Quick Answers
The best type of foot rest for under a desk depends on your needs and preferences. Some top options to consider include:
- Ergonomic foot rests – These are designed to provide optimal foot support and improve posture. They often have adjustable height and tilt.
- Under-desk foot hammocks – These allow you to elevate your feet and rock or swing them while working. They help improve circulation.
- Ottomans – Small upholstered ottomans can double as a foot rest. They provide comfort and style.
- Foot rockers – These allow you to fidget and move your feet while you work, helping relieve stiffness.
When choosing, look for a foot rest that suits your height, can fit comfortably under your desk, and provides the type of foot support you need while working. Proper foot support can reduce fatigue and discomfort.
Why Use a Foot Rest?
Using a foot rest under your desk can provide many benefits:
Improves Posture
Having your feet fully supported helps promote better posture as you work. It allows you to keep your back straighter, avoid slouching, and reduces strain. Proper posture helps reduce aches and pains.
Increases Comfort
Resting your feet on a supportive surface increases comfort levels when sitting for extended periods. It takes pressure off your legs and feet so they don’t get tired as quickly.
Aids Circulation
Keeping your feet elevated helps promote blood flow and circulation in your legs. Moving or fidgeting feet on a rocker or hammock also boosts circulation compared to just letting feet hang.
Reduces Swelling
Sitting with feet on the floor for hours can lead to pooling of fluid and swelling around ankles and feet. Elevating them avoids this problem.
Helps Avoid Numbness & Tingling
Hanging feet can put pressure on nerves and cause numbness, tingling, and that “pins and needles” feeling. A foot rest lets you change positions and avoid this.
Lessens Fatigue
Supporting your feet takes the strain off your legs, knees, and back. This helps reduce overall feelings of tiredness and fatigue from sitting all day.
Enables Movement
Foot rocks and hammocks allow for more movement, circulation, and stretching of feet and legs while working. This helps avoid stiffness from sitting still.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Foot Rest
There are several factors to keep in mind when selecting the best under desk foot rest for your needs:
Height
Consider your height and the height of your desk chair. You want a foot rest that allows your thighs to remain parallel to the floor and your feet to rest at a 90-degree angle or a slightly declined angle.
Too high of a foot rest will cause strain. Too low and you lose the ergonomic benefits. Measure the distance from the floor to your feet when seated to find the optimal height.
Depth
The foot rest should be deep enough to support your entire foot, but not so deep that the edge pushes into the back of your calves. Around 18 inches deep is ideal for most adults.
Width
You want a foot rest wide enough to allow both feet to rest comfortably side-by-side without hanging over the edges. Standard widths are between 18-20 inches.
Surface Angle
Foot rests should allow for a slight decline of around 5-15 degrees from back to front. This keeps some flex in your ankles and promotes circulation. Flat foot rests can cause strain over time.
Surface Area
There should be adequate surface space to fully accommodate both feet without crowding. This prevents pain from pressure points.
Cushioning
Thicker cushioning and padding provides increased comfort for long periods of sitting. However, very soft surfaces allow too much sink which reduces support. Find the right balance.
Adjustability
Foot rests that allow you to adjust the height, tilt, and angle provide optimal customization for proper ergonomics and comfort.
Stability
A foot rest should have a stable, non-slip base so that it stays securely in place without rocking or sliding as you adjust your feet.
Noise Level
If opting for a rocking foot rest, consider noise levels, especially if you share office space. Make sure any rocking or squeaking doesn’t disturb co-workers.
Size
Measure the space under your desk to ensure you choose a foot rest that actually fits in the available space. Leave a few inches clearance on all sides.
Budget
Under desk foot rests range widely in price from $20 to over $100. Set a budget and choose the best option that meets your needs in that price range.
Foot Rest Options Compared
Ergonomic Foot Rests
Benefits
- Ergonomically designed for optimal foot support
- Promote back and posture alignment
- Fully support feet and ankles
- Adjustable height and tilt
- Provide stability for feet
Drawbacks
- Less opportunity for foot movement
- Cushioning may compress over time
- Limited fidgeting
- Can be pricier
Best For
- Those prioritizing ergonomics and posture
- People who sit for extremely long stretches
- Reducing lower body stiffness and fatigue
Under Desk Foot Hammocks
Benefits
- Allow feet to swing and rock
- Improve blood flow and circulation
- Enable fidgeting
- Alleviate stiffness in legs
- Can use while active or reclined
Drawbacks
- Less stable than solid foot rests
- Weight capacity may be limited
- Some noise while rocking
- Not ideal for precise foot support
Best For
- Frequent fidgeters
- Boosting circulation while at rest
- Reducing leg fatigue
Ottomans
Benefits
- Provide style and décor
- Upholstered for comfort
- Dual purpose as extra seating
- Allows some movement
Drawbacks
- Less ergonomic shape
- Not specifically designed as foot support
- Stylish options can be pricier
- Limited adjustability
Best For
- Adding a decorative accent
- People wanting a casual foot rest
- Smaller work spaces
Foot Rockers
Benefits
- Allow feet to rock and move
- Improve circulation
- Alleviate stiffness
- Provide passive exercise
Drawbacks
- Don’t offer customizable ergonomic angles
- May make some noise
- Not designed for full foot support
Best For
- Frequent fidgeters
- Those wanting foot movement
- Cramped work spaces
Key Features to Look For
When selecting an under desk foot rest, keep an eye out for these key features:
Adjustable height
– Ability to raise and lower foot rest optimizes ergonomics for individual users
Tilt adjustability
– Allows you to tilt rest to precisely fit foot and body needs
Non-slip surface
– Prevents rest from sliding around on floor while in use
Padding
– Cushions feet and improves comfort, but avoid extremely soft surfaces
Rounded edges
– Helps avoid pinched nerves and sore pressure points on feet
Lightweight
– Allows for easy movement and portability
Durable materials
– Withstands daily heavy use without wearing down or cracking
Spacious platform
– Accommodates both feet with room to spread out and change positions
Textured surface
– Adds grip and prevents feet from sliding around on the platform
Sturdy, stable base
– Keeps rest firmly planted on ground without rocking or tipping
Noise-dampening
– Minimizes squeaking and other noises for shared work spaces
Top 5 Under Desk Foot Rest Picks
Here are 5 of the top-rated, recommended options to consider:
1. Fellowes Compact Cushioned Foot Rest
- Adjustableplatform angles from 0-16 degrees
- Textured surface prevents feet from sliding
- Raised edges cradle feet
- Lightweight and portable
2. Mind Reader Adjustable Foot Rest
- Adjusts from 2″ to 9″ high
- Non-skid rubber on bottom
- Rocking motion increases circulation
- Durable and supportive
3. Everlasting Comfort Foot Rest
- Ergonomic design with adjustable tilt
- High-density foam cushioning
- Non-slip bottom and surface
- Supports up to 250 pounds
4. RelaxoBak Foot Hammock
- Suspended to allow rocking motion
- Promotes increased blood flow
- Relieves pressure and strain
- Fits under most desks
5. Desk Jockey Foot Hammock
- Ergonomic suspended foot cradle
- Adjustable height
- Relieves pressure points
- Easy to install
Conclusion
The best under desk foot rest for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Look for one that suits your height, available space, ability to fidget, and need for optimal ergonomic support. Prioritize adjustable height and tilt to customize your positioning. Quality padding and a stable base also provide essential comfort and support. With the right foot rest in place, you can stay focused and productive all day at your desk in greater comfort.