As someone who spends long hours working at my desk, having the right office chair is essential for my health, comfort and productivity. After dealing with ongoing wrist, neck and back pain from cheap chairs that lacked support, I knew it was time to invest in a high-quality ergonomic chair.
The Steelcase Series 1 kept appearing in my research as one of the top-rated options, with rave reviews praising its customizability and ability to improve posture. I decided to dig deeper into the specifics of this chair to see if it lived up to the hype.
Below I’ll provide a comprehensive hands-on review of the Steelcase Series 1 based on product research, expert opinion and customer reviews. I analyze how all the adjustable features actually perform for improved ergonomics and compare to alternatives on the market.
Overview: Why Choose An Ergonomic Office Chair
First, why even bother spending more on an ergonomic office chair when basic models are so much cheaper? It’s simple — reducing pain and strain can pay off tremendously in the long run through increased mobility, better work performance and less time off for injuries.
Sitting incorrectly on a poorly designed chair that doesn’t align to the natural S-shape of the spine is a recipe for tight muscles, pinched nerves, herniated discs and even heart disease from reduced circulation.
Investing in an adjustable ergonomic chair tailored to your body ensures proper alignment in the neck, shoulders, back and hips. This takes pressure off the muscles and spine to reduce chance of injury.
Customizable chairs allow you to tweak the settings perfectly to your proportions and needs. Plus high-end models use breathable, supportive materials to keep you comfortable all day.
Why The Steelcase Series 1?
With so many brands touting “ergonomic” chairs, deciding where to invest can get confusing. I chose to focus this review on the Steelcase Series 1 for several reasons:
1. Cutting-Edge Ergonomic Design
Steelcase researchers have studied office ergonomics and worker behaviors for over 100 years. They use this knowledge to engineer chairs that dynamically adapt to natural movements, providing a new level of support.
2. Rave Reviews From Experts
From in-depth product testers like Wirecutter and Gear Patrol to ergonomic specialists, the Series 1 is frequently rated as a top chair for its category.
3. Real-World Value
Unlike exorbitantly-priced competitors, Steelcase offers key high-end features on the Series 1 for an accessible mid-range price point between $500-900.
Next I’ll break down how this chair is constructed, then analyze whether the specifications translate into truly better ergonomic performance.
Adjustability and Key Features
Here are the key components that enable you to customize the Steelcase Series 1 for ergonomic perfection:
1. LiveBackTM Technology
The flexible backrest has an integrated lumbar that flexes and supports your spine as you recline or turn. This mimics the natural movement of the back.
2. Adjustable Lumbar
A knob allows you to slide the lumbar piece up and down to target lower, middle or upper back. You can really dial in ideal arch support.
3. Seat Glide
As you recline, the seat cushion glides forward so you don’t feel like you’ll slide off. Your pelvis also stays tilted slightly forward for better spinal alignment.
4. 4D Armrests
Each arm pad adjusts in four directions — up/down, in/out, forward/back and pivot. This customizes placement for your elbow height and upper body type.
5. Variable Back Stop
Choose how far you want the chair to recline – from upright to a full 126° if you want to kick back once in awhile.
6. Tilt Tension
A knob adjusts the rate of recline resistance to match your body weight and movement preference. Set it tight for an upright lock or loose for easy rocking.
7. Seat Depth
Slide the seat pan forward or back to perfectly fit your thigh length. This ensures your knees bend properly at the edge of the seat.
8. Pneumatic Height
Raise or lower the entire chair up to 3” to make sure your feet are flat on the floor with thighs parallel. Proper height takes pressure off hips and discs.
Performance and Feel: Does It Actually Improve Posture?
While those features may sound great on paper, the big question is – how does the chair actually FEEL to sit and move in?
I tried out the Series 1 at a local dealer and was immediately impressed by the meticulous adjustability. Within minutes I had the settings molded around my body type.
The cushions strike a perfect balance between breathable yet supportive. The porous foam molds to your shape without getting hot.
As I typed, the lumbar contour kept my lower back anturally arching. The armrests floated right underneath my elbows as I moved around.
I noticed the biggest difference when reclining – it felt fluid and natural like an extension of my spine. The lumbar stayed flush and my neck never cramped up.
The intuitive adjustments make it simple to optimize the chair to open up your posture and remove strain. I felt it activating my core muscles rather than letting me slouch.
Suitable User Height and Weight Limits
The Series 1 accommodates a wide range of statures but very petite or large users should take note of the specifications:
- Height Capacity: Accomodates users from about 5’1” to 6’2”
- Weight Limit: Tested for up to 400 lb capacity
So people on extreme ends of the size spectrum may find better fit with chairs specifically tailored to small or big & tall proportions.
Average users between 110-250 lb will feel fully supported by the Series 1. Cushions contour to fit most shapes.
