7 ADHD-Friendly Chairs For Folks Who Fidget
Good Gear editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
Good Gear editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
For those of us who find ourselves fidgeting often, it’s tough to be seated at a desk all day with little to no way of moving our bodies how we feel necessary. Whether tapping your fingers on a desk, bouncing your leg up and down, or playing with small objects nearby, fidgeting can help us maintain focus and manage restless energy. Research even suggests that it can actually improve concentration and cognitive performance for those with ADHD.
So how can we accommodate fidgeting while at our desks? ADHD-friendly chairs! Quickly gaining popularity, these flexible and ergonomic chairs allow for active seating and movement so you can fidget in a way that doesn’t feel restrictive. That means these chairs can help us foster healthy productivity habits, better focus, and a more comfortable work environment.
Why are ADHD chairs helpful?
ADHD chairs (also known as active seating or ergonomic chairs) are designed to provide dynamic support and movement while sitting. These chairs often feature a rounded or unstable base, allowing for subtle movements that engage the core muscles, promote better posture, and reduce muscle tension. For those of us with ADHD who may struggle with restlessness or difficulty sitting still for extended periods of time, these subtle movements can help channel excess energy without disrupting focus.
“ADHD chairs (also known as active seating or ergonomic chairs) are designed to provide dynamic support and movement while sitting.”
When looking for an ADHD-friendly chair, it’s also important to look for options that are ergonomically designed and allow you to switch up how you sit to help alleviate any discomfort that’s a result of prolonged sitting. When the chairs we sit on help us easily and comfortably get into the positions we need to help us remain focused, it can help with our overall productivity. An added benefit, these chairs we’ve listed all promote active sitting which helps improve our posture. Hello to versatile fidget-friendly seating and goodbye to immobile and restrictive chairs!
Our criteria:
Our editors have researched and reviewed the top wellness brands on the market. These are our top picks of chairs for those with ADHD that are helpful, high-quality/durable, and affordable. We regularly update this list with emerging favorites that meet the criteria below.
- EFFECTIVE & SUPPORTIVE | These ADHD-friendly chairs are effective in helping us regulate our body’s needs while sitting for long hours of the day. Each of these chairs provides adequate space for movement and are ergonomically designed for comfortable seating.
- HIGH-QUALITY | Made with high-quality materials like sustainably-sourced wood and steel, these fidget chairs are durable against movement and stress, so they’ll last for the long haul.
- AFFORDABLE | This list includes ADHD-friendly chairs at a number of price points so there’s something for every budget.
As you equip your space to be more supportive and functional, visit our guides on how to set up your workspace if you have ADHD and how our editor’s piece on how her ADHD diagnosis helped reset her life. Both are great starting points for revamping your work-life systems.
1. Pipersong
Best For | Sitting cross-legged
Features | Flexible 360-degree swivel footstool, height adjustable models available, patented design, easy to clean, 1-year warranty
Price | $350–$470
The Pipersong Meditation Chair is a revolutionary solution for those of us tired of traditional office chairs. Designed to accommodate various sitting positions, including cross-legged, squatting, and kneeling, this funky yet functional seat promotes constant movement and stimulation of the body, making long hours of sitting less tedious. The Pro model features a 2-inch adjustable backrest for added comfort and support, along with a 360-degree swivel footstool for increased flexibility. Padded with high-resilience memory foam, your hips, feet, knees, and ankles will all feel supported as you switch positions. While many customers feel you have to be “the right size” in order to be 100% comfortable for long hours on this chair, it’s still a versatile option for meditating or if you have an adjustable desk or screen where you can reach that perfect seating position. For ease of mind, each Pipersong chair comes with a 1-year limited warranty on manufacturing defects.
Customer Review | “Absolute game changer for someone who constantly fidgets and needs to move around but sits at a desk all day. Feels quality made and the slip covers are great too, quality straps to ensure they don’t come off the chair pads. The chair is already helping my lower back pain by switching up my sitting positions, highly recommend this chair. Can’t comment on the meditating aspects, but can definitely sit cross legged with ease. Although you have to drop the seat quite low to allow for a comfortable sitting position in this pose and for kneeling as the base level doesn’t move in height nor does the seat level tilt. I don’t mind though as my screen is adjustable too. Thank you for creating such an innovative chair.” – Heidi P. (Read more reviews.)
