Eames Soft Pad Chair Replica: What to Know Before Buying
An Eames Soft Pad chair replica is a reproduction of the padded office chair Charles and Ray Eames introduced in 1969: leather cushions sewn on over a cast aluminium frame. Before you buy one, check four things: the model (low back, high back or meeting chair), the seat height range against your desk, the frame and leather, and the tilt mechanism. This guide walks through each.
- The Eames Soft Pad chair dates from 1969: padded leather cushions sewn on over a cast aluminium frame.
- There are three models: the EA217 (low back) and EA219 (high back) for desks, and the EA208 meeting chair.
- On the adjustable models the seat runs from 49 to 60 cm, 3.5 cm higher than the panel chairs, which matters if you are shorter.
- Check the frame, the leather, the stitching of the pads and the tilt mechanism before you buy.
- Choose the Soft Pad for comfort and a more executive look; choose the panel chair if you want a slimmer, lower seat.
What is the Eames Soft Pad chair?
In 1958 Charles and Ray Eames introduced a cast aluminium chair with a single panel stretched between its side frames, the Aluminium Group. In 1969 they added a padded version: the same kind of frame, with cushions sewn on over it. That padded version is the Soft Pad, and it has been a familiar executive office chair ever since.
The sewn-on cushions are what set it apart. They give a softer seat and a more formal look than the slim panel chair, while keeping the light aluminium frame.
The three Soft Pad models
Figures are from the Mobelaris product specifications. The EA219, for example, is 58 cm wide and 62 cm deep, with a seat 53 cm wide and an overall height of 106.5 to 117.5 cm.
- EA217: the everyday desk chair. Low back, full adjustment.
- EA219: the same chair with a high back, for long working days or taller sitters. Often chosen for private offices and management desks.
- EA208: a fixed-height meeting chair that swivels but does not tilt, for conference tables and visitor seating.
Soft Pad or Aluminium Group panel?
The height difference is the one to check. On the adjustable models the Soft Pad sits 3.5 cm higher at both ends of its range. If you are shorter, or your desk is low, the panel chairs may fit you better. Our Eames office chair guide compares every model in the family.
What to check before buying an Eames Soft Pad chair replica
The frame
The frame and base carry the design and your weight, so start there. Look for cast aluminium with a polished or chrome-plated finish and a five-star base. The Mobelaris EA217 and EA219 list a cast aluminium frame with chrome plating, and the EA219 a commercial-quality specification. If a listing does not name the frame material, ask.
The leather and the pads
The pads should be leather, with the grade named on the listing, over firm padding that springs back when pressed. Look at the stitching between the cushions in close-up photos: the seams should be straight and evenly spaced. Uneven or loose stitching is the easiest sign of a rushed build to spot.
The mechanism
On a desk chair, check that the tilt can be held upright for typing as well as left to recline, and that the height adjusts through the range you need. The adjustable Mobelaris Soft Pad chairs list swivel, tilt adjustment and a static upright or recline setting. A meeting chair such as the EA208 should swivel smoothly but does not need a tilt.
The size
Check three measurements against your space: the seat height range against your desk, the footprint (roughly 58 by 62 cm), and, if the chair needs to slide under the desk, the armrest height. Armrest height is not listed in the specifications, so ask customer support before ordering if it matters.
Lead time, warranty and returns
Read these on the product page of the exact chair and colour you want, as they are set chair by chair. Upholstered office chairs are heavy to send back, so check the returns terms before you order.
Colours and finishes
The Soft Pad chairs come in leather, with black the classic choice; some models, such as the EA219, are also offered in brown. Black suits a formal office or a monochrome room; brown warms up a study with wooden furniture. Check each product page for the colours available.
Caring for a Soft Pad chair
- Dust the leather and the frame regularly with a soft cloth.
- Clean the leather with a leather cleaner when needed, and apply a leather conditioner occasionally.
- Wipe the chrome-plated frame with a soft, dry cloth; avoid harsh household cleaners.
- Keep the chair out of strong direct sun, which can fade and dry leather.
Soft Pad chair replica or original?
The licensed original carries provenance and resale value, and costs considerably more. A well-made Soft Pad chair replica gives you the same padded design for everyday use at a much lower price. The chairs at Mobelaris are reproductions, not manufactured by or affiliated with the original designers.
Frequently asked questions
What is an Eames Soft Pad chair?
It is the padded version of the Eames aluminium office chair, introduced by Charles and Ray Eames in 1969. Leather cushions are sewn on over a cast aluminium frame of the same shape as the earlier Aluminium Group chair. A Soft Pad chair replica is a reproduction made by another maker in that style.
What is the difference between the Soft Pad and the Aluminium Group chair?
The frame is similar; the seat is not. The Aluminium Group chair has a single panel stretched between the frames, while the Soft Pad has padded cushions sewn on. On the adjustable models the Soft Pad sits 3.5 cm higher, from 49 cm against 45.5 cm, and weighs about 1 kg more.
Is the Eames Soft Pad chair good for long hours?
The adjustable EA217 and EA219 are designed for daily desk work: they offer height adjustment, swivel and a tilt that can be held upright or left to recline, with padded leather on top. The high-back EA219 supports more of your back. The fixed-height EA208 is a meeting chair rather than an all-day desk chair.
Which Soft Pad model should I choose?
Choose the EA217 for a low back and a lighter look, the EA219 for a high back and more support over a long day, or the EA208 for a meeting table, where a fixed 46 cm seat and swivel are all you need. Check the seat range of the adjustable models against your desk first.
How do I clean a leather Soft Pad chair?
Dust it regularly with a soft cloth and clean the leather with a leather cleaner when needed, then apply a leather conditioner occasionally to keep it supple. Wipe the chrome-plated frame with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh household cleaners on both the leather and the frame.
Does a Soft Pad chair replica need assembling?
Only a simple fitting: the seat and back fit onto the base, which the product pages describe as top-to-base assembly. Assembly is not included as standard, but customer support can quote for it. The product page of each chair lists its own lead time and warranty.
The bottom line
A good Eames Soft Pad chair replica has a cast aluminium frame, named leather over firm pads with straight stitching, and a tilt that holds upright as well as reclines. Choose the EA217 or EA219 for a desk, the EA208 for meetings, and check the seat range first. See the EA217 and EA219, or browse the full range of Eames office chairs.