HAG Capisco Review

i am debating whether or not to purchase one of these chairs. i am a 46 year old man who is about 5’10″ tall and 155 lbs. my sister-in-law has a capisco chair and loves it. i am wondering though if it would be uncomfortable for men. can any guys out there tell me what their experience has been? many thanks, andy

Hello Andy.

I am a 31 year old male who has used a Hag Capisco for approximately 8 years. I can say without hesitation that the chair has been great for me. For anyone though (either a man or woman) I’d think the Capisco is really a PERSONAL choice. I think it is as suitable for men as it would be for women. A man did design the chair after all

I think your best option would be to try out your sister’s chair and see if it works for you. Darren

yeah, i agree that would be the best option, but my sister in law lives more than 1,000 miles away LOL. i live in idaho, so there’s no place nearby where i can test one out. i’m just hesitant to spend $800 on a chair that i’m not sure will work for me. all of the internet retailers have a restocking fee if you don’t like the chair. any ideas?

andy

Ergo Depot does not have a restocking fee. I bought my Capisco chair there because it was the only place I could find that would let me try the chair for 30 days and return it if I didn’t like it. As I understand it, the customer is only responsible for the shipping charges if they decide to return it. I figured it was worth the risk of having to pay $30 or $40 if i didn’t like it. Luckily, the return shipping charges never ended up being an issue as I REALLY love the chair.

Good luck, Chuck.

thanks for the info. i decided to bite the bullet and i ordered the chair this morning. it is supposed to arrive in a couple of weeks. i’ll post back here to let everyone know how its working out for me. andy

the chair arrived on monday. i’ve been using the chair for four days now and i’m not sure this is going to work out for me. i find that i can’t sit for very long periods of time without having to get up flip the chair around and sit in it backwards. at the end of the day my back has been a little sore too. is this normal?

Andy- I experienced the same thing when I first got my Capisco chair too. The break-in period lasted about 3 weeks for me until I got used to it. I was actually about to return the chair after the second week, but I toughed it out based on all the positive reviews i had read about it. In hindsight, I suspect that my muscles just needed to get accustomed to actually moving while I was working.

I actually feel much better at the end of the day than i used to with my old Steelcase chair. I’m not 100% sure that this is related to the chair, but my posture seems to be much better too. I’d suggest you hang in there for a bit longer. Darren

a few of my employees have this chair and they all love it. people think it is really weird at first. i used one until i started hiring employees and then i just passed it down. needless to say, i have bought 6 capiscos since then… not to mention the schnazzy ho9 i purchased for my office:-)

btw – i used to work for an installation company and i was part of a crew that built office systems. this is where i first started seeing hag chairs and i always had it in my head that these would be what i used if i ever had my own office… i started a small planning firm when i FINALLY finished school and things have fallen into place where i can actually supply my office and employees with these chairs. also, i don’t believe in using capital letters when i post in blogs:-)

okay, it’s been 4 1/2 weeks now and i think i might be IN LOVE with the chair now. the pain (more like discomfort) i experienced the first week has completely gone away. and now that i look back on it, having to get up every few minutes was probably a great thing to help me get used to this different way of “sitting” in a chair. now that i’m more used to this sitting style, i do notice that i feel better during the day and at night. thanks for everyone’s comments and “hand holding”. i guess i’m one of the capisco fans now.

Is it true that there is a different version marketed in the U.S. with a deeper and larger seat than the European version? If so, is there anyway to get the Euro version? Thanks.

Hello CAR.

The versions sold in the U.S. and Europe are exactly the same.

Moderator

The chair is produced with both the standard saddle seat (lookes like an X seen from above), and the more normal looking full seat. This is nothing to do with region of sales. You should be able to buy either or anywhere.

I am debating about whether or not to get the headrest on the Capisco. I’ve totally decided the
Capisco is the right chair for me, but I’m torn as to whether users actually use/need the headrest. Any thoughts from the community would be appreciated.

If you get the headrest you can’t sit in the chair backwards.

A question: Is there any place to order specific parts of the chair for repair? Also, is it possible to order different fabrics (i.e., not a new seat or back, but just the fabric for the seat or back)?

Josh – I was torn as well when I was originally making my decisions for the chair options. I was told that the headrest could be ordered later if I wanted it, but that the price would be about $30 higher because it’s considered a “part” if it doesn’t ship with the chair. I decided not to order the headrest, because I didn’t expect to lean back in the seat very often.

I’m glad I didn’t get the headrest in retrospect because my suspicion was right – I wouldn’t want to use it very often and it would probably get in the way more than it was useful.

Just my two cents.

Chuck

Ergo Depot sells HAG parts. I bought casters and a new seat pad for my HAG Balans chair from them.

I live in Sf and just started working from home mostly. I plan to do this for a while but even if I dont, I want a good chair to sit in.

With that said, I am researching and found this site. Having used Aeron chairs at work and now using a friend’s while I am dog sitting, it has be a welcome change from the pain I have had.

Willing to take the leap into this chair without sitting on it, what color choice does everyone recommend? Is the basic fabric durable? I am considering black. I dont want to spend this much on a chair and have the fabric soiled/worn in a few years.

