How to choose the right styling chair

Styling chairs: Good ergonomics for the hairdresser

We are talking about the styling chair—the one the client sits in while you cut, colour or style their hair. Choosing the right chair is crucial for your own working environment: If the chair is too high or cumbersome, you can quickly feel it in your back and shoulders. Many newly qualified hairdressers actually give up early in their careers because they strain their bodies incorrectly every day. Here are five points to look out for, followed by an important note about the footrest!

Rule of thumb

If you are looking for the short version, find a chair that makes you think, “Ahhh, I can stand comfortably here.” If you are standing and feeling uncomfortable, the chair is not right for you.

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

A common mistake is choosing a chair that cannot go low enough. Measure from the floor to the top edge of the seat: For most hairdressers, it should be adjustable down to 38–42 cm. If the seat is angled, it is a matter of judgement, but remember: lower is better than higher. Are you over 185 cm tall? Then do not hesitate to ask about a different pump or a higher pump. We can provide you with exactly the pump that suits you best.

2. Narrow and angled backrest, especially for long hair

If you work a lot with long hair, a narrow and angled backrest can make a huge difference. Why? Because the hair can fall freely over the backrest without touching it. A narrow backrest also makes it easier to get close to the client, so you do not overstretch your neck, back or shoulders.

3. Avoid genuine leather for professional use

Although genuine leather can look exclusive, it is rarely suitable for the daily demands of a salon. Spilled products, water and repeated use quickly wear genuine leather down. Only a very small number of—and often very expensive—barber chairs are specially developed in genuine leather that can withstand a tough salon environment. For most hairdressers, durable faux leather is both more practical and more budget-friendly.

Rosie, a great all-round styling chair

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

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

A true go-to chair for many salons that do not want to compromise on comfort. Shop Rosie right here.

Thea, perhaps the perfect styling chair

If you want top quality and a huge choice of upholstery—more than 30 colours!—Thea from Japanese Takara Belmont is a fantastic choice.

• Goes all the way down to a 3 cm seat height
• Narrow, angled backrest
• Wide seat with a compact design
• The highest quality in the industry

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 favourite :)

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

If you are 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, you should consider the footrest. Should it be built-in or separate?

Built-in footrest

• Advantage: Everything is included in one chair, the client experiences a sleek-looking chair, and you do not have to adjust the footrest on the floor
• Advantage: You can more easily turn the chair for the client—before, during and after the treatment.
• Advantage: You avoid potentially having to screw it into the floor or wall.
• Disadvantage: It is more difficult 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 around yourself, it is easy to replace, and easy to remove when not in use.
• Disadvantage: It can get in the way in a small floor area, and you need to make sure it does not slide around on the floor.
• Disadvantage: It often needs to be mounted to the floor or wall with screws.

Try Denmark’s largest selection at Just Add People

Not sure which styling chair is right for you? Visit our showroom, where you can try Denmark’s largest selection of styling chairs and get personal advice on everything from pump choice to upholstery colours. We will help you find exactly the right chair, so you can avoid pain and enjoy a long career for many, many years.

In short

1. Seat height should be adjustable down to 38–42 cm.
2. A narrow and 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 yet ergonomic choice, while “Thea” is the ultimate combination of comfort, quality and design.