Stay Warm and Productive This Winter: Why a Multi-Functional Heated Office Chair is a Must-Have
Last winter, Melbourne-based lawyer David found himself in a familiar struggle. Each chilly morning at the office, his hands and lower back would stiffen from the cold. Heavy jackets kept him warm, but made working at his desk uncomfortable. Worse still, the combination of long hours and damp weather triggered his recurring back pain. That was until he tried a colleague’s multi-functional heated office chair—and suddenly winter at work became a lot more bearable.
“It’s like having a personal heater built into my chair,” David said with a smile. “The heating function stopped my back from seizing up, and the massage mode helped release the tension after long hours at the desk. Now I can get into work mode much quicker on cold mornings.”
Why Science Supports the “Heated Ergonomic Office Chair” Combo
Research published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology shows that cold environments reduce muscle endurance and slow circulation, leading to faster fatigue in the back and shoulders. Heat therapy helps improve blood flow, easing stiffness and muscle tightness.
A heated ergonomic chair not only keeps you warm, it actively supports spinal health. Research from the Upjohn Institute shows that while ergonomics training alone has little effect, providing workers with an ergonomic chair plus training significantly reduces pain and boosts productivity—even though sick leave hours remain unchanged.
Put simply, a heated ergonomic chair not only keeps you warm, it actively supports your spinal health.
Practical Tips for Using a Heated Office Chair in Winter
- Timed heating: Use the heating function for the first 30 minutes of work to ease into the day, rather than running it all day.
- Mix it up with standing: Pair your chair with a sit-stand desk to avoid over-reliance on heating and keep circulation healthy.
- Check your posture: Even with a premium chair, keep your back aligned with the lumbar support and shoulders relaxed.
- Leather care in winter: Genuine leather chairs need balanced indoor humidity to prevent the upholstery from drying or cracking.
Heated Ergonomic Chair Benefits: Who Gains the Most Relief?
- Professionals over 40: More prone to back and joint discomfort during colder months.
- Remote workers: A heated office chair is a cost-effective alternative to running the heater all day.
- Those who value comfort and quality: A stylish, multi-functional chair adds a touch of luxury to any home office or workplace.
OKUP M80 Electric Office Chair
Brand Value
OKUP’s been around since the late ’90s, building chairs that balance work and relaxation. Most buyers reckon the M80 is solid and comfy with great adjustability, though a few have mentioned the customer service could be sharper.
Materials & Build
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Sturdy frame – Alloy and steel build, rated up to around 190kg, so it’s tough enough for everyday use.
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Seating comfort – High-density foam with PU leather finish. The padding feels supportive rather than soft and spongy, and the leatherette is easy to wipe down – handy if you’re working from home or in a busy office.
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Smart features – Dual motors let you move the backrest and footrest separately, from an upright 95° work position all the way to 180° for a lie-down. Runs on a rechargeable battery, so you’re not stuck near a power point.
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Generous size – The seat’s wide, which makes it more comfortable for taller folks or anyone who likes to sit cross-legged.
What Aussies Are Saying
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Plenty of people rate the build quality and smooth reclining – some even use it for quick arvo naps.
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Assembly’s straightforward, about ten minutes with the tools included.
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The main knocks are from a few buyers who found the seat a bit firm, or had slower responses from support when chasing up orders.
Bottom Line
If you’re after an office chair that doubles as a recliner, with decent support and a wide seat, the OKUP M80 is a solid pick. Just be mindful it leans more on the firm side, and it’s worth checking delivery times and after-sales support before you order.
SOFTREST Electric Executive Office Chair
Brand & Positioning
SOFTREST sells itself as a step up from your average office chair – aiming at people who want proper support and a bit of luxury without going full designer label. It’s pitched squarely at the home office and executive crowd.
Materials & Build
- Frame & strength – Heavy-duty base, rated for bigger blokes and tall users, up to about 180 kilos.
- Leather finish – Genuine leather on the main contact areas, so it feels soft and breathes better than vinyl. Other parts are a synthetic match to keep the cost down.
- Cushioning – Thick padding, wide armrests and a shaped backrest for lumbar support. Feels supportive rather than super plush.
Features
- Electric recline – Dual motors let you move the back and the footrest separately. Goes from upright to about 160 degrees, so you can work, lean back or even grab a quick kip.
- Massage mode – Built-in lower back vibration with two settings. Handy if you sit long hours and need a break.
- Size – Extra-wide seat, better for taller folk or anyone who likes to stretch out.
- Controls – Buttons on the side, easy to use without fuss.
