Footrest Types for Ergonomic Office Chairs: Your Easy Guide

There are many types of footrests on the market, but the specific classification of footrests is generally divided into two categories: integrated retractable footrests and independent footrests. What is the difference between these two types, and which one should we choose? This blog will tell you the advantages and disadvantages of office chair footrests. After understanding, choose according to your work environment!

Related Articles: How to Use Ergonomic Office Chairs with Footrest

Definition of Footrest Types

What Is an Integrated Retractable Footrest?

Integrated retractable footrests are usually retractable or foldable, and are generally built under the seat cushion of the office chair. When you need to use it, you can slide out or flip it from under the seat. When you don't need to use it, just retract it under the office chair cushion.

Type:

• Split footrest/left and right independently adjustable footrest: The left and right feet can be placed separately, but generally the left foot can only be placed on the left, and the right foot can only be placed on the right.
• One-piece footrest: The type that is combined together, can be adjusted together, and the left and right feet can be placed on each other.

What is a Separate Footrest?

A footrest that is separate from the office chair, but is often used with an office chair or desk. It allows the user to use the footrest to adjust the knee and ankle to a 90-degree angle, matching the degree required by ergonomics.

Types:

• Fixed-angle footrest: only one fixed angle and height.
• Adjustable: provides a certain range of tilt or rocking.
• Massage footrest: has a textured surface that massages the sole of the foot and promotes relaxation.

Related articles: Footrest Materials for Ergonomic Office Chair 

Pros and Cons of Different Footrest Types

Pros and Cons of Integrated Retractable Footrests

Pros:

• When not in use, it can be completely folded up, which is convenient for organization, does not take up floor space, and is not easy to lose.
• It is very convenient to use, just pull and stretch.
• The office area is more integrated and beautiful.

Cons:

• It can only be simply stretched or folded, and the height and tilt angle are basically not adjustable.
• It can only be fixed on the chair and cannot be used alone.
• If the footrest is damaged, it needs to be removed from the chair before repair.

Pros and Cons of Separate Footrests:

Pros:

• The position of the footrest and the distance between the chair and the footrest can be adjusted at will. Even the same footrest can be used between different chairs or tables.
• If the independent footrest is damaged, it is convenient to repair or replace.
• Some footrests have fine adjustment angles and swing functions to promote blood circulation.

Cons:

• When not in use, it needs to be stored, otherwise the office area will be messy.
• It is generally not included in the chair, and you need to make additional purchases.

Are There Office Chairs With Footrests in Boulies?

Of course, Boulies is committed to providing you with a comfortable working/playing environment and reducing the pressure on your body.

The Boulies brand is providing you with ergonomic office chairs with integrated footrests. This type of footrest is cleverly hidden under the seat cushion. You can pull it out directly when you need it, and retract it directly when you don’t need it.

The Master Rex office chair integrated footrest is designed with more comfort. The ergonomic design has a maximum reclining angle of 165°. Pull out the footrest when resting, which not only supports the legs, but also the waist, and then adjust the headrest to the right position, you will have a comfortable rest time.

Boulies EP460 is also equipped with an integrated footrest. The difference with Master Rex is in the material. The material used in Boulies EP460 is more affordable.

Summary

Whether you prefer an integrated retractable footrest or a stand-alone footrest, use it according to your work environment. If you need to take a long reclined rest, an integrated footrest will help you more. A reclining executive office chair or gaming chair may be an ideal choice. If you need fine support and improved sitting posture for work, a stand-alone footrest will be more convenient.