John

Hi, I am a Capisco owner in the UK. I have been using my Capisco 8106 with black comfort fabric for many years, and have noticed some ‘shiny’ patches appearing in the areas that receive the most wear and tear. Does anybody have any idea whether the fabric covers can be removed and cleaned, and if so whether this can be done on a standard wash cycle or whether it requires professional care?

Any help will be much appreciated, thanks in advance.

In the vast majority of cases, the shiny spots appearing on the Comfort fabric are areas where the microfiber has been filled up with dirt.

Comfort can be machine washed at up to 60˚C. Wash on a gentle program at 40˚C if it has flame-retardant backing.

Most types of spots can be removed with lukewarm water, possible with an added neutral detergent.

Always use a clean white cotton cloth. Do not soak the entire seat or back, but rather focus on the areas with the dirt buildup. And finally, use only small quantities of cleaning agent at a time.

Warning: Benzene, acetone etc. can dissolve foam on soaking.

If the spot does not disappear using water and a neutral detergent, follow the instructions in our guide to spots.

does anybody knows when the Capisco retro version came out in the market?. I love the colours?

The retro version was released in early 2008. I bought my first one in March of ’08 (then bought another one last month). It is my understanding that the retro upholstery was a limited-time promotion and the fabric has been discontinued. I believe the only retailer that still sells the retro version is ErgoDepot.

You are right about the colors. They are very unique and playful. The chair looks even better in person than the pictures I’ve seen on the web.

Hello,

I’ve been using this wonderful chair for one year and a half. Do you know how to change the gas lift ?.
I have a 200 mm gas lift but a 265 mm suits me best. I have to change it. How can I remove this ?. Thank you.

I changed my lift last year. All you need is a rubber mallet to dislodge the lift from the base and then out of the bottom of the seat. It took about 5 minutes.

Great post! Just wanted to let you know you have a new subscriber- me!

Thank you HAG Technical Team for the advice on washing the Comfort fabric. This did the trick for me! My 11-year old Capisco looks brand new again. Woohoo!!!

Wow, I didn’t realize there were so many Capisco fans out there. I’ve always thought of this chair as more of a novelty than anything else.

I used to use a HAG Signet back in the early 90′s (employer provided) and really, really miss that chair. I sit in a Steelcase Leap chair now at my job and really don’t like it. I have looked around on the web but can’t seem to find anyone who sells the Signet chair. Does anyone know where I can buy a Signet chair?

In case anyone’s in the NYC area and is thinking of buying a headrest, I have one for sale there. I don’t want to spam so I won’t link to it, but if you go to the NYC craigslist and search for Capisco you’ll find it.

I’m selling it because I like to sit in the chair backwards.

To Willy above-

The Signet chair was discontinued a few years ago. The HAG H09 series replaced it.

does anyone know of where I can get the Capisco chair in NYC other than A.I.Friedman? Also, on the Hag website they have a picture of the Capisco 8106 with a gorgeous teal-colored fabric, and I wanted to know the name and number of the fabric. I am guessing perhaps that fabric is only sold on the Capisco 8106 chairs in Europe, not the U.S. The fabric name might be “Fame”, but I am not certain.

Allie,

Izzy Design is HAG’s U.S. partner. Izzy Design imports all of the component parts for the HAG seating line and assembles and upholsters the chairs for HAG in Indiana. One of the benefits of HAG’s partnership with Izzy is that U.S. consumers are now able to take delivery of a custom-made HAG chair in 1 – 3 weeks. Prior to 2003, HAG chairs were only assembled in Norway and the lead times were about 12+ weeks for U.S. conusmers. The chairs assembled at Izzy’s Indiana facility are of the same high quality as those chairs assembled in Norway and carry the same 10-year to life HAG warranty.

Regarding the upholsteries, what you see on Hag.no are the standard fabrics in Europe, and what you see available from Izzy Design are the standard fabrics in the U.S. Sometimes this can cause confusion as one set of images is used for all HAG marketing. The Hag.no upholsteries can be ordered in the States but the lead time will be extended as the chair will be manufactured and upholstered in Norway. The dealer you select will be able to provide you with all of the information you need.

Moderator

I just realised that there are two versions of the Capsico seat (forgetting about the headrest altogether) – the saddle type and the flat type. Has anyone got any comments on the two styles and comfort? Is there any difference ergonomically?

Davo

I returned this chair after 2 months because I like to relax in my office chair, and sit back sometimes. Relaxing isn’t really a strength of this chair. Got the HAG Futu instead, which is just perfect for me.

I’m having trouble finding anyone who sells the Capisco chair in Ontario/Quebec. I contacted one company and didn’t get a response. I would love to try one out to see if it’s for me.

Also, does anyone know how the Capisco compares to other saddle-type chairs on the market, such as Bambach, Salli, Humanscale? I read an article about the Bambach which insisted that the Capisco doesn’t put the spine in proper alignment, but this was an assertion, with no proof offered.

Thank you for any insight you can offer!

