Discover the differences between saddle stools, saddle chairs and tabourets

A saddle stool is a practical seating solution for anyone who wants to work comfortably and flexibly. Thanks to its saddle-shaped seat, you adopt a different sitting posture than on a conventional chair. Saddle stools are often used by hairdressers, beauticians, dentists and other professionals. But what exactly is the difference between a saddle stool, a saddle chair, a pony stool, a tabouret and a counter chair? Below, we explain the key differences so you can choose the right stool for your workspace.

A saddle stool is a stool with a saddle-shaped seat inspired by a riding saddle. Many models come with a mobile base and a height-adjustable gas lift. This allows you to adapt the seat height to your tasks and change your position with ease.

Thanks to the shape of the seat, you often sit with a more open hip angle and a more active posture. This can be comfortable for tasks where you need to sit close to a client or work surface. Saddle stools are available in various versions, for example with a narrow or wide seat and with or without a backrest.

The terms saddle stool and saddle chair are often used interchangeably. Both have a saddle-shaped seat and are designed to encourage an active sitting posture. A saddle chair sometimes has a more generous seat or a backrest, while a traditional saddle stool is usually more compact in design. The exact differences depend on the specific model.

Are you looking for a flexible seating solution for short, precise tasks? Then a saddle stool could be a good choice. If you want extra support while sitting, a saddle chair with a backrest is worth considering.

A saddle seat refers to the saddle-shaped seat itself and is therefore not, strictly speaking, a complete chair type. The terms pony stool and pony chair are also used for stools and chairs with a saddle-shaped seat. These names overlap considerably with the term “saddle stool”. So before making your decision, always check the shape of the seat, the adjustment options and the product features.

An ergonomic saddle stool is designed to promote an active, natural sitting posture. The saddle shape can help position the pelvis differently than a conventional flat seat. When choosing one, pay particular attention to the adjustable seat height, the width of the saddle, the upholstery and the stability of the base.

Good adjustment is important: the stool must suit your build, your working height and your tasks. A saddle stool is also not an automatic solution for back pain; changing your posture regularly is still advisable.

A tabouret is generally a compact, often mobile work stool with a round or flat seat. Tabourets are frequently used in hair salons, beauty salons, treatment rooms and workshops. The main difference is the shape of the seat: a saddle stool has a saddle-shaped seat, whereas a traditional tabouret usually has a flatter seat.

Choose a tabouret if you are looking for a simple, manoeuvrable work stool. If, on the other hand, you prefer a saddle-shaped sitting position, a saddle stool may be more suitable.

A wobble stool or dynamic stool has a movable or tilting mechanism that allows you to make small movements while sitting. Not every saddle stool has this feature: check whether the model actually has a movable base or a tilting mechanism.

A counter chair is primarily intended for high workstations such as receptions and counters. This chair or stool generally has a higher seat height and may be fitted with a foot ring and a backrest. A saddle-shaped counter chair combines a high seating position with a saddle seat.

The best choice depends on your tasks, your preferred sitting posture and the height of your worktop. Compare the seat height, the seat itself, any backrest and the base before buying a saddle stool. That way, you can find a saddle stool, saddle chair or tabouret that suits your daily tasks.