After conducting extensive research, we nominated the Dragonn Ergonomic Kneeling Chair as our Top Pick for the best kneeling chair. We liked that this was a great classic x-frame kneeling chair that offered the best height adjustment range of 10 inches. It also supports up to 250 pounds and offers plenty of padding to keep users comfortable.
To create our guide for the best kneeling chair, we focused on the following key features: chair type, incline, comfort, and mobility. There is a wide array of kneeling chair configurations but we prioritized the x-frame because it’s by far the most popular for most consumers. Likewise, we looked for options that offered seat angle and height adjustments. For comfort, we focused on padding thickness for the seat and kneepads. And where possible, we highlighted options that focused on cushion breathability for added comfort. Keep reading to learn more about our criteria for ergonomic kneeling chairs and to shop from our recommendations.
Top 10 Best Kneeling Chairs
#1 Dragonn Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: A straightforward x-frame kneeling chair with a 10-inch height adjustment range, plenty of padding, and the ability to support up to 250 pounds.
- Best height adjustment range
- Supports up to 250lbs
- X-frame design with plenty of padding
- Lacks added back support option
The Dragonn ergonomic kneeling chair is a fan favorite for a reason. It’s relatively easy to assemble and features a traditional x-frame design. For people that are thinking about incorporating an ergonomic kneeling chair into their workflow, this is a great starter choice.
One of the biggest features we found was that this ergonomic chair offered the best height adjustment range. With this pick, you can transition between 10 inches from 21 to 31 inches. You’ll also like that the low-profile black finish makes it perfect for personal or professional use. The sturdy seat with a 90-degree angle and knee pads offer plenty of cushioning to keep you comfortable throughout the day. And you’ll like that there are casters too so that this pick is equally mobile. If you have back problems look for the best office chairs for scoliosis victims that can also help to prevent sciatica and muscle strain. Also, take a look at some of the best office chairs under $300 that have ergonomic and fully adjustable features.
#2 Sleekform Atlanta Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: A plush ultra-padded ergonomic kneeling chair in an x-frame configuration with castors that keeps you comfortable no matter what seated task is being performed.
- Eco-friendly materials
- Adjustable height from 21 to 28in
- Faux leather and mesh upholstery
- Knee pads may hit at shins causing discomfort for some
The Sleekform kneeling chair is an option for the person who wants to help the planet while helping themselves. We like that the Sleekform chair features padding made from 100% recycled foam. It features a traditional x-frame design with a cushioned seat and knee pads.
Aside from its eco-friendly vibe, this solution offers many of the standard features you would expect from an x-frame kneeling chair. That includes an adjustable height that can be configured to between 21 to 28 inches. The best standing desk chairs will also include good height adjustment as well as great lumbar support to correct any back problems you may have. You can also feel confident that this kneeling chair can support up to 250 pounds. And it comes with four casters for improved mobility. All in all, the Sleekform is one of the best office chairs.
#3 Varier Variable Balans Original Kneeling Chair
Award: BEST ROCKER DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: A rocking kneeling chair that offers enhanced mobility and a fun textile-wood construction that’s available in eight colors.
- Available in 8 colors
- Allows for enhanced mobility while maintaining proper posture
- Norwegian design made with natural ash base
- Lower weight limit at 240lbs
- No adjustable height
The Varier variable balans original kneeling chair is a popular option and the only rocking kneeling chair in our guide. We like that this Norwegian balans chair designed by Peter Opsvik features the sleek minimalist aesthetic most frequently associated with that region. The frame is made from ash wood and features a textile covered seat and individual knee pads.
While this pick lacks height adjustment and has a slightly lower weight limit at just 240 pounds, we do like that the rocker motion gives you more mobility. Plus, if you’re using this chair in the home and are afraid of damaging your floors, it comes with soft tape. For a generous height range, take a peek at the best office stability chair that also comes with non-slip vinyl and a good weight capacity. Choose from eight colors and two frame finishes — natural and black ash.
#4 Sleekform Height Adjustable Kneeling Chair
Award: BEST FOR SHARED USE
WHY WE LIKE IT: Get all of the kneeling chair benefits with this height adjustable option from Sleekform that allows you to customize the seat angle from 97 to 127 degrees, making it shine in large households.
- Ideal for people from 5’2” to 6’6” tall
- Adjustable seat angle from 97 to 127 degrees
- Comes with 2” caster wheels
- Lower seat capacity of 220lbs
If you’re hoping to experience those kneeling chair benefits, then Sleekform is a popular option for this chair category. While it’s a traditional x-frame design, it has a slightly lower weight capacity at just 220 pounds. You also get a well-padded seat and knee pads with four-inch thick cushioning.