We have 98 Hag Capisco chairs in our coworking space in London, UK: http://www.lebu.co.uk.

Our members rave about these chairs, and we have had more than a few who’s back pain has gone for good. They keep you alert and awake, and let you change positions as much as you want.

Do follow the user guide to ensure you have adjusted the chair correctly for yourself, and pay attention to the seat depth/rake and the backrest height. Also allow a few days to get used to this chair.

Enjoy!

Peter,
What a beautiful space you have! I love the fabric that’s on the Capisco chairs there. Can you tell me what it is?

Thanks,
Calie

I have an earlier version of the HAG capisco chair. The back support looks a little different. The top half looks the same, but if you imagine the back support as a cross, my model doesn’t have the lower part of the cross extending downwards. In any case, I am trying to figure out where I can get new upholstery for my chair. I love the chair, but the fabric is worn out. I just want to update it. I can’t find anything online. Not even a company website…. or number to call.

Unfortunately, the Capisco model you are referring to was discontinued some time ago and replacement upholstery is no longer available. Your best bet might be to find a local upholstery shop that could recover your chair.

Hi all. Arlig, I bought a Capisco chair off eBay at the beginning of the year and it had this older back on it. I did a little research before I place a bid. I talked to someone at Izzy Design and they referred me to a dealer because they don’t normally work with end users… or something like that. They ended up telling me that this version was remodeled or discontinued quite a while ago and the best bet was to bring it to a local upholsterer. This is indeed what I did and it came out quite nice. I think it cost me about $75 + the material I picked out.

I came across this blog because I have finally convinced my boss to buy me one for work so I can enjoy my older model at home now

I am trying to buy a capisco in Skopje (Macedonia) or in the sorrounding countries, ideally Thesaloniki (Greece), Belgrade (Serbia) or Sofia (Bulgaria). Could someone give me an address and email or telephone number? Thanks!
Cathy

Cathy,

Your best bet will be to contact HAG directly. Below I have included their web address.

http://www.hag.no

Love this chair – I used to have a full black Capisco, but it got stolen from my office whilst I was working elsewhere for a couple of months…
Now I’m about to buy a new one. So I can either go for the same one – full black is classy – or I’m quite tempted by the new scheme “Two colors”. Black is “Xtreme” fabric, whilst Two colors is “Comfort”. What’s the difference between those two, just the fabric? Is the foam the same?

Two questions: are the stoppers on wooden floors useful for better stability or not necessary?
Is the footrest necessary/useful when using the chair at its max gas-lift height 226 mm or not?
Anyone with Capisco experience to comment on these two?
And thanks, got a dealer in Budapest … and friend to bring the chair over to MK. Cheers

Pierre-

The foam is the same no matter which fabric you choose. I would ask your dealer for fabric samples so you can better decide which upholstery works best for you. There is much to be said for seeing, touching and feeling the fabrics in person. Looking at fabrics on a computer screen vs. seeing them live is really night vs. day.

Rich

I ended up ordering the chair from Ergodepot in the U.S. The people there were very helpful about the differences between the various saddle-type chairs and other questions that I had. I had it shipped to family in the U.S. and picked it up there.

LOVE this chair! It is truly amazing. Extremely comfortable for one like me who likes to move around a lot. I got the step-up attachment and I am enjoying the added flexibility this allows. Love the “gripper” feet on the legs. I am a relatively short but not true petite woman (5′ 4″ or so) and until now had never found a chair that was the least bit comfortable for me. I hated the feeling of sinking in and slumping over. I feel more alert and awake in this chair and can already see the difference in productivity.

Thanks!

I finally went for the 2 Colours, it’s a special model made on order. It’s fantastic, I wonder how I even survived without such a great chair for so long…
The important advice I can give is to make the table higher – I went for an extra 4″ on mine.

Hello, I am a journalist based in Rome and write about design and architecture for Metropolis and Wall Street Journal, etc. I have been using my Hag chair for about five years now at my desk and its blue upholstery has become spotty. I tried to remove it to take it to the dry cleaners, but was completely unsuccessful, in fact I put a hole in the neck rest fabric in the process. I did not get any instructions with the chair for removing or cleaning. Can you help me figure out how to clean it? Thanks! Best, Cathryn Drake

Cathryn,

This issue was talked about last April. I am assuming that you have the Comfort upholstery, which is the family of fabrics that is prone to spotting. Below is an excerpt of the HAG Technical Team’s suggestion for the spots:

In the vast majority of cases, the shiny spots appearing on the Comfort fabric are areas where the microfiber has been filled up with dirt. Comfort can be machine washed at up to 60˚C. Wash on a gentle program at 40˚C if it has flame-retardant backing.

Warning: Benzene, acetone etc. can dissolve foam on soaking.

Two and a half years ago i bought a Capriso beacuse i had backproblems.
7 months ago i started to get pelvis problems with groin pains.
after consulting several orthopedics, neurologists, scans, x ray’s etc the diagnose whas an inflamation of nerves and
muscles in that region, several treatments didn’t solve the problem it got even worse, until….the orthopedic came
home for a treatment and saw me sitting on the capriso.
he took the chair away and forbid the use of it.

