Mesh vs. Leather Gaming Chairs – Which One is better? - NearHub

05 Jun.,2025

 

Mesh vs. Leather Gaming Chairs – Which One is better? - NearHub

Choosing between a mesh office chair vs. leather can be a tough decision, especially when comfort and durability are key. This article delves into the benefits of each, including breathability, cushioning, and the all-important gaming chair lumbar support. Whether you prefer the lightweight flexibility of mesh or the luxurious feel of leather, we examine how each material supports ergonomic gaming and long hours of sitting. Plus, discover whether a cloth gaming chair could be a good compromise for those seeking a balanced option.

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When it comes to choosing the perfect gaming chair, one of the biggest questions that pop up is: Mesh vs. Leather gaming chairs – which one is better? As gamers, comfort is crucial, but so is style and durability. Both mesh and leather gaming chairs have their perks and downsides, and deciding which is best for you depends on several factors like comfort, breathability, maintenance, and even aesthetics.

I get it – choosing the right chair can feel like a big decision, especially when you'll be spending hours in it. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, someone working from home, or just someone who spends long hours in front of a screen, finding the right balance between comfort and functionality is key. So let’s break down everything you need to know about mesh office chair vs. leather options, and see which one suits your needs better!

Mesh Office Chair vs Leather – Key Differences You Need to Know

Before diving into the pros and cons, let’s take a look at what each of these materials brings to the table.

What is Mesh in a Gaming Chair?

Mesh refers to the breathable fabric material often found on the backrest and seat of many office and gaming chairs. It's made from a woven material that allows air to flow through, keeping you cool even during long gaming sessions or work hours. If you’ve ever had to sit in a chair for hours and felt the heat building up, mesh gaming chairs can really make a difference in terms of breathability.

What is Leather in a Gaming Chair?

On the other hand, leather (or faux leather) is a smooth, sleek material that offers a more traditional and luxurious feel. Leather chairs often have that glossy, premium look that can fit into a variety of settings, whether it's your home office, gaming room, or even a modern workspace. Leather gaming chairs tend to feel softer and more cushioned, providing a smooth, almost ergonomic seating experience, but they might not be as breathable as their mesh counterparts.

Mesh Gaming Chair: Pros and Cons

Let’s dive deeper into the pros and cons of mesh gaming chairs.

Pros of Mesh Gaming Chairs

  1. Breathability and Comfort – The biggest advantage of mesh chairs is that they allow air to circulate, helping to keep your body cool and dry, especially during intense gaming sessions or long hours of work. If you’re someone who gets hot easily, a mesh gaming chair is a great option to prevent sweating and discomfort.
  2. Ergonomically Supportive – Mesh gaming chairs often come with great ergonomic features, offering support for your lumbar region. If you’re someone who needs a chair that will support your posture, many mesh office chairs come equipped with lumbar support to keep you sitting upright and comfortable.
  3. Lightweight and Flexible – Mesh is generally lighter than leather, which means mesh gaming chairs are easier to move around. Plus, the flexibility of the material allows for a bit of give, which adds to the overall comfort.
  4. Affordable Option – Mesh chairs tend to be more affordable compared to leather chairs. If you’re on a budget, a mesh gaming chair can still offer great ergonomic features without breaking the bank.

Cons of Mesh Gaming Chairs

  1. Less Luxurious Look – While mesh gaming chairs are functional, they tend to look less premium than leather. If aesthetics and a polished appearance are important to you, mesh chairs might not give you that sleek, high-end look you’re going for.
  2. Durability Concerns – While mesh is generally durable, it can sometimes be prone to wear and tear, especially if exposed to rough treatment over time. Plus, the fabric can stretch and sag, which may affect the long-term comfort.
  3. Less Cushioning – Mesh chairs may feel firmer compared to leather chairs, which might not suit those who prefer a softer, more plush seating experience.

