The Best Shop Stools
Whether you're a professional craftsman or a casual tinkerer, shop stools likely have a proper place in your workspace. These convenient and highly portable chairs have been a staple seating arrangement everywhere from bars to art studios, and some of them might surprise you with their high comfort level. But what exactly separates the good shop stools from the bad ones? That's what we decided to find out. Pull up a seat and read on.
What to Look For
There were a few questions we kept in mind during our hunt for the best shop stools: Is it comfortable to sit in? Does it have an easy assembly? Is it sturdy enough to last for a long time and accommodated a lot of weight? We found a few shop stools that excited us to pull up a seat each time. Gearwrench ended up making our favorite stool, thanks to its comfortable padding and robust construction. We also adored the convenience, comfort, and value that OEF’s seats provided. Keep reading to see why these and other shop stools earned a place in our shops.
Gearwrench Adjustable Height Swivel Shop Stool
A throne fit for a king
Shop stools don’t get much better than this premier pick from GearWrench. The powder-coated metal frame is incredibly durable and allows for smooth swiveling and height adjustments. It’s also air shock adjustable and can accommodate up to 225 pounds, making it appropriate seating for a variety of body types. Add a padded, solvent-proof seat to the mix, and you have a clear winner among the shop stools we looked at.
Pros
- It can be assembled in a matter of minutes, and the base even arrives prebuilt.
- The metal build is lightweight enough to move around with ease.
Cons
- It can start to wobble fairly easily on uneven floors.
Dewalt Padded Shop and Garage Stool
Put your foot down
While one of our stranger-looking shop stools, this option from Dewalt also happens to be one of the best. The nylon footpads keep the stool steady no matter what surface it’s placed on. Plus, the stability is boosted even further by robust steel construction, which can accommodate up to 300 pounds. The gridded storage shelf beneath the seat is also a convenient feature. This is among the best shop stools for those who need their tools right at hand.
Pros
- Since the bolts of the base arrive already in their respective holes, you can use a drill or wrench to screw them in according to preference.
- The seat is wide and fits stably even while swiveling.
Cons
- The padding feels thin, so you may have to get up and stretch if you’re working for long periods.
Two-Pack OEF Furnishings Black Shop Stool
Double your seating
Whether your workspace has multiple members or you simply want a backup, these two shop stools make for an excellent value. The 18-gauge steel construction is extremely durable while still allowing these stools to be lightweight enough to easily carry. And since it arrives fully assembled, you can start utilizing and appreciating the quality construction of these shop stools right away. They make a great no-fuss choice for anyone looking to buy a sturdy seating arrangement in bulk.
Pros
- Its durable build allows even those in the 300-pound range to have a stable seat.
- They’re designed to be stacked with ease, making them great space-savers.
Cons
- There isn’t any padding, which can lead to discomfort after sitting for long stretches of time.
Sunex Tools 8515 Hydraulic Shop Stool
Support the spine, all the time
If you love shop stools but hate their lack of back support, this Sunex Tools selection might be for you. Slip-resistant feet and soft, sturdy padding on both the back and seat ensure that this chair is as sturdy as it is comfortable. Its chrome finish, besides giving it a sleek look, also has the advantage of preventing corrosion over the long haul. People who are tired of uncomfortable shop stools will find a great solution in this chair.
Pros
- The backrest makes it one of the ideal shop stools for the elderly, or those with back issues.
- Assembly is simple and can be completed in less than 30 minutes.
Cons
- It can be a tight fit for those who are on the heavier side.
Torin TR6300 Red Rolling Creeper Shop Stool
Smooth moving
This isn’t one of the more conventional-looking shop stools, but sometimes great things don’t look ordinary. This “creeper seat” allows you to roll across your studio or workspace at your leisure, taking any tools you may need with you in its handy storage compartment. Thick tubular steel construction means many different sizes of people can use this stool without issue as well. Very few shop stools can claim to be as innovatively designed as this one.
Pros
- The tray and casters come preassembled, and the rest can be put together in as little as 15 minutes.
- Its wheels allow people who may have trouble lifting shop stools to roll this one in and out of its proper place with ease.
- It’s very affordable compared to many other shop stools.
Cons
- Since the tray is plastic, it can sometimes get cracked during shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I get shop stools over regular chairs?
Shop stools tend to be more compact than traditional seating options, so they’re generally easier to move and store. Some bars and art spaces have even started using them as a chic aesthetic alternative to regular chairs.
What should I do if I find shop stools uncomfortable?
Many shop stools have options for adjusting their height and stability, which can have a significant impact on their ergonomics. Most if not all shop stools will also have room on the seat for a cushion or bundle of blankets as well.
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