Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest

by Kanewell

The Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest provides a comfortable split-saddle seat with the added benefit of width and angle adjustment for a personalized fit. The large, generously padded, articulating backrest provides customizable support for those situations where a backrest may be desired*.

Saddle seats are well-suited for use in active office environments, at raised counters, elevated workstations, or anywhere there is a need to be able to move into close proximity to the working area—such as dental, medical, or veterinary practices. The upright posture provided by the saddle-seating encourages better back posture, provides a much greater range of movement than that available from traditional seats, and enables virtually effortless movement about a workspace. The split-saddle is designed to reduce pressure points and improve airflow for a cooler and more comfortable experience, especially during longer periods of concentrated work. The Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest has a slightly narrower profile than similar split saddles, a feature that might offer greater comfort to those with larger thighs. Another key difference is the degree of padding that makes the Kanewell Saddle seats more forgiving for those whose body contours do not match those of the saddle foundation.

The two halves of the seat are adjustable for separation, angle of splay, and in addition the seat as a whole can be tilted downward if desired. The backrest is adjustable in both height and angle, while tilting to align itself to the back. The seats are also available in three height ranges to allow most people to select the most practical range for their build. Large diameter (60 mm) casters offer smooth movement throughout the workspace. Optional accessories include a footring to provide stability and comfort support when the chair is elevated (the height of the footring is adjustable independently of the height of the chair), and fixed glides as an alternative to the casters.

The Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest is available with either genuine top-grain leather that provides a flexible and breathable surface or high grade Vinyl that is waterproof and resistant to most common cleaners and disinfectant formulations.

* Note: Saddle seats are not typically promoted with back rests as the saddle stance naturally encourages better back posture. The addition of a back may also limit movement and reduce the ergonomic benefit of a saddle-style seat, as there can be a tendency to relax against the back, reducing the level of core muscle engagement. It is also more difficult to mount and dismount from a saddle when a backrest is present. If a backrest is not specifically needed the Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Stool is available as a non-backrest version in both Leather and Vinyl.

Ergonomic Benefits

Freedom of Movement - Saddle style seating encourages the entire upper body to move more freely than a traditional chair. It is possible to freely lean, stretch, and arch as desired. This freedom translates into improved back mobility as it remains in constant flex. The upward stance of this style of seat also increases alertness as the entire body becomes involved in the sitting experience.

Adjustable Width, Splay & Tilt - Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Stools offer the freedom to adjust the width of the seat and change the splay of the halves so that each person can customize the seat to their personal preference. The infinitely variable forward tilt can reduce pressure in the lower pelvic regions - of benefit to those who lean forward as part of their work.

Correct Spinal Alignment for Improved Posture - Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Stools are designed to restore the correct alignment of the spine. This is accomplished when the pelvis is tipped forward due to the 45° downward angle of the thighs. The forward tilt of the pelvis restores the natural "S-Curve" of the spine, positioning it where it can best provide the support necessary for the torso, neck and head. Traditional chair seats actually force the lumbar portion of the spine outward (creating a C-Curve), exerting unnatural and unsupported stress on the soft tissue muscles and ligaments of the lower back. The improved alignment of the spine which Kanewell Saddles promote alleviates or removes that stress, reducing fatigue by enabling those tissues to relax and rest. Fixed saddle seats eliminate the option of enhancing this forward tilt of the pelvis to a greater degree.

Back Support can Reduce Tissue Fatigue - Although saddle seats do a superior job of restoring the back to a natural healthy alignment, there may still be situations where having a backrest during occasional breaks can be beneficial.

Reduced Potential for Lower Back Pain - By positioning the spine in what is inherently the strongest and correctly aligned position, the continuous tension and stress which traditional chairs place on the lumbar portion of the spine is relieved. When seated on a Kanewell Saddle it is possible to sit upright, rather than leaning forward from the waist. This can significantly reduce the strain to the ligaments and muscles of the lower back which in turn will reduce the risk of muscle spasms. This will generally result in a reduction or elimination of associated back pain. Relaxing against the backrest can permit the muscles and ligaments to rest and recover. Finding a saddle position that is the most comfortable (without the backrest) and then adjusting the backrest to keep the back supported at that point will provide subtle support at all times and may also encourage better posture.

Ability to Deviate from Upright Position Securely - Kanewell Saddle Stools can provide a significant improvement in overall sitting posture, especially for those who need to have both their hands and eyes positioned close to their work. Dentists are a good example of this. By having the thighs splayed and angling downwards rather than directly toward the patient (i.e. 90°) they are able to reduce their reach and hover over the patient while maintaining a stable seating posture. This ability to move in enables them to maintain a more upright posture which in turn reduces the strain on the lower back - an issue which is common to this occupation or anyone else who performs repetitive forward or side-reaching tasks. The forward tilt feature can aid in moving the torso even closer to the work area or patient/client. It also enables them to exert greater force when necessary while at the same time reducing the effort required. The closer positioning also provides a greater degree of hand and finger control since the arms can be held closer in to the body in a more relaxed and neutral position.

