Best Ergonomic Kneeling Chairs to Buy in Australia 2023 – The Buying Guide
Back and neck pains at the end of a busy shift? You might be working too hard. But then again, sitting on the office chair for hours might be the cause of your problem. If that’s the case, it’s high time you start looking for ergonomic kneeling chairs in Australia. But first, what is a kneeling chair?
Unlike your regular office chair, the ergonomic kneeling chair allows you to sit in a sloped position with your shins resting on the knee pads. This kneeling position opens up your hips and legs to evenly distribute your weight between your back, neck and shoulders. Also, your spine stays in its natural arch to lessen back strain. Kids can also use this chair to correct poor sitting habits.
Top 5 Best Ergonomic Kneeling Chairs in Australia 2024
Currently, there are several kneeling chairs available in the Australian market, which can leave consumers confused and undecided. And so, to help you choose, I’ve selected five of the best ergonomic kneeling chairs for 2024. Read on this review to discover the kneeling chair made for you.
| Image | Model | Rating | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
Top Pick  | Kneeling Chairs Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
| 9.7 | Check Price Amazon AU |
 | Rocking Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
| 9.8 | Check Price Amazon AU |
| Office Ergonomic Adjustable Kneeling Chair
| 9.6 | Check Price Amazon AU |
| The Edge Desk Kneeling Chair Combo
| 9.5 | Check Price Amazon AU |
| Kneeling Chairs Kneeling Stool
| 9.3 | Check Price Amazon AU |
1. Kneeling Chairs Ergonomic Adjustable Kneeling Chair
- Versatile and compact
- Comfortable and safe
- Ease of use
- Value for money
- Light construction
- No range of motion
Why I chose it
Versatile and compact
The Kneeling Chairs designed this ergonomic kneeling chair to grow old with you. Users between 8 to 70 years old will surely enjoy having this versatile sitting companion. Its sturdy X-frame design withstands up to 150kg of body weight and adjusts up to three height levels (130 to 175cm). The whole family can use it as well as work colleagues with varying body types. Fitting it in both small and large spaces is no problem either, thanks to its foldable design.
Comfortable and safe
Users need some time to get used to ergonomic kneeling chairs. And so, they must be made for comfort and safety just like this kneeling chair. Its seat and knee pad are made not only with a generous cushion and highly resilient sponge but also with a curved design to support your form. This dual support keeps you comfy while working for extended periods. I also commend its non-slip feet that keep the chair stable and secure even with kids sitting on it.
Ease of use
The chair comes with three adjustable height positions at the back, making it easy for you to remember your chair settings in case another person uses it. It also weighs only 5kg, making it easy for you to carry it anywhere, be it to your work, gaming, sewing or painting area.
Value for money
On top of the impressive features of this Kneeling Chairs product, it is also less expensive compared with other similar items. With proper use and care, this kneeling chair can be used by almost everyone at home for a long time. Plus, you get to correct your posture and experience fewer back pains without spending a lot.
Things to consider
Light construction
While made of high-quality wood, this ergonomic chair may not be as robust as those with metal frames. The fabric seat cover is not as durable or easy-to-maintain as leather as well. So, make sure to comply with the chair’s load limit. Also, users should follow its proper use and care to make the kneeling chair last longer.
No range of motion
This kneeling chair does not come with rolling casters. So, this may not be for you if you like rolling around the place to take breaks from work. However, if kids will be using this chair at home, the stationary design works as a safety measure to avoid falling or slipping accidents.
2. Rocking Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
- Durable and versatile
- Healthy rocking feature
- Functional yet stylish
- Good quality at affordable price
- Non-adjustable height
- No rolling casters and non-foldable design
Why I chose it
Durable and versatile
Although Rocking Kneeling Chair also uses wood for its base, it is well-built and used three-ply birch plywood to hold up to 150kg of body weight and for extra durability. Like most kneeling chairs, it is also ultra-versatile. Use it for your home office, TV room, posture correction, craftwork, meditation and more.
Healthy rocking feature
What makes this kneeling chair unique is its ability to let you work with mini exercises on the side. Its curved base and forward sloping seat create this gentle rocking motion, which, in turn, helps strengthen your core or upper body. The rocking kneeling chair complements this pendulum-like movement with reduced back pain, better breathing and unconstricted abdomen.
