Office Chair

How to Find the Best Real Leather Office Chair: Top Picks & Tips

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Are you spending long hours at your desk–sifting through emails or handling client requests? Whatever your task, having a comfortable office chair is essential. If you’re looking for the ultimate upgrade, we’ve got you covered with our top 8 picks for the best real leather office chair

In this guide, we’ll also discuss how to choose the best chair for your needs and offer practical tips for cleaning and maintaining it. Whether you’re refreshing your home office or setting up a professional space, these tips aim to make your workspace more comfortable and productive. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

The Benefits of Getting a Genuine Leather Office Chair

modern executive office

You might be asking yourself why you should choose a real leather office chair instead of a mesh one. While mesh chairs are popular and have their advantages, leather chairs offer several benefits that make them an excellent choice:

1. Long-Lasting Durability

Genuine leather is much sturdier than synthetic options, which can crack or wear out over time. A leather chair can handle daily use without showing much wear and remain in great shape for many years, making it a smart choice for long-term use.

2. High Level of Comfort

Leather chairs offer a plush and cozy feel. The smooth surface feels soft against your skin and provides a comfortable seating experience, especially during long work sessions.

3. Easy to Clean

One of the best things about leather is its easy cleaning. If you spill something or get a stain, you can simply wipe it off with a cloth. You can keep your chair looking clean and new with minimal effort. Mesh chairs can be a bit tricky to clean, especially if spills soak into the fabric.

4. Looks Professional

A leather chair adds a touch of class to any office. Its sleek and polished look can elevate your workspace, giving it a more refined and professional atmosphere.

5. Breathable Design

Leather naturally allows air to flow, which helps keep you cool and comfortable. This breathability is particularly helpful during long hours of sitting, as it helps prevent overheating.

6. Aging Well

As leather ages, it often becomes even more comfortable. It develops a unique, rich patina that adds character and charm, making each piece one-of-a-kind and giving it a timeless appeal.

Best Real Leather Office Chair: Top 8 Picks in 2024

1. Meet&Co Office Chair Executive Leather Office Chair

best real leather office chair Meet&Co APY48

Key Specifications:

Dimensions: 680 x 620 x 1190 mm 

Colors: Brown, black

Assembly: Require assembly

Warranty: 1 year

This executive leather chair from Meet&Co Office Funiture is an excellent choice for those seeking style and comfort in their office setup. At first glance, it has a classic, high-end office look and is ideal for bigger frames. The high-quality leather has a natural appearance, feels soft, and is easy to clean, which is a nice bonus for any office.

For comfort, this big and tall office chair has a high back that cradles your entire back and a headrest that supports your head and neck. Inside, it’s filled with high-density sponges that offer a comfortable and supportive seating experience, suitable for sitting for long hours.

The armrests are fixed and crafted from full aluminum, offering durability and a sleek look. Although they aren’t adjustable, you can adjust the chair’s seat height, and it includes a recline function to help you find your perfect sitting position. With its professional appearance and thoughtful design, the Meet&Co executive leather chair is an excellent addition to any high-powered office or stylish home workspace.

2. West Elm Ryder Genuine Leather Office Desk Chair

best real leather office chair West Elm Ryder
(Image source: West Elm)

Key Specifications:

Dimensions: 26″ w x 27.5″ d x 37.5″ – 40″ h

Leather Type: Genuine top-grain leather or animal-friendly vegan leather

Colors: Brown, Slate, Banker, Navy, Snow, Fog, Licorice

Assembly: Require assembly

Warranty: n/a

Are you looking for a stylish and comfortable chair? The West Elm Ryder genuine leather swivel office chair might be just what you need. It’s excellent for home offices or professional settings, offering a soft seat and high back that keep you comfy during long workdays. Plus, you can adjust the seat height from 19″ to 21.5″ to fit you perfectly.