Reduced "Overreach" - A complaint commonly associated with traditional seating is that it is difficult to reach items positioned to the sides or front. Doing so requires a significant rotation forward or outward from the shoulder, often combined with a forward bend from the waist. This can be a cause for concern for two reasons. First, the extreme reaching of the arms and the high degree of rotation necessary to accomplish this can lead to the development of shoulder-related issues. Usually this is addressed by trying to adapt the work area by bringing frequently used items and equipment closer. However, comfort zones are usually small so these efforts are at best a partially effective solution. Secondly, overreach can occur when individuals attempt to extend the limited range of their arms by bending or stretching forward from the waist. This exerts unnatural and unnecessary stress on the lower back, increasing the potential for development of lower back pain.

Kanewell Saddle Stools address both of these concerns by providing a significantly increased reaching zone. The forward tilt of the pelvis immediately provides several inches of additional forward reach that cannot be available when seated in a traditional chair as the upper body is brought into closer proximity to the work space. In combination with this is the fact that a saddle stool position permits the entire torso to accomplish the reach, rather than relying on a single joint such as the shoulder or the lower lumbar area. By spreading the reaching movement throughout the upper body not only is it possible to reduce the angle of the shoulder rotation but also the potential for stress on the lower back. The result of this is that the reach can easily and comfortably be extended 12" - 18" beyond what they could normally reach from a traditional chair. Learn More About the Comfort Zone.

Achieve Sit/Stand Benefits WITHOUT Standing - The upright posture which saddle stools offer can help achieve many of the benefits attributed to an active standing posture without some of the accompanying concerns and behavioural modifications. Posture is improved, blood flow is increased due to the greater degree of movement offered, and oxygenation of the blood is increased as the upright posture encourages deeper breathing. This automatically results in a greater degree of alertness and the ability to better focus on the tasks at hand. It also provides options to relax and stretch the back with the seat back which this stool includes.

Avoids the Risk Factors of Standing When Working - The popularity of working while standing has risen dramatically in recent years due to solid scientific evidence that extended sitting in the traditional office environment greatly increases numerous health risks. Media coverage which has to a great extent fueled this movement has almost solely focused on the "benefits" of standing to work, ignoring the equally compelling evidence that extended standing can also be extremely detrimental to one's overall health. Studies have shown that extended standing can result in blood pooling in the lower legs. This arises from the static state of the leg muscles, resulting in both edema (swelling of the feet and lower legs) and a corresponding increase in varicose vein problems. This also increases the load on the circulatory system which has to push this pooled blood back out of the legs. There is good evidence that this can exacerbate existing or possibly lead to heart and circulatory problems. Many people who stand extensively, especially on hard floors (concrete, ceramic tile, etc), develop heel problems that can manifest as bone spurs or plantar fasciitis. Along with burning more calories, standing is also rated to consume 20% more energy than sitting which can lead to quicker rates of fatigue. Industry has addressed this by providing anti-fatigue mats, anti-fatigue footwear, and chairs to sit on during rest breaks - each of which is aimed to reduce the tiring effects of standing. Kanewell Saddle Stools enable individuals to maintain the upright posture which is most beneficial to their health, while at the same time reducing their exposure to the risk factors described above. As the saddle stool carries the majority of the weight load, the leg muscles are no longer required to remain in “tension” mode in order to provide support. Instead, these muscles are now free to relax and flex as needed to move the chair around the work area. This movement activates the pumping action that aids in moving blood from the lower legs. By transferring the majority of the weight to the saddle seat, the feet are also permitted to rest, reducing the ongoing strain that occurs with extended static standing.

IMPORTANT NOTE - Working in a Saddle Seat will generally require some modifications to the workstation. Since it elevates the torso there will be a requirement to ensure that keyboard, mouse and monitor are all able to be brought into an appropriate height position in order to maintain a neutral posture for the hands, arms, and neck. For average or shorter individuals this might be able to be accomplished by elevating the desk using specialized lifters such as Raise-Its which can safely raise a desk by up to 3". Standard keyboard arms and trays may also provide enough elevation or may be utilized in combination with a product like the Raise-Its. The monitor mount may have enough range to elevate the screen to the desired greater height or a few simple monitor risers in combination with its integral movement may provide the necessary elevation. For more complex scenarios such as taller individuals it may be necessary to provide an elevating workstation that can be raised enough to bring these devices into the correct alignment. The advantage that a Saddle Seat offers over a Sit/Stand workstation is that one can remains in a seated position and the monitor and keyboard do not need to shift throughout the day as the range of motion and viewing angles do not change.