The best part is, you won’t even know you’re doing it, thanks to its high-density and elastic sponge cushioned seat and knee pads. Moreover, this chair has a double-knee pad design that opens up your thighs for an optimum upright position.
Functional yet stylish
The overall look of this kneeling chair is a definite plus. Aside from the beautifully shaped wooden base, its seat and knee pads are available in various chic colours, from classic black to neutral grey. This aesthetic feature makes the chair super easy to blend in with any home interior or room style.
Good quality at affordable price
Among the five kneeling chairs featured in this review, the Rocking Kneeling Chair is the most affordable. Discerning consumers will surely love the idea of getting a functional, versatile and stylish kneeling chair at a reasonable price.
Things to consider
Non-adjustable height
One of the major drawbacks of any rocking kneeling chair is the lack of height adjustments. This limiting feature makes the chair unsuitable for some taller or shorter users. You may not be able to comfortably use this chair with your super high or low work desk at home either. The wooden frame may fit most people, but users will not be able to customise it to their preferred positions.
No rolling casters and non-foldable design
While the rocking motion is a great feature, this chair doesn’t have any casters. So, no rolling across the room for you. You may need to swivel and wiggle around to change positions, which is easier to do with wheeled chairs. The chair is neither compact nor foldable, too. Make sure your area is big enough for this curved kneeling chair, so you don’t have to put it away to make room when doing other things.
3. Office Ergonomic Adjustable Kneeling Chair
- Very durable
- Versatile and comfortable
- Stylish and easy to maintain
- Good mobility
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Fixed backrest
Why I chose it
Very durable
If you’re looking for a long-lasting kneeling chair for your office or study, this chair fits the bill. Its durable steel frame ensures stable body weight support. Compared with wooden frames, this chair has better resistance to wear and tear and can withstand constant use. The sleek faux leather seat and knee pad covering is also high quality.
Versatile and comfortable
I like this chair’s screw-type adjustment mechanism, so you can easily customise the height to suit different users, work stations or preferred sitting positions. The thick sponge padding and built-in armrest also make the chair comfortable to sit on, so you can use it for long hours.
Stylish and easy to maintain
This kneeling chair has all the right trimmings to fit in an elegant office space, from its brass-finish steel frame to the smooth wooden backrest support. The easy-to-wipe faux leather cover is also available in a wide range of colours, making it easy to fit in any room design or theme.
Good mobility
Do you frequently roll from one desk to another when working? Then this kneeling chair is your perfect match. Its rolling casters at the back also include a locking feature, so you can keep yourself safe and stable when necessary.
Things to consider
Heavy
While it has rolling casters for portability, this chair is approximately 15kg and can be difficult to transport or carry. It also lacks the foldable design that other kneeling chairs have, so make sure you have a spacious room to fit this in.
Expensive
The design, features and quality of this kneeling chair naturally come with a price. Its high cost may not suit everyone’s budget. And with several other kneeling chairs available in the market, users can easily find low-cost options with almost similar features.
Fixed backrest
Kneeling chairs with a built-in backrest may not be a great choice unless you have a medical condition. This part may be obstructive to some users and may also defeat the purpose of a kneeling chair keeping you in the proper upright position. A backrest, however, is better as an optional accessory and may come in handy when using your kneeling chair for the first few weeks. You can also opt for a less expensive backless kneeling chair, then use it alternately with a regular office chair whenever you need to rest your back.
4. The Edge Desk Kneeling Chair Combo
- Built-in work desk
- Easy to assemble and use
- Compact, light and on-the-go design
- Snap-on accessories
- Flimsy desk
- Slightly pricey
Why I chose it
Built-in work desk
If you need a work desk to go with your kneeling chair, then choose this 2-in-1 model by Edge Desk. With this dual-purpose product, your work desk will be at the perfect height and angle as your kneeling chair every time. You can even swivel it to portrait (raised easel) or landscape (flat desk) mode to match any desk activity or profession (painters, business owners, students or freelancers).
Easy to assemble and use
You can use this kneeling chair combo right out of the box as it comes fully assembled – no more screws to tighten up or multiple parts to figure out. You can even have it ready for work in under 10 seconds. You might need some time to figure out its levers and switches but nothing too complicated.
