photo-1462826303086-329426d1aef5

After using my kitchen chair as my primary desk chair for years, I decided it was time to invest in an “executive chair” (you know, those nice, roll-ey office chairs). I got in the car and took a trip to Staples, and I quickly noticed how there were 2 different kinds of chairs. Mesh and leather. Now after sitting in a few of each, I determined that I preferred the faux leather over mesh. My dad, who was also getting a chair, preferred mesh. This lead me to the question: what is the difference between these 2 styles? Is one “better” than the other? I’m here to break it down.

Price

Believe it or not, starter mesh chairs are actually more pricey than faux leather chairs. While mesh chairs start at around $99, I was able to find some leather chairs for $69.

Comfort

The Dormeo Espo Octaspring chair (grey)
The Dormeo Espo Octaspring chair (grey)

Comfort is a big deciding factor in which kind of chair you purchase. In this category, in my personal opinion, it goes to leather. Mesh is more “perfect” and makes your body form to it, while leather will wrap around your body and allow you to “sink” in with the chair. I don’t like to feel forced to sit in the chair a certain way, so I went with the Dormeo Espo Octaspring chair. To my surprise, this is not a very popular chair. I’m not sure why, as I’ve been using it for days now and I’m in love. Perhaps the lack of popularity is due to it being designed for taller people. If you’re small, this isn’t the chair for you.

 

s0562369_sc7
The Staples Hyken Technical Mesh Chair

Back Support

For this, mesh wins hands down. It’s got a more refined design that really puts a (positive) lump in your back. The Staples Hyken Technical Mesh chair is a good example of this. It’s got absolutely wonderful back support, but it’s just not as cozy or comfortable in my experience.

Durability

For this one, it could go either way. While mesh will stretch and lose it’s form over time (and can be broken more easily), leather can also crack and start to peel. Both chairs have downsides in durability, but I’d say it’s about even.

Longevity

This is another one like durability – it really depends on the price. As mentioned earlier, mesh will bend and lose it’s shape, but leather (especially faux leather) will crack and peel over time. It’s really unknown on which will last longer, only time will tell.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the type of chair that’s right for you all depends on your personal preference. If you’re looking for the best back support, go with mesh. If you’re looking for a mix of back support and comfort, find a nice leather chair that suits you. And in the end, it also comes down to comfort. If you find mesh more comfortable than leather, go for it! Get what works for you and your body.

Kevin Nether