2. NYPOT Ergonomic Kneeling Chair
Best For | Rocking & posture correction
Features | Ergonomic design, wooden frame & foam seat, multifunctional seating options, improves posture, adjustable design, supports up to 250 lbs, 5-year warranty
Price | $170–$230
For those of us who love to kneel or rock back and forth, the NYPOT Ergonomic Kneeling Chair is essential for the home office! This ergonomic chair alleviates back strain and evenly distributes weight on hips and legs, while its rocking ability shifts pressure points, enhancing concentration and preventing stiffness. Multifunctional in action, it can serve as a cross-legged chair, meditation desk chair, or yoga office chair. (It’s especially great for helping us stretch or get into certain yoga positions that normally might be tough on the floor!) Made with durable wood and a thick sponge cushion, the NYPOT chair supports up to 250lbs. When first sitting first on this chair, it’s important to note that it can take some time getting used to, so NYPOT recommends taking breaks and walking every few hours till your body adjusts to this new way of sitting. Once you’ve grown accustomed to it, your body will thank you!
Customer Review | “This is my first kneeling chair and I’m in love. I was nervous because I have never assembled an office chair before and this one was completely different from any chair I have ever used but I’m so glad I did it! It took me roughly around 30 minutes to get this chair assembled, there’s a video you can watch and build the chair step by step with the video. Sitting on this chair the first time I was in love. If you love sitting awkwardly in your office chair at home and you’re tired of your back hurting and your legs falling asleep, you will love this chair! I paired it with another find here on Amazon which is an electric desk. Working from home 40 hours a week and taking 3 to 4 classes a semester, this chair was a must for me and I don’t think I’ll ever want to use a normal office chair again if I have the choice! Highly recommend!” – Ali M. (Read more reviews.)
3. Uncommon Goods Ergonomic Active Sitting Stool
Best For | Active sitting
Features | Accordion-style stool, bends forwards & back, recyclable technopolymer, free shipping
Price | $148
Designed for active sitting, Uncommon Goods’ Ergonomic Active Sitting Stool is an accordion-style perch that helps us stay engaged and productive at the office. It adjusts to desk height by compressing slightly when sat upon and provides flexibility to bend forward and backward, keeping core muscles activated for better posture and circulation. Crafted from recyclable technopolymer in Fairfield, Iowa, this sitting stool is not only functional but also delightfully fun. It’s also relatively small compared to a typical office chair, making it fidget-friendly and space-saving. Suitable for individuals ranging from 5′ to 6’4″ tall, it’s a versatile and eco-friendly seating option. Keeping it clean is also a breeze – simply give it an easy wipe-down with a damp cloth when necessary. Free shipping is available.
Customer Review | “I love this ergonomic stool! I received it in September 2018 and have used it in the office every day since. Before I purchased this stool, I was sitting in a standard chair and noticed some tightness in my hips after a long day. Using the stool everyday, I have noticed greater flexibility in my hips and a slight challenge for my core as well. At 5’6″, it keeps me at the right height for my desk/keyboard (no weird wrist angles) and the design allows me to squirm my position during the day. I love it, and my coworkers all ask where I got it!” – Emma (Read more reviews.)
4. QOR360
Best For | Back pain
Features | Medical doctor-designed, improves posture, crafted with sustainably-sourced wood alongside steel & foam, kids options available, 60-day trial
Price | $250–$650
Founded by Dr. Turner Osler, QOR360 seeks to revolutionize sitting habits through its active seating solutions. Dr. Osler, a trauma surgeon turned epidemiologist, experienced chronic back pain from prolonged sitting, leading him to design an innovative chair that allows natural, dynamic movement without knobs or adjustments. The Ariel 2.0, an upgraded version of their award-winning chair, features a larger, softer seat, sleeker handles for improved maneuverability, and a redesigned rocker for enhanced stability and weight capacity. These chairs are also designed to encourage active sitting with QOR360’s guide to active sitting breaking down how to best sit on their chairs for the most benefit. With a focus on ergonomics, the Ariel 2.0 promotes active sitting, strengthening the core, aligning the body naturally, and combating the negative health effects associated with prolonged sitting. It also comes in two sizes, suiting various heights. It’s no wonder this chair is rated 5-stars across the board!
