Working in an industry that spends majority of the time at a drafting table, you would know that the most essential part is the chair. Of course, the chair you’re sitting on affects your comfort, range of motion, and how productive you can be.

So whether you work at home or in an office, owning a drafting chair is crucial and healthy. These chairs are specifically designed to help with your back support and reduce the risk of back injuries. Additionally, these chairs have ergonomic features that are adjustable and convenient such as the height or wheels. In other words, if you’re someone who sits and works for prolonged hours, these are the chairs for you.

What is a Drafting Chair?

A ‘Drafting Chair’ is used interchangeably with ‘Drafting Stool’. Originally, these chairs applied to people who used a stool along with a drafting table. Such tables are big and very tall, so you can stand on them, but you can also take a break from standing while at work. A stool on the other hand, helps with this problem. Additionally, these stools were modified and improved to be solutions for sitting while drafting.

Nowadays, many jobs can benefit from sitting down. In today’s terms, a drafting chair is not solely made for people that need to sit down while drafting. Instead, a drafting chair has a taller seat height than regular chairs and it may include a footrest. Usually, the seat height ranges around 30-degrees and some drafting stools can have armrests, while others can’t.

What is the Ideal Seat Height for a Drafting Chair?

Depending on your desk height, the seat height of your drafting chair may differ. As a rule of thumb, you can measure the desk height and then subtract around 8 to 12 inches and that’s how you get ideal height range of your drafting chair. Ideally, it should be about 30 inches tall.

Also, consider your own height before buying a drafting chair. You can do this by measuring the length of your thighs and ensure that your feet lie flat on the ground or in the foot ring, so you can sit in a comfortable way.

How Should Your Chair be positioned at Work?

Your chair should be positioned in a way that you can maintain a healthy posture. So if you’re sitting down, you should keep your legs at a 90-degree angle, your chest open, shoulders back, and your back straight.

In addition to this, your hips should stay at an open position, while your lower arms at a decent incline level. If you have a standing desk stool, you should be able to move around effortlessly and comfortably, while your back stays upright. Additionally, your legs should be at a 120-135 degree angle for maximum support.

Modway Veer Drafting Stool-Chair

We’ll start off the list with an affordable drafting chair that won’t break your wallet or spine. This Modway Veer chair is both comfortable and functional because it’s made of high-quality materials and craftsmanship which adequately support your back.

Features: The main features we like are the seat tilt and tension knob because they’re extremely easy to use and allow you to lock your position after tilting back. In terms of adjustability, the seat height is adjustable, while the armrests lift to a 90-degree angle. It comes with hooded dual-wheel casters which only work on particular surfaces, but they glide smoothly. When the chair is at maximum height, you can use the foot ring comfortably.

Design: If you want to stay fresh at all times, a drafting chair with a mesh back is the way to go. The Veer’s mesh supports your back and thighs just right. Additionally, the seat is also covered in mesh and is padded, so it’s very cushiony even after working all day. We also like the waterfall edge design because it takes the pressure off your thighs and keeps your posture perfect.

You can get this in 4 colors which match your office and give it a nice pop of color:

• Grey
• Blue
• Red
• Black

What we like:

• Affordable drafting stool chair
• Sturdy footrest
• Comfortable padded seat cushion
• Provides decent back support
• Flip-up armrests
• Height adjustment
• Assembly is easy

What we don’t like:

• The seat may be too short for some people
• The foot ring could be bigger

Chairman Ergonomic Mid-Back Adjustable Drafting Chair

Next up, this Chairman Ergonomic drafting chair has proven to be a sturdy chair, ideal to pair with a drafting table or a standard desk. We especially like the shape and its adjustable features which make it an ideal chair for any location.

Features: Let’s start off with the adjustability features first. The height of the seat adjusts between the 22 ¼ to 30-inch range, ideal for a craft station. It also swivels a full 360-degree, while the 27.5-inch base easily moves around your office because of its rolling casters. Also, the 20-inch footrest ring spins and adjusts to the control know.

Design: The black finish of the chair makes a great combo with the chrome footrest ring, creating an eye-striking contrast. But we must mention the padding on the seat as it’s made of thick foam and designed in a round edge to promote blood flow. All the materials are skin-friendly and they don’t have a plastic smell which could potentially throw you off. We also like the fact that this chair can be used in many areas such as office, school, laboratory, etc.

What we like:

• Ergonomic design
• SGS-tested tall gas lift
• Maximum weight capacity is 295 lbs
• Large and sturdy nylon base
• Smooth-rolling casters
• Durable powder coat finish
• Amazing support from the manufacturer for replacement parts and warranty

What we don’t like:

• The wheels are not lockable and this may be an issue for some people

Boss Office Products Ergonomic Works Drafting Chair without Arms

At first sight, the Boss Office Ergonomic Drafting Chair may look very simple, but it’s actually one of the most affordable drafting chairs out there. This is also armless which makes it great for people who despise arms and want to have some extra space on their desks.

