TOP 3 Japan office chairs with reclining features – The “savior” for office workers today
- 2024 okamura
- Nov 26
- 5 min read
Sitting for long hours at work can lead to back pain, neck stiffness, and reduced productivity over time. That’s why reclining office chairs have become an increasingly popular choice among modern businesses.
With their ability to provide flexible spinal support and maximum comfort, Japanese office chairs - especially from the Okamura brand - are leading the trend of the “new-generation ergonomic office chair.”
1. Introduction to the reclining function of office chairs
The reclining feature enables users to adjust the tilt and tension of the backrest as desired, thereby reducing spinal pressure and promoting a more comfortable posture during work.
This feature is typically found in high-end office chairs, while most standard models still have fixed backrests that cannot be adjusted flexibly.
1.1. Backrest angle adjustment function
The reclining adjustment mechanism allows users to choose the tilt angle that suits their needs — from sitting upright for focused work to reclining up to 23 degrees for a midday break. Some of Okamura’s premium models are equipped with a smart lock/unlock system, allowing users to easily switch between free recline and fixed positions at the touch of a button.
Notably, specific office chair models also feature an ankle-tilt reclining mechanism, allowing users to find their most comfortable reclining position. Using the ankles as the pivot point, this mechanism allows the chair to move in sync with the user’s body, promoting natural posture shifts and relaxation with uninterrupted comfort.
1.2. Recline tension adjustment feature
In addition to the reclining angle, the recline tension feature allows users to control the resistance (or stiffness) of the backrest - essentially adjusting how much “pushback” the chair provides to match the user’s body weight and posture. This ensures that whether you’re sitting upright or reclining deeply, your back remains well-supported and comfortable throughout your workday.
Typically, you can choose from four recline tension levels to suit different body types and sitting postures - all conveniently adjustable via the tension knob located beneath the seat.
2. Why is the reclining feature so popular?
The reclining function not only provides relaxation but also supports long-term health for those who spend many hours sitting at work every day. Here are the main reasons why this feature is highly favored by office workers:
Reduces pressure on the spine and lower back: When the backrest is reclined, body weight is distributed more evenly, reducing spinal pressure and minimizing back pain, as well as the risk of disc degeneration - a common issue among office employees.
Promotes blood circulation: Switching flexibly between sitting and reclining positions helps improve blood flow, reducing numbness in the limbs and preventing varicose veins, which are often caused by prolonged sitting.
Relieves stress and enhances focus: A slight recline provides a comfortable position that allows your body to “rest” for a few minutes, helping to reduce tension and fatigue while restoring focus and concentration when you return to work.
Boosts work performance: Proper relaxation helps maintain energy and mental stability throughout the day, leading to improved productivity and work quality.
Suitable for various body types and postures: The reclining mechanism can be flexibly adjusted according to the user’s weight and body shape, allowing everyone to find their most comfortable sitting position whether working, reading, or taking a short break.
3. Top 3 office chairs with outstanding reclining features in high demand
Okamura - a symbol of Japanese interior craftsmanship - is globally renowned for its over 80 years of expertise in producing premium, ergonomic chairs. Each Okamura product embodies the meticulous spirit of Japanese craftsmanship, the refined aesthetics of European design, and advanced ergonomic technology, elevating the modern sitting experience.
Let’s explore the top 3 most popular Okamura reclining office chairs, known for their flexible adjustability and exceptional comfort.
3.1. Contessa II office chair
The Contessa II chair line is a sophisticated blend of elegant Italian design by Italdesign and the precise, meticulous craftsmanship of Okamura Japan. Users can choose from three materials for the seat and backrest: premium leather for a luxurious feel, soft fabric for comfort, or breathable mesh ideal for tropical climates. The color palette is also highly versatile, featuring four leather colors, thirteen fabric colors, and thirteen mesh colors, allowing you to find a chair that matches your office style easily.
The Contessa II is equipped with an advanced reclining and tension control system, enabling smooth and effortless adjustments directly from the armrests. Specifically, the left armrest includes an integrated button that allows you to lock or unlock the backrest and quickly switch between free recline mode and five preset recline angles. Additionally, the chair offers four levels of adjustable recline tension, ensuring ideal support and comfort for every user’s weight and sitting posture.
Key Features of the Contessa II Chair:
Smart operation system integrated directly into the armrests
4D adjustable armrests with customization in height, depth, width, and pivot angle
Seat height adjustment range: 435–545 mm
Seat depth adjustment range: 50 mm
Explore full specifications and design details [HERE] |
3.2. Sabrina Standard office chair
The Sabrina Standard chair is the result of a collaboration between Okamura and Italdesign (Italy), embodying Okamura’s philosophy of “the harmony of beauty and functionality.” Its standout feature is the flexible ring structure - a symbol of creativity and ergonomic innovation. When seated, the inner frame conforms closely to the body, providing firm support for the spine. In contrast, the outer frame offers gentle flexibility, allowing the body to move naturally from side to side without losing posture alignment.
The seat cushion features multi-density urethane foam (three layers with varying firmness) - softer at the front to reduce thigh pressure and firmer at the back to support the hips, thereby helping to maintain proper sitting posture. The chair is available in two styles: high-back and high-back with a headrest, both offering a modern and professional look for any workspace.
Key Features of the Sabrina Standard Chair:
Synchro Reclining mechanism allows up to 23° backward tilt
Forward-tilt mechanism enables 10° forward tilt for active posture support
3D adjustable armrests (height, depth, and pivot angle)
Seat height and depth adjustments are controlled by buttons located beneath the seat
3.3. Abilis office chair
The Abilis chair draws inspiration from the balance of nature, representing a perfect harmony between aesthetics and functionality. A collaboration between Okamura and ITO Design (Germany), it features a hexagonal framework - a naturally optimal shape that increases strength, reduces material use, and maintains both stability and flexibility.
Users can easily adjust the recline tension by rotating the side knob clockwise or counterclockwise to find the ideal resistance, ensuring personalized comfort for different working styles.
Key Features of the Abilis Chair:
Seat height adjustment: up to 92 mm using the right lever.
Seat depth adjustment: 40 mm sliding range using the left lever.
3D armrests enable height, depth, and pivot angle adjustments.
An optional headrest is available in fixed (1D) or adjustable (2D) versions.
Additional optional accessories include a lumbar support and a hanger.
Choosing the right reclining office chair enables you to strike a perfect balance between work and relaxation, while promoting a healthy sitting posture and reducing back pain and fatigue. Smart, adjustable designs with customizable reclining angles and tension control ensure lasting comfort throughout the day.
In particular, Okamura’s products serve as the ideal gateway to premium ergonomic seating, embodying the precision of Japanese engineering and the artistry of meticulous craftsmanship in every detail.