X
CNET logo Why You Can Trust CNET

Our expert deal-hunting staff showcases the best price drops and discounts from reputable sellers daily. If you make a purchase using our links, CNET may earn a commission.

This Little-Known Hack Can Make Your Office Chair Better for Any Body Type

Not all office chairs are created equal but you can level up your office chair by following these simple steps.

James Bricknell Senior Editor
James has been writing about technology for years but has loved it since the early 90s. While his main areas of expertise are maker tools -- 3D printers, vinyl cutters, paper printers, and laser cutters -- he also loves to play board games and tabletop RPGs.
Expertise 3D printers, maker tools such as Cricut style vinyl cutters and laser cutters, traditional paper printers Credentials
  • 6 years working professionally in the 3D printing space / 4 years testing consumer electronics for large websites.
James Bricknell
2 min read
Office Owl chair wheels
Office Owl

Even the best office chairs often have an inherent flaw. Despite having sturdy construction across the seat, frame and stem, they often lack good wheels to move you around. You'll know what I mean if you've ever had a wheel snap or get so tangled in hair that they stop spinning.
There's also the matter of weight. At a little over 270 pounds, I'm a big guy. Many office chairs simply don't have the weight limit to fit my frame, but it turns out most of that reason is the cheap wheels they use. I've solved that problem on several office chairs by buying a set of new wheels of higher quality.

Thankfully, swapping out office chair wheels is extremely easy. When you first received your chair, you likely had to build it yourself, so you know that the standard wheels are push-to-fit and use rubber rings to hold them tight. With a little effort, you can pull those hold ones out and throw them in the trash where they belong. Then you can push these single-wheel rollerblade-style wheels in their place. The entire job takes maybe 10 minutes, and you'll be glad you took the time to do it. These Office Owl wheels are rated for 650 pounds, so they work for most body types, and the singular wheel glides effortlessly across almost any surface. I use them on my wife's chair and mine, and they haven't let us down yet. 

Currently, they're 40% off their normal price of $31 if you snip the coupon on Amazon.

Office Owl

These wheels give you an extra weight allowance if you need it and a better glide and movement, even if you don't. Level up your office chair while they're 40% off.