Features: We specifically like this chair because it relies on pneumatic gas lift controls in order to raise and lower the height of the seat. Aside from this, you also get a strong 20-inch diameter foot ring and dual-wheel casters that can be swapped for glides if you want. In terms of adjustability, the seat height can be adjusted from 44.5 to 49.5 inches.

Design: The design of this chair is our favorite part, although it looks very minimalistic. First, it comes in black, burgundy, gray, or blue upholstery which looks amazing anywhere you put it. Then, the contoured back and seat relieve any back-strain that you might have from sitting for too long. While you can get this armless, the chair also comes in three other designs:

• Loop Arms
• Adjustable Arms
• Modern

What we like:

• Pneumatic gas lift to adjust the seat height
• Weight limit is 275 lbs
• Ergonomic padded seat and contoured back
• Comes in 4 different colors and designs
• Sturdy chrome foot ring

What we don’t like:

• No negative reviews on this one

Herman Miller Aeron Tilt Limiter Task Chair

We’re getting a little fancy with this high-end drafting chair by Herman Miller. This is another top-rated ergonomic drafting chair because it supports and follows your natural spine curvature, making this one of the most comfortable drafting chairs.

Features: An expensive chair like this keeps your shoulders back and your chest open for a better posture. The lumbar pillows support your spine well, while the tilt mechanism allows you to tilt your neck to your desired position. The Miller is also equipped with a Kinemat tilt mechanism that lets your shoulders, knees, hips, and ankles pivot in a natural way. It also comes with a PostureFit mechanism that supports and aligns your spine to avoid potential back pain.

Design: The most prominent feature of this chair is the open-hip design as it prevents lower back pain since your hip bones don’t touch your spine. The materials are extra comfortable; for example, the 8Z Pellicle suspension that covers the seat and the back is highly supportive, breathable and resistant, with eight tension areas. Apart from this, this chair comes in a Size A (small), Size B (medium) and Size B, as well as three different colors:

• Graphite Frame – Carbon Classic Pellicle
• Graphite Frame – Carbon Wave Pellicle
• Graphite Frame – True Black Pellicle

What we like:

• One of the best ergonomic SL design
• Includes lumbar support
• Promotes healthy posture
• Made of high quality materials
• Breathable material that keeps you cool and comfortable
• 12-year guarantee
• 3 different sizes

What we don’t like:

• Not the best drafting chair for tall users
• Doesn’t include a headrest

Flash Furniture High Back Black Mesh Drafting Chair

This Flash Furniture Drafting Chair is an all-time classic when it comes to drafting chairs because of how contemporary it is and the support that it provides. One of the most beloved features of this chair is the built-in headrest which is also adjustable.

Features: Speaking of adjustability, the headrest is adjusted with a center knob for easier access. The backrest is also supportive, while the lumbar support prevents backaches. Additionally, this one is height-adjustable with a pneumatic lever and has an adjustment knob which you can use for rocking or tilting back. This reclining feature is especially helpful for people with back issues. The 360-degree swivel is yet another useful feature, along with the flip-up arms that turn this into an armless chair.

Design: The high-back gives this drafting chair a modern look, while also providing decent head support. The backrest is made of flexible mesh that’s both reliable and breathable, but it might take some time to get used to the fabric since it can be a bit rough. The seat is also made of mesh for added breathability. If you have problems with blood circulation, the waterfall design promotes healthy circulation. To top it all off, the chrome-plated nylon base is very durable to support your weight.

There is something else we especially like about this Flash Furniture chair. First, it comes in some styles such as:

• High Back
• Mid Back Drafting Chair
• Mid Back
• Mid Back + Seat Cushion

Secondly, it also comes in a variety of colors which add a sophisticated touch to your office workspace, especially:

• Black
• Red
• Light Gray
• Green
• Blue
• Dark Gray
• White

What we like:

• Affordable price but user-friendly features
• Padded seat for extra comfort
• Breathable mesh office chair
• Improves thigh circulation
• Flip-up armrests
• High-back relieves neck pain
• Adjustable headrest
• Available in many styles and colors

What we don’t like:

• The mesh is a bit rough
• Doesn’t recline back entirely

Perch Chrome Walter Rolling Height Adjustable Doctor’s Stool

The Walter may be advertised as a doctor’s stool, but you can actually use this as a drafting chair pretty much anywhere because of its features. It has simplistic, but effective features which relieve back pain and provide sufficient support for your back.

