Steelcase Gesture

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Steelcase Gesture Office Chair Instruction Manual

Model: Gesture | Brand: Steelcase

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of your Steelcase Gesture Office Chair. Designed for ergonomic support and comfort, the Gesture chair offers a wide range of adjustments to suit individual preferences and promote good posture during extended periods of use. Please read this manual thoroughly before using your chair to ensure proper setup and to maximize its benefits.

Steelcase Gesture Office Chair, front-side view

Figure 1: Steelcase Gesture Office Chair in Cogent Connect Graphite.

Features

  • Connect Fabric: Upholstered with 100% polyester Connect fabric for durability and comfort.
  • Hard Floor Caster Wheels: Equipped with wheels suitable for hard flooring surfaces.
  • Ergonomic Adjustments: Features include adjustable seat depth, fully adjustable arms, pneumatic seat height adjustment, recline tension adjustment, and a 4-position recline lock.
  • Wrapped Back and Seat: Provides a sleek aesthetic and enhanced comfort.
  • Synchronized System: The seat and back move as a synchronized system, adapting to your body's movements for continuous support.
  • Durability: Designed for 24/7 use, ensuring long-term performance and comfort.
  • Warranty: Backed by a 12-year manufacturer warranty.

Setup

Your Steelcase Gesture Office Chair ships ready to assemble. While specific assembly instructions are typically included in the packaging, the chair is designed for straightforward setup.

General Assembly Steps:

  1. Unpack Components: Carefully remove all parts from the packaging and lay them out on a clean, flat surface. Verify all components are present against the packing list.
  2. Attach Casters: Insert the hard floor caster wheels into the base of the chair until they click securely into place.
  3. Insert Gas Lift: Place the gas lift cylinder into the center hole of the chair base.
  4. Attach Seat and Back Assembly: Carefully align the seat and back assembly with the top of the gas lift cylinder and press down firmly until it is securely seated.
  5. Final Checks: Ensure all connections are secure and the chair functions correctly before use.
Steelcase Gesture Office Chair in an office setting

Figure 2: Steelcase Gesture Chair in a typical office environment.

Operating Instructions: Adjusting Your Chair

The Steelcase Gesture chair is designed with intuitive controls to allow for personalized adjustments. All primary controls are located on the right side of the chair for easy access.

1. Seat Height Adjustment

To adjust the seat height, locate the lever on the right side, towards the front of the seat.

  • To Raise: Lift your body weight slightly off the seat and pull the lever up. The seat will rise. Release the lever at your desired height.
  • To Lower: Remain seated and pull the lever up. The seat will lower. Release the lever at your desired height.

Adjust the seat height so your feet are flat on the floor and your knees are at approximately a 90-degree angle.

Person sitting in Steelcase Gesture chair, adjusting seat height

Figure 3: Demonstrating seat height adjustment.

2. Seat Depth Adjustment

The seat depth adjustment helps relieve pressure on the back of your legs and improves circulation.

  • Locate the knob on the right side, beneath the front of the seat.
  • To Extend: Turn the knob away from you to move the seat forward.
  • To Retract: Turn the knob towards you to move the seat backward.

Position the seat depth so there are 2-3 inches between the front edge of the seat and the back of your knees.

Side view of Steelcase Gesture chair, highlighting seat depth

Figure 4: Seat depth adjustment mechanism.

3. Back Tension Adjustment and Recline Lock

This control adjusts the resistance of the chair's recline and allows you to lock the backrest in various positions.

  • Locate the knob on the right side, towards the back of the seat.
  • Recline Tension: Turn the knob forward for more recline resistance, and backward for less resistance.
  • Recline Lock: The chair features a 4-position recline lock. Use the lever next to the tension knob to select your desired recline limit or to lock the chair in an upright position.
Back view of Steelcase Gesture chair, showing recline mechanism

Figure 5: Back tension and recline lock controls.

