How to choose the right styling chair

Styling Chairs: Proper Ergonomics for the Hairdresser

When we talk about a styling chair, we’re referring to the chair your client sits in while you cut, color, or style their hair. The choice of chair is crucial for your own work environment: if the chair is too tall or bulky, you’ll quickly feel it in your back and shoulders. In fact, many newly trained hairdressers quit early in their careers because they strain their bodies the wrong way day after day. Below are five things to pay attention to – plus an important note about footrests!

Rule of Thumb

If you just want the quick version, choose a chair that makes you think, “aaahhhh – this feels great to stand around.” If you’re standing there feeling discomfort, that chair isn’t the right one for you.

Seat Height: 38–42 cm Is the Magic Range

A major 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 needs to adjust down to 38–42 cm. If the seat is angled, that’s a judgment call – but remember: better to be too low than too high. Are you taller than 185 cm? Don’t hesitate to ask for a different or higher pump. We can provide exactly the pump that suits you best.

Narrow and Angled Backrest—Especially for Long Hair

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

Avoid Genuine Leather for Professional Use

Even though genuine leather may appear exclusive, it usually isn’t suited to the daily wear and tear of a salon. Spilled products, water, and heavy use will quickly wear genuine leather out. Only a few (and often very expensive) barber chairs are specially made with genuine leather that can withstand a demanding salon environment. For most hairdressers, a durable faux leather is both more practical and budget-friendly.

Rosie – A Great All-Around Styling Chair

If you want something reasonably priced with solid ergonomics, check out Rosie from the Australian brand Comfortel Furniture. Rosie has:

• A suitable seat height
• A narrow, angled backrest
• A relatively compact design

It’s a real “go-to” chair for many salons that don’t want to compromise on comfort.

Thea – Possibly the Perfect Styling Chair

If you want top-of-the-line quality and a huge selection of upholstery (over 30 colors!), Thea from the Japanese brand Takara Belmont is an excellent choice:

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

In short, Thea is made for the discerning hairdresser who wants ergonomics, luxury, and design all in one.

Harp – My Personal Favorite :)

Harp from Takara Belmont is my personal favorite. It’s the chair that makes all our showroom visitors say, “OMG, that is so amazing!” Naturally, it’s also one of the most expensive models we offer, and it’s definitely not for every salon.

If you’re curious, you can read more online, or come visit us to try it.

Remember the Footrest: Built-In or Separate?

Last but not least, you need to consider the footrest. Should it be built into the chair or separate?

Built-In Footrest

• Pro: A sleek all-in-one unit; the customer sees a cohesive design, and you don’t have to fiddle with a footrest on the floor.
• Pro: You can rotate the chair more easily for the client—before, during, and after the service.
• Pro: You don’t have to drill into your floor or wall.
• Con: Harder to replace or adjust later if your needs change. However, most models are detachable if you change your mind.

Separate Footrest

• Pro: You can place it wherever you like, easily swap it out, or remove it when it’s not in use.
• Con: It may get in the way if you have limited floor space, and you must ensure it doesn’t slide around.
• Con: It often needs to be attached to the floor or wall with screws.

Try Denmark’s Largest Selection at Just Add People

Unsure which styling chair is right for you? Stop by our showroom, where you can try Denmark’s largest selection of styling chairs—and get personalized advice on everything from pump selection to upholstery colors. We’ll help you find exactly the right chair so you can avoid pain and keep your career going strong for years to come.

In Short

• Your seat height should adjust down to 38–42 cm.
• A narrow and angled backrest is especially useful for long hair.
• Avoid genuine leather for daily professional use.
• Consider a built-in or separate footrest.
• “Rosie” is budget-friendly yet ergonomic—“Thea” is the ultimate blend of comfort, quality, and design.