Raoul –
Thanks for sharing your experience. It’s too bad that the Capisco chair didn’t work out for you. If there were one chair that was perfect for everybody, then I guess we’d all be sitting in it.

I can tell you that the Capisco is the ONLY chair on the market that has allowed me to sit for long periods of time with my sciatica condition. I tried over 30 different chairs before I learned about the HAG Capisco. By that point, I was convinced I’d never be able to sit in an office chair for longer than 5-10 minutes at a time.

So – this chair has literally changed my life. I hope you can find a chair that does the same for you.

Darren

Hi all

I have terrible si joint problems that cause severe sciatica and pain in my groin. At present I find it impossible to sit and work for more than 15 minutes in a chair – and I’ve tried many. I’m interested in trying the Capisco, but I have a couple of reservations:

1. It has no arm rests as such – so when I’m working (I’m a writer so at my computer all day) I worry my arms will tire. My physio worries about this too.

2. Although the lumbar support seems good, is there enough around the sacral area?

3. Is it a bit hard to sit on! I really don’t get on with very hard chairs for long periods.

Any advice welcome!
Ellen

Ellen, it’s very difficult to advise for someone else, as each person’s body is so different, and without knowing about that and about other features of your work environment it’s tough to predict.

I can, however, tell you about my own experience as it relates to your three points.

1. Lack of arm rests – not a problem for me. Quite the reverse, in fact. I am also a writer, at my computer all day. However, keep in mind that I am on the short side with relatively short arms even for my height – and I had never found a chair with arm rests that fit me, including all the fancy adjustable ones. I am much more relaxed without them on the Capisco. My elbows are close to my sides and arms at a good angle to my keyboard tray. No fatigue at all. The chair seems to put me into proper alignment so my core is doing most of the work when I sit. Everything else is relaxed.

2. I’m not sure exactly what you mean here (not sure I understand your lumbar/sacral distinction). I can only say that my lower back area feels very much supported – and to some degree self-supported – in this chair. Again, this had been a problem for me in all previous chairs. When I say “self-supported” I refer to the fact that the core is doing some of the work so there is far less need for external support. However, if I lean back (as I often do, using the footrests) that support is there exactly where I need it.

3. It does feel much firmer than most chairs, so this might be a problem for you. For me, the firmness disappears – it acts as support. If you like the feeling of “sinking in” then this feature of the chair would bother you. You do not sink in; you perch.

What makes the chair so comfortable is the freedom of movement. I am always changing position in this chair but not because I am uncomfortable. I change position because I can do so without causing ergonomic havoc. This boosts circulation and keeps me alert.

I got sciatica in a normal (supposedly ergonomic) desk chair. With the Capisco, it has disappeared.

Having said all that, there are times when I feel a bit of stress in the groin area – not while sitting, but immediately after getting up. It’s not pain. It’s just a weird sensation, sort of like what happens when you change from skates to your boots again – or, more accurately, it’s like the feeling you might have after an hour of horseback riding. You are using muscles you may not be used to using, to sit in this chair, and so at times you will feel that. Within a minute or less I have adjusted.

Hope this helps you with your decision and hope you find a chair that works for you.

Hello,

Are any of you avid fans very petite? I’m 5’3″ woman of 105 pounds. Does your lumbar region feel supported while you’re sitting upright or only when you lean back?

A single chair that could be used at a low desk AND higher drawing table in multiple positions seems to good to be true! I like to sit, stand and perch. I like to use two tables of different heights for different functions (hand sketching versus CAD). I’ve been sitting on a hard plastic bar stool for too long (just because it looks good… damn designers’ curse). I dislike conventional office/drafting chairs with their sucked lozenge look and feel but…I would love to relieve my aching back!

Your input would be greatly appreciated!

Hi HAG people. I have a HAG Capisco that is about 3 years old and the back squeaks when I lean back or put weight on certain parts of the seat. Has anyone else experienced this? Is there anything I can do to stop it?

Whoever might be approving these comments, I am going to cut and paste this on the other chair pages so no one misses this question. Please don’t think I am spamming your blog

The squeak you are experiencing is very common in HAG seating and many other seating manufacturers. Your chair is not broken nor will any replacement parts fix the noise. This is a result of numerous moving parts coming into contact with each other. The result is nearly unavoidable and can be experienced early in the life of the chair or later. The timing, frequency, and volume, of the squeaks are impacted by the users’s weight, sitting style, the environment where the chair is used, and many other factors.

Though there is no way to completely eliminate the squeak, HAG recommends the use of a lithium lubricant to help keep it in check. HAG strongly recommends against the use of WD40 to address the issue.

I found a second hand Capisco for a reasonable price, but it seems that the wheel base is different, as is the button on the back – the one for the height adjustment of the backrest. Are those differences only cosmetic? Anything different on those older chairs?

