10 Best office chair with flip-up arms in the UK 2023

Sitting comfortably at your desk is essential for productivity and health, yet finding the right office chair can be a challenge. If you need armrests that can flip up and out of the way, your options become even more limited. However, several excellent office chairs with flip-up arms are available in the UK market.

In this article, we’ll review the top options for office chairs with flip-up arms available to UK shoppers. We evaluated numerous models based on criteria including adjustability, build quality, comfort, and cost. Whether you need a basic task chair or a high-end ergonomic model, you’ll find the best flip-up arm office chairs to suit your needs and budget

A good office chair provides proper support for your back, legs, and arms, while allowing you to sit comfortably for extended periods. Flip-up arms provide the versatility to pull right up to your desk or swivel your chair side-to-side without obstruction. Quality flip-up arms move smoothly out of the way when needed and stay firmly in place while in use.

We’ll cover budget-friendly options under £100, moderate choices from £100 to £300, and top-tier models over £300. You’ll find recommended chairs suitable for home offices, professional workspaces, and anything in between. So read on to discover the best flip-up arm office chairs available in the UK today!

List of the Best office chair with flip-up arms UK

Things to consider while going to select a office chair with flip-up arms UK

Selecting the right office chair can make all the difference when it comes to your comfort and productivity at work. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know where to start. Office chairs with flip-up arms are a popular choice, providing versatility and adaptability. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to select the best office chair with flip-up arms in the UK.

Assess Your Needs

Firstly, think about how you will use the chair and what features will serve you best. Consider the type of work you do and how many hours per day you sit at your desk. An adjustable chair with ergonomic features will provide the most comfort if you sit for extended periods. Look for flip-up arms if you need to slide your chair under desks or conference tables. Sturdy armrests that adjust up and down will support your shoulders and relieve pressure.

If you share a workstation or hot-desk, flip-up arms allow different users to adjust the chair to suit their height and preferences. Chairs with locking tilt mechanisms are ideal for collaborative work, allowing you to tilt the seat to engage with colleagues face-to-face. If you want to recline during breaks, a tension-controlled tilt lock will enable you to relax fully.

Think about your height and body type too. Seat height adjustability is key – your feet should rest flat on the floor with thighs parallel to it. Seat depth and backrest adjustments cater for different leg lengths. Curved backrests with adjustable lumbar support provide lower back comfort.

Compare Key Features

Once you know your must-have features, compare specifications of different models. Key aspects to consider include:

• Seat height – For optimal ergonomics, seats should adjust from around 16 to 21 inches high.
• Seat depth – Look for at least 15 to 17 inches for adequate thigh support.
• Backrest adjustability – Height, depth and lumbar support should be adjustable.
• Armrests – Height, width and pivot adjustments allow custom positioning. Check how easy they are to flip up.
• Recline function – A tension-controlled tilting seat encourages movement. Look for at least 120° recline.
• Weight capacity – Sturdy chairs support at least 110 kg. Heavy duty ones accommodate up to 150 kg.
• Wheel mobility – Self-braking casters are safest for hard floors. Larger wheels add stability.
• Materials – Breathable mesh or foam seat pans prevent heat build-up. Look for padded cushions.
• Warranty – Check terms for parts and labor. 5 years is ideal for metal frames.

Evaluate Ergonomic Design

Ergonomics is key for all-day sitting comfort. Look for chairs with features designed to promote healthy posture and circulation:

Adjustable lumbar support in the backrest preserves the natural S-shape of your spine.

Backrests with pivot points that tilt in sync with the seat keep your torso upright as you recline.

Waterfall style seat edges remove pressure from the backs of thighs.

Chairs with seat slider mechanisms allow you to adjust seat depth while keeping your back against the backrest.

Breathable mesh or cut foam seat pans prevent heat buildup at the back of knees.

Padded seat cushions should be at least 2 inches thick.

Armrests that adjust up and down, in and out prevent hunching of shoulders and strain on your neck.

Try chairs out in person if possible, paying attention to how adjustability features suit your body. Think about where you will place the chair and check it suits your desk and workstation layout.

Shop Smartly

Once you’ve researched specifications and features, you’re ready to shop:

Online – All major office furniture brands sell chairs online. Marketplaces like Amazon have a vast range too. Be sure to check reviews from verified buyers. Watch out for misleading pricing tactics like high regular prices crossed out.

Showrooms – Trying chairs first-hand avoids disappointment. Ask about after-sales service and warranties. Be wary of pushy sales tactics.

Used – Pre-owned office furniture stores and auction sites can yield great bargains. Inspect chairs carefully first and refurbish if needed.

Sales – Look out for seasonal sales around bank holidays for deals. Black Friday and January sales offer big discounts on display models.

Set a budget and stick with chairs offering the adjustability you need within that price range. Basic models start around £100, while ergonomic chairs with more adjustments cost £250 to £600. High-end brands like Herman Miller exceed £1000.

Assemble and Adjust

When your chair arrives, take time to properly assemble and adjust it:

Carefully follow the manufacturer’s assembly instructions. Tighten bolts firmly but avoid over-tightening.