This kneeling chair also has a four-level height adjustment to cater to more users. This feature is very advantageous, especially if you need to put your kneeling chair to its original settings. The knee pads and desk surface are fully adjustable as well.
Compact, light and on-the-go design
The Edge Desk Kneeling Chair folds to 15cm (or 6 inches), making it ideal for small rooms or homes with limited storage spaces. It is very portable, too, thanks to its lightweight yet sturdy aluminium frame. Considering that it comes with a work desk, this kneeling chair only weighs 13kg. With this chair model, you can work virtually anywhere, from cafes to libraries to dorm hallways.
Snap-on accessories
You can easily add this kneeling chair to any room style as it comes in three neutral colours: black, white and silver. Also, if you love customising your work station, the Edge Desk offers optional accessories with a smart snap-on feature to add to your desk. Available accessories include a water bottle holder, phone holder and transport wheels. Fitting two transport wheels to your Edge Desk adds a good range of mobility and lets you roll to one location to another with ease.
Things to consider
Flimsy desk
One of the downsides of this kneeling chair is that its built-in desk tends to wobble even on locked position. Its desktop load is only about 6.8kg. So, you might want to reconsider using this kneeling chair if you plan to work with heavy equipment or a bulky laptop.
Slightly pricey
This kneeling chair is a good buy for users who don’t have space at home for a full-size work desk. However, if you already have a work desk at home, you may be paying for an Edge Desk feature that you don’t need. Also, if you’re looking for mobile kneeling chairs, you might want to consider purchasing a similar product with built-in rolling casters rather than one with accessory wheels that you need to buy separately.
5. Kneeling Chairs Kneeling Stool
- Made to last
- Multipurpose and comfortable
- Compact and mobile
- Pneumatic height adjustment
- Slightly expensive
Why I chose it
Made to last
Step up the wooden ergonomic adjustable chair I reviewed earlier, and you get this more durable Kneeling Chairs stool. Its X-frame form still supports up to 150kg but is now made of thick stainless steel for stability. This metal frame is also resistant to corrosion. Moreover, rather than lining the seat and knee pad with fabric, this chair uses PVC leather covering with stronger tear resistance. And it’s available in purple, too!
Multipurpose and comfortable
Users 8 to 70 years old can safely sit on this durable kneeling chair. It also supports a wide height range of 130 to 175cm. Most importantly, it is more than just a sitting chair for work or rest. Its standard design and high-recovery sponge cushion team up to correct poor sitting habits, encourage good posture in children and prevent all sorts of health problems like back pains, hunchback and myopia. Also, with its thickly padded single-knee support, you can sit at different thigh angles for comfort.
Compact and mobile
This durable kneeling chair is foldable, so you can easily use or store it in spaces of any size. It also has four rolling casters with 360° universal pulley for optimum mobility. These wheels are non-slip and roll quietly without damaging your floor surface.
Pneumatic height adjustment
Among other kneeling chairs reviewed, this model is the only one with a pneumatic height adjustment mechanism. By pressing the side lever, you can adjust your chair to more precise settings with ease. This feature is very convenient, especially when the chair has multiple users at home or in the office, or when you need to work on different desks.
Things to consider
Slightly expensive
Compared with similar X-frame kneeling chairs, this one is on the high-end price range. Other users may opt for low-priced options that may not be as sleek but have the same specifications. However, if you have the budget, this kneeling stool is a great choice, considering its durability, unique features and quality.
Final Thoughts
Ergonomic kneeling chairs ensure that our backs stay straight while we’re busy finishing up that art project or beating a deadline. With this smart chair around, there will be no more poor posture or slouching for us. It’s a great tool to teach kids good sitting habits and to avoid all sorts of back problems for us adults. Ergonomic kneeling chairs in Australia even come in various designs to keep us comfy and stylish at the same time.
There’s no such thing as the best ergonomic kneeling chair. But there is one that is made to fit your working condition and preferred kneeling positions. And considering the essential aspects of a kneeling chair, I would have to stay that Kneeling Chairs’ wooden adjustable chair ticks all the right boxes. This standard X-frame kneeling chair is user-friendly and suitable for a wide range of body type. I also like that its design works for kids and the elderly, emphasising its ability to last for a long time. Plus, you get all these impressive features at a reasonable price. I did identify a few problem areas, but users can address them with proper use and care.