The chair’s wingback design adds a cool mid-century touch to your space. You can choose from 8 colors of top-grain leather. Check out the Saddle Leather options if you like leather that improves with age. Thanks to their special dye and finish, they have a rich color and smooth feel. If you need something more durable, the Sierra Leather is scratch-resistant and soft, making it perfect for busy homes.

This leather chair swivels smoothly and is built to last for home and office use. It’s also GREENGUARD Gold Certified, so it’s low in harmful chemicals, making it a more eco-friendly choice. Just a friendly reminder: if you have wooden floors, use a mat underneath to avoid scratches. Overall, the Ryder chair mixes style, comfort, and practicality, making it a great addition to any workspace.

3. Meet&Co Ergonomic Brown Leather Office Chair

best real leather office chair Meet&Co EC29

Key Specifications:

Dimensions: Standard

Leather Type: Genuine leather or PU leather

Colors: Brown

Assembly: Requires assembly

Warranty: 1 – 3 years

The Meet&Co ergonomic leather chair catches the eye with its sleek, professional design. You can choose from classic black and brown or go bold with red. The leather is high-quality—soft, comfy, and easy to clean-perfect for a bustling office.

The real gem of this chair is its dynamic lumbar support. It automatically adjusts to the curve of your lower back as you move. This means it adapts to your body’s shape and pressure with every shift, keeping you comfy and supported throughout your workday. The armrests are also well-thought-out. They’re attached to the backrest and adjust smoothly with it, so you get consistent support as you change positions. You can move them up and down, rotate them, and adjust them in several directions. The headrest is adjustable, too, both in height and angle, ensuring you find just the right level of comfort.

Sitting in this chair is comfortable. The seat has a waterfall edge that helps keep you cozy all day. There’s also a handy spot on the backrest for your jacket or bag. We’ve also listed it as one of the top picks for the best office chair for long hours. Whether in a high-powered office or a home setup, this chair offers fantastic ergonomic support and comfort for extended periods at your desk.

4. MG Executive Leather Office Chair

best real leather office chair Meet&Co executive chair

Key Specifications:

Dimensions: 800 x 800 x 1280 – 1340 mm

Leather Type: Genuine leather or PU leather

Colors: Black, beige, and more

Assembly: Requires assembly

Warranty: 1 year

This leather executive office chair is not just stylish but also super practical. Unlike many chairs that stick to basic black or brown, this one comes in various colors, from soft neutrals to lively hues, so that you can find the perfect match for your office.

The office furniture manufacturer provides options in both PU and genuine leather. Genuine leather gives you a luxurious and durable feel, while PU leather is a great budget-friendly alternative. Both options offer different levels of quality and price, so you can pick what works best for you. Plus, if you’re into a different style, there’s a mid-back version available, too.

When it comes to comfort, this contemporary leather chair doesn’t disappoint. The soft, padded seat stays supportive, even if you’re working long hours. The high back supports your back, neck, and head, which is great if you’re tall or dealing with neck pain. You can tilt the chair to three positions to find what feels best for you.

5. Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 Gaming Chair Real Leather Edition

best gaming chair Secretlab Titan Evo 2022
(Image source: Secretlab)

Key Specifications:

Dimensions: S/R/XL

Leather Type: NAPA Leather

Colors: Black and more

Assembly: Requires assembly

Warranty: 5 years

If you’re looking for a top-notch gaming chair, the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 is a fantastic choice. It’s earned rave reviews for its comfort, build quality, and customizable features, making it a favorite among gamers and office workers.

One of the standout features is the NAPA Edition’s genuine leather. This premium material feels luxurious and durable and resists wear and tear better than synthetic leather. It comes in three models: the Omega, Titan, and Titan XL, combining both high-quality and long-lasting comfort. This leather gaming chair also includes adjustable 4D armrests, which can move nearly every direction to reduce pressure on your wrists and elbows. With a recline angle of up to 165°, you can almost lie flat, making it great for relaxing or napping.

Do note that the Titan is an oversized chair with firmer padding. It’s ideal for people between 5’9 – and 6’7″ tall and supports up to 290 pounds. If you’re under 5’9″, you might want to consider the Omega edition instead. Priced under $1,000, the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 offers top-notch durability and adjustability, making it an excellent investment for long hours of gaming or work.

