Whether you’re on the hunt for a stool to complement your kitchen space or a pumping commercial bar, one of the top considerations is whether to choose a backless stool or one with back support. At Chairforce, the choices are endless with both styles of chair available in our plentiful warehouses. However, we’ve created a list of pros, cons and considerations for both styles so you can make the right choice for your home or business.
Why do some bar stools not have backs?
There are many reasons some bar stool don’t have backs, but they tend to come down to space, aesthetics and versatility. If you have limited space for your stools, the backless variety should be a consideration.
Pros for backless bar stools
- In smaller spaces, backless bar stools create a better aesthetic as they can neatly tuck under breakfast bars or benches. The back of a stool can often be viewed from beyond the bench and create a more cluttered visual detail, whereas backless stools can make the space look bigger.
- Logistically, if you have a large bench space, it’s a lot easier to clean over backless stools.
- For dynamic spaces where people are coming and going frequently, backless stools are easier to manoeuvre and look better when left askew.
- Stools without backs also provide zero restriction, allowing guests to sit either way or easily spin to face towards or away from the bench.
Pros for bar stools with a back
- A huge advantage of bar stools with a back is comfort level. Back support makes the sitting experience much more comfortable and, in a space where you, family members or guests linger, this is a huge plus.
- In a commercial scene, bar stools can also be slightly precarious, especially when one has a couple of margaritas under their belt, so back support can reduce the risk of falling off. This is also applicable if you have children sitting at the bench.
The Verdict: Are stools with backs better?
Both have their advantages as we explained above, however, the backless stools are more common and popular as the kitchen bench or bar tends to be a more transient space where people don’t spend as much time. However, if you have children sitting at the bench doing hours of homework or it doubles as your home office – back support is likely to be a must.
Bar stool options at Chairforce
We don’t want to be smug, but at Chairforce we have stools to suit every style of venue or home and multiple options with or without backs. From vintage chic like our Erik Vintage School Bar Stool with back support or the Lola Industrial Vintage Bar Stool without, to a more modern aesthetic such as the Emilio Bar Stool with a back rest or one of our bestsellers, the Replica Yvonne Potter Y Bar Stool without back.
For the classic look, we also love our Hans Wegner Replica with Rope Seat with its natural timber frame.
One of our most popular café or bar stools is the Breeze Bar Stool, with its combination of striking design, comfort and longevity.
For more information on choosing the right stools for your space, check out our blog on how to choose the ideal bar stool or visit us in-store to speak with one of our uber helpful team members and see the full range.
