If you have ever thought barber chairs and styling chairs meant the same things, you're not alone. Even though it is unknown to many people, there are significant differences between a barber chair and a styling chair. Both of these chairs fall into the general term of "salon chairs" that encapsulates the world of pretty much all chairs used in salons or spas, including foot massage chairs, spa massage chairs, and even waiting room chairs.
Barber chairs are different from styling chairs as they include a full-recline feature suited for shaving. On the flip side, styling chairs provide better positioning for styling hair and more suited for hairstylists.
What Is the Difference Between A Barber Chair and A Stylist Chair?
Apart from the difference in feature and purpose, these two have differences in their target users as well. As the name suggests, barber chair is more used in barbershops that is a male-dominated area. Therefore, these chairs have a more masculine build and appearance that fits in perfectly in a barbershop. Whereas, stylist chair has a more neutral look and feel to it, appealing to the female users as well.
Barber Chair Vs. Styling Chair Pricing
Since styling chairs are built with durable and often light materials, they are cheaper and more affordable in comparison to barber chairs. Barber chairs often include premium upholstery and high-tech features that drive up the price of the chairs. Barber chairs have a sturdier build and are made to last a lifetime. It often includes additional features such as a footrest, headrest, and armrest, which are usually removable to deliver ultimate comfort. Stylist chairs typically do not have these additional features and require less material resulting in lower prices. Another factor driving up the costs of barber chairs is the hydraulics which is often absent in styling chairs.
Barber Chair Vs. Styling Chair Durability
As mentioned earlier, the barber chair is the more durable between the two. Some antique and vintage barber chairs have retained perfect condition with proper care and maintenance. Barber chairs are made to be stationary which is why it is bulkier and heavier because barbershop appointments are usually brief. On the other hand, stylist chairs are often made of aluminum frames and have a thinner shaft to keep them light and mobile. Because of their more lightweight build, stylist chairs are also prone to damage if used roughly. These chairs are more suitable more women's salons where appointments include multiple steps such as coloring, shampooing, and hair treatments.
Barber Chair Vs. Styling Chair Experience
The difference in the experience of these two chairs is the most apparent dissimilarity between these chairs that can be noticed even by the untrained eye. Barber chairs, without any doubt, are designed for a more luxurious experience targeted towards men and focuses on beard care. They often have decorated armrests and headrests for a more deluxe appeal. In contrast, a stylist chair offers more functionality and a modern experience. The main drive in its design is to be more functional for a stylist's diverse hairstyles and serve people with longer hair.
If you plan to open a business that offers both barbershop and salon styling services, it's crucial to equip your salon with suitable chairs. Whether you choose barber chairs or styling chairs or even choose to mix-n-match, there is an abundance of salon chairs available in various models guaranteed to meet your needs.
