Office Footrest: When it makes sense and what to look out for
by Wiepa GmbH on Jul 01, 2026Ergonomics Guide
Footrest in the Office: When it Makes Sense and What to Look For
A footrest in the office is useful if your feet are not resting stably on the floor when sitting, or if the desk cannot be adjusted to suit your body height.
An ergonomic workstation consists of several components: office chair, desk height, monitor position, and foot position. The feet are often overlooked. Yet, a secure stance contributes to maintaining a relaxed sitting posture throughout the day.
Short Answer
A footrest is particularly beneficial for shorter individuals, for workstations with overly high desk surfaces, for hot-desking environments, and for situations where the chair needs to be set higher to allow arms and shoulders to work in a relaxed position.
Why a footrest can help in the office
When sitting, both feet should be securely planted. If the seat height is raised to match the forearms comfortably to the desk height, some people lose contact with the floor. A footrest can compensate for this distance and stabilize the sitting position.
- secure stance for both feet
- better support for high desks
- practical for shorter individuals
- useful for hot-desking workstations
- more movement possible with tilting models
- good addition to office chair, desk, and monitor arm
When is a footrest useful?
| Situation | Typical Problem | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Feet don't fully reach the floor | unstable sitting posture | Footrest is useful |
| Desk is too high | Chair must be set higher | Footrest can compensate |
| Multiple people use the same space | different body heights | choose a height-adjustable footrest |
| Workstation is easily adjustable | Feet are securely on the floor | Footrest not strictly necessary |
What to look for in a footrest?
For daily office use, a footrest should be stable, non-slip, and adequately sized. Models that can be adjusted in height or tilt are particularly practical. This allows the foot position to be better adapted to body size, chair, and desk height.
- non-slip surface
- stable construction
- sufficiently large support surface
- adjustable height or tilt
- easy to clean
- compatible with the existing office chair
Combining footrest, office chair, and desk correctly
A footrest does not replace a suitable office chair. First, seat height, backrest, armrests, desk height, and monitor position should be checked. If the feet still don't have good support afterward, a footrest is a useful addition.
Related: Ergonomic workstation according to DGUV
Suitable Products in the Wiepa Shop
Check your workstation: a simple checklist
- Adjust the chair so that forearms fit comfortably with desk height.
- Check if both feet are fully and securely on the floor.
- If feet are dangling or only toes touch, try a footrest.
- Adjust backrest and armrests appropriately.
- Check monitor height and distance.
- Regularly change sitting posture and plan short movement breaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do you need a footrest in the office?
When your feet are not securely on the floor while sitting, or when the chair needs to be raised due to desk height.
Is a footrest ergonomically beneficial?
Yes, if it helps to stable your feet and adapt the workstation better to your body height.
Which footrest is suitable for the office?
For the office, stable, non-slip, and adjustable models are particularly practical. Important features include appropriate height and a sufficiently large support surface.
Does a footrest replace a height-adjustable desk?
No. A height-adjustable desk offers more adjustment possibilities. However, a footrest can help if the existing workstation cannot be optimally adjusted.
Sources and Guidance
This article serves as practical guidance for office ergonomics and office furnishing. Body size, seat height, desk height, foot position, duration of work, and existing workstation equipment are crucial factors.
Related pages: Office Furnishings, Office Furniture, Office Supplies and Ergonomics in the Shop
Equipping workstations ergonomically
Wiepa supports companies in Wiesbaden and Rhein Main with footrests, office chairs, desks, monitor arms, and suitable office furniture.