Leather Gaming Chair: Pros and Cons

Now, let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of leather gaming chairs.

Pros of Leather Gaming Chairs

  1. Premium Look and Feel – Leather chairs, especially those made from genuine leather, have a sophisticated, luxurious look. They often convey a sense of high-quality craftsmanship, making them a favorite choice for those looking to enhance the aesthetics of their gaming or office setup.
  2. Soft and Plush Comfort – Leather gaming chairs tend to be much softer and more padded, which means a more comfortable and cushioned seating experience. If you like that feeling of being wrapped in luxury, a leather gaming chair will give you exactly that.
  3. Durable and Easy to Clean – Leather is generally more durable and easier to clean than mesh. A simple wipe-down can keep your leather chair looking pristine for longer, whereas mesh can trap dust and stains more easily.
  4. Temperature Regulation – Leather tends to retain body heat, making it great for colder environments. If you’re in a cool climate and want a chair that keeps you warm, leather might be the better option.

Cons of Leather Gaming Chairs

  1. Lack of Breathability – One of the biggest downsides of leather is that it’s not as breathable as mesh. If you spend long hours sitting, you may feel too warm, sweaty, or uncomfortable, especially during intense gaming sessions or while working for long periods.
  2. Higher Price Tag – Leather gaming chairs are often more expensive than their mesh counterparts. If you’re on a tight budget but still want a comfortable chair, you may find mesh to be the more affordable option.
  3. Maintenance – While leather is easy to clean, it requires more maintenance than mesh to keep it looking good. You may need to condition the leather from time to time to prevent cracking and ensure its longevity.
  4. Sticky in Hot Weather – If you live in a hot and humid environment, sitting in a leather chair can feel sticky and uncomfortable. The material doesn't allow your skin to breathe, which could result in a sweaty back and legs.

Mesh vs. Leather: Which One is Right for You?

When deciding between a mesh office chair vs leather, you’ll need to consider what’s most important to you: comfort, durability, and aesthetics.

  • Go for Mesh If:
    • You need a breathable chair to stay cool.
    • You want a more budget-friendly option.
    • Comfort and lumbar support are your top priorities.
  • Go for Leather If:
    • You love that premium, sleek, and polished look.
    • You prefer a softer, more cushioned chair.
    • You don't mind doing some extra maintenance and cleaning.

If you're someone who spends a lot of time sitting, no matter if you’re gaming or working, check out these related guides:

  • Ergonomic Office Chair for Petite Person – Looking for a chair that fits just right? This guide on ergonomic office chairs is designed specifically for petite people.
  • Best Office Chair for Short Women – Need a chair that caters to shorter frames? We’ve got you covered with the best office chairs for short women.
  • WFH Chair – Need a comfortable chair for your home office? Check out our top picks for the best WFH chairs.
  • TV on a Rolling Stand – Check out our top picks for TV stands on wheels that cater to different screen sizes, offering a sleek and practical solution for your home or office setup.

FAQs About Mesh vs. Leather Gaming Chairs

1. Which chair is better for long hours of gaming?

For long gaming sessions, a mesh chair might be a better option due to its breathability and support. Leather chairs can get too hot and sticky during extended sitting.

2. Can a leather gaming chair provide good lumbar support?

Yes! Many leather gaming chairs come with built-in lumbar support, but it really depends on the design and brand.

3. Are mesh gaming chairs more affordable than leather?

Yes, mesh chairs tend to be more affordable compared to leather gaming chairs, which often come with a higher price tag.

4. Which chair lasts longer, mesh or leather?

Leather chairs generally last longer if maintained well, but mesh chairs are also durable, though they can wear out quicker if not cared for properly.

5. Is a cloth gaming chair a good alternative?

Cloth gaming chairs can offer a balance between mesh and leather. They are breathable like mesh but tend to be softer and more cushioned, though they may not be as easy to clean as leather.

