The standard height that all bar stools used to be was 30 inches tall. In the past, this was a good height for most kitchens and for most people. With the seat 30 inches off the floor most people were comfortable.

The Foot Rail Location Must Be Comfortable

One aspect of the comfort of the counter stool is where the foot rail is located. On most stools it is about halfway from the floor to the seat. When the person falls within the average range of heights and the kitchen counter is at a height of about 40 inches to 44 inches, the halfway rail is pretty comfortable. It prevents the person from having to try to reach the floor with their feet, or from being cramped trying to keep their feet on a too-high foot rail.

The height of the seat needs to be compared to the height of the counter top. If you are an average-sized person, you need about 8 inches to 10 inches between them to fit your thighs without squeezing. A 30 inch seat height and a 40 inch to 44 inch counter height allows for that.

You can see that a 44 inch counter height would give more leeway for people who are a little larger. There is also the problem of people who are taller. They often need taller kitchen counter stools. They need a higher foot rail in order to comfortably rest their feet. Otherwise, they are forced to stretch down and put their feet on the floor from the height of the kitchen counter stool.

34 Inch Counter Stools Are More Comfortable

Builders are now going for counter heights of 45 inches or more. With these heights, the 30 inch counter stools are simply too short for most people. They put people with their faces too close to their plates if they are eating, and too close to their beverages if they are drinking. It can make people feel as if they are children again.

To bend to this change, bar stool makers are now making kitchen counter stools that have seats of 34 inches in height. These stools allow people to sit comfortably, at the right distance from their food and drink. The counter stools that are 34 inches tall offer foot rails that are the right height to relax the feet.

Adjustable and Custom Made Counter Stools

Another choice in kitchen seating is adjustable counter stools. These stools can be changed to suit a tall person or a child. You can adjust the height to allow room for your thighs if the standard height is not enough. They are also helpful when the chairs are being used for different purposes, such as doing homework.

When you order custom made kitchen counter stools, it is best to order just one to begin. When you get it, try it for awhile and make sure it fits everyone in height. If it does, you will be ready to order your full set of counter stools.