Best standing desk accessories to get you on your feet

If you bought a standing desk, chances are you're interested in the health benefits of, well, not sitting all day. Better posture, reduced back pain, and an increase in productivity due to a boost in mood and focus are among some of the top benefits of standing, according to a 2021 research paper published by the National Institutes of Health.

But without the proper equipment to support you while you're standing, there are some health drawbacks compared to sitting. Those who stand have reported an increase in leg and foot pain and vein issues, including varicose veins, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety reported. Experts recommend having the proper support to mitigate pain issues and frequently switching between standing and sitting to maximize the ergonomic benefits while reducing the risk of injury. We've compiled some of the best accessories to help get you standing safely and ergonomically while you're working at your standing desk.

Anti-fatigue mats

Paired with comfortable, supportive sneakers, anti-fatigue mats help you take the pressure off of your feet, knees, and legs. When it comes to padded support for your feet, you'll want to look for a thicker mat--some mats start at just 0.5-inches thick while industrial mats can be upward of 1 inch in thickness--though the actual footprint of the mat doesn't really matter if you don't intend to move around too much. These mats can come in several different colors and patterns to match your decor or provide a pop of color to your workspace.

ComfiLife Anti-Fatigue Floor Mat

ComfiLife Anti Fatigue Floor Mat

One of the best options we tested was ComfiLife's Anti-Fatigue Floor Mat. Available in three sizes, with the largest option covering a footprint of 24x70 inches, these mats make it seem like you're standing on clouds. It comes with a non-slip bottom, making it safe for the office, and it's versatile enough to be used desk-side or in the kitchen, bathroom, or any place where you find yourself doing a lot of standing. A lifetime replacement warranty, stain-resistant cover with anti-microbial treatment, and three-fourths-inch high-density memory foam core make this the top option on our list.

The good

Very comfortableMultiple size and color optionsSofter foam than competing optionsVersatile design can be used throughout the houseLifetime warranty

The bad

Strong smell out of the boxHeavy weight makes it difficult to reposition for those with limited mobility

Flexispot DM1 Anti-Fatigue Mat

Flexispot DM1 Anti-Fatigue Mat

Another great option is Flexispot's DM1 Anti-Fatigue Mat. Like the ComfiLife, this mat's high-density polyurethane foam core provides excellent support, and its manufacturer advertises that the mat can help reduce fatigue and spinal and coccyx compression while promoting active standing. What sets this particular Flexispot mat apart is that it comes with molded beading on the left and right sides of the mat to help massage your feet and encourage blood flow while you work. Given the massage beads, this mat is more suited for barefooted users. The feel of the mat is also slightly firmer than the ComfiLife, and it's a matter of preference how much you want your feet to sink into your mat--I prefer the former's softer feel.

The good

Comfortable and soft feel when standingErgonomic beaded design at edges helps massage feetNot as "intense" looking as topographically inspired mats

The bad

Strong smell out of the boxOne-size-fits-all design

StarTech Anti-Fatigue Standing Mat

StarTech Anti-Fatigue Mat for Standing Desk

StarTech's Anti-Fatigue Mat for Standing Desk is a terrific option for those who want a denser, firmer foam anti-fatigue mat. There isn't anything inherently wrong with this mat--it's slightly thicker than the other options on our list at 0.7-inches thick, but I found that the denser polyurethane foam core is just slightly too firm to be comfortable for me during long standing periods. Again, this is a matter of preference. And like its competitors on this list, it comes with an anti-slip backing on the bottom, though I did find that the material is less grippy on my hardwood floors than the ComfiLife. But at $128, it's the most expensive option here.

The good

Comfortable to stand on for long periods of timeVersatile design can be used throughout the houseThick construction for durability and comfort

The bad

Harder feel, but that helps to reduce wear on the foamHeavy weight makes it difficult to reposition for those with limited mobility

Fluidstance Springboard

Fluidstance Springboard

Fluidstance's Springboard is a beautiful alternative to the black, drab rubber anti-fatigue mats. Made for design-conscious home users, the Springboard is constructed with all-natural materials, including a wood-clad top surface, natural wool felt, and a non-skid bottom. True to the manufacturer's claim that you'll experience a subtle yet responsive bounce, standing on the Springboard is exactly how it sounds--it's a springy feel, and you can definitely notice the materials on the back compress and expand to help relieve tension. Although it looks beautiful, it's still not quite as comfortable as a standard anti-fatigue mat, and when paired with shoes with a comfortable sole, you'll get more support standing on the Springboard than if you were to stand on hard flooring.

The good

Very comfortableMultiple size and color optionsSofter foam than competing optionsBeautiful design; can be used throughout the house

The bad

Doesn't provide as much cushion as traditional anti-fatigue mats

Ergodriven Topo

Ergodriven Topo

Ergodriven's Topo is the fidget-spinner version of an anti-fatigue mat. As its name implies, the Topo comes with exaggerated raised edges and a small bump near the center, which Ergodriven calls a "calculated terrain." The goal is to have you move your feet to different positions across the terrain, which will help with restlessness and encourage a bit of legwork and movement while you're standing. You don't need as much coordination as some of the core-building options on our list, and the mat delivers relief with its anti-fatigue foam construction. Given its topographic-inspired design, the Topo isn't as versatile as a standard anti-fatigue mat and may not look quite as elegant in the kitchen as the ComfiLife or Flexispot options on our list.

The good

Helps promote leg movement while standingUnique design adds value to the standard anti-fatigue foam matCompact design makes it easy to reposition

The bad

Needs to air out--polyurethane material can smell bad out of the boxNot a replacement for walking or exercisingCan feel a little cramped