6 Best Ergonomic Footrests for Remote Workers (2026)

Everyone obsesses over finding the perfect $500 ergonomic chair. They'll spend hours comparing Herman Miller vs Steelcase, reading reviews, watching YouTube breakdowns. And then they sit down, tuck their feet under the chair, and wonder why their back still hurts.

Here's the thing: research shows a $40 footrest might do more for your posture than an expensive chair upgrade. A 2021 study published in ScienceDirect found that using a footrest increased workers' use of their chair's backrest and reduced biomechanical loads on the spine. Chiropractors consistently recommend footrests as an overlooked ergonomic fix.

We analyzed 100+ user reviews, Reddit discussions, chiropractor recommendations, and scientific studies to find the footrests that actually deliver on their promises.

How We Researched This

• 100+ verified user reviews from Amazon and product sites
• 6+ Reddit threads from r/homeoffice and r/ergonomics
• Expert testing from BTOD.com (10 footrests tested over 6 months)
• Chiropractor recommendations from Dr. Karen Erickson and Dr. Alex Tauberg
• Consumer Reports evaluation by certified professional ergonomists
• Scientific research from ScienceDirect and Journal of Physical Therapy Science

We did not receive free products or payment for this review.

Quick Comparison: The 6 Best Footrests

Footrest	Best For	Price	Rating
Humanscale FM300	Best Overall	~$150	4.4/5
Everlasting Comfort	Best Budget	~$40	4.5/5
StrongTek Wood	Standing Desk Users	~$40	4.6/5
ErgoFoam Adjustable	Chiropractor Endorsed	~$39	4.5/5
VIVO Adjustable	Height Adjustable	~$50	4.3/5
IKEA OVNING	Best Under $30	~$25	4.2/5

Why Footrests Actually Matter

One r/ergonomics user shared a story that comes up constantly in these discussions: they'd spent $800 on a Herman Miller Aeron, expecting their back pain to disappear. Six months later? Still hurting. Their physical therapist asked one question: "Where are your feet when you sit?" Turns out they were dangling three inches off the ground. A $40 footrest later, the pain started fading. "I felt stupid for not trying this sooner," they wrote.

This isn't an isolated case. Dr. Karen Erickson, DC, FACC, explains why: "Having your feet anchored on the floor or a footstool allows the weight to be appropriately distributed through the hips, pelvis, and spine." When your feet dangle, your body compensates in ways that strain your lower back.

The research backs this up. A Journal of Physical Therapy Science study found footrest users at a 10-degree angle reported significantly less fatigue and lower back pain. ScienceDirect research showed they also used their chair's backrest more, reducing spinal load. The Mayo Clinic specifically recommends footrests when desk height can't be adjusted.

Here's the bottom line: if you're under 5'6", a footrest isn't optional. And even taller users can benefit from the movement that rocking footrests encourage.

"Sitting in any one position for a long period of time can wear on the body. Adding a foot rest can provide support, comfort, and reduce pressure on lower limbs." — Dr. Alex Tauberg, DC, CSCS, Chiropractor

1. Humanscale FM300: Best Overall (If Budget Allows)

Price: ~$150

Premium wooden footrest with ball-bearing rollers, height adjustment, and foot massage feature.

WorkWhileWalking calls the Humanscale FM300 "the best footrest on the market, bar none." That's a strong claim, but reviewers consistently back it up. The FM300 features ball-bearing rollers for smooth rocking motion, 3-inch height adjustment (3.75" to 6.75"), and a solid hardwood platform that looks premium.

What sets it apart is the "active sitting" design. The rocking motion encourages micro-movements throughout the day, which research links to better circulation and reduced fatigue. Reddit users in r/ergonomics frequently recommend it as "the one to get if you can afford it."

"This is my favorite footrest out of the many I have purchased (over 8 different models). Rocking footrests make a huge difference." — Long-time desk worker, WorkWhileWalking review

The 15-year warranty suggests Humanscale stands behind the quality. The downside? At ~$150, it costs 3-4x more than budget options. Some reviewers note the height adjustment mechanism can feel finicky.

