Backrest or no backrest? It’s one of the most common questions about kneeling chairs — and the right answer depends on how long you’ll be sitting and what you’re trying to fix.
If you’ve been shopping for kneeling chairs, you’ve probably noticed there are two main types: the classic backless kneeling stool, and the less common version with an attached backrest. They look different, feel different, and suit different people. Here’s how to choose the right one. Not sure if a kneeling chair is right for you at all? Read our honest breakdown of whether kneeling chairs are worth it first.
Quick Comparison
| Without Backrest | With Backrest | |
|---|---|---|
| Core Engagement | High — you support yourself | Lower — backrest takes over |
| Extended Use | Tiring after 1–2 hours | More comfortable longer |
| Posture Training | ✅ Active improvement | Moderate improvement |
| Price (AU) | $80–$100 | $95–$175+ |
| Availability on Amazon AU | ✅ Wide range | Limited options |
| Best Use Duration | 30 min – 2 hrs | 1–4 hrs |
| Learning Curve | 1–2 weeks | Minimal |
The Classic Kneeling Chair (No Backrest)
The traditional kneeling chair — backless, with a forward-tilted seat and shin pads — is the most common version and for good reason. Without a backrest to lean on, your core and spinal muscles do the work of keeping you upright. Over time this actively strengthens your posture rather than just supporting it. For a full breakdown of how this works, see our guide on whether kneeling chairs actually improve posture.
Most users find they can comfortably use a backless kneeling chair for 30–90 minutes at a time. Beyond that, back fatigue starts to set in — which is the signal to take a break or switch chairs. This is actually a feature, not a bug: it forces movement, which is healthier than hours of static sitting.
Best for: People who want active posture improvement, have a regular chair to alternate with, and aren’t planning to sit in the kneeling chair for hours at a stretch. See our best budget kneeling chairs under $100 for the top backless options in Australia.
The Kneeling Chair with Backrest
Kneeling chairs with a backrest — also called kneeling office chairs or ergonomic kneeling chairs — add lumbar or mid-back support to the classic design. The idea is to combine the forward hip tilt of a kneeling chair with enough back support for longer sessions.
They work well in theory, and they are more comfortable for extended use. The trade-off is that you’re now leaning on the backrest, which reduces the active core engagement that makes traditional kneeling chairs beneficial. You get some of the postural benefits, but less of the muscle-strengthening effect. For a broader comparison of chair types, see our kneeling chair vs ergonomic chair breakdown.
Best for: People who want to use a kneeling chair for longer sessions, have existing back fatigue from backless sitting, or are transitioning from a regular chair and find the backless version too demanding at first.
The Honest Verdict
For most Australian buyers, a backless kneeling chair is the better starting point. They’re more affordable, easier to find locally, and deliver the full posture benefit. If you find after a few weeks that you need more support for longer sessions, you can upgrade then — or simply alternate with a regular chair.
The backrest version is genuinely useful if your job requires you to sit for 4+ hours continuously, or if you have back fatigue issues that make the backless version unworkable. For more on back pain relief, see our top kneeling chair picks for back pain in Australia.
✅ Choose Backless if you…
- Want maximum posture-training benefit
- Use it in sessions of 30–90 minutes
- Have another chair to alternate with
- Are on a budget (much cheaper)
- Are new to kneeling chairs
✅ Choose With Backrest if you…
- Need to sit in it for 3–4+ hours
- Have existing lower back fatigue
- Are transitioning from a supported chair
- Don’t have a second chair to alternate with
- Budget allows for $139–$175+
Best Backless Kneeling Chairs in Australia
All three are available on Amazon.com.au under $100 with free delivery. For our full roundup see the 5 best kneeling chairs in Australia 2026.
The best all-round backless kneeling chair for most Australians. Memory foam cushioning, compact footprint, and the most comfortable ride in this comparison. Ideal for 1–3 hour focused work sessions. Read our full Artiss review for more detail.
The sturdiest backless option under $100. 150kg weight capacity and a smooth rocking base make it ideal for larger-framed users. Read our full Giantex review for more detail.
The only backless option with height adjustment — great if you share the chair or want to fine-tune the angle for your body. Read our full VEVOR review for more detail.
Best Kneeling Chairs with Backrest in Australia
These three options all include back support and are available on Amazon.com.au. Ranked from best value to most premium.
The most affordable backrest kneeling chair on this list. Height adjustable with thick foam cushioning, PU leather finish, and 4 smooth-gliding casters (2 lockable). Free delivery and Amazon-managed — the safest budget backrest option available in Australia right now.
The most premium backrest option on this list. PU leather and mesh construction, 55–65cm height adjustment, and a substantial build that feels noticeably more solid than budget alternatives. Best for users who want a backrest chair they can use for several hours a day and want a premium finish to match.
The most affordable backrest kneeling chair on Amazon.com.au — and from a trusted Australian brand. Features a mesh backrest for lumbar support, 3-level height adjustment, swivel wheels, and high-density foam cushioning. Good value for the price.
Our recommendation
→ Go Artiss backless for the best value overall — the most comfortable backless chair under $100 from a local AU brand.
→ Go Giantex backless if you’re over 100kg or want the rocking wood frame design.
→ Go VEVOR backless if you need to fine-tune the height adjustment for your body.
→ Go RODOVIA if you want a backrest at the lowest possible price with free delivery.
→ Go RTM Randy & Travis if you want the most premium backrest option for longer daily sessions.
→ Go Artiss with backrest if you want a budget backrest option from a trusted AU brand — but check the reviews first.
Are you using a backless or backrest kneeling chair? Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear which you prefer.
Related reading:
→ Are kneeling chairs worth it? Honest pros and cons
→ 5 best kneeling chairs in Australia 2026
→ Best kneeling chairs for back pain in Australia
→ Best budget kneeling chairs under $100 in Australia
→ Kneeling chair vs ergonomic chair — which is better?
→ Do kneeling chairs actually improve posture? What the science says
