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After helping hundreds of customers find the right chair since 1915, we’ve noticed a pattern—many people make the same avoidable mistakes during the buying process.
Choosing a new chair for your workspace can feel overwhelming. With so many styles, features, and price points, it’s easy to overlook details that make a big difference in your daily comfort and productivity.
To help you make a smarter decision, here are five common mistakes to avoid when buying a new chair—and what to do instead.
Mistake #1 Undervaluing Adjustability
Your chair should adapt to you—not the other way around.
Adjustability plays a huge role in how comfortable and supported you feel throughout the day. Features like adjustable armrests, seat height, lumbar support, and tilt controls allow you to customize your chair to fit your body and work style.
If you’re someone who shifts positions often or spends long hours at a desk, a highly adjustable chair is essential.
Chair Recommendation:
At Porter’s Office Products, one of our top picks is the Steelcase Leap chair. It’s known for its exceptional adjustability and ergonomic design, including its LiveBack system that flexes with your spine. Customers especially love how the armrests move to match their preferred positioning.
Mistake #2 Not Measuring Height
A chair might look great, but does it actually fit your space?
One of the most overlooked steps in the buying process is measuring your desk and ensuring your chair fits properly underneath it. If your chair is too tall or too short for your workspace, it can lead to discomfort and poor posture.
Before buying, measure:
- Desk or table height
- Clearance for your legs
- Ideal seat height for your body
Your chair should work with your existing setup—not against it.
Chair Recommendation:
Steelcase offers a variety of seating options, including both task chairs and stools, so you can find the right fit for your workspace setup.
Mistake #3 Forgetting About Comfort
It sounds obvious, but comfort is often underestimated.
The materials, cushioning, and support of a chair can make the difference between feeling energized or dealing with back pain at the end of the day. What feels comfortable varies from person to person. Some prefer softer seating, while others need firmer support.
If possible, always try before you buy.
Chair Recommendation:
The Steelcase Gesture is one of the most comfortable chairs our customers experience. It’s designed to support a wide range of postures and movements, making it perfect for people who switch positions frequently or work across multiple devices.
Mistake #4 Underestimating the Power of Chair Demos
Reading about a chair isn’t the same as experiencing it.
Testing a chair in your actual workspace can reveal things you’d never notice in a showroom. It’s similar to choosing paint colors—you don’t truly know how it looks until you see it in your own environment.
That’s why chair demos are so valuable.
At Porter’s Office Products, we offer the option to demo chairs from our showroom so you can experience how they feel and function in your space before committing.
Contact Us To Discuss Chair Demo Options
Mistake #5 Choosing Price Over Quality
Going for the cheapest option can cost you more in the long run.
A low-quality chair may save money upfront, but it often lacks the support and durability needed for daily use. Over time, this can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and even long-term strain.
Think of it like a mattress. You wouldn’t compromise on something you use every day for hours at a time.
Investing in a high-quality chair means better support, longer lifespan, and a healthier work experience.
The Takeaway
When buying a new chair, avoiding a few common mistakes can make all the difference.
Make sure to:
- Prioritize adjustability
- Measure your workspace
- Choose comfort that fits your preferences
- Take advantage of chair demos
- Invest in quality over price
A well-chosen chair doesn’t just improve how you sit—it improves how you work.
FAQs
Can I customize a chair to fit my needs?
Yes. Porter’s Office Products can help you customize a chair based on your space, preferences, timeline, and budget. Options include different fabrics, colors, sizes, adjustability features, and chair types.
What region does Porter’s Office Products serve?
Porter’s Office Products serves Southeast Idaho and Western Wyoming.
Does Porter’s Office Products have a contract with Steelcase?
Yes. Porter’s Office Products is Southeast Idaho and Western Wyoming’s Steelcase dealer.
What brands of chairs does Porter’s Office Products carry?
We offer a variety of trusted brands, including Steelcase, HON, 9to5 Seating, Boss, and more.
Can Porter’s Office Products measure my space?
Yes. We offer space measurement services to help you find the best fit for your office. Reach out to learn more about your options.
Ready to upgrade your workspace?
Contact Porter’s Office Products today and start customizing your space!