6. Meet&Co Big and Tall Leather Office Chair

best real leather office chair Meet&Co brown leather chair

Key Specifications:

Dimensions: 620 x 670 x 1220 – 1300 mm

Leather Type: Genuine leather or PU leather

Colors: Black, brown, and more

Assembly: Requires assembly

Warranty: 1 year

The Meet&Co brown leather office chair is a standout choice if you want to add a touch of classic style to your workspace. Its rich brown leather gives it a sophisticated, timeless look that is perfect for executive settings. This high-back leather chair is ideal for big and tall users, with a sleek appearance that doesn’t compromise comfort. The high-quality leather is durable and easier to care for, making it a practical option for everyday use.

This chair’s highlight is its comfort. Its thick cushions on the seat and back ensure you stay comfy during long working hours. The adjustable seat height and reclining feature allow you to find your ideal position, though it doesn’t offer as many adjustability options as some higher-end models. Overall, this chair offers good value for its price, blending style, comfort, and functionality.

7. Humanscale Freedom Leather Task Chair Headrest

best office chair Humanscale Freedom Leather
(Image source: Humanscale)

Key Specifications:

Dimensions: 26” D x 26.75” W x 48.2 – 53” H

Leather Type: Chrome-free leather

Colors: Saddle, Onyx, Midnight, and seven more

Assembly: Fully assembled

Warranty: 15 years

The Freedom Chair with Headrest from Humanscale is the most expensive option on our list, but it’s worth the cost for those who want top-notch office comfort. Designed by Niels Diffrient and praised by the New York Times as “the gold standard in office seating,” this chair combines style with exceptional support. The leather version, featuring polished aluminum accents, takes its sophisticated design to the next level.

One standout feature of the Freedom Chair is its innovative lumbar support. The backrest provides strong lower back support and adjusts smoothly with your movements. Unlike traditional chairs with knobs and locks, it uses a unique pivoting backrest that moves with you. You can still adjust the seat height, armrest height, and seat depth to your liking, but the chair’s ergonomic design adapts to your body for a custom fit.

The leather is another highlight. It’s made from eco-friendly, chrome-free leather and tanned using vegetable-based methods that are better for the environment. This sustainable approach, along with the chair’s comfortable cushions, makes the Freedom Chair a stylish and responsible choice. It arrives fully assembled and has a generous 15-year warranty, making it a solid long-term investment in comfort and timeless design.

However, this is a costly chair. If you have the budget and are ready to splurge, it’s a great choice. Otherwise, you might want to consider looking for a used one to save on cost.

8. Meet&Co Leather Swivel Office Chair No Wheels

best desk office chair Meet&Co swivel chair no wheels

Key Specifications:

Dimensions:

Leather Type: Genuine leather or PU leather

Colors: Black, beige, and more

Assembly: Requires assembly

Warranty: 1 year

This mid-back leather office chair is sure to catch your eye with its unique and stylish design. What makes this chair special is its one-of-a-kind backrest: one side is covered in rich, high-quality leather, while the back has a sleek white lacquered finish that adds a fresh, modern touch. With several color options available, it’s perfect for brightening up any space, whether a professional office, a home workspace, or even your bedroom.

The chair features a flat, 4-leg aluminum alloy base, which works great on carpeted floors. However, this design does mean it doesn’t move around as easily as chairs with caster wheels. Despite this, its chic look and versatile design make it a fantastic choice if you want a mix of style and function. For added convenience, this chair is also available with wheels if you prefer more mobility. Plus, if you’re a fan of high-back designs, there’s an option for that, too.