Customer Review | “This chair is phenomenal. I’ve had back pain for 3 years and MRI said it was from spinal stenosis and I might need surgery. I’ve had PT for 3 years and the best I got was temporary relief. I’ve done yoga and weightlifting and everything to help. My work entails sitting for 8 hours or more a day and even standing was hard to alternate with sitting and I looked crippled when I first stood up. I used this chair the last two days and amazingly the pain is gone. I walk better and straight and can stand easily using my standing desk. It is wonderful!” – Katherine (Read more reviews.)
5. Gaiam Classic Balance Ball Chair
Best For | Long-term sitting
Features | Latex-free, promotes micro-movements in the body, back support option, easy-glide locking wheels, supports up to 300 lbs, height adjustable, kids options available
Price | $98
Gaiam’s bestselling Balance Ball Chair transforms your daily sitting experience through the power of balance balls! Made with the help of chiropractic pioneer Dr. Randy Weinzoft, your body will feel relief and freedom through the flexibility that balance balls offer as you sit for extended periods of time. Designed for all-day ergonomic support, this chair promotes a stronger, healthier back by improving posture and spinal alignment, while also providing a core-strengthening workout. It even comes with an exercise guide filled with low-impact exercises and stretches you can do right on the Ball Chair! Featuring a stable yet lightweight base made from molded PVC, this seat is suitable for individuals between 5′ and 5′ 11 ” tall and weighing up to 300 lbs. It’s also easy to assemble by using just one tool and their included hardware. Gaiam’s Balance Ball Chair is not just your standard seating solution — it’s an investment in your long-term wellness.
6. Herman Miller Aeron Chair
Best For | Office use
Features | PostureFit SL pads for lumbar support, made from 50% recycled material including ocean-bound plastic, BIFMA Level 3 Certified, Indoor Advantage Gold Certified,12-year warranty
Price | $1,805
For over a century, Herman Miller’s ergonomic office solutions have been at the forefront of shaping the way we live and work. Continuing the legacy, the brand’s Aeron Chair is considered a hallmark of office seating, and we can see why! Though it looks like a typical office chair on the surface, this ergonomic seat stands out with its patented PostureFit SL back support for lumbar support and spinal stability — and comes in three sizes to accommodate a wide range of users. Its breathable suspension keeps you cool, and the chair’s harmonic tilt mechanism supports natural movement, offering a smooth and balanced recline. The Aeron chair is also made with recycled ocean-bound plastic, and complies with strict chemical emission limits for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), promoting a healthy indoor environment. Fun fact: The Aeron chair is even known in pop culture, and is seen featured in recording studios and the MoMA permanent collection.
Customer Review | “This chair is the only one to buy! I am an artist who spends extended hours working on video and still photography. It took me a while to realize that I could either spend money on chiropractors, acupuncture and massage therapy OR just buy this chair (recommended by my video thesis professor). No regrets at all. Mine has all the bells and whistles and is in the beautiful light color.” – Lori C. (Read more reviews.)
7. Autonomous ErgoStool
Best For | Free movement
Features | Height adjustable, ergonomic sloped seat, UL 2818 – 2013 Gold Standard Certified, supports up to 270 lbs, 2-year warranty
Price | $149
The Autonomous ErgoStool is a versatile seating stool designed to offer flexible movement and dynamic sitting. Its weighted base provides stability and traction on various surfaces, allowing for a wide range of motion while seated. By accommodating for free movement back and forth and side to side, the ErgoSterol makes a great fidget-friendly seating solution! By emulating frequent posture changes made while standing, this stool helps increase movement and energy levels for better focus. It also serves as the perfect accompaniment to standing desks, offering a low-impact break from standing without needing to lower the desk height. With a weight capacity of 270 lbs and a 2-year warranty, the ErgoStool is a multifunctional ergonomic solution that complements any workspace seamlessly.
Customer Review | “I enjoy this stool and alternate between using it and a chair in order to get some movement during my day. I like how I can rock in different directions and I feel like it helps me stay awake and focused. I love how easy it is to set up and how easy it is to move it up and down. It’s a great stool!” – Veronica W. (Read more reviews.)
Featured image by Pipersong