Your Top Ergonomic Chair Questions - Answered! | MotionGrey Blog

Thinking about doing upgrades in your workspace and considering an ergonomic chair? In Canada, there is great importance placed on workplace ergonomics. In fact, there are laws concerning this and organizations working to manage the way workplaces are designed. Ergonomic hazards are covered under the Canada Labour Code. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Acts and Regulations are also in place to regulate ergonomics in the workplace, with the goal of preventing musculoskeletal disorders among office workers.

There are several ways to address and improve ergonomics in the workplace, and among the most effective is the replacement of old equipment with new, ergonomic equipment. An adjustable ergonomic chair is one of the first things you can get to start transforming your space and make it more ergonomic and healthier to work in. If you’re still hesitant or you have questions in mind, this post is for you. Read on.

The Most Common Questions People Ask before Investing in an Ergonomic Chair

Do you happen to have any of these questions? Check out the answers to help you decide when it’s time to make the move to going ergonomic.

What makes a chair ergonomic?

Before answering this question, let us first look into what an ergonomic chair is. For one, it is a chair designed to adjust to the human body, to different types of bodies, in fact. You will hear people complain about back pain after a day at the office, seated in front of the computer. This is often caused by prolonged sitting, but a poorly designed chair can worsen the problem.

An ergonomic chair is designed to be adjustable to the body, able to meet the body’s needs in various positions—whether you are seated, leaning forward, or backward. What makes a chair ergonomic are the adjustability features it is equipped with, including the following:

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  • Adjustability in height
  • Adjustability in back tilt
  • Adjustable armrest
  • Adjustable headrest
  • Tilt ratio between the backrest and the seat

When looking for an ergonomic chair, be sure to check out the said features.

Do I need a headrest in my office chair?

Some people definitely need a headrest, especially those who seem to be prone to neck and shoulder pain. In this case, a headrest is helpful when you recline for some rest. Meanwhile, other people feel they don’t need a headrest, or even that a headrest can get in the way of movement.

The answer to this question will depend on what you need in your ergonomic chair. In Canada, you’ll find chairs with and without a headrest. Those with headrest will be more expensive than those without, but they pay off in certain instances.

If you find yourself needing to sit longer than usual, then a headrest will give your back, neck, and head some much-needed rest for when you take a break from what you are doing. If you don’t sit very long and often find yourself having to get up from your chair now and then (which is recommended, by the way), then you may invest in a chair with no headrest.

How helpful is a 4-dimensional armrest in my ergonomic chair?

Are you looking for increased mobility while seated? Do you find yourself needing to reach for things from your chair and need as much space as possible? If the answer is yes, then a 4D armrest in your chair is helpful. A 4D armrest is one that you can adjust in 4 ways—up and down for height adjustment, forward and backward, left and right, as well as rotate the armrest horizontally.

This gives you enough space to do everything you need to do while seated without the armrest getting in the way. Increased armrest adjustability also ensures your arms, hands, and wrist will be comfortable as you type on your computer and perform other tasks on your desk.

Which is better—an ergonomic office chair or a gaming chair?

In Canada, you’ll find a wide array of chair types and designs for different uses, or for multi-use. Some chairs have more features than others; some are designed with more adjustment options than other. But in this case, does that mean more is better? It depends on what you need.

In terms of adjustability, more is better. And, either a gaming or an office chair will have more, depending on the chair design. Check back to the earlier part of this post for the adjustment features you need to look into when deciding on a chair.

In terms of features, more is not necessarily better. To find the right chair for you, ask yourself what features will give you the best benefits. For instance, you will find gaming chairs in Canada to be equipped with extra features such as a Bluetooth speaker. They come in a greater number of color options, are bulkier, and can have a seat design imitating that of racecars (more for style than function).

So ask yourself—what are you going to use the chair for? Your answer should determine the right chair for you. For more comparative details, check THIS POST.

Which is better—an ergonomic mesh chair or leather chair?