In order to properly equip a true Sit/Stand Workstation it would need to accommodate the changes which occur when the one switches from Sitting to Standing. These include small but significant changes in the hand/arm positions and more significant changes in the viewing angle required for the monitor. This may often require a monitor arm with a fairly wide range of elevation adjustment, adding additional cost to the adaptation.

Features

Articulating Backrest: This Kanewell model features a highly-adjustable articulating backrest. In order to position support where most beneficial the backrest height is adjustable through a full 3" range, with the angle opening of the backrest also being adjustable independent of the saddle tilt. This independent angle adjustment ensures that a comfortable upright posture can be maintained regardless of the chosen saddle tilt. It can also permit a more "reclined" angle if there is a desire to lean back. If desired the backrest angle can also be left "unlocked" so it can follow body movements. A third articulation point also lets the backrest tilt to naturally align itself to the back for improved comfort.
3 Height Options: The Kanewell Saddle Chairs are available in three different heights, offering suitable options for virtually any build. (see "Determining Your Saddle Height" in the User Tips Section)
Split Saddle Design: Split Saddle stools are designed to provide support in the right places. Weight is spread across, and borne primarily by, the sitting bones. A saddle seat at the correct height will also generally transfer some weight onto the insides of the thighs which further aids in spreading the weight over a larger surface area. By removing the crown of the saddle, the risk of concentrating weight over a small and sensitive zone is eliminated. The split design also encourages natural convective cooling airflow, resulting is a more enjoyable sitting experience than that offered by traditional chairs or one-piece saddle seats.
Adjustable Width/Splay: The Split Saddle design of the Kanewell Saddle Stools also includes the ability to "customize" the split. Adjustments include the spread or width of the saddle (i.e. reducing or increasing the space between the halves) and splay - adjusting the angle at which the seat halves interact. See "Seat Width/Splay Adjustment" under the Usage Tips section for details on how to accomplish these adjustments.
Adjustable Tilt: The forward tilt feature lets individuals add additional tilt to the pelvis if they wish to enhance their upright posture. In addition, it aids in relieving lower pelvic pressure by lowering the front of the saddle seat.
Easy Rolling: Kanewell Saddle Stools are equipped with 60 mm casters (for hard floors). A simple push/pull action with the feet enables one to manoeuvre around a work area with minimal effort.
Quality Upholstery: Kanewell Saddle Stools are available upholstered with either quality top-grain leather or vinyl. The leather is more suitable for improved breathability and comfort while the vinyl is waterproof and resistant to most common cleaners and disinfectant formulations, making it an ideal solution for environments where cleaning or disinfecting may be necessary.
Weight Rating: Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Stools are designed to safely support weights up to 300 lbs (136 kg).

Images (Click on any thumbnail to view larger image)

Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest	Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest - Profile View	Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest - Side Profile	Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest - Front View
Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest - Rear Profile	Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest - Rear View	Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest - Convenient Saddle Adjustment Mechanism	Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair - Height Adjustment Ranges
Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest - Optional Fixed Glides	Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest - Optional Footring Accessory

Additional Resources

Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest Assembly Instructions: PDF

Technical Specifications

Recommended User Height Range:
Short: 4'4" to 5'5"
Medium: 4'7" to 6'1""
Tall: 5'7" and Over
Seat Adjustment Mechanism:
Height: Hand Lever Release with Gas Spring assist
Tilt: Hand Lever Release/Lock - manual adjustment
Width/Splay: Handwheel Release - manual adjustment
Backrest Adjustment Mechanism:
Height: Hand Wheel Release with 3" Range
Angle of Opening: Hand Lever Release - Locked or Unlocked with resistance via spring)
Tilt: Free-floating tilt (where backrest mounts to upright support)
Backrest - Dimensions:
Height: 13.5" (34.3 cm)
Width: 16" (40.6 cm)
Upholstery Materials:
Leather Models: Top-grain Leather Cover, Firm Polyurethane Foam Cushioning
Vinyl Models: Vinyl, Firm Polyurethane Foam Cushioning
Base: Brushed Cast Aluminum
Base Diameter: 22" (56.0 cm)
Casters: 60 mm, free-rolling (optional Fixed Glides available)
Weight Rating: 300 lbs (136 kg)
Warranty: 3 Years
Package Contents: Kanewell Twin Adjustable Saddle Chair with Articulating Backrest, Assembly Instructions

