TechRadar Verdict
The Vari CoreChair stands out among ergonomic options. It offers a unique experience, combining core stabilization, tailbone relief, and traditional chair functions. This model excels as a task chair for focused work, though it is a niche product and less suited for prolonged, passive sitting.
Pros
- Easy assembly
- Small footprint
- Patented core engagement mechanism
- Excellent tailbone support
- Great base design
Cons
- Lumbar support is very minimal
- Limited height adjustment
- Niche userbase – not for passive sitting
The Vari CoreChair offers a surprising experience. Initially, it might seem like a temporary novelty, but its potential for active sitting is evident.
For some users, particularly those with specific physical requirements like knee issues or a taller stature, the chair’s current design might present minor limitations. However, these aspects could potentially be addressed with simple adjustments.
The CoreChair’s primary feature is the unstable connection between its seat and post. This design encourages core engagement during sitting, which can be beneficial for individuals who naturally move, fidget, or frequently stand and pace.
This chair is not intended as the best office chair for the general population, being a niche product. However, for active individuals, its core concept aligns well with a desire for dynamic seating. Height adjustability could be improved for some users.
Vari CoreChair: Price and availability
The CoreChair is available for $499 on the official Vari website. This price includes free standard shipping within the contiguous US and a 3-year warranty, covering complete product replacement under Vari’s policy.
Currently, the chair is only offered in black, though the limited color selection is unlikely to be a significant deterrent for potential buyers.
Vari CoreChair: Unboxing and First Impressions
Assembly of this chair is remarkably straightforward, taking approximately 3 minutes with just two screws, making it one of the easiest to set up.
Initially, the chair’s design appeared unusual, featuring a pronounced tailbone cushion and a low backrest, typical of a task chair intended for focused work rather than prolonged support.
Despite initial impressions, the cushion’s comfort and the overall premium feel, considering its simple construction, are notable.
One observation was that the chair’s height might be more suitable if it were at stool height, a point to be discussed further.
Vari CoreChair: Design & Build Quality
After extended use, the cushion remains one of the most comfortable aspects of the seat. It offers a firm yet supportive feel and is breathable even in warm conditions. The wider spokes on the legs provide a convenient footrest.
The backrest design is somewhat perplexing; its presence feels unnecessary, suggesting it could either be larger or omitted entirely. This observation is made with a positive outlook, as the chair’s inherent strength implies that a redesign as a stool might be more effective than its current chair configuration.
As a stool, it could allow for greater leg extension, more effective use of the footrests on the spokes, and enhanced balance. The chair shows significant promise, with minor adjustments potentially elevating its overall utility.
Vari CoreChair: In use
During testing in a dedicated workspace over several days a week, including sessions up to 8 hours, the chair demonstrated its ability to promote a focused, engaged core rather than providing a strenuous workout.
For active and hyper-mobile individuals who often tap their feet or fidget, this chair can help maintain engagement without the need for such movements. Its use has been observed to facilitate deep focus, making extended work periods feel shorter.
After several weeks of use, some potential improvements were identified. The lumbar support, while understandable in its inclusion, may not be essential. Additionally, for taller individuals, an increased height, closer to that of a stool, could enhance comfort and extend usability. Currently, prolonged sessions can lead to knee discomfort for some, despite the beneficial core activation.
In its current configuration, the chair is optimally suited for two- to four-hour work sessions requiring intense focus, such as writing, drafting proposals, or managing emails. It can facilitate deep concentration, enabling users to perform their best work during these periods.
Conversely, individuals with lower back pain or similar ailments should avoid this chair. It does not offer the passive support found in most ergonomic chairs; instead, it promotes self-support through inherent instability. For severe lower back pain, the Steelcase Leap is often considered a superior option.
Vari CoreChair: Final verdict
The Vari CoreChair presents a compelling option for specific users, while others may find it unsuitable. It serves as a niche product with the potential to significantly boost productivity.
As previously mentioned, minor adjustments could further enhance this chair. However, it remains a valuable tool for periods requiring intense focus. It integrates well into a varied work routine that includes sitting, standing at a desk, and using the CoreChair, although such a diverse setup may not be accessible to all.
Simply put, individuals experiencing lower back or knee pain will likely find this chair unsuitable. Similarly, those who prefer passive sitting, where the chair provides all the support, will not find the CoreChair meets their needs, as it promotes active engagement.
However, for individuals who fidget, are constantly moving, or possess a hyperactive disposition, this chair could potentially unlock unprecedented levels of productivity.
