Your dining chairs should do more than just complement your table—they should be comfortable and durable. But with so many options out there, how can you tell which ones are good quality and which ones won’t last? Whether you’re furnishing a new dining room or upgrading your current setup, follow our tips to find high quality dining chairs online or in store.

#1: The material of the dining chair

The foundation of any quality chair lies in its materials. Opt for chairs made from solid wood, such as oak, walnut, or maple, which are both durable and timeless. Metal chairs can also be a sturdy choice, if they're well-constructed and rust-resistant. 

For perspex or polycarbonate dining chairs, focus on clarity, thickness, and construction. High-grade plastic should have a smooth, flawless finish with no visible seams, bubbles or discolouration. 

#2: The weight of the dining chair

The weight of a dining chair can be a good indicator of its quality. Heavier chairs are often made of solid, durable materials such as hardwood or high-grade metal, which are built to last. On the other hand, lightweight chairs may be made from less durable materials like particleboard or hollow metal, which can degrade over time. Just keep the design of the chair in mind. It’s not that all lightweight chairs are bad quality–but if a chair looks like it should be heavy, and it’s not, that could be a sign of poor quality materials. 

If you’re in a store, you can move the chairs around to get a good feel for its weight. But if you’re shopping online, you can often find the weight in the product spec sheet. 

#3: The construction of the dining chair

High-quality chairs often feature interlocking joints (e.g. mortise-and-tenon or dovetail joints) which are known for their strength and durability. Avoid chairs held together solely by nails or staples, as these can loosen over time. A sturdy chair will feel solid with no wobbling or creaking when you sit on it.

#4: The upholstery on the dining chair

For upholstered chairs, inspect the fabric or leather closely. Look for straight, even stitches without loose threads or gaps (bonus points if it has double stitching or reinforced seams). Also look for springy padding. High-quality upholstery is secured tightly over firm, resilient padding that keeps its shape after use. Press down on the seat and backrest to check for even support. If you’re buying upholstered dining chairs in a pattered fabric, make sure the pattern lines up perfectly at the seams and edges. 

#5: The stability of the dining chair

The wobble test. Place the chair on a flat surface and take a seat. A well-made chair will be stable without tipping or rocking. Check that all legs touch the ground evenly and that the chair doesn't sway under your weight. This stability is a sure sign of good joinery.

#6: The ergonomics of the dining chair

A high quality dining chair prioritises both form and function. It should encourage proper posture, with a backrest that follows the natural curve of the spine while you’re sitting. Armrests should be at an ergonomic height to support your arms without causing shoulder strain. And the seat width should give you enough space to sit comfortably without feeling cramped. 

High quality dining chairs from Swyft

Dining Chair 01

With its beautifully curved wooden frame, the Dining Chair 01 is a staple for any dining room. Its minimalist, smooth lines are built from solid wood with interlocking joints for durability and longevity. 

Shop the Dining Chair 01 and pair with the Dining Table 01. 

Dining Chair 02

Our Dining Chair 02 has a retro, ‘70s-inspired design. Built with solid oak wood and a red oak lacquered finish, it’s a timeless piece that’s designed to last. 

Shop the Dining Chair 02 and the round Dining Table 02.