Is there some knack to removing the fabric cover of the back rest for the Capisco?
There’s a zip (or rather, two zips and one zip track) but the main obstacles are the way the zip track separates from the main body of fabric – not enough of a gap to slide around the base of the chair’s spine – and the hole in the fabric where the black knob is isn’t large enough or stretchy enough to slip over this knob.
I can only assume that the black knob can be removed so that the spine of the back rest will slide out and thus allow the fabric cover to be removed (for washing) but there doesn’t seem to be any way to turn or pull the knob so that it can be taken off. Obviously, I don’t want to force this knob or break it.
Any advice?
The batch number is 0801099706 item 8106 it was bought new.

Hello Loretta,

The back knob can be removed by pulling straight out and can be reattached by pressing it straight back on. It snaps right back into place. Your main issue is going to be with removing and reattaching the cover. The HAG factory has a sophisticated industrial bag and vacuum system that sucks the air out of the foam and makes it very easy to put the upholstery cover onto the chair. HAG/Izzy stopped selling just the upholstery covers in 2008, as people could not get them back onto the frame and were damaging the foam. My recommendation would be to clean the upholstery as well as possible while it is on the chair. If you post the upholstery number (found on the bottom of your chair after the 8106-XXXX), we can give you specific cleaning instructions.

Moderator

I’ve had a Capisco for close to 10 years and I love it but the fabric on the seat is wearing out. What is the best way to fix it? Are there replacement covers or should I re-upholster? Thanks!

Hi Karen,

The post just above yours describes the current availability of replacement covers. The only factory solution would be a full replacement seat, back, or both. Our advice would be to evaluate your chair and see if you really need a full replacement seat and back or just new upholstery. If you only need new upholstery, it would be best to contact an experienced re-upholstery shop.

Is there any problem with your thighs hitting the keyboard tray when using this chair. I would like to get it for my 13-year-old son who currently slumps over in a hard wooden chair for hours at his desk. His feet don’t touch the floor because he is so short (4’9″). I thought this chair would be great because it can go higher so he can actually reach his desk and he could rest his feet on the step up. However, I noticed that the keyboard tray under his desk would hit his legs if he is up high and is too close to the desk. Has anyone found this to be a problem? Also, the opening under my son’s desk is only 59cm and the chair says it is 70cm wide at the base. Will this keep him from being able to pull the chair close enough to the desk? Thanks for your help.

Since the design’s purpose seems to be sitting upright and “perched” rather than “supported,” how necessary is the back at all? Once you adjust to the chair, do you find yourself leaning back less and less? What I’m getting at is, should I consider getting the stool version, which sells for half the price? Will I regret that?

Thanks for the nice page. I saw Capisco once several years ago and didn’t really want to buy an expensive chair back then but now I’m interested ! I’m a photographer and I also spend quite a bit of time with computer, editing images and chairs are important part of my life…

Ilana,
Undermounted keyboard trays are no longer necessary when you use a sit/stand chair. And regarding the base diameter, he shouldn’t be that close to the desk when perching – it should work out fine.
Darren

Hi Dan.

In my opinion, as the body adjusts, you tend to not rely on the back as much. The core muscles become stronger and the seating style becomes more natural (because it is!). If this is going to be your full-time chair I would recommend taking a few things into consideration:

1. The seating mechanism for the stool is entirely different. There is no tilt mechanism and the design does not accommodate a back so it cannot be added later.
2. If you plan on spending extended periods of time in the chair (5 hours or more a day I would say), then the back is a great way to relax for a few minutes.
3. One of the most popular seating positions for the Capisco is reversed with the back against the chest. Obviously, this wouldn’t be available with the stool version.

Good luck!!

I completely agree with McBuff above. I’ve been using my Capisco for over 15 years, and I couldn’t imagine having the chair without a back. I think the seat-only version would be more appropriate for a doctor or vet, who is just sitting in the chair for short periods of time.

McBuff and Luke W – Thanks for taking the time to share your perspectives. This has made my purchase decision much easier! – Dan

Hi, I am trying to swap the pneumatic lift on my capisco. Tried hitting it with a rubber mallet and got the base off, but cannot get the other end dislogedged from the chair (the underside where the controls are).

Does anyone have any tips?

I saw a question from Davo back in Aug of last year asking what the pros and cons are to the 2 seat types (saddle vs flat), but I don’t think I saw the answer?? I’m wondering which might be the best choice for hip bursitis? The office chair I have now is just miserable. If I sit with the usual 90 degree bend at the hip I’m like crippled when I first stand up. I find myself perched on the edge of the seat with my legs either tucked under the chair or stretched out in front… Just trying to not have that 90 degree bend at the hip. That stretched position seems to pretty much eliminate the hip pain, but then the edge of the seat totally cuts off circulation. I’m getting desperate. This chair sounds like it might be the answer… but which seat type would y’all recommend???

Shirley-

In my opinion, the saddle seat is the only way to sit in a Capisco. From an ergonomic perspective it runs rings around the flat seat, and you’ll never be able to fully open up the hip angle with the flat seat.

Hi all,
Could someone tell me why the Capisco doesnt have the ability to tilt foward?Is it due to the fact that the saddle seat enables the user to sit kness lower than the hip and close to 135 degrees?

