Ergonomics

How to choose the right Styling chair

If the chair is too high or awkward, you'll quickly feel it in your back and shoulders. Many newly graduated Hairdressers actually give up early in their careers because they strain their bodies every day. Here are five things to watch for — read on to make your salon days better.

24. February 2025

Styling chairs: Good ergonomics for the hairdresser

We're talking about about the client chair — the one the client sits in while you cut, color, or style. Your choice of chair is crucial for your own work environment: If the chair is too tall or clunky, you'll quickly feel it in your back and shoulders. A lot of newly qualified Hairdressers actually give up early in their careers because they strain their bodies the wrong way every day. Here are five things to watch for — and, at the end, an important note about the footrest!

Thumb rule

If you want the short version, find a chair that makes you think "aaaahhhh – this is comfortable". If you feel any discomfort, the chair isn't right for you.

1. Seat height: 38-42 cm are the magic numbers

A big mistake is choosing a chair that can't go low enough. Measure from the floor to the top edge of the seat: For most Hairdressers, it should adjust down to 38-42 cm. If the seat is angled, it's a judgment call — but remember: better too low than too high. Are you over 185 cm tall? Then don't hesitate to ask for a different pump or a taller pump. With us, you can get exactly the pump that suits you best for you.

2. Narrow, angled backrest – especially for long hair

If you work a lot with long hair, a narrow, angled backrest can make a huge difference. Why? Because hair can fall freely over the chair's backrest without hitting it. A narrow backrest also makes it easier to get close to the client so you don't overextend your neck, back, or shoulders.

3. Avoid genuine leather for professional use

Although genuine leather can seem exclusive, it’s rarely suited to the daily wear and tear in a salon. Spilled products, water, and repeated use quickly wear out genuine leather. Only a handful of (and often very expensive) Barber chairs are specially engineered in genuine leather that can handle the harsh environment. For most Hairdressers, a hard-wearing faux leather is both more practical and budget-friendly.

Rosie – a good all-round Styling chair

If you want something affordable with solid ergonomics, take a look at Rosie from Australian Comfortel Furniture. Rosie has:

  • Good seat height
  • Narrow, angled backrest
  • Relatively compact design

Rosie kundestol Comfortel Just Add People

A real go-to chair for many salons that won't compromise on comfort. Shop Rosie right here.

Thea – maybe the perfect Styling chair

If you want top quality and a huge range of upholstery (more than 30 colors!), Thea from Japanese Takara Belmont is a great choice.

  • Comes down to 3 cm seat height
  • Narrow, angled backrest
  • Wide seat, yet compact design
  • The highest quality in the industry

Thea - Sort frisørstol - Ekstra lav - Krom krydsfod

In short: Thea is made for the discerning Hairdresser who wants ergonomics, luxury, and design in one chair. Shop Thea right here.

Harp – my personal favorite :)

Harp from Takara Belmont is my personal favorite chair. It's the chair that makes all our visitors say "OMG f*** it's gorgeous". It's, of course, also one of the most expensive models we offer and it's definitely not for every salon.

Harp kundestol Takara Belmont Just Add People

If you're curious, you can read more right here, or visit us to try the chair.

Remember the footrest: Built-in or separate?

Last but not least, consider the footrest. Should it be built-in or separate?

Built-in Footrest

  • Advantage: All in one chair, the client experiences a sleek chair, and you don't have to adjust a footrest on the floor
  • Advantage: You can more easily rotate the chair for the client. Before, during, and after the treatment.
  • Advantage: You avoid having to screw into the floor or wall.
  • Disadvantage: Harder to replace or adapt later if your needs change. Most models are removable, though, if you change your mind.

     

Separate Footrest

  • Advantage: You can move it yourself, easy to replace, and simple to remove if not needed.
  • Disadvantage: Can get in the way on a small floor area, and you must ensure it doesn't slide on the floor.
  • Disadvantage: Often needs to be mounted in the floor or wall with screws.

Try Denmark's largest selection at Just Add People

Not sure which Styling chair suits you best? Stop by our showroom, where you can try Denmark's largest selection of Styling chairs – and get personal advice on everything from pump options to upholstery colors. We help you find the perfect chair, so you can avoid pain and keep your career alive for many, many years.

In short

  1. Seat height should be able to reach 38-42 cm.
  2. Narrow, angled backrest is especially good for long hair.
  3. No genuine leather for professional daily use.
  4. Consider a built-in or separate Footrest.
  5. "Rosie" is your budget-friendly but ergonomic choice – "Thea" is the ultimate combo of comfort, quality, and design.

Written by Rasmus Østergaard

Author at Just Add People

Meet the author

Rasmus Østergaard is an editor and journalist at Just Add People. Rasmus is responsible for making useful information about the hairdressing profession and the beauty industry easily accessible to everyone.

Read more about Rasmus

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