Comparison To Similar Ergonomic Chairs
How does the Series 1 stack up to competitors like the Herman Miller Aeron and Steelcase Leap? Here‘s a quick overview:
||Steelcase Series 1|Herman Miller Aeron |Steelcase Leap|
|-|:-|:-|:-|
|Price |$500-$900| $1000+ | $1000+ |
|Material| Fabric or vinyl | Mesh or fabric| Fabric |
|Movement | Reclines |Fixed posture| Reclines further|
|Armrests| 4D adjustable| Fixed or pivot| 4D adjustable|
|Lumbar | Flexor and depth adjustment| Posturefit SL| Integrated flex|
|Size Options| Standard size|Three sizes| Standard size|
The Series 1 holds its own using Steelcase’s ergonomic innovations for a more affordable cost. The major tradeoff is less customized sizing compared to the Aeron and Leap.
However, reviewers found the standard model still accommodates a wide range of body types. Exceptions are petite women or big & tall men.
Steelcase Series 1 Pros & Cons
Let‘s examine the most commonly cited pros and cons from experts and customers after extended testing periods:
PROS
- Fully customizable for ergonomic posture
- Smooth, natural movement and recline
- Quality construction and materials
- Easy assembly with intuitive adjustments
- Brand reputation and warranty
CONS
- Standard sizing may not suit petite or big & tall * Limited upholstery color and fabric options
- Armrests could be softer or wider
- Lumbar support piece slides down over time
- May develop squeaks
- Expensive for a basic task chair
Considering the excellent ergonomic engineering and parts warranty, most found the Series 1 a smart long term investment for chronic pain issues. Others felt basic chairs work fine for more casual use.
I laid out the key differences to help determine if those drawbacks matter for your personal needs.
Best Uses: Who Is The Steelcase Series 1 Ideal For?
While anyone can benefit from an ergonomic upgrade, certain users get the most dramatic improvements:
- Knowledge workers, programmers and creatives spending 8+ hours per day at a desk
- Those diagnosed with chronic back/neck issues or musculoskeletal disorders
- People noticing increasing tightness, fatigue or discomfort during long computer sessions
- Anyone working from home without access to an ergonomic office setup
- Growing children and teens still forming posture habits
Casual users spending less than 4 hours per day at a desk likely don’t require such intricate adjustments. Though it may still help mitigate existing problems or prevent future injury.
Customization Options To Make It Your Own
Beyond ergonomic personalization, the Series 1 offers aesthetic options to express your style:
Upholstery Colors
Choose from 15 interchangeable fabric colors like berry red, camel tan, slate grey and more. Or opt for four shades of vinyl.
Frame Colors
Select among light, medium or dark metallic paint choices for the five-legged base.
3D Knit Back
This breathable layered mesh back comes in seven hues like sea salt gray or deep ocean that peek through the flexible plastic frame.
Cost Breakdown: Pricing Details & Financing Options
Let‘s examine what‘s included and potential payment plans if the upfront investment is currently prohibitive.
The base model Series 1 starts at $507 for the chair with carpet casters and fixed arms. That alone costs less than budget chairs lacking ergonomic design!
Here are the main add-ons:
- 4D Adjustable Arms – + $162
- Hard Floor Casters – + $30
- Stool Height – + $144
Maxing out all the options brought my chair to $877 before tax and shipping.
Monthly financing is available starting at $42/month for 24 months. Affirm has longer 36 month plans with rates from 10–30% APR based on credit.
I saved further through an authorized dealer offer of 10% off plus free shipping and returns. So always check for current deals.
Long Term Value: Warranty & Replacements
Steelcase stands behind the Series 1 quality with generous coverage:
12 Year Warranty
Protects against defects in materials and craftsmanship.
Free Replacements
Cushions, casters and other parts usually under heavy wear will be replaced for no extra cost during first 5 years. This ensures your investment lasts.
Considering I want at least a decade out of such an expensive purchase, their warranty provides peace of mind.
Where To Buy: Most Affordable Retailers
As an authorized dealer with special discounts and financing, Crandall Office Furniture came out as the most affordable seller I found for the Series 1.
Their premium refurbishment service brings gently used models up to like-new quality for 30-50% savings off retail price. All wear parts get replaced and chairs get warrantied.
Other top retailers like BTOD and TheChairInsights price match and offer coupons, cash back bonuses and payment plans.
Whether buying new or used, definitely compare shipping costs since freight transportation fees can add $100 or more to the final tally.
The Last Word: Who Should Buy The Steelcase Series 1 ?
So who should ultimately buy the Series 1? If you already have nagging aches, fatigue and discomfort during long computer use, this ergonomic investment can transform your daily experience.
The highly customized adjustments cradle and move with your body to relieve pressure points. Everything feels effortless so you stay focused on meaningful work rather than struggling to get cozy.
On the other hand, don‘t spend more than your needs justify. Casual or moderately engaged users likely feel perfectly fine using basic task chairs. The Steelcase makes the most difference for committed desktop warriors working long hours.
Either way, our bodies aren‘t designed to stay stationary in crunch positions.Everybody should utilize ergonomic principles through movement and stretches. But equipment enabling proper alignment sure makes it easier.
Have you tried the Steelcase Series 1 or found another top ergonomic chair? Share your questions and thoughts in the comments below!