I am deciding between the Capisco and the Varier move and would appreciate some input

Is there any design reason the Capisco doesnt have the abilty to tilt foward?Is it because it has the capability to sit in facing the back whch permits one to tilt the pelvis foward?It appears from most of the reading I have done,the “ergonomically favored” positin is to have a slight tilt foward with hip opening to apc 130 degrees.Is this true?

Hi,

I’m thinking of buying a Capisco for reading (although I work at a computer and might use it for work too). Can anyone tell me if they have used a Capisco for this purpose, and if so, what model (with or without headrest, etc.). I love to read, but I find my sofa does my back in, and I end up locked in the same position for hours. Any comments would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Hi Sarah.

I was actually in a very similar situation to what you’re in now. I’ve had a Capisco at work for nearly 10 years now and wanted to find something similar to use at home – but mostly for reading and playing around on my new iPad. Based on my research, I found a great option for me was the ThatSit with back. It was also designed by Peter Opsvik. I have found it to be much more forgiving and casual than a Capisco. And I think more appropriate for a casual home setting (especially reading/watching tv/etc.). The nature of the sitting experience is very similar to the Capisco, but the bonus of having the kneeling feature feels more comfortable for these types of more relaxing activities. Plus it’s much better than becoming a vegetable while reading on the couch.

The Varier Gravity Balans chair seemed like it could be an even better reading chair, but it was a little out of my budget and a little bit too big for my space. I could talk all day on these Varier chairs too but we are on a HAG Blog!

To close, I just want to say that I still LOVE my Capisco but found the kneeling style of the Varier Thatsit to be a great option for me while reading at home.

hi,

I too would like to replace the gas lift.
Where can I purchase the gas lifts from?
Are they the standard 50mm diameter ones?

Richard

Hi,

I have tried out the Capsico in a shop and it feels fantastic to sit in.

My concern which is a big one is if as I do sit at a screen most of the day then I would be sitting unsupported for a long time except for when I lean back to rest or i.e take a phone call.

I understand that I will need to use my core muscles to sit correctly, that said I have long term back problem (disc tightening lower back and neck, referred pain and so on..) and would be concerned that I won’t be able to make the adjustment using my core muscles.

I have read that this has been a concern and other readers have experienced an adjustment got over it, but is it different for someone who has already has back problems?

In short will it kill me to use it for a few months or should I be doing core strength exercises to get myself ready for the experience of a saddle type seat?

This might be more of a question to an ergonomic and postural expert.

Thanks for listening

Peter

Does anyone have any thoughts on the best height of a Capisco for someone who is 6′ tall. Is it better to get the tall version? I would love to have the flexibility to have it high up sometimes, but also want to make sure the lowest position isn’t too high. Any thoughts?

The lift height for the Capisco would depend on your worksurface height. Hopefully, you have an adjustable desk. If you do, the 265mm (tall will work fine). If you don’t have an adjustable desk, hopefully your worksurface height is at least 31″ (especially given your height). If it is, then the 200mm will work for you. If you don’t have an adjustable height desk you should consider investing in one so that you can open up your hip angle and really get the most out of the Capisco chair.

Thanks for your response. I don’t have an adjustable desk, but I will be propping my desk up to a height that is most comfortable . I also might buy an adjustable desk sometime down the road, so it would be nice to have the flexibility to go high on the Capisco. But I don’t want to buy a chair that is too high in the smallest setting for me. I just want to make sure the 265mm won’t be too tall for some positions that I may want to use. My current chair is at about 21 inches high (maybe even slightly less)– but I imagine I should be sitting on the Capisco a bit higher to get the best result. So just to be clear, do you think I would be fine with the 265 mm? There is nowhere nearby to try one out. Thanks!

With a fixed height worksurface, a good rule of thumb is <29" = 150mm lift, between 29' - 33" go with 200mm lift, >33″ you can do the 265mm. In a perfect world, everybody should be working at an adjustable height desk. And for someone your height, the 265mm lift would be appropriate with an adjustable desk.

I’m aware that the capisco is intended more for use at a highter or heght adjustable workstation but is the new Capisco Puls inteded for use at a regular height desk please? (What’s the relative merits of the Puls please?)

Thanks

I’m shopping and intrigued by the Hag Capisco since I have had back surgery. I’m 6 -1 1/2 and weigh 195. Is the 200mm the right chair. I have an old antique desk( 30 1/2 )but plan to raise it up to a proper height.
Thoughts or other suggestions?

Hugh-

The 200mm should work for you with your current set up. If you can raise your worksurface height above 33″, go with the 265mm.

Jack-
The Capisco’s saddle seat works best with worksurface heights above 30″. It is my understanding that the Puls will have a slightly lower seat height – mainly because it will not have foam. It is still advisable to have a worksurface height in the 30″ range.

I have the same question as Peter. I already have some lower back problems and can’t imagine sitting perched on a chair for 8-10 hrs a day. But I sure would love to find something that’s better for my back.

Margaret/Peter,

I would recommend that you give the Capisco a try. Many people with long term lower back issues have developed these problems due to the poor ergonomics of the chairs they’ve been sitting in. I sat in a Steelcase Criterion chair (not an inexpensive chair, just a BAD chair) for many years. By the time I had I made the move to an open-angle chair I had already been experiencing lower back issues. It took less than a week for me to start feeling the difference with the Capisco.