In terms of adjustability, you can angle the seat from between 97 to 127 degrees and the height from 21 to 28 inches. The steel frame on this kneeling chair makes it lightweight and easy to reposition. Although the four rolling casters will also help with that. For an office chair without casters, check out the best office chair without wheels that come with good recline functionality. And if you’re big on aesthetics, you should also take a look at the best office stools that focus on height adjustability, ergonomics, weight capacity, and 360° swivel capability. This pick however is perfect for anyone from 5’1 to 6’6 feet tall and is compatible with a standard desk that is 29 inches high.
#5 Sleekform Tokyo Ergonomic Kneeling Chair with Backrest
Award: BEST QUALITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: A kneeling chair designed for more extended use thanks to the flexible vented backrest, handlebars that make getting in and out of the chair easier, and 265-pound weight capacity.
- Largest weight capacity
- Includes backrest and handlebars
- Adjustable height from 19 to 26”
- Backrest may negate benefits for short term users
Even though kneeling chairs are great for helping to improve posture and strengthen the core, experts don’t recommend using them for extended periods. Often, complaints about discomfort with kneeling chairs come from using them for too long without switching positions or chairs. But if someone is going to use a kneeling chair for longer periods, most people agree that getting one with a backrest is a good idea so that you can give your back — and legs — a break.
Our Best Quality pick is the Tokyo chair from Sleekform and is a great x-frame option that comes with a built-in flexible backrest that’s vented for improved breathability. And it also features padded handles so you can easily get in and out of the chair. Because of this, we think it’s ideal for anyone to use. You’ll get four-inch-thick memory foam in the knee pads, and the ability to adjust the height from 19 to 26 inches. It also features the largest weight capacity from our research at 265 pounds. And as is common, this chair comes with casters too. For your office, you may also opt to choose one of the best massage office chair that give excellent lumbar support, and also doubles as a massager, along with tons of adjustability and a superior design quality.
#6 Flash Furniture Mobile Wooden Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Award: BEST MODERN DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: A lightweight wooden kneeling chair that’s perfect for accenting a modern home office or workspace but still fully functional thanks to the height-adjustable frame.
- Height adjustable frame
- Breathable seat and knee padding
- Dual casters for improved mobility
- Lacks independent angle adjustment between seat and knee pads
- Lowest capacity at 200lbs
If traditional steel frame kneeling chairs aren’t your thing, then the Flash Furniture kneeling chair is a great alternative. One of the main priorities — beyond improved posture — is creating a chair that is as appealing for its aesthetics as it is for its functionality. This pick is a combination of textile and wood with the frame being made from hardwood. Choose from two textile finishes in either black or gray for this wooden kneeling chair.
In terms of functionality, this pick offers three preset height adjustment settings. This is not as comprehensive as most options which give you a height range that allows for individual adjustments instead of presets. Likewise, we did note that the weight limit on this chair was the lowest in our research at just 200 pounds. And unfortunately, the seat and knee pad angles can’t be adjusted independently.
#7 Boss Office Products Ergonomic Kneeling Stool
Award: BEST ON A BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: A budget-friendly x-frame kneeling chair that offers the easiest height adjustment thanks to the pneumatic gas lift.
- Pneumatic gas lift height adjustment
- Simple x-frame design
- Ideal for shared use
- Padding may be too thin for some
Even though most kneeling chairs are relatively affordable, if you’re working with a tight budget, this pick from Boss Office Products is a great buy. We nominated it as our Best on a Budget obviously because it’s affordable. But what sets it apart is that even though it’s a budget-friendly option, it features a pneumatic gas lift for the height adjustment. So, if you’re someone who hates to fight with nuts, bolts, or screws, this one is a great, easy to use alternative.
Because of the pneumatic gas lift feature, this x-frame model is perfect for a shared space where multiple people will be using the chair and need to make adjustments. As is fairly common for x-frame seats, this one also comes with casters and features a traditional steel frame with a fabric-covered seat and knee pads.
#8 Yaheetech Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Award: MOST VERSATILE
WHY WE LIKE IT: A classic x-frame kneeling chair that the whole family can use thanks to the popular 19 to 28-inch height adjustment range.
- Comfortable for adults and kids
- Adjustable height between 19 to 28 inches
- Includes 2 lockable casters
- Chair and padding covers may emit an odor
Everyone can benefit from using a kneeling chair. And this pick from Yaheetech is a great option to use at home with the shared family computer. While it doesn’t necessarily have any breakout features, it’s an affordable option that’s easy to assemble with a 220-pound weight limit.
Thanks to the 19 to 28-inch height adjustment, children and adults can both take advantage of the posture and back benefits that this classic x-frame kneeling chair can provide. You’ll also get plenty of padding in the seat and knee pads. Plus the faux leather upholstery is easy to keep clean from spills and accidents. As far as leather chairs go, you can compare this to the best executive leather office chair. And as is common, this pick also comes with casters.
#9 Papafit Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Award: MOST COMFORTABLE
WHY WE LIKE IT: An x-frame kneeling chair that offers height adjustment from 21 to 28 inches and mould foam for improved breathability and comfort.
