support various sitting positions.
Executive chairs are designed for formal settings, such as corner offices or conference rooms. These chairs often have a more stylish and sophisticated design, with features like leather upholstery and padded armrests.
By offering a wide range of chair models, Steelcase allows customers to choose the best chair for their specific needs and preferences. As a result, it can be a major selling point for those looking for a chair that will meet their specific requirements and support their work style.
Key Features of Steelcase Chairs
Some key features of Steelcase chairs include:
- Ergonomic design: Many Steelcase chairs are designed with ergonomics in mind, with features such as adjustable lumbar support, armrests, and adjustable seat height to help reduce strain on the body and promote good posture.
- Durability: Steelcase chairs are known for their durability and have structures that can last for a long time. They use high-quality materials and construction techniques to ensure that their chairs can withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Comfort: Steelcase chairs are designed for comfort, with features such as padded seats, backs, and adjustable lumbar support to help reduce pressure points and promote good circulation.
- Adjustability: Steelcase chairs are highly adjustable, with a range of options for adjusting the seat height, back angle, armrests, and lumbar support to suit individual preferences and needs.
- Style: Steelcase chairs are available in various styles to suit office decor and personal preferences, including modern, classic, and traditional designs.
- Environmentally friendly: Many Steelcase chairs are designed sustainably, with features such as recycled materials and energy-efficient designs to reduce their environmental impact.
Benefits of Steelcase Chairs
Aesthetic Appeal
This chair’s basic design enhances the workstation’s appearance without being overbearing or flamboyant. There are numerous color choices, including combining different colors for the backrest, seat, and frame. In addition, users can choose from 14 different colors of translucent 3D knitted mesh to match their unique style on the chair. Finally, the material has this design upholstery.
One appealing combination is the black backrest and frame with a Blue Jay seat, but there are many other color options. The chair has a minimalist design, but some users prefer a chair with more cushioning. The wide range of color options is a positive feature, however.
Stability
The Steelcase chair has a weight capacity of 400 lbs., making it a good option for people who need extra support. It meets the ANSI/BIFMA large occupant seating standards and is larger than many of its competitors in terms of dimensions. Therefore, it may be worth considering for those needing a big and tall office chair to replace their current seat. Many other popular office chairs have lower weight capacities, such as the Ergoal One, which supports up to 300 lbs., and some chairs in the Smugdesk ergonomic range, which support even less.
Comfort
The design of the Steelcase chair is for comfort, with features such as a weight-activated seat that adjusts to your movements and a “waterfall” edge that promotes good circulation and relieves pressure on the back of the legs. Some users may find the seat too firm, but it is meant to be supportive and pressure-reducing and may become more comfortable with prolonged use. In addition, the chair intends to adapt to the user’s sitting habits and provide full support. Overall, it is one of the most superior chairs regarding firmness and support, but it has additional pressure-reducing and adaptive features.
How Much Do Steelcase Chairs cost?
The cost of Steelcase chairs can vary depending on the specific model and any additional features or customization options. For example, some Steelcase chairs, such as the basic Amia model, can cost as little as $500, while others, such as the high-end Gesture model, can cost $1,000 or more. Prices may also vary depending on the retailer and location. However, Steelcase chairs are high-quality and long-lasting, so they may be a good investment for those who prioritize comfort and durability.
Suppose you need help to afford brand-new Steelcase chairs. In that case, it is relatively easy to find used Steelcase chairs, as the company is popular, and even businesses specialize in restoring and reselling them. However, there are a few considerations when purchasing a used Steelcase chair. One is that it will come with something other than a valid Steelcase warranty.
Some retailers may offer their warranty policies but have no business with Steelcase. Another thing to consider is that the chair may arrive incomplete and be heavy and difficult to move. Finally, it can be hard to know the condition of the chair you are purchasing, as it is impossible to know how its treatment in the past. Therefore, it is best to see the chair in person before buying it.
Bottom Line
Although Steelcase chairs may cost more than other office chairs, many individuals find their quality and features worth the extra money. They provide a wide selection of chair designs to meet various needs, such as ergonomic seats that encourage proper posture and lower the risk of musculoskeletal ailments. Steelcase chairs are also renowned for their longevity, with many models coming with lengthy warranties and comprising eco-friendly materials. Additionally, they are adjustable, enabling users to alter the chair to suit their demands and body.