In my opinion, It is definitely worth the try to see if the Capisco’s right for you. I know that most dealers charge a restocking fee if you return it, but it’s a small price to pay for trying a product that could make a serious improvement to the way you feel and live your life.

Good luck,

Higgie.

Clearly you adjust the backrest on the Capisco to support your low back, but when using the chair in ‘reverse’ is it commonly found that you may need to adjust the backrest to allow your legs to ‘get under’ the arms? Is the ‘reverse’ position just used for variety, or is it more suited to any particular tasks (is it ok for writing/typing etc)?

Lastly, when using the chair in the conventional ‘forward’ positon am I correct to think that you perch on the seat and work without even touching the backrest? Then when wanting to relax against the backrest do you (a) shuffle backwards or (b) use the seatpan mechanism to slid back until contact is made with the backrest (perhaps I should ask – is the is the seatpan simply adjusted once to fit and then not moved again and you do all the moving)?

Thanks

I have an old HAG chair and am looking for repair support, repair manuals, parts, etc. Can anyone point me toward a site that can provide one or all of those items please? Love the chair – and have for over 20 years – but it needs to be repaired before soon. Thanks!

“We also supply original HAG parts and Humanscale parts for existing chairs. ”

http://www.ergodepot.com/

No affiliation, just noticed this. Might help Jeff.

Thanks for this Blog. Great info. I started a home based biz 3 years ago and my 32″ high dining room table with a 27″ imac combined with a Humanscale Liberty chair has officially now injured my neck and shoulders.

I am planning on moving to a sit-stand desk situation to get the monitor lower than my head so I can relieve the neck and shoulder strain. I am considering the Workrite Sierra or the Ergo Office sit stand. (Would love a recommendation on an motorized sit stand desk).

I am looking for the best seating choice for this new set up. I was considering Body Bilt and Soma as my ergonomics consultant told me to get and adjustable back. Then I sat in Capisco and felt great. I also have lower back pain so the stretch in this chair (backwards) was awesome. I want to make the best choice for my neck and shoulders pain as that is what needs to heel.

I also have some concerns about long term comfort on the occasions that I just want to relax in the chair if not computing or writing. Thoughts on all would be most welcome. Thanks

Hi Todd,

I was looking to upgrade my home office with a sit-stand desk as well and found these desks (http://www.ergodepot.com/Adjustable_Desks_s/134.htm) which are less expensive than the Sierra which I also looked at. I bought the “Light Duty” since I mostly just use my desk for computing, but you might consider a larger frame if you have a large computer.

I ended up also buying a Capisco chair for this desk after a couple of months since it went much higher than my old chair and I could sit on the edge of the seat or lean back. I like to lean back also and so I leave the tension as loose for my chair so that I could kick back a bit and relax.

Good luck!

Thanks Sarah,

Have you experienced any ofthe groin/hip pain noted above? How many hours per day are yu in the chair? Thanks

Hi Todd,

No groin/hip pain for me at all.

Sarah

I’m looking for a good chair for my 14.5 year old son – he’s starting prep school in the fall, so he’s be spending a lot of hours studying. He’s fairly tall – over 6′ 2″ tall and still growing. How has the Capisco worked out for tall users? Should I order the taller pneumatic lift for him?

Hi Bob,

I have the Capisco with the tall 265mm lift and I’m 6′ 3″. However, I primarily use the chair with an adjustable height desk. If your son plans to use the chair with a standard fixed height desk of around 28″, then the Capisco might not be the best option. As a general rule, the 200mm lift should be used with a work surface of 30″ or higher and the 265mm lift should be used with work surfaces that are 35″ or above.

Damon

Hi
I am looking to buy a second hand Capisco chair and have notice that the back is slightly different in design to the current one. can anyone tell me if there are any significant diifferences in the chair since this design change?
Also are parts still available for theolder design as I may want to change to gas strut length.

I give medical advice over the phone and these chairs are preferred by most nurses, (but not all of the men). I know some men love them, but –to the male request for info– not all of the guys find the saddle best for male anatomy in our department! These chairs are futuristic wonders. Fantastic ergonomically, easy to manuever in small spaces. Kudos to the designer of the HAG CAPISCO!

Hi Neill,
You are correct – the Capisco back style has changed slightly. However, all of the current HAG parts will fit any previously manufactured Capisco chair.

Does anyone have direct experience on whether the Capisco can relief of nerve compression issues in the neck and shoulder areas?

Anyone in San Francisco looking for a slightly used Capisco? I have a red one to sell. Good price, good condition.

Hi

I have bought my Capisco chair from work and need to transport it home by public transport is there a special technique in separating the seat from the spindle and wheels?

thanks

I bought one of these chairs about a year ago. Love it. Hate going to someone else’s office now and being stuck using their chairs.

All,

I’ve been doing some research on my options for a Capisco, but I’m getting a bit mixed up with respect to what’s available and what’s not.

