Hacker News Reader

Comment by Someone1234 | Hacker News Reader

As someone who recently purchased a high end chair, my only advice is go try them in person(!), and sit how you actually sit.

Herman Miller Aeron for example is great for people who are either small or sit "correctly." If you fold your legs under yourself, it is super uncomfortable.

My finalists were the Aeron, Embody, Steelcase Leap, and Gesture. The Leap and Gesture worked much better for my lazy ("natural") seating position. I ultimately purchased a Leap because the Gesture's arms shifted every time I stood up, and weren't as supportive.

Also our local dealer matched a major online dealer ($150 off).

View on HN

The Aeron is only for people who are small? They make them in 3 different sizes and Size C can easily handle a very large person. The level of customization is why they became so popular. To that end, they also have premium versions that have even more 'levers and knobs' beyond the standard features. To your point, most people are uninformed about the Aeron (or similar) and the degree of customization that's achievable. But I ultimately do agree with you, it's not a chair that's designed for everyone and you should try before you buy. A great task chair fitted to your body makes a world of difference.

I use to buy and sell used office furniture in the early 00's to pay for college.

> The Aeron is only for people who are small? They make them in 3 different sizes and Size C can easily handle a very large person.

But does nothing for leg length, which is the issue. As I said in the post you replied to, if you fold your legs under yourself the Aeron doesn't work.

For smaller people, they likely won't notice it, but for larger/taller the back of your legs brush against the underside/front of the chair in that position.

The Aeron seems to want you to sit correctly or not at all.

There are 3 different Aeron sizes FYI, so if one is too small you might just need to try a different size.

I'm aware. I was at a dealer, they had all three sizes.

I tried the B and C, both were uncomfortable for my normal seated position, my legs literally hit the underside/frame. For a smaller person, with shorter legs, they will likely have a better experience.

Isn't it worth it to buy a chair that will help you sit correctly? Especially if your natural way of sitting can cause damage or promote imbalance over time?

I also use a (2nd hand) Steelcase Leap. It's definitely great for slouching which is comfortable but I guess I should work on improving my posture.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com