What Users Love:

• Smooth ball-bearing rocking motion
• Height adjustable (3.75" to 6.75")
• Premium wood and phenolic construction
• 15-year warranty
• Optional foot massage rollers

Common Complaints:

• Expensive (~$150)
• Height adjustment can be fiddly
• Heavy/not portable

Check Price on Amazon

2. Everlasting Comfort: Best Budget Option

Price: ~$40

Teardrop-shaped memory foam footrest with rocking capability. The Amazon bestseller.

BTOD.com tested 10 footrests over 6 months, and the Everlasting Comfort became their "go-to choice for home office setup." At under $40, it's one of the most affordable options that actually delivers on comfort.

The teardrop shape allows rocking back and forth or locking in place. Users report it "definitely helps you stay comfortable while sitting for 8 hours or longer." The memory foam keeps feet warmer than metal or plastic alternatives.

Honestly, the memory foam does have a learning curve. Some reviewers note their feet "sink" after extended use, requiring repositioning. If you prefer a firmer surface, the StrongTek wood option might suit you better.

"It's become my go-to choice for my home office setup. Best used with bare feet or socks, and the cover is removable for washing." — BTOD.com, after 6 months of testing

What Users Love:

• Affordable (~$40)
• Soft memory foam comfort
• Removable, washable cover
• Rocking or stationary modes

Common Complaints:

• Foam "sinks" over time
• Some prefer firmer support
• Width could be larger

Check Price on Amazon

Quick tip from r/homeoffice: If you're under 5'6", users consistently recommend starting with a budget footrest to see if it helps before investing in premium options. The Everlasting Comfort footrest is the most-recommended starting point.

3. StrongTek Wood Rocker: Best for Standing Desk Users

Price: ~$40

Solid wood rocking footrest designed by a NASA scientist. 350 lb capacity, no assembly required.

The StrongTek has over 2,700 positive reviews on Amazon with a 4.6-star rating. Users highlight the solid hardwood construction (Lauan plywood with 350 lb capacity) and the fact that it arrives fully assembled.

A PubMed study found that standing desk users benefit from footrests at 10-30 cm heights. The StrongTek's rocking design works for both sitting and standing positions, making it versatile for hybrid setups. The textured surface provides grip with or without shoes.

"The StrongTek original rocker footrest does exactly what it's designed to do: promote active sitting and increase comfort during extended periods." — BTOD.com, after 30 days of testing

The wood construction means it won't compress like foam options. For some, that's a feature. For others who prefer cushioning, it might feel too firm.

What Users Love:

• Solid wood, 350 lb capacity
• Works sitting or standing
• No assembly required
• Non-slip rubber feet
• NASA-designed ergonomics

Common Complaints:

• No cushioning (firm surface)
• Not height adjustable
• Wood can be cold on bare feet

Check Price on Amazon

4. ErgoFoam Adjustable: Chiropractor Endorsed

Price: ~$39

High-density memory foam with 2-in-1 adjustable height. The only footrest brand endorsed by US chiropractors.

The New York Times named ErgoFoam as a top pick, noting that "the ErgoFoam Foot Rest offers both firm support and all-day comfort. Unlike plastic footrests, which tend to be clunky and feel cheap, the ErgoFoam has a foam construction that just feels good to use."

ErgoFoam is marketed as the only footrest brand endorsed by US-based chiropractors. The 2-in-1 design adjusts to different heights to match your chair and leg length. Users report it "has held its shape perfectly" after months of use.

The lifetime warranty is notable. ErgoFoam promises to replace any defective unit with just a photo, no questions asked.

"It felt like a world of difference resting my feet on it compared to having my feet on the floor. I haven't had any issues with leg pain since I started using it." — Amazon verified reviewer

What Users Love:

• Chiropractor endorsed
• NYT recommended
• 2-in-1 height adjustment
• Lifetime warranty
• Holds shape well

Common Complaints:

• Similar to Everlasting Comfort
• Cover can be tricky to remove

Check Price on Amazon

5. VIVO Adjustable: Best Height Adjustable

Price: ~$50

Steel-frame footrest with 5-10" height adjustment. 55 lb platform capacity with anti-slip surface.

