What Are the Best Office Chairs for Tall People? A Complete Buying Guide

Finding the right office chair is a challenge for anyone, but for tall people, it can feel nearly impossible. If you’re over 6 feet tall, you’ve likely experienced leg cramps, shoulder tension, or awkward postures in chairs that simply weren’t made for your height. This guide explores the best office chairs for tall people, what features matter most, and how to avoid long-term discomfort caused by poor seating ergonomics.

Why Do Tall People Need Special Office Chairs?

Standard office chairs are typically designed for users between 5'4" and 5'11". If you're taller than this range, a typical chair may cause several issues:

• Insufficient seat depth, leaving your thighs unsupported
• Low backrests that don’t support the upper back or shoulders
• Inadequate seat height, forcing knees into awkward angles
• Poor posture over long periods, increasing the risk of back and neck pain

That’s why selecting an ergonomic chair for tall users is not just a matter of comfort—it’s essential for spinal health and long-term productivity.

What Features Should You Look for in an Office Chair for Tall People?

1. Does the Chair Offer a Higher Seat Height Range?

The average seat height of a regular chair is about 18 inches. Tall users may need a chair that extends up to 21–23 inches. Look for chairs with an adjustable seat height that comfortably accommodates your leg length while allowing your feet to rest flat on the floor or on a footrest.

2. Is the Seat Depth Adjustable?

Tall users usually have longer femurs. A seat depth of 20 inches or more is recommended to avoid pressure on the thighs. Some premium models come with adjustable seat depth so you can customize the fit and prevent circulation issues.

3. Does It Have a High Backrest or Headrest?

Standard backrests often stop mid-shoulder for taller users, offering little upper back or neck support. Look for a high-back ergonomic chair or a model with an integrated adjustable headrest. This is essential for maintaining posture and preventing slouching during long hours.

4. Are the Armrests Adjustable Both Vertically and Horizontally?

Fixed armrests often sit too low or too narrow for taller people. Choose a chair with 4D adjustable armrests—allowing up/down, forward/backward, inward/outward, and pivot adjustments—so you can relax your shoulders and elbows naturally.

5. Is the Chair Rated for Higher Weight Capacity?

While not all tall users are heavy, chairs designed for taller people often feature sturdier frames and wider seats. Opt for a chair with at least a 300-lb capacity, and ideally one built with steel or reinforced frames.

Video Guide: How Should Tall People Choose an Office Chair?

For a visual summary of what tall users should look for in an office chair, we recommend watching this brief and informative guide by Office Depot. The video outlines the top five must-have features for tall individuals seeking proper ergonomic support:

Key takeaways from the video:

• Seat Height: Should extend up to 21" or more to allow proper leg alignment
• Seat Depth: Deeper seats help support longer thighs without cutting off circulation
• High Backrest or Headrest: Critical for upper back and neck support in taller individuals
• Adjustable Armrests: Prevent shoulder strain by supporting elbows at desk level
• Sturdy Build & Weight Capacity: Essential for long-term durability and safety

What Are the Best Ergonomic Office Chairs for Tall Users?

Here are a few standout chairs known for their tall-user-friendly design:

• POVIMO

   Asari

  Leather Executive Chair – With its extended backrest, genuine leather finish, and seat height up to 22”, this tall executive leather chair delivers both style and support.
• Herman Miller Aeron (Size C) – A benchmark in ergonomic design, this version is built for users up to 6'6", with excellent lumbar support and breathable mesh.
• Steelcase Gesture Chair – Offers flexible seat depth and a tall back with supportive arm movement. Great for dynamic sitting throughout the day.
• Secretlab Titan Evo XL – While marketed to gamers, this model has a wide seat, high backrest, and durable build for office use as well.

Comparison Table: Best Office Chairs for Tall People (2025)

Product	Seat Height Range	Seat Depth	Backrest Height	Weight Capacity	Warranty
POVIMO Asari  Leather Chair	18"–22"	21.5"	30"	400 lbs	5 years
Herman Miller Aeron (Size C)	17"–22.5"	20.8"	27"	350 lbs	12 years
Steelcase Gesture Chair	16"–21"	21"	26"	400 lbs	12 years
Secretlab Titan Evo XL	18"–22.5"	21.3"	33"	395 lbs	5 years

Do Tall People Experience More Back Pain in Standard Chairs?

Yes. According to studies published in ergonomics and spinal health journals, poor chair fit significantly contributes to lower back pain and musculoskeletal disorders. For tall users, standard chairs promote slouching, reduce blood flow in the legs, and lead to tension in the cervical spine.

A well-designed adjustable high back office chair can reduce these risks by ensuring the back remains aligned and the hips stay supported during long hours of sitting.

Can You Add Accessories to Improve Standard Chairs for Tall Users?

If you’re stuck with a standard chair and can’t upgrade right away, consider the following temporary improvements:

• Seat cushions or wedge pads to raise sitting height
• Ergonomic footrests to support leg angle if the chair is too high
• Adjustable lumbar pillows to reposition back support

However, these are just stopgap solutions. Over time, investing in a chair built for your height is far more effective and cost-efficient.

How Can You Test If an Office Chair Suits a Tall Person?

Before buying, test the chair (or review these points online):

1. Your thighs should be parallel to the floor with knees at 90°
2. Your lower back should feel fully supported
3. There should be 1–2 inches between the seat edge and the back of your knees
4. Your arms should rest naturally on armrests without raising shoulders
5. You should be able to lean back without losing neck support

If a chair meets all five points, it’s likely a good ergonomic match.

Final Thoughts: Why Invest in a Proper Office Chair for Tall People?

Being tall shouldn't mean compromising on comfort or risking spinal injury. The right ergonomic office chair for tall people isn’t just about height—it’s about full-body support, adjustability, and promoting long-term health. Don’t settle for one-size-fits-all. Your chair should fit you—not the other way around.

Looking for a premium solution? Explore our curated collection of tall-friendly executive office chairs built for comfort, craftsmanship, and long-lasting performance.

Featured Tall-Friendly Office Chairs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the ideal seat height for tall office workers?

For people over 6 feet tall, a seat height between 19" and 23" is recommended. This ensures proper leg alignment and reduces strain on the lower back and knees.

Are gaming chairs suitable for tall users in office settings?

Some premium gaming chairs like the Secretlab Titan Evo XL offer wide seats and tall backrests. If you prefer a firmer recline and bold styling, they can be suitable for office use.

What if I can’t find a tall office chair in-store?

Online retailers like POVIMO, Herman Miller, and Steelcase offer detailed specs, seat height ranges, and extended return policies to help you find the right fit remotely.

Should tall users use a footrest with high chairs?

Yes, especially if your desk height remains fixed. A footrest helps stabilize your posture, reduces dangling legs, and improves circulation during long sessions.