Features: Although the backrest provides no upper body support, the back support can be adjusted in four positions: forward, up or down, and recline it back. The seating area is only 17 inches, but the chair itself can go tall and high, which is always a bonus for standing desks or tall users. The 18.5 inch foot rings are also adjustable and they support your legs. A lot of other chairs’ cheap casters fall apart due to poor quality, but not this pair; these wheels roll effortlessly on any floor.

Design: The round design of the seat makes up for its small diameter because the edges don’t dig into your thighs. Additionally, the 3-inch foam padding is highly supportive, but it takes some time to get used to it because it’s a little firm. The chrome-polished and aluminum ring is resistant and durable, letting you raise your feet at max height. What’s more is that the vinyl upholstery on this chair doesn’t tear easily; it’s breathable and scuff-resistant.

The base is made of aluminum, while the frame is made from a combo of steel and reinforced fiberglass nylon which ensures durability in the long run. There’s also a variety of color option to choose from, but the best part about it is that you can personalize the chair by choosing the material and foot type you want. Here are some of best colors that you can get this chair in:

• Adobe White Vinyl
• Burgundy
• Burgundy Vinyl
• Cinder
• Colonial Blue
• Imperial
• Black
• White
• Charcoal

What we like:

• Adjustable back support
• Round-edge seat provides comfort
• The seat is high and supportive enough
• Made of high-quality materials
• Customizable materials, foot types, and colors
• The vinyl upholstery is anti-microbial and stain-resistant
• 12-year parts warranty

What we don’t like:

• The backrest is small
• No upper body support

What You Need to Consider Before Buying a Drafting Chair

As with any product, there are certain features you need to look for before deciding on a drafting chair. You need to consider your working area, body type, weight, and personal preferences. Below, you can see the most important factors that you need before buying a drafting chair.

Seat Height

The seat height range is the most important thing to consider when looking for a brand new drafting chair. Usually, this depends on the height of the desk, counter or table that you’re going to use the stool with. In that case, you have to measure the height of the table and ensure that your stool has a seat height range between 8 to 12-inches lower.

However, if you have a height adjustable desk, then seat height is not a big concern for you. You’re freer to choose because you can use your desk to match the drafting chair. The only thing you should worry about it whether the stool is too tall for you and if you can’t get out of the chair comfortably.

The same thing applies to users that don’t use the stool at a desk or counter. In this case, your main concern is if the stool goes low enough and if you can get in or out of it in a comfortable and easy way. This also lets your feet lie flat on the ground, so it’s easier to wheel the stool around while sitting.

Footrest

Footrest is always important if you want to relax your legs, but this is also personal preference. Most drafting stools have some type of footrest. However, if the chair doesn’t have a footrest, then your feet will dangle in the air, which is bad for your blood circulation, and not to mention how uncomfortable it is.

There are three main types of footrests: platform, ring, or teardrop, the most common one being the foot ring. This type of footrest is a metal circle that hugs the chair completely and it can be height adjustable so you can customize it to the best position for you. These are very functional for pretty much all applications.

A teardrop on the other hand, is a metal U-shaped bar that dangles from under the seat. Sometimes though, this type of footrest will only move with the seat because it’s tied to it. This is not as common as the foot ring, but a lot of users have positive reviews about it.

Lastly, there’s the platform footrest. This one can be made of metal or plastic and acts as both a footrest and a step. It also provides a lot more surface area for you to rest your feet on, but if you’re someone who is constantly moving your chair around your office, this may not be the best option because they can be a bit more clunky.

Adjustability

We can never forget about adjustability. However, you should know that drafting stool are less adjustable than regular office chairs, so don’t be surprised by the lack of functionality. There’s nothing more disappointing than getting a brand new drafting chair and then finding out that it doesn’t match your preferences.

So before you start looking at drafting stools, take a minute to consider the essential functions that you think are necessary for you. Are you a tall person who needs a specific seat depth or back height adjustments? Perhaps you have heavy-duty tasks and you want adjustable arms or some seat tilt. Either way, you need to know your needs so that you can pick a drafting chair that meets your requirements.

Upholstery/Material

Without a doubt, the type of upholstery is important to consider when buying a drafting chair. There are certain upholsteries that are great in some workspaces, but not so much in others. For example, vinyl and urethanes work great in industrial or factory spaces.

They are ideal for medical facilities, laboratories, or classrooms because they require minimal maintenance. However, they don’t work as well in an office setting because they may not be very aesthetically-pleasing.

But mesh and fabric work perfect in an office, classroom, or home. They look cool and comfortable to sit on. However, they don’t work well for industrial or factory areas because they need a bit more cleaning and can hold debris and particles.

Leather is the least common upholstery that you can see on a drafting chair. That’s because leather is not as durable and well suited for workspaces that vinyl and urethane are great in. But leather has a high-end look that other chairs lack. This can look cool and attractive for people who work at home or in executive offices and they want to combine a standing desk with a drafting stool.