First, the upholstery options. I want to go with the PVC-free vinyl, Dove color. However, its availability on sales sites is is sporadic. Sometimes it’s listed, sometimes not. What’s the deal?

Also, I’d like to get an opinion from the non-fabric Capisco owners. How do you think it compares to some of the woven fabrics available? I’ve sat in both vinyl and fabric versions (but not leather), and I like the “sticking” quality of my body to the vinyl. It’s a pretty small seat and lacks the cradling of some ergo chairs, so I’m kind of wary of some woven fabrics ability to hold me on the saddle. On the other hand, I wonder if the vinyl could get hot as it doesn’t dissipate heat as well as some fabrics.

Second, when I order the StepUp in Silver, what am I going to get? Seriously, Google the accessory for pictures and see what you get. I assume the connecting pole is the same silver color as the option on the chair’s base, but how about the footplate? Dark grey or black? And the “globe”? Dark grey, black, or red? I’m at a loss.

Third, what are all the options for the casters? It’s the same dilemma as the upholstery. I mostly see the hard/soft floor option, but I’ve come across both with the auto-lock feature; I guess that means the chair won’t roll unless you’re in it. But is it even available?

Lastly, what’s the flat seat good for? As I understand it, you can’t sit in the chair “backwards” with the seat, but it’s better for working at lower seating heights. I can see the advantage if it makes the chair a bit lounge-ier , but I do believe it’s shorter than the saddle seat. Kinda conflicting…

Give it to me, bloggers

Tess–

I live in San Jose, but I would be willing to drive up to San Francisco, especially if I could sit in it and test it out. What height is it?

My desk is 28.5 inches, so I would need the 150 mm I guess. I’m 5’1″.

Does anyone have an opinion on whether that setup would work?

Thanks.

Nice review and collection of user comments. Got to say this is one of my favourite ergonomic chairs from our whole collection. It’s all about movement in a good chair.

Now that I am under employed or retired (depending on your point of view) I have a Capisco for sale. It appears to be an Ultrascan configuration but I would appreciate any help identifying it so I can describe it accurately. The chair has a lift range of 20.5 – 28″, here’s data from the manufacturing tag:

8008B / US413
32
ORD# 43041-010

Thanks,
Craig

Does the saddle chair cause the same groin discomfort of a bicycle seat, particularly for men? Recall that bicycle seats were redesigned to avoid pressure on male reproductive organs. Is this a problem for a chair that is curved upward around sensitive points of contact?

TESS- is your chair still available ?!
if so please post to this board yes and then ill post back with my email address

I live in SF

Craig – where do you live?

Hi all, i am looking to buy a used Capisco. I live in SF but willing to travel around Bay Area to get one. please post to board if selling and your contact

Hi there trying to find out if I can buy one of these chairs in Singapore. Also if one can still buy it in the RETRO fabric featured in some of the websites I have trawled.

Thank you!

I have 2 Capisco chairs and they need new fabric covers. Can anyone advise, does HAG sell these?

Seriously considering getting either a Capisco chair or stool for the office, but I have a silly question about saddle seats for the ladies out there…What about skirts and dresses? I like to wear skirts and dresses to the office, and in all the images I see, the women are wearing trousers.

Anyone know how I can remove the plastic button on the back of a Capisco so I can remove the cover for cleaning?

I love my Capisco but after years of use in vast different climates, the cover is getting noticably dirty. I hope to remove the cover and wash it while directly examining the condition of the foam.

Thanks!

@daniel several HAG dealers in the US offer “open box specials” and frequently sell chairs at a discount that have been used as demo products. If you can’t find anything that way then you may want to try craigslist or ebay.

@jamie o’connor contact HAG directly for a list of dealers in your area. the retro upholstery was a special promotional item and is no longer available. you may be able to find a US dealer with remaining inventory but i do not believe there are any left.

@wyxzie i can certainly see how a skirt may be a concern. the saddle is not incredibly wide so a modest skirt should not be a problem. of course, the shorter the skirt the bigger of a concern this becomes. also, you may want to consider a modesty panel on your work surface which should also help quite a bit.

@tlk removing the “button” is rather simple. just pull straight out with either your hand or a pair of pliers. be careful not to scuff the button with the tool. to replace the button you would just set it back over the hole and press on the button until it snaps into place. be careful to not press so hard or hit the button where you would crack the handle. be careful when cleaning the upholstery because getting this cover back on the back, over the foam can be quite difficult. if it shrinks at all you may never get it back on. the factory uses a machine that removes the air from the foam to make this process much easier.

Has anyone had any experience with leather upholstery on the Capisco?

Would a leather chair perhaps last longer than the synthetic options?

Thanks!

I tried out the Hag capisco and the new Capisco Pul. I am not sure which one to get. The Pul does not have any cushions what so ever. I sat on it for a day, and was not bother by it. But I wonder if its going to bother me afterwards – considering the fact that I will be sitting on the chair for 8 hours a day every day. Moreover, I am 5’6″ ,and my desk is 31″ tall. I wonder if the puls lower seating would actually help me. Any suggestions!