Usage Tips

When considering a Saddle Stool it is wise to consider the entire workstation. The reason behind this is that an appropriately positioned saddle-style seat will elevate you significantly higher than does a standard office chair. This means that other factors such as keyboard/mouse and monitor heights will need to be adjusted to bring them up to an appropriately ergonomic position. Failing to address these factors will usually result in you keeping the saddle positioned too low and losing most of the benefits which the saddle seat might otherwise offer OR potentially introducing other ergonomic issues while trying to reach a workspace which is positioned too low. If you have questions regarding solutions to these problems please feel free to call for assistance in addressing these concerns.
Selecting the appropriate model of the Kanewell Saddle Stool can be done by simply comparing your height to the recommended user height ranges indicated for each model. If you happen to be at the upper height range for the Short Model you may want to move up to the Medium cylinder version. There is a significant enough overlapping range between these two models to ensure that the Medium version will still provide a range of adjustment both above and below your optimal setting. The overlap between Medium and Tall is less but success can be achieved by considering your leg length. If you are in the cusp range (5'10" to 6'1") and know that you have a shorter than average inseam length you will probably be wise to select the Medium cylinder model. If, however, you happen to have an inseam length that is longer than average you are probably better off choosing the Tall Model. If you have doubts please give us a call and we will assist you in this selection.
Seat Width and/or Splay Adjustment can be accomplished by loosening the handwheel located below the front of the saddle. It is recommended to release the locking mechanism by several turns prior to attempting to adjust the width or angle of the seat halves. Once the chosen width or splay angle is set you simply tighten the handwheel to re-engage the locking system.
Note: The locking mechanism is friction-based and may require that some effort be exerted when performing initial adjustments. Gently working the seat halves back and forth should loosen them up so that adjustments can be made. Subsequent adjustments should be more easily accomplished.
Adjust the height and angle of the backrest to provide lumbar support where it is most beneficial, and ensure that it permits you to adopt a comfortable upright position, even when the saddle is tilted down in the front. You may even wish to leave it unlocked, with the spring-loaded tensioning letting the backrest follow your movements.
When setting the height of the seat, you want to have your thighs angled downwards at roughly 45° as this position provides optimal pelvic tilt for most people. This will also usually align the thighs with the angle of the seat halves, permitting them to naturally rest against the saddle and reducing the risk of pressure points on the inside of the thighs.
Be careful to not lower the seat significantly lower than where the thighs are at the optimum 45° angle. Sitting in this manner changes the angle at which the pelvic bones contact the seat and concentrates your weight over a small area along the upper ridge of the seat halves. This will for most people not only be uncomfortable but also pushes the lower spine into an unnatural C-curve. This posture exerts undue stress on the lower back and spine and greatly reduces the effectiveness of the Saddle Stool posture.
Moving about a workspace with the Kanewell Saddle Stool is much easier than moving a traditional office chair. Since the saddle posture provides your legs with a much wider range of motion, both feet can be employed to perform a push/pull action. Movement in any direction can accomplished with the minimum of effort.
Saddle-style seating does require an adjustment period. We encourage you not to try to perform marathon work sessions in the first days of use. Rather, take the time to break your muscles and joints into this new posture. Take breaks, use your old chair, stand up and stretch, and even walk around. Also, expect that over the first days and even weeks you may find that there is sensitivity. Adjust the seat to reduce pressure points or ridges, fine-tuning the seat position to meet your requirements. Typically, equestrians and cyclists will almost certainly adapt very quickly since their bodies are already acclimated to this style of seat.

Models

Model #	Description
901SBL-3F-AB-1	Black Leather, Short - Recommended User Height: 4'4" to 5'5".
901SBL-3F-AB-2	Black Leather, Medium - Recommended User Height: 4'7" to 6'1".
901SBL-3F-AB-3	Black Leather, Tall - Recommended User Height: 5'7" and Over.
901SBV-3F-AB-1	Black Vinyl, Short - Recommended User Height: 4'4" to 5'5".
901SBV-3F-AB-2	Black Vinyl, Medium - Recommended User Height: 4'7" to 6'1".
901SBV-3F-AB-3	Black Vinyl, Tall - Recommended User Height: 5'7" and Over.

Accessories

Model #	Description
DK-3	Kanewell Footring Accessory for 901 Series Seats, chrome steel, 18.1" diameter
901-GLIDE-SET-5	Kanewell Glide Accessory for 901 Series Seats (converts Kanewell Seats for stationary use, permits chair to glide when not loaded (Note: Price is for a complete set of 5 for a Kanewell Seat).
901-GLIDE	Kanewell Glide Accessory for 901 Series Seats (converts Kanewell Seats for stationary use, permits chair to glide when not loaded (Note: Price is for 1 unit, order 5 if you want a complete set for a Kanewell Seat).