While you can always buy the most expensive kneeling chair available, remember that it may not be the one that suits you best. And so, I highly recommend that you do your homework before making that purchase: research and compare different products, read reviews and shop in-store. Make every investment count and bid back pains goodbye with your best ergonomic kneeling chair!
Buying Guide for the Best Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
If you typically spend hours working in front of a computer, experiencing back or neck pains at the end of your shift is nothing new. You may have tried different chairs and sitting positions to work better and failed. In that case, finding the best ergonomic kneeling chair might be your next smart solution.
Never seen or heard about ergonomic kneeling chairs before? Then read on this buying guide and learn the wonders these chairs can do for your body and the things you need to consider when buying one.
What is an Ergonomic Kneeling Chair?
Hans Christian Mengshoel and his team of Norwegian designers developed the first ergonomic kneeling chair in the 1970s. At that time, it was called the Balans. It’s a specially shaped chair with a sloped padded seat and a place to catch your knees and shins.
The idea behind the best ergonomic kneeling chair is to keep you in an upright position and distribute your weight while “sitting” down. This chair helps optimise your posture and keeps you in a naturally arched form to reduce tailbone pain or back strain.
Things to Consider When Buying Ergonomic Kneeling Chairs
Currently, there are several types of ergonomic kneeling chairs in Australia to choose from, some with a back support or rocking feature added. Take the time to know their features so you can make an informed choice when buying ergonomic kneeling chairs.
Construction quality
If you plan to use your kneeling chair daily, look for one made of sturdy materials to ensure quality and longevity. Its frame, casters and covering are some of the things you need to evaluate. Make sure that its adjustment mechanism is high quality, too, and can withstand constant tinkering.
In general, kneeling chairs with metal frames are more durable, capable of supporting most weights, and less expensive than wooden ones. For your chair’s seat and knee pad cover, be it leather, fabric or faux leather, make sure to choose one that’s thick and well-sewn and has high wear and tear.
Comfort
The last thing you’d want is to purchase a kneeling chair that makes you feel uncomfortable. So, make it a point to assess its shape, size and padding quality. Consider the angle of the pads and check if they are adjustable. In terms of seat type, kneeling chairs with saddle-like seats are said to be the most comfortable. And when it comes to covering, leather is likely to feel better than fabric.
The best ergonomic kneeling chair has a memory foam padding. Aside from providing comfort, it also supports your body and allows your weight to sink in without losing its form or shape. If finding a comfortable chair is your top priority, I also highly recommend shopping for one in-store instead of online. That way, you can test it out and see which one suits you best.
Adjustability
Adjustable features add to your chair’s ability to provide comfort. This feature is also essential if the chair will have more than one user. Look for kneeling chairs that allow you to adjust the seat and knee pad angle or height. Ideally, choose one with an incline level of at least 20°. This position moves your pelvis forward and maintains good lumbar posture. It also prevents you from leaning back and slouching. Check if the chair is easy to adjust as well. For instance, chairs with pneumatic height adjustment are better than hand-operated screw mechanisms.
Design
You may encounter different designs of kneeling chairs when shopping. Here are some basic types and their features:
- Backless kneeling chairs. This type is the standard and most common design and allows the best position to correct your posture. Most of these chairs are also adjustable to ensure comfort and cater to varying heights.
- Kneeling chairs with backrest. This type may include built-in or optional back support. If you’re using your kneeling chair for hours, this accessory lets you lean back and take breaks in between. A backrest is also helpful for users with medical conditions. But, while it works like a safety net or training wheel, it also defeats the purpose and benefits of a kneeling chair.
- Single or double knee pad chairs. Most kneeling chairs have single pads to support your knees. This design allows you to change thigh angles, making it perfect for people who change sitting positions a lot. The double-knee pad design, on the other hand, opens up your thighs for an optimum upright position but doesn’t offer much sitting variation. Users of this chair, however, can rest one knee up then switch to the other leg after some time.
- Sit and stand kneeling chair. Can’t decide whether to sit, stand or kneel while working? Then, this kneeling chair design is for you. This type lets you switch to various positions more freely. As it encourages different postures, this model also provides better health benefits compared with other kneeling chairs.
- Rocking kneeling chairs. This type is a dual-purpose chair that keeps you in an upright position and lets you rock on your knees for a mini workout. The results may be minimal, but the pendulum motion encourages healthy exercise that you won’t even know you’re doing. It makes your stomach muscles stronger, too.
