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If there’s a certain comfy element missing from your living space and you’re in the market for a decent leather chair, you’re in luck. A number of manufacturers are now making affordable, comfortable chairs that fit multiple room sizes and decor schemes. Whether you’re looking for a reclining theater seat, an armchair, or a more sophisticated piece of furniture to round out your decor, there are great picks out there for every taste, size, and comfort level.
Reclining leather chairs should be large and soft enough to accommodate an impromptu afternoon snooze, with easy-to-operate and efficient reclining mechanisms. A leather armchair should have enough heft to not make you sink when seated, and you should select a finish that’s cohesive with your room’s basic design style. Here are some other qualities we recommend for both types of chairs.
Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Leather Chair
Whether you’re looking for a recliner or simple armchair, things like material, construction, comfort, and durability are all going to be important. Here are some of the things we look for.
Material: Genuine leather is generally the softest and most durable material, but it can be difficult to clean and, for ethical reasons, may not be the correct choice for everyone. Whatever leather material your chair is made from, it should be soft to the touch, not sticky or rubbery, and supple.
Size: Reclining chairs are, as a general rule, larger than standard living room armchairs, so pay attention to dimensions, including the dimensions of the chair when fully reclined. Even with recliners, we tend to gravitate toward smaller reclining chairs, as these are more versatile for a variety of spaces, and tend to look a little more sophisticated in modern living rooms.
Comfort: A leather armchair, even an upright one, is meant to be comfortable. We keep in mind the material and softness of the cushions, which should allow you to sink into the seat just enough while remaining fully supported. The shape of a chair’s back and depth of seat are other contributing factors to a chair’s comfort. Most leather armchairs are straighter backs and more rigid shapes than chairs made from plusher fabrics.
Durability: The lifespan of your chair will depend largely on the quality of its construction as well as the materials used. A hardwood frame is always a good sign, as is quality upholstery, stitching, and cushion foam that will not soon flatten and harden.