How to Choose the Best Real Leather Office Chair for Your Needs

modern executive office

You’ve seen our top picks for the best real leather office chair! Next, let’s dive into how you can choose the right one for yourself. Finding the perfect chair involves more than just picking a style you like. You’ll need to evaluate a few factors to ensure the chair suits your needs. Here’s what to look for:

1. Comfort is Essential

Comfort should be the top priority. Look for leather chairs with good cushioning and ergonomic features such as adjustable lumbar support, a well-padded seat, and a high backrest. These ergonomic features will help ensure you stay comfortable during long hours of sitting.

2. Leather Quality Matters

Leather quality can significantly affect the look and feel of your chair. Go for high-quality leather types, such as full-grain or top-grain, which offer better durability and a more luxurious feel. We’ll explore the different types and qualities of leather in more detail in the next section, so stay tuned as we go into more detail on what makes leather truly unique.

3. Adjustability Features

A good office chair should be highly adjustable. Look for features like height adjustment, adjustable armrests, and tilt control. These features let you adjust the chair to suit your body and work style, enhancing your comfort and productivity.

4. Frame and Base Stability

The chair’s frame and base are crucial for stability and longevity. Look for a chair with a robust, durable frame and stable base. A well-built chair will provide better support and resist wear over time.

5. Swivel and Mobility

Test the chair’s ability to swivel smoothly and roll easily on its casters. Good mobility allows you to move around your workspace effortlessly, which is essential for a dynamic work environment.

6. Warranty and Support

Consider the warranty offered with the chair. A comprehensive warranty can be a good indicator of the chair’s quality and provide peace of mind, covering any potential issues.

7. Style and Design

Finally, choose a chair that complements your office décor and reflects your style. Genuine leather adds an elegant touch to any workspace, so pick a design that fits well with your overall office aesthetic.

Genuine Leather vs. Faux Leather Chair: Which is Better?

While our main focus is on real leather office chairs, it’s helpful to understand how they stack up against faux leather options. Now, let’s see the pros and cons of each type. We’ll compare them side-by-side to highlight their key differences, helping you make an informed decision and see why a real leather chair could be worth the investment.

FeaturesGenuine LeatherFaux Leather
MaterialMade from the tanned hide of animals (usually cows)Made from synthetic materials, often polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Quality & DurabilityHighly durable, develops a unique patina over timeGenerally less durable, may wear out faster
ComfortBreathable and molds to your body, offering great comfortLess breathable, may not conform as well to your body
PriceHigher cost due to premium material and craftsmanshipMore affordable and budget-friendly
MaintenanceRequires regular conditioning to maintain appearanceEasier to clean and maintain, resists stains and spills
AppearanceLuxurious and natural look, unique grain patternsUniform look; often mimics real leather

Which is Right for You? Choosing between genuine leather and faux leather largely depends on your priorities. If you value long-term durability and a high-end look, genuine leather might be worth the investment. On the other hand, if affordability and easy maintenance are more important to you, faux leather could be the better option.

At the end of the day, both types of leather can make a stylish and functional office chair, so consider your personal needs and preferences when making your decision.

How to Care and Maintain Your Real Leather Office Chair

modern leather home office chair

Regular cleaning and servicing are vital to keep your real leather office chair looking its best and lasting for years. Here are some simple tips  to help you keep your chair in top condition:

  1. Regular Dusting: Dust your chair regularly with a soft, dry cloth to keep dirt and debris from building up. This step helps maintain the leather’s appearance and prevent scratches.
  2. Clean Up Spills Promptly: If you spill something on your chair, gently blot the area with a clean, dry cloth immediately. Avoid rubbing, as this will spread the spill. For stubborn stains, use a leather cleaner that’s appropriate for your chair’s type of leather.
  3. Condition the Leather: Real leather can dry out over time, so apply a leather conditioner every 3-6 months. This step keeps the leather supple and prevents cracking. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results.
  4. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep your chair out of direct sunlight to stop the leather from fading or drying out. Sunlight can strip the leather of its natural oils and make it brittle.
  5. Examine for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your chair for signs of wear, such as scratches or cracks. Addressing minor issues can prevent more significant damage down the road.

