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How do I Choose the Best Leather High Back Chair?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

Leather high back chair designs will vary significantly, so choosing the features that matter most to you before starting your search can help you choose the best leather high back chair quickly and effectively. Some chairs are placed on casters to allow the user to slide around on a hard surface easier, while others feature fixed legs. Some chairs feature high-grade leather at a higher cost, while other leather high back chair models feature lower grade leather at a lower cost. The type of leather used will affect the chair's durability as well as its visual appeal, so you will need to determine your budget before choosing a model.

Aesthetics and function are the most important considerations when purchasing a leather high back chair, and comfort is the best determining factor. Be sure to sit in each chair you are considering for several minutes, testing out each feature such as adjustable height, tilt, arm rests, and so on. Be sure your lower back is appropriately supported, as is your neck and shoulders. The back should be in the most neutral position as possible to prevent muscle tightness and back pain. Adjustability is important to ensure you can sit at a desk properly without straining the shoulders, neck, or back.

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Businessman giving a thumbs-up

High-grade leather will be more expensive, but the aesthetic appeal of the chair will be noticeable immediately. Lower-grade leather high back chair models are not necessarily bad, but they will not be as aesthetically pleasing and may not be as durable as high-grade leather chairs. It is important to double check what kind of leather is used, or whether leather is used at all; some chairs are faux leather, which are designed to look like leather at a lower cost. Faux leather may not be as durable as real leather, and you may encounter tears in the upholstery after time.

If you won't be using the leather high back chair when sitting at a desk, choose one that is not on casters. Try to find a chair with hardwood legs that fit the color of the leather, and make sure the wood grain is shown off appropriately. The leather itself should be a rich, consistent color, and any seams should be hidden or otherwise well constructed and attractive. The seat and the seat back should be comfortable and well cushioned, and if you choose a leather high back chair with wings, be sure to choose wings that are made with the same materials and same quality construction.

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