Choosing a saddle stool: why saddle sitting is healthy and which model fits

Dentists, dermatologists, sonographers and lab technicians sit on saddle stools en masse, and that is not a fashion. The saddle position solves a fundamental problem of regular sitting. In this article you read why a saddle stool sits healthier, and how to choose the model that fits your work.

Why is saddle sitting healthy?

On a regular chair the hips sit at an angle of about 90 degrees. The pelvis tilts backwards and the lower back rounds out. On a saddle stool you sit higher, with the legs sloping down. The hip angle opens, the pelvis tilts forward and the back naturally keeps its S-curve. You sit upright without thinking about it, and because you sit actively, back and core muscles keep working lightly.

Closer to the work

There is another practical advantage: on a saddle stool you sit higher and can roll closer to the working field. For practitioners working over a patient or specimen, that saves bent neck and shoulder posture. The legroom under the saddle makes turning and moving effortless.

Narrow or wide saddle: Amazone or Jumper

The most important choice is the saddle width. The Score Amazone has a narrow 34 cm saddle for a close leg position, comfortable for those who sit close to the work and move a lot. The Score Jumper has a wide 44 cm saddle for a wider, stable stance and a larger seating surface. In doubt, saddle width is mainly a matter of build and preference: try both.

Height and mechanism

Both models come in three gas spring heights (low, standard and high), matching your working height. Also choose the mechanism: a fixed seat angle, an adjustable seat angle to tilt the saddle, or the Balance mechanism where the seat is mobile and you sit actively in balance. An optional lumbar support gives extra support in the lower back.

Special versions

For dentistry there are dental versions with a white Alba base, and the Score Apical with a unique pelvic support that keeps the pelvis in the right position. The Score Polo combines the saddle with a Flexbase: a 360-degree tilting base without castors, for active sitting in one place. All saddle stools are available in waterproof Stamskin (16 colours) or seamless PUxx, both suitable for disinfection.

Getting used to a saddle stool

Saddle sitting uses muscles that do little on a regular chair. Build up use gradually: start with part of the day and extend as the body adapts. Most users never want to go back afterwards. See the range of saddle stools and work chairs or request advice via our contact page.

Frequently asked questions