Mobility
If you’re the type who can’t sit still for extended periods, then you might want to look for kneeling chairs that allow movement or activity. The rocking kneeling chairs are best when considering this feature.
Some kneeling chairs also come with rolling casters. Now, kneeling chairs are not like your usual office swivel ones that you can easily move around. But don’t worry. If you want mobility (despite being clumsy), then look for wheeled kneeling chairs with a locking feature. That way, you can keep the chair stationary while still training how to keep yourself balanced. Also, for carpeted surfaces, kneeling chairs with dual-wheel casters are ideal. For better mobility, look for five-point wheeled models.
Weight and height limits
Make sure to know the weight restrictions of your kneeling chair to keep it in good condition for a long time. Also, if you’re significantly short or tall, you may want to research about its height limit and specifications thoroughly. Kneeling chair height is also essential if you plan to use it with your work desk. For a perfect fit, kneeling chairs with an adjustable desk included are ideal.
Warranty
Kneeling chairs, depending on their model, can be expensive, so it’s essential to know more about their warranty. Product warranties vary from one manufacturer to another. Some warranties are only limited to specific parts of the kneeling chair. Fabric and foam typically have limited coverage periods. You may want to know how to contact their customer service as well in case you need assistance.
Price
Kneeling chairs usually cost around AUD$235 to AUD$505. And like any other product or equipment, kneeling chairs with unique features, high-quality construction and striking design are more expensive. If budget is not an issue, choose a chair that is very comfortable and has a lasting quality. But, if you prefer a low-cost alternative, then look for a kneeling chair without the extra features that you don’t exactly need.
FAQs on the Best Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Are you still thinking about whether kneeling chairs are for you? Here’s an FAQ section to help you decide.
Are ergonomic kneeling chairs good for you?
The best ergonomic kneeling chair provides unique benefits that you may not get from a standard office chair. These include:
- Enhanced posture. A regular sitting chair often leads to unwanted positions and slouching. Kneeling chairs counter this problem by tilting your hips to spread your weight between your neck, shoulders and back. These can also help train kids how to sit correctly and protect them from developing orthopaedic and muscular disorders.
- Back pain relief. Sitting down on a traditional chair forces our spine to be in an unnaturally straight position, causing our backs to ache after several hours. Kneeling chairs allow our S-shaped spine to be in an arched position to lessen the strain on the spinal discs and prevent back pains.
- Muscle development. Rather than lean on the backrest for support, kneeling chairs keep us balanced using our abdominal and back muscles. Core muscle development is then likely with constant kneeling chair use, especially with the rocking type.
Are kneeling chairs good for the hips?
Yes, they are! A kneeling chair increases your hip angle (about 110°) to distribute your weight and avoid spinal cord compression. A more open hip angle also has other benefits. For instance, it gives your lungs more room to expand for better breathing and oxygen intake. It also prevents you from constricting your digestive area to lessen stomach problems.
Is kneeling at a desk better than sitting?
Researchers do agree that kneeling is better than sitting. A study conducted in Tanzania, for example, concluded that the Hazda people (a hunter-gatherer population) are not at risk for chronic diseases related to prolonged sitting, despite their sedentary lifestyle. The anthropologists explained that the Hazda are often in a squatting or kneeling position that requires muscle activity, which keeps them “active” even while at rest. Kneeling chairs offer the same effect to keep us from being couch potatoes!
Do kneeling chairs hurt your knees?
Kneeling chairs are different from regular office chairs in terms of muscle strength needs. This difference may cause your core, back and thigh muscles to feel sore, especially if you’re not doing a regular exercise regimen. Don’t worry. Give it some time, and your body will get used to it. Also, you might want to do some stretching exercises, focusing on your lower back, to lessen the sore feeling.
Another way to feel more comfortable on a kneeling chair is to adjust its seat height and angle. Tall users, in particular, should look for kneeling chairs with good height adjustment options to keep their legs comfy. Also, after purchasing a kneeling chair, don’t ditch your regular sitting chair just yet. No one can sit on any chair for hours without changing positions. So, switch between your kneeling and office chair throughout the day. That way, you can get used to your kneeling chair more easily and enjoy its benefits.