For users who need precise height control, the VIVO stands out. The platform adjusts from 5" to 10.25", making it suitable for both shorter and taller users. Consumer Reports notes that proper footrest height should be about 10% of your total height.

The steel frame construction provides durability that foam options can't match. The textured platform prevents slipping. Reddit users recommend it for those who "need an elevated but good quality footrest."

The jury's still out on long-term durability. Some Amazon reviews mention the rubber feet can wear down on carpet. At ~$50, it's mid-range pricing for premium adjustability.

What Users Love:

• Wide height range (5"-10.25")
• Sturdy steel frame
• Anti-slip platform
• Works for tall and short users

Common Complaints:

• Rubber feet can wear on carpet
• No cushioning
• Some assembly required

Check Price on Amazon

6. IKEA OVNING: Best Under $30

Price: ~$25

Dense foam footrest with machine-washable cover. Lightweight and multipurpose design.

The IKEA OVNING proves you don't need to spend much for ergonomic improvement. At ~$25, it's the most affordable option that still delivers quality construction.

Users appreciate the machine-washable cover (a feature missing from many competitors) and the dense foam that provides firm support. One reviewer at 5'2" called it "perfect for a short person."

The foam is firmer than expected. One reviewer noted "I wasn't expecting the foam to be rock hard." If you prefer soft cushioning, look elsewhere. But for firm support at a budget price, the OVNING delivers.

What Users Love:

• Very affordable (~$25)
• Machine-washable cover
• Lightweight and portable
• Multipurpose (wrist rest, lumbar support)

Common Complaints:

• Foam is very firm
• Cover difficult to remove/replace
• No height adjustment

Check Price on Amazon

The r/homeoffice Consensus

Reddit users consistently make one point: footrests benefit shorter users the most (under 5'6"), but taller users can benefit from rocking footrests that promote movement. The community generally recommends starting with a $30-40 option before investing in premium models.

Who Should Skip the Footrest

It's not that simple to say everyone needs a footrest. Based on ergonomic guidelines and community feedback, you might not need one if:

• You're average height or taller (5'6"+) and your feet rest flat on the floor with proper chair adjustment
• You have an adjustable-height desk that's already set to correct ergonomic position
• You prefer crossing your legs while sitting (a footrest won't change this habit)
• You have limited under-desk space (footrests can reduce leg clearance)

The Mayo Clinic recommends footrests primarily when desk height cannot be adjusted. If your setup already allows flat feet on floor with thighs parallel to ground, a footrest might not add significant benefit.

How to Choose the Right Footrest

Based on the research and community consensus:

• Budget under $40: Everlasting Comfort or IKEA OVNING
• Standing desk user: StrongTek Wood Rocker
• Need height adjustment: VIVO Adjustable
• Want premium quality: Humanscale FM300
• Chiropractor recommendation: ErgoFoam Adjustable

Research suggests footrest height should be about 10% of your total height. At 5'5" (65 inches), that's roughly 6.5". Most adjustable footrests cover the 3-7" range to accommodate this.

The Bottom Line

Remember that Reddit user who spent $800 on a chair and still had back pain? They're not alone. Across the forums and review sites, the same pattern emerges: people overlook the simplest fix. A $40 footrest won't make headlines, but it might be the thing that actually solves your problem.

For most remote workers, the Everlasting Comfort hits the sweet spot of price and performance. If budget isn't a concern and you want something that'll last 15 years, the Humanscale FM300 is the one serious ergonomics enthusiasts swear by.

Either way, starting with any footrest beats continuing without one. Your back will thank you.

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The FullStop360 team researches tools and products for designers, developers, and entrepreneurs. Our reviews are based on aggregated user experiences, expert opinions, and scientific research, not sponsored content.