Mesh vs Foam Office Chair Seats: How to Choose
Most ergonomic office chairs now have a mesh backrest. The seat is where the choice really comes in: a mesh seat, or a padded foam seat? Both can work well. They feel different, and they suit different rooms and people.
Our 9018 Series chair comes with either seat. The backrest, headrest, lumbar support, armrests and mechanism are the same, so it makes a fair side-by-side comparison. This guide explains how the two seats differ and how to pick the right one for you or your team.
The short answer
- Choose a mesh seat if you work in a warm room or without air conditioning, if you tend to feel hot when sitting, or if you like a firm, springy surface. The mesh version also has the higher seat height range of the two.
- Choose a foam seat if you prefer a cushioned feel, work in an air-conditioned office, or want a more upholstered look for meeting rooms and reception areas. The foam version has the lower seat height range and a slightly wider, deeper seat.
- Buying for a team and not sure? You don't have to pick one for everyone. Mesh and foam chairs can go in the same order, and they count together towards volume pricing.
What a mesh seat is like
A mesh seat is a taut, flexible fabric stretched across a frame rather than a cushion. It gives a little under your weight and lets air pass through. That means it doesn't hold heat against you the way a padded seat can, which many people notice on hot days.
The feel is firmer and more "suspended" than a cushion. Some people like it straight away; others take a few days to get used to it.
What a foam seat is like
The foam-seat version of the 9018 uses moulded foam on a seat shell. It feels softer and more familiar, like a traditional padded office chair. Because air doesn't pass through foam, a padded seat can feel warmer than mesh over a long sitting session, especially in summer or in rooms without air conditioning.
9018 Series mesh seat vs foam seat: side by side
These are the listed specifications for the two versions. Dimensions are approximate.
| Mesh seat | Foam seat | |
|---|---|---|
| Seat | Mesh | Moulded foam on a seat shell |
| Backrest | Mesh | Mesh |
| Seat height | 50–60 cm | 47.5–57.5 cm |
| Seat width × depth | 50 × 50 cm | 51 × 52 cm |
| Armrest height | 69.5–79.5 cm | 70–80 cm |
| Overall height | 111–121 cm | 115–125 cm |
| Overall width | 68 cm | 66 cm |
| Net weight | 15.75 kg (grey), 15.95 kg (black) | 15.2 kg |
| Colours | Grey (white frame) or black | Grey (white frame) or black |
The same on both: mesh backrest, 2D headrest (height and angle), 2D lumbar support (up/down and front/rear), 3D armrests, 90°–125° recline with a 4-position lock, Class 3 gas lift, a 63 cm five-star base with 6 cm PU castors, and the same single control lever for seat height and recline.
Four questions to help you decide
1. How warm is the room?
This is often the deciding factor. In a home office without air conditioning, a west-facing room or a warm warehouse office, a mesh seat lets air move and stays cooler. In a well air-conditioned office, the difference matters less, and a foam seat is a comfortable choice.
2. Which feel do you prefer?
Some people like the firm, springy support of mesh. Others want the familiar give of a cushion. There is no right answer, so go with what feels better to you. If you are buying for others, ask them.
3. How tall are the people using the chair?
A good starting point is to sit with your feet flat on the floor and your thighs roughly level. The two ranges overlap from 50 to 57.5 cm. They differ at the ends:
- The foam seat goes down to 47.5 cm, which can help shorter people get their feet flat on the floor.
- The mesh seat goes up to 60 cm, which can help taller people, or anyone working at a higher desk.
The foam seat is also slightly wider and deeper (51 × 52 cm against 50 × 50 cm).
4. How long will people sit, and where?
For desks where people sit for long stretches, the airflow of mesh is worth weighing up, especially in warmer months. For meeting rooms, reception areas and shorter sittings, a foam seat's padded look and feel often fits well. Whichever seat you choose, getting up and changing posture through the day still matters. Safe Work Australia's guidance on sitting and standing at work covers this.
Buying for a team? Mix and match
You can choose mesh for desk staff and foam for meeting rooms, or let each person pick. Because both versions share the same frame, controls and colours, a mixed office still looks consistent.
- Volume pricing counts both. Discounts of 5%, 10% and 15% apply automatically at 5, 10 and 20 or more items, counted across your whole order. For 50 or more items, request a quote.
- Not sure yet? Order one of each first and let a few people try them before you place the full order.
- Ordering several products at once? Use the quick order table.
Warranty and delivery
Both versions carry the same chair warranty: 10 years on the gas lift and five-star base, and 12 months on all other parts, including the seat. This is in addition to your rights under the Australian Consumer Law. See our refund policy for details.
Orders are dispatched from our Auburn NSW stock within 1–2 business days of payment. We deliver across mainland Australia (not Tasmania), and free pickup from our Auburn warehouse can be arranged after you order. See our shipping policy for rates and estimated delivery times.
Frequently asked questions
Is a mesh or foam seat better for long hours?
Neither is better for everyone. Mesh lets air through and stays cooler, which helps over a long day in a warm room. Foam feels softer and more cushioned. If you sit in a warm room, mesh is usually the safer choice. In an air-conditioned office, go with the feel you prefer.
Which seat is cooler in summer?
The mesh seat. Air passes through it, while a foam seat holds more warmth.
Is the foam-seat 9018 the same chair as the mesh version?
Mostly, yes. The backrest, headrest, lumbar support, armrests, recline mechanism and base are the same. The seat and some dimensions differ, as shown in the table above.
Can I mix mesh and foam chairs in one order?
Yes. Both count towards the same volume discount, along with any desks or desktops in your order.
Can I buy just one chair?
Yes. There is no minimum order.
See the chairs
- 9018 Series Ergonomic Mesh Office Chair: grey or black
- 9018 Series Ergonomic Office Chair with Foam Seat: grey or black
For desks to pair with them, read our buyer's guide to ergonomic chairs and height-adjustable desks.