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Varier · Standing & Saddle

Varier Variable balans

Designed by Peter Opsvik · 1979 · Varier

Active sitting and posture variation.

NOK 4,449 – NOK 5,849

≈ $470 – $620

  • 10-year warranty
Check price on Amazon

Summary

Peter Opsvik's 1979 kneeling chair on rocking wooden runners, the original of the balans idea.

Best for

  • People who like to keep shifting position while they sit.
  • Heights from 150 to 205 cm, the range Varier gives.
  • Standard desks of about 71 to 76 cm.

Good to check first

  • Varier says it can take time to get used to, and suggests starting with short sessions.
  • The seat height is fixed at 50 cm (19.7 in); check it against your desk.
  • You do not have to kneel; one or both feet can rest on the floor.

The trade-off

Free, rocking movement in a compact chair, with no backrest or height adjustment.

Value check

Lists at NOK 4,449 to NOK 5,849 at Varier's Norwegian store, depending on upholstery and base.

Price
NOK 4,449 – NOK 5,849
Warranty
10 years

What Varier highlights

  • Rocking runners

    Curved runners let the chair rock gently as you shift your weight. Varier says this keeps you moving between positions.

  • Tilted seat and shin rests

    The seat tilts forward, and two cushions below it rest your shins. You can use both, one or neither.

  • Moulded plywood

    The frame is moulded beech plywood with an ash top veneer, sanded by hand and finished with water-based lacquer.

As described by Varier on its official pages; not a Chairpedia assessment.

Before you buy

Fit (official)

  • For users 150–205 cm (4'11"–6'9"); tested up to 110 kg (about 243 lb).
  • Seat height 50 cm (19.7 in); seat width 41.5 cm.
  • Overall 52 cm W × 72 cm D × 51 cm H.

Delivery and setup

  • 10-year guarantee.
  • Varier's store lists free shipping.

Sources: Varier, Variable ↗ (checked Oct 12, 2026)

Check price on Amazon

Specs

Size and fit
Sizes
W 52 cm x D 72 cm x H 51 cm (chair dimensions); can be used by individuals between 150 cm and 205 cm
Seat height
50 cm (about 19.7 in)
Seat width
41,5 cm (about 16.3 in)
Load capacity
Tested for use by individuals up to 110 kg (about 243 lb)
Build and warranty
Warranty
10-YEAR GUARANTEE
Made in
Poland (designed in Norway)

About Varier

Based in
Oslo, Norway

Varier describes itself as an Oslo furniture company whose chairs invite you to move while you sit.

Questions

How much does the Varier Variable balans cost?

It costs NOK 4,449 – NOK 5,849 at the Varier Store (Norway), about $470 – $620 at a fixed exchange rate (checked Sep 2026).

What is the Varier Variable balans's weight capacity?

It is rated for Tested for use by individuals up to 110 kg in Standard, according to Varier's official specifications.

What sizes or versions of the Varier Variable balans are there?

It comes in W 52 cm x D 72 cm x H 51 cm (chair dimensions); can be used by individuals between 150 cm and 205 cm.

What do owners say about back pain with the Varier Variable balans?

Back pain comes up in 2 owner review summaries. These are owners' own reports, not medical findings.

Where can I buy the Varier Variable balans?

You can buy it from Amazon or the Varier Store (Norway). Check the configuration, price and return terms before ordering.

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Where to buy

Amazon returns are typically 30 days of delivery but set per listing — check before ordering. Some links are affiliate links; Chairpedia may earn a commission at no extra cost to you (disclosure).

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Specs and prices come from the brand sources listed under Specs and next to the price; User Insights link to their originals. Confirm the exact configuration, seller and price before buying. Editorial policy

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