Most of my work days involve a slow decline–in posture, that is. Armed with my coffee and good intentions, I start off in that relaxed-but-straight-backed position that we're all taught is proper. But without even realizing it, at some point before lunch I start slouching, and by the end of the day I'm usually slumped curve-backed over my keyboard.

Knoll's Generation chair promises to help desk-workers like me avoid the afternoon slump by allowing for freedom of movement throughout the day. My current, traditional office chair, like most, pretty much allows for a single position: facing forward, with my back vertical. Thanks to elastomer upholstery and a design that incorporates principles of “holistic ergonomics,” the Generation is flexible enough to adapt to a range of positions. So it will respond as you lean back until you're staring at the ceiling; turn around backward in a straddling position and bend the chair back to use as an elbow rest; and sit sideways with armrest-provided lumbar support.

The Knoll press releases call the Generation a chair for a “collaborative” and “contemporary” workplace. It is exactly the chair you would expect to see in a very particular office–one of those cutting-edge, Google-esque tech companies with modern furniture, bright colors and an open layout where employees are constantly swiveling and twisting to toss around ideas and, if the clich?s are right, to toss around a Nerf ball.