How to Upgrade the Leather Office Chair You Already Have

modern home office

If you already own a leather office chair and want to give it a fresh look or enhance its functionality, there are several ways to upgrade and maintain it. Here are some practical tips to help you breathe new life into your current chair:

  1. Reupholster the Chair: If your chair’s leather is worn or damaged, consider reupholstering it. Professional services can replace or repair the leather, giving your chair a brand-new appearance and extending its life.
  2. Add a New Cushion: You can add a high-quality seat cushion or lumbar support to make your chair more ergonomic and enjoyable to use, especially during long working hours.
  3. Apply Leather Conditioner: Even if your chair looks fine, applying a leather conditioner can revitalize its appearance. It helps restore moisture, soften the leather, and enhance its natural shine.
  4. Upgrade the Casters: If the chair’s casters are worn out or noisy, replacing them with new ones can improve mobility and smoothness. Choose casters suitable for your flooring type to avoid damage.
  5. Refresh the Armrests: If the armrests are scratched or faded, consider using armrest covers or padding to improve their comfort and appearance.
  6. Clean and Polish: Give your chair a thorough clean and polish to remove dirt and restore its luster. Use appropriate leather cleaners and polishes to ensure you don’t damage the material.

FAQs

1. Can I use standard cleaning products on the leather chair?

It’s best to use cleaning products made specifically for leather. Regular household cleaners can damage the leather or strip away its natural oils. Look for a gentle leather cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Can I use a leather chair in a high-traffic area?

Yes, you can use a well-maintained leather office chair in high-traffic areas. Full-grain or top-grain leather is especially durable and can handle frequent use if properly cared for.

3. What should I do if my leather chair gets scratched or torn?

You can often buff minor scratches out with a leather repair kit. Consider consulting a professional upholsterer to repair or reupholster the chair for larger tears or significant damage.

4. Is real leather more durable than synthetic leather?

Yes, real leather is usually more durable than synthetic leather. It tends to last longer and age better, developing a unique patina over time. However, its longevity can also depend on the quality of the leather and how well it is maintained.

5. How can I make my leather chair more comfortable?

To make your leather chair more comfortable, add a lumbar pillow to help support your lower back. Use a seat cushion for extra padding, and ensure the leather is clean and conditioned regularly. A soft throw blanket can also add extra comfort.

6. How long can genuine leather chairs last?

Genuine leather chairs can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years or more with good care. Their lifespan depends on leather quality, maintenance, and usage. Regular cleaning and conditioning help extend their life.

7. Why is my leather chair sticky?

A leather chair might feel sticky due to residue from spills, sweat, or improperly applied cleaners. Cleaning it with a leather-friendly cleaner and conditioner should help.

8. Are leather chairs slippery?

Leather chairs can be slippery, especially if the leather is smooth and polished. Adding a non-slip chair pad or a textured seat cover can help improve grip.

Why Trust Us & How We Can Help

Meet&Co office furniture showroom

With over 15 years of experience in furniture manufacturing and design, we have the know-how to help you find the perfect furniture for your space. At Meet&Co Office Furniture, we provide a wide range of furniture, from modern desks and chairs to storage solutions and sofas, all crafted to meet the needs of businesses and schools worldwide.

But we don’t stop at just providing furniture. We also offer expert office design services. We understand that modern workplaces are constantly changing, so we focus on creating solutions that fit your specific needs and promote productivity and well-being.

Our guides and reviews aim to provide helpful insights and tips for improving your workspace. Whether you’re looking for the right chair or planning a whole office makeover, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Real leather office chairs can bring a unique and sophisticated look to your workspace, blending style with functionality. We hope this guide has helped you understand the key factors to consider when selecting the best real leather office chair. A well-chosen chair enhances your office’s appearance and supports your comfort and productivity. By considering the tips and information, you can select a chair that perfectly suits your aesthetic preferences and ergonomic needs.

Ready to upgrade your workspace? Explore our recommended real leather office chairs and find the perfect match for your style and needs today!

Sources

  1. “Leather.” Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leather