The Hinomi H1 Pro is becoming one of the most asked about chairs and for good reason. Priced at around $600, it features a massive headrest, a footrest, and an all-mesh design, making it a standout option in its price range. This may just be the unicorn that mesh chair shoppers are looking for. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into a detailed review based on my initial impressions.
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Hinomi H1 Pro Chair Links
- Build Quality and Aesthetics
- Arm Design: A Missed Opportunity
- Strongest Backrest
- Seat Needs Improvement
- Headrest and Footrest: Mixed Feelings
1. Build Quality and Aesthetics
Upon first glance, the Hinomi H1 Pro gives a sense of quality. The chair is notably heavy, which in the world of office chairs often correlates with durable components and a solid build. The aesthetics do not disappoint either; it manages to look both sophisticated and substantial without veering into cheap or gimmicky territory.
2. Arm Design: A Missed Opportunity
Next, the arms of the H1 Pro initially caught my attention due to their cantilever design. I had high hopes that they would be similar to the arms of the Steelcase Gesture. Unfortunately, the H1 Pro’s arms fall short of this expectation. Unlike the Gesture, where a single button allows for versatile movement, the H1 Pro requires a more cumbersome process involving a lever to adjust the arms much like the Aeron.
This not only limits their range but also makes them less user-friendly. The arms do not lower enough for comfortable use without pushing my shoulders up, which can lead to discomfort. The pads themselves have adjustable arm caps, which helps, but the pads are not very soft. They are also slick and sloped so my arms slide off the sides quite a bit. However, the flip-up feature of the arms is great especially for those who need to move the arms out of the way for activities like playing a guitar.
3. Strongest Backrest
The backrest of the H1 Pro is arguably its best feature. It borrows the split design from the Ergohuman and enhances it with adjustable lower lumbar support, which significantly impacts comfort levels. The height adjustment also ensures that you get it positioned properly to give the support you need. There are a few locking positions and a tension adjustment that clicks into each new position.
The mesh quality is comparable to that of the Asus Destrier, offering both elasticity and comfort. There is a drawback: the backrest does not support my upper back and shoulders well unless the chair is reclined. This could be a significant issue for users who prefer or need to maintain an upright posture. The recline itself is smooth and easy to use with good range.
4. Seat Needs Improvement
While the backrest appears to be the strongest part of the H1, the seat may be the weakest. I normally don’t love mesh seats and this one is just another example of why. The mesh is not firm enough, causing excessive sinking that increases pressure on specific areas, particularly my tailbone.
Additionally, the pronounced plastic frame restricts movement, making the seat feel more confined than its dimensions suggest similar to gaming chairs. This design would be tough to use for long hours and would become uncomfortable, particularly for those who prefer a more spacious seating area.
5. Headrest and Footrest: Mixed Feelings
The headrest of the H1 Pro is impressive. I love the large size which allows for greater freedom of movement and not hitting an uncomfortable frame. The dual-function adjustment is also a plus, providing better support when reclining. Moving onto the footrest, which I was particularly excited about, turned out to be a mixed bag.
While it offers adequate support for the feet and calves, its design requires the chair to be locked to prevent tipping when used. This limitation can cause a negative experience, especially for those looking to recline comfortably with the footrest extended. Also, when not in use, the footrest folds under the seat and interferes with my legs, which I find annoying though not a dealbreaker.
Bottom Line
Ultimately, the Hinomi H1 Pro offers a mixed experience. It shines in certain areas and falls short in others. For those in the market for a mesh chair around the $600 price point, the H1 Pro could be a contender. It’s important to consider all aspects of the chair before making a purchase. It might just be the right fit for you, or it might prompt you to keep looking.
