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Ask HN: Best chair for programming?

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Ask HN: Best chair for programming?

#1
Not looking for a fancy comfy chair. On the contrary, I'm looking for something that keeps me sitting upright, not leaning back, yet allows me to sit and work for long periods of time without making me stand up because it's so freaking hard.

Right now I'm dealing with a wooden chair, like the kind you'd find at a kitchen table. I've found that to be better than anything at staples/office depot for my productivity.

Re: Ask HN: Best chair for programming?

#6
post #2

I still like the Aerons. You can get a cheap knockoff on Amazon for $150-200, or a used one off Craigslist. Whatever one you end up going with, I'd recommend trying it out in person first.

A typical Craigslist price for an Aeron here in LA is $450. If you sit in it for long periods of time, it's probably worth it.

Re: Ask HN: Best chair for programming?

#8
Interestingly enough, from what I've read [1], a slight lean to your posture is actually recommended, and considered the healthiest position when sitting in a chair for long periods of time.

I've purchased Today, I'm using a Humanscale Freedom with headrest that I got off craigslist used, but reupholstered, for $400. It's one of the best investments I've ever made. I sit in this chair up to 10 hours a day, and not the slightest bit of back pain.

Can't recommend it enough, so my advice would be to seriously consider stretching your budget ever so slightly. Your future 70-year-old self will thank you (and me if you remember this recommendation!).

[1]: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/6187080.stm

Re: Ask HN: Best chair for programming?

#9
post #2

I still like the Aerons. You can get a cheap knockoff on Amazon for $150-200, or a used one off Craigslist. Whatever one you end up going with, I'd recommend trying it out in person first.

Areon with a standing desk (motorized) is a very nice combination. I like having a choice about where/how I work.

Just make sure you get long enough cables if your computer is under your desk.

Re: Ask HN: Best chair for programming?

#10
post #2

I still like the Aerons. You can get a cheap knockoff on Amazon for $150-200, or a used one off Craigslist. Whatever one you end up going with, I'd recommend trying it out in person first.

Don't get an Aeron.

1) They're overpriced. You can get an equivalently ergonomic chair for $100.

2) The Aeron chair was never actually designed for ergonomics. It was designed for style. It's a really common misconception that the Aeron chair was designed to be perfectly ergonomic. [1]

It goes without saying that the most ergonomic chair is going to be one which you modify (by adding various supports / strap-ons) to fit your body.

[1] http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/10_19/b41770712....

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