4. Armrest Adjustments (360° Arm)

The 360° armrests offer comprehensive adjustability to support the full range of motion of your arms.

  • Height Adjustment: Lift the lever located under each armrest to adjust the arm height. Release the lever to lock.
  • Width Adjustment: Push the armrests in or out to adjust their width.
  • Depth and Pivot Adjustment: Grasp the arm caps and slide them forward, backward, or pivot them in any direction to find your optimal position.
Close-up of Steelcase Gesture armrest adjustment

Figure 6: Detailed view of the 360° armrest controls.

5. Height Adjustable Lumbar Support (Optional)

If your chair is equipped with optional lumbar support, you can adjust its height for personalized lower back comfort.

  • Grasp the handles on both sides of the lumbar support.
  • Slide the lumbar support up or down to your desired position in the lower back area.

6. Headrest Adjustment (If applicable)

For models equipped with a headrest, adjust its position for optimal neck and head support.

  • Height Adjustment: Grasp the headrest pad and move it up or down to adjust its height.
  • Angle Adjustment: Grasp the supports and pivot the headrest pad forward or backward, and rotate it to adjust the angle for personalized comfort.
Diagram showing Steelcase Gesture headrest dimensions and adjustments

Figure 7: Headrest adjustment options.

Video Guide: Steelcase Gesture Features and Adjustments

Video 1: This video demonstrates the various features and adjustment mechanisms of the Steelcase Gesture chair, including seat height, seat depth, recline tension, recline lock, armrest, lumbar, and headrest adjustments. (Source: BACKSTORE)

Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and continued performance of your Steelcase Gesture Office Chair.

  • Product Care Instructions: Spot wash the fabric upholstery as needed. Use a mild soap and water solution, gently dabbing the affected area. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
  • Regular Cleaning: Dust the chair regularly with a soft, dry cloth. For deeper cleaning, consult the fabric care guide provided with your chair or visit the Steelcase website for specific instructions.
  • Caster Maintenance: Periodically check the hard floor caster wheels for any accumulated debris (hair, lint, etc.) and clean them to ensure smooth movement.
  • Inspect Components: Regularly inspect all moving parts and fasteners to ensure they are secure. Do not attempt to lubricate any internal mechanisms unless specifically instructed by Steelcase.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with your Steelcase Gesture Office Chair, please refer to the following common troubleshooting tips.

  • Chair Not Adjusting Height: Ensure the height adjustment lever is fully engaged. If the chair is not moving up or down, check if there is any obstruction or if the gas lift cylinder requires replacement (contact support).
  • Recline Not Working: Check the recline tension knob and recline lock lever. Ensure they are not set to a locked position that prevents movement. Adjust the tension to your preference.
  • Squeaking Noises: Ensure all assembly bolts are tightened. Avoid over-tightening. If squeaking persists, identify the source and contact support if necessary.
  • Casters Not Rolling Smoothly: Inspect the caster wheels for debris (hair, dust, etc.) and clean them thoroughly. Ensure the casters are appropriate for your flooring type.

For issues not covered here, please contact Steelcase customer support.

Specifications

AttributeDetail
BrandSteelcase
Model NameGesture
ColorCogent Connect Graphite
Product Dimensions28.75"D x 28.75"W x 40.25"H
SizeMedium Height Range (16" - 21")
Special FeatureAdjustable Height, Arm Rest, Ergonomic, Seat Lock
Product Care InstructionsSpot Wash
Recommended UsesOffice
Maximum Weight Recommendation400 Pounds
MaterialTextile (Connect fabric is 100% polyester), Foam (Fill Material)
Surface RecommendationHard Floor
Item Weight78 pounds
UPC619084065586

Warranty and Support

Your Steelcase Gesture Office Chair is covered by a 12-year manufacturer warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Steelcase website.

For technical support, warranty claims, or replacement parts, please contact Steelcase customer service through their official website or the contact information provided in your product packaging.

© 2026 Steelcase. All rights reserved.

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