What Buyers Say
- Plenty of people reckon it’s solid value – smooth recline, easy to set up, and good for all-day use.
- The massage feature gets mixed reviews – nice to have, but not a full massage chair by any stretch.
- Some note the leather is only on the touch points, so don’t expect it to be full-grain all over.
- A few buyers wanted a full flat recline (180°), but it tops out at 160°.
The People Take
If you’re after an office chair that feels more “executive” and gives you the option to kick back without taking up half the lounge room, the SOFTREST is a decent bet. It’s supportive, roomy, and the electric recline makes it a step above your standard swivel chair. Just keep in mind it’s part leather, part synthetic, and the recline stops short of flat.
Asari Executive Leather Massage Chair
Brand Value
Povimo positions itself at the premium end of office furniture. The Asari is one of their top models – more than just a chair, it’s a statement piece, perfect for execs or anyone wanting a home office upgrade with serious presence.
Materials & Build
- Full-grain leather: Genuine cowhide gives it a rich feel, breathable and durable. With a bit of care, it’ll age nicely.
- Solid frame & cushioning: Metal structure with high-resilience foam – sturdy, comfy, and built for long-haul use.
Key Features
- Electric recline: Smooth adjustment from upright to deep recline – ideal for both focused work and winding down.
- Massage & heating: Built-in lumbar massage plus heating, great for easing tension during long sessions or chilly winter days.
- Ergonomics: Backrest follows the spine’s natural curve, giving proper support for posture and comfort.
What Buyers Tend to Say
- Looks & presence: Comes across as a real “executive chair” – stylish, commanding, and professional.
- Comfort: Wide seat and supportive design, a good fit for extended hours.
- Value: Definitely a premium buy – you’re paying for comfort, durability, and a prestige factor.
- Things to note: Doesn’t recline fully flat like a lounge chair, and the higher price tag makes it more of an investment piece.
Customer Reviews
The Asari blends luxury, comfort, and ergonomics in one package. It’s the kind of chair that not only looks the part but also keeps your back and body looked after through long hours. Pricey, yes – but for someone chasing quality and presence, it stacks up as a solid investment.
Quick Office Chair Comparison
| Feature / Model | SoftRest Electric Executive Chair | OKUP M80 Electric Office Chair | Povimo Asari Leather Executive Massage Chair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand Value | Mid-range, practical upgrade for home/office; comfort at a fair price. | Affordable, modern brand; positioned as reliable and functional for home and office. | Premium, statement piece; aimed at execs and professionals who want presence + luxury. |
| Materials | Part genuine leather (touch points), rest synthetic; thick padding. | Faux leather, breathable mesh back, padded seat; easy to maintain. | Full-grain cowhide leather, solid metal frame, high-res foam. |
| Build Quality | Strong base, supports up to ~180kg; good for long sessions. | Sturdy frame, supports up to ~150kg, mid-range durability. | Heavy-duty, long-lasting, built for daily professional use. |
| Features | Dual-motor electric recline (to 160°), wide seat, lumbar massage (basic). | Electric recline (135°–150°), adjustable headrest, 360° swivel, massage function. | Electric recline, lumbar massage + heating, ergonomic backrest, executive presence. |
| User Perception | Comfortable, solid value, good for home office or gaming crossover. | Comfortable for everyday use, modern look, seen as a practical investment. | Luxurious, professional, and a status symbol in an office. |
| Pros | Affordable, roomy, supportive, easy to use. | Functional, easy-to-use controls, versatile for home and office setups. | Top materials, next-level comfort, massage + heating, premium look. |
| Cons | Not full leather, recline not 180°, massage is mild. | Faux leather may wear over time, less premium feel, mid-range weight limit. | High price, doesn’t fully recline flat, niche premium market. |
| Best For | Everyday office workers or home users wanting comfort without breaking the bank. | Home and office users seeking a modern, electrically adjustable chair without high cost. | Execs, professionals, or anyone wanting luxury, posture care, and prestige. |
Turn Your Office into a Winter Haven
In winter, your office should be more than just a place to work—it should keep you comfortable and focused. Whether it’s the POVIMO Asari with its luxurious leather, ergonomic support, and heating and massage, the SoftRest Electric Executive with roomy comfort and dual-motor recline, or the OKUP M80 with practical electric recline and adjustable headrest, each chair brings comfort and health benefits.
As David’s story shows: the right chair can transform your workspace—and your winter—making long hours at the desk much more enjoyable.
New customers: use code POVIMO300 at checkout to claim $300 off your first order!