- Helps to create 90-degree angle for back
- Adjustable height from 21 to 28in
- Supports up to 250lbs
- May not be compatible with all desk heights
Learning to use a kneeling chair can be a learning curve as most people report initial soreness in their knees and shins as their body adjusts to the new sitting position. But with the right padding, that transitional process can be easier to handle. The Papafit ergonomic kneeling chair features foam molded padding which better conforms to the body and is also more breathable so you can stay comfortable and focused on your work instead of your knees or shins.
Padding aside, the Papafit kneeling chair is fairly competitive with most other kneeling chairs. You’ll get a 250-pound weight limit and the ability to adjust the seat height between 21 to 28 inches. But you’ll also get three preset height adjustments for the kneeling cushion and four casters for mobility.
#10 ProErgo Pneumatic Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Award: BEST BREATHABILITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: An x-frame kneeling chair with breathable cushions to keep you cool as you work, and quick assembly so you can focus on your tasks instead of on construction.
- Quick setup in 10min or less
- Supports up to 250lbs
- Adjustable height from 19.5 to 25.5in
- Cushioning may be too firm for some users
A common complaint we found as we researched kneeling chairs was that assembly could be difficult and that the cushioning could encourage heat buildup. So, we included the ProErgo in our guide because it checks off the box on both of those complaints. The brand promises that you can quickly assemble this chair in just 10 minutes or less. Plus, they tout a breathable cushion that helps to keep you cool and comfortable.
In terms of other functionality, the ProErgo is relatively competitive. It’s one of the few in our research to also feature a pneumatic gas lift adjustment which is ideal for people that want to quickly make adjustments without getting off the chair. You can adjust the height from between 19.5 to 25.5 inches, which is one of the smaller adjustment range that we found in our research. But you do still get a 250-pound weight limit which is ideal for most settings.
How We Decided
When used correctly, ergonomic kneeling chairs can replace standard desk chairs and are a great way to improve your posture by sitting upright, provide pain relief by reducing back pain and neck pain, and strengthen your core muscles. Which is why a kneeling chair may be a better than the best office chair for back pain. To create our guide, we focused on the following key features — chair type, incline, comfort, and mobility. While the bulk of our recommendations were x-frame kneeling stools or chairs, we did also include rocking balans kneeling stools and a kneeling chair with back support. The majority of our recommendations featured double knee pads, but we did include a few single knee pad options too.
All of our recommendations offered at least a 90-degree incline to ensure proper upright posture, but only a few gave you the control to adjust the seat angle. And even within seat adjustments, sometimes it wasn’t possible to independently adjust the seat and knee pads. For adjustments, we prioritized options that offered a height range and only included a handful that was limited to preset height settings.
Comfort, of course, is going to be key, especially if you’re trying to create an ergonomic office setup. While all of our picks included well-padded seats and knee pads, it’s important to remember that kneeling chairs shouldn’t be used for extended periods without breaks like you would do with a traditional chair. We did include a few options that offered enhanced breathable cushioning or mould form knee pad cushions that better molded to the shape of your shins and knees. Except for the one rocking balans kneeling stool we included, the remainder of our recommendations were designed with casters for true mobility.
Best Ergonomic Kneeling Chair Buying Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
- Chair Type
With kneeling chairs instead of office chairs, there are a few common formats that you’ll see: x-frame kneeling stool, rocking balans kneeling stools, kneeler chair with back support, single or double knee pad chairs, sit standing kneeling chairs, and saddle kneeling chairs. If you plan on spending extended periods in a sitting chair opt for one with back support. But if you’re shopping on a budget, the x-frame kneeling stool is the best option. - Incline
With a kneeling chair, the goal is to find one with an incline that is at least 20 degrees. With this angle, you’re able to properly tip your pelvis forward and ensure proper spine alignment and can help to reduce back pain. - Comfort
In addition to finding a chair with the right incline, you’ll want to make sure that there’s plenty of padding, not just in the seat but also for the knees, shins, or thighs. Since you’ll be sitting in a position, especially in a floor gaming chair, that might place slight pressure on those areas, you’ll want padding that is adjustable, and that provides adequate support and comfort without irritating. Also, think about how adjustable the seat or padding areas are. - Compatibility
If you’re thinking of buying a kneeling chair for use with a desk — even standing desks — you’ll want to make sure that the dimensions are compatible between the chair and your desk. Otherwise, you’ll create an unnecessary strain on your back, and defeat the purpose of investing in a kneeling chair. Also, consider your weight and height and be sure that they’re compatible with any limitations listed for the chair you want to buy. - Mobility
While some kneeling chairs are designed to rock, you can also find others that come with casters for true mobility. But you’ll need to consider whether you want a chair that restricts you to limited positions or one that allows for a wider range of motion.