Both types of chairs offer a set of advantages and benefits. The right choice will depend on your particular need, the benefits you are looking for, and your particular situation. Check out a quick list of the benefits of each.

Mesh Chair

  • Breathable
  • Lighter and more versatile
  • Modern, sleek, and clean
  • Cheaper

Leather Chair

  • Elegant
  • Offers more support
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Requires little maintenance

For a complete comparison, you may check THIS POST.

Is it safer to sit in an ergonomic chair longer?

It’s important to note that prolonged sitting is never healthy. If at all possible, get up and move from your chair! The Mayo Clinic shared that sitting for more than 8 hours a day with no physical activity poses a mortality risk comparable to that posed by smoking and obesity.

So, before we answer this question, be reminded that whether you are sitting in an ergonomic chair or a regular chair, don’t sit for too long. That said, between an ergonomic and a regular chair, the former will offer more support when you need to sit longer than usual. Its adjustable features will allow you to sit in various positions and receive the support you need for your body.

What do I look for in an ergonomic office chair?

In Canada, the ergonomic chairs that you will find can come with a large variety of features, but which of these do you really need to focus on?

  • The more adjustability features a chair has, the better.
  • Lumbar support. Look into the recline angle and the chair material to ensure you’ll receive sufficient support for your back.
  • Seat support. This primarily pertains to the seat, both the material and design. Look for enough cushion, not too soft and not too hard, as well as a friendly design that will care for your thighs and legs. In general, a waterfall seat design is preferred because it reduces pressure from your thighs and legs.

For a complete list of things to consider when shopping for an ergonomic chair, check out THIS POST.

How long do ergonomic chairs in Canada last?

The answer to this question will depend on the quality of the ergonomic chair, to begin with. On average, you will find adjustable chairs in Canada that will last up to a decade. There are even chairs that can last longer than that, depending on the construction and design.

However, remember that you will also play a part in the lifespan of your chair. The way you use it every day and the kind of stress you subject the chair to will determine whether it will last a long time or will get damaged prematurely. When shopping for a new chair, don’t forget to check the warranty coverage to ensure you are covered for at least the first couple of years of the chair after purchase.

What is the best ergonomic office chair in Canada?

The good thing about the answer to this question is that there is no one best chair for everybody. Depending on your need, there is a right chair for you.

Do you need a leather chair that is versatile enough for both work and gaming use? Check out the Enforcer Chair. How about a leather chair that can handle a bigger body build and taller height? We recommend the Guardian Office Chair. How about a mesh chair that is both comfortable to use, sturdy, and able to handle a good amount of weight? Check out the Airglide Office Chair! Meanwhile, if you’re on a budget and still want to get the best value for your money, check the Motion MS1.

For a line-up of our top ergonomic chair picks, you may check out this POST.

How much do ergonomic chairs in Canada cost?

The range of the price of ergonomic chairs in Canada is wide. You will find chairs that go as low as $100 and chairs that can go as high as $. But how do these chairs differ? Well one, they might differ in features. The higher-priced chairs may have more advance features in terms of adjustability. Two, the distinguishing factor could be the material used in the construction, with chairs in the higher range being made from highly durable and longer-lasting materials.

Now the important question is this: do you need to spend thousands of bucks for a good chair? The answer is no. You will find chairs that will have the features you specifically need at a price that won’t break the bank. The important thing to do is to determine which features are a must-have for you and which features you can do away with. Once you find the essential features, look for a chair that will give you a balance between these features and the price.

We hope the information we have provided will be helpful for you in making the decision to shift to an ergonomic chair and in finding the right chair that will meet your specific needs. Check our catalog for more high-quality and affordable ergonomic chair options, some of the best you will find in Canada!

About Us

MotionGrey is a Canadian standing desk company that specializes in ergonomic furniture. We supply and install only the best quality standing desks and ergonomic chairs in the country.

For more information, please visit Pu Leather Gaming Chair.