Initially raise the seat height so your feet are flat on the floor and thighs are parallel to it.

Adjust seat depth so your lower back contacts the backrest without excessive pressure at the back of your knees.

Position the lumbar support for an S-shaped spine.

Set armrests at the right height and distance to support forearms without hunching shoulders.

Rock and tilt the chair to ensure smooth operation. Set the tilt tension to suit your body weight.

Take the time to fine-tune adjustments until the chair feels right. Review these periodically as your needs change. Investing in a quality chair and setting it up optimally will provide ergonomic support for many years.

Maintain Your Chair

With regular care and maintenance, your office chair will serve you well for a long time:

• Inspect moving parts monthly and tighten hardware when needed. Lubricate gas lifts periodically.
• Vacuum under chair legs and mechanisms regularly to remove dust and debris.
• Spot clean upholstery every few months using mild soap and water. Disinfect armrests periodically.
• Consider using a clear plastic floor mat to protect carpets and chair casters from damage.
• When adjusting tilt tension, don’t force mechanisms beyond their normal range.
• Avoid straining capacity weight limits which can damage frames and parts over time.
• Arrange annual inspections to assess wear and address minor repairs before they escalate.
• Investing in an ergonomic office chair with flip-up arms can transform your workspace comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions related to finding the best office chair with flip-up arms in the UK:

Q: What are the main benefits of an office chair with flip-up arms?

A: Flip-up arms on an office chair allow you to adjust the armrests out of the way when needed. This can be useful to pull the chair closer to a desk or table, or to get in and out of the chair more easily. Flip-up arms also provide flexibility – you can use them when you want arm support or flip them up when you don’t.

Q: Are there different types of flip-up arm mechanisms to consider?

A: Yes, there are a few different styles of flip-up arms to look for when shopping for an office chair:

Vertical lift arms that lift straight up and down. These take up less space when lifted.

Backwards rotating arms that flip back behind the chair. These can fully get the arms out of the way.

Side articulating arms that swing the arms out to the sides of the chair. This allows for easy access without taking up space behind the chair.

Q: What features should I look for in an office chair with flip-up arms?

A: Ideal features to look for include:

• Adjustable height and width of the arms to get the right fit.
• Padded armrests for elbow and forearm comfort.
• Armrests that can slide back/forth or swivel for extra flexibility.
• Good back support like lumbar adjustment.
• Seat height adjustment for proper desk fit.
• Tilt tension and lock so you can recline as needed.
• Sturdy base with good quality castors suitable for hard floors or carpets.

Q: What are some of the best flip-up arm office chairs in the UK?

A: Some popular and well-reviewed models to consider include:

• Ergohuman Mesh Chair with flip-up arms.
• Herman Miller Aeron Chair with adjustable arms.
• HAG Capisco with forward tilt and arm options.
• Flexispot Deskcise Pro with vertical lift arms.
• IKEA Markus Office Chair with height-adjustable arms.

Q: Are there less expensive options for basic office chairs with flip-up arms?

A: Yes, some affordable options with flip-up arm capability include:

• IKEA Langfjall Office Chair.
• Argos Home Mesh Office Chair.
• Amazon Basics Leather Office Chair.
• Staples Tarance Mesh Task Chair.
• Vari Vipera Air Pro Mesh Chair.

Q: Should I consider ordering an office chair with flip-up arms online?

A: Many office chairs are available to order online in the UK. This allows you to easily compare different models and read reviews. Just be sure to look at the return policy in case you need to send it back. Some things to keep in mind when ordering an office chair online:

Review the product dimensions to ensure fit.

• Buy from reputable retailers with good customer service.
• Understand the warranty and coverage details.
• Factor in delivery costs and timelines.
• Be prepared to assemble the chair yourself.
  

Conclusion

After evaluating some of the leading options in the market, the Herman Miller Aeron emerges as a premier choice for those seeking an ergonomic office chair with flip-up armrests. Between its fully customizable fittings, breathable mesh material, and smooth recline mechanics, the Aeron aims to provide long-lasting comfort and support. Of course, such quality commands a hefty price tag, though the extensive 12-year warranty demonstrates confidence in the chair’s resilience.

For shoppers prioritizing affordability, the SIHOO Ergonomic Office Chair presents worthwhile value. Its curved backrest follows the spine’s natural contours, while the flip-up arms and smooth-rolling wheels enable easy mobility. Although the SIHOO lacks the brand prestige of the Aeron, its budget-friendly price offers much of the adjustability and comfort at a fraction of the cost.

Determining the “best” office chair is ultimately subjective based on individual needs and budget. Factors like customization range, build quality, manufacturer reputation, and warranty coverage should be weighed when deciding. Whether opting for the premium engineering of the Aeron or value-driven quality of the SIHOO, there are admirable flip-up arm chairs to furnish an ergonomic workspace. By focusing on comfort, flexibility, and support, one can find the ideal seated solution to stay productive during long work days ahead.