Buyer’s Guide to Choosing a Zero Gravity Recliner: What to Consider
A zero gravity recliner won’t fly you to the moon, but it will provide out-of-this-world comfort.If they don’t actually make you weightless, you might wonder what exactly zero gravity recliners do? This advanced, ergonomic chair distributes your weight evenly when you’re sitting, preventing a concentration of weight in one part of the body.Zero gravity recliners were designed using the same principles as the reclining seating astronauts use, which distributes the force of take-off evenly over their bodies. This keeps them safe when there’s an increased gravitational pull on the spacecraft.As our understanding of ergonomics improves — and the realization that furniture should contribute to wellness and not just decor — the zero gravity recliner has become a popular option for luxury seating that is not only relaxing and comfortable, but also offers ample support for your body. Gone are the days of the basic recliner. Today your options for zero gravity recliners are virtually endless. While it’s exciting to see a growing range of ergonomic furniture, it can also be overwhelming for buyers. We created this buyer’s guide to help you narrow down the extensive options, bringing you one giant step closer to the recliner of your dreams. If you’re more of a visual person, check out our accompanying infographic which outlines what to consider in a zero gravity recliner.
Physical Needs
If you’re looking for a zero gravity recliner, there’s a good chance it’s because you know about the physical benefits they offer. Because these chairs offer balanced support to your joints and muscles, they can reduce physical strain and stress while improving health and comfort. Ask yourself what you need in your ideal recliner: are you looking to treat existing injuries or sensitivities, or prevent them down the road? Are you looking to relax or recover? Some models like the Osaki OS Alpina have massage systems built in that target specific areas, from your neck to your calves. Other options like the PC-Live Perfect Chair employ heating systems to target sore muscles. If you don’t have specific pain points to address, you may prefer a model like the Fjord Ulstein recliner, which features a sleek, stylish design and works as a basic recliner.
Size & Space
Your decision will also be partially based on size: not only your size — someone who’s five feet tall will need a very different chair than someone who stands six feet — but also the size of your available space.If you’ve got plenty of room, something like the four-seater Fjords Madrid Cinema 4 Seat might appeal. If you’re working within a tighter space, you’re in luck. Thanks to advanced ergonomic design, an incredible amount of technology can hide within relatively compact chairs. The Fjord Small Manual Oslo Swing Relaxer, for example, is a high-tech zero gravity recliner that fits well in more compact spaces.
Style & Color
While the primary goal of a zero gravity recliner is to improve your wellness, that doesn’t mean your chair can’t do double duty as a stylish piece of furniture. The design behind massage chairs and other ergonomic furniture has come a long way since their rise to popularity in the 1960s and 70s. If your home features a modern interior, space-age options like the Inner Balance Wellness MC-660 may be the perfect fit for your aesthetic. If you like the classic armchair look, you might prefer the Positive Posture Duke.If you’re concerned about a bulky recliner looking out of place or detracting from your interior design, consider accessorizing it. The accent piece can help round out the chair’s aesthetic in your space. A piece like the PC Media Table that’s built to wedge right up beside a zero gravity recliner is a great example of a simple accessory that can help a recliner blend in.On a similar note, ask yourself whether you want your zero gravity chair to stand out in the room as an eye-catching piece, or blend in with your existing interior decor. From the cherry-red leather of the Andrew Leblanc X-Chair, to the satiny black Fjord Ulstein Wall Saver Cinema Power 2 Seat Recliner with its elegant teak accents, and the bright, modern white of the Novo XT2; there’s truly a rainbow of options available.
Budget
With so many different options available, it’s no surprise that zero gravity recliners can be found across a range of price points. Consider how much you’re willing to spend, taking into account your physical needs and the features you want in the chair. From the sleek and wallet-friendly Fjord Scansit with lovely teak accents, to the luxury Novo XT2 with its three-dimensional massage system; there’s something for every price point. When calculating the value of your investment, consider how often you plan to use the recliner, how long you expect to enjoy it, and the reduced risk of costly medical issues due to better physical support.The one thing most people can’t afford? The aches and pains from sitting in uncomfortable positions in a chair with little to no support. If you’d like to harness the ergonomic benefits of zero gravity recliners, visit The Back Store to explore your options or contact our expert team for help.
A zero gravity recliner won’t fly you to the moon, but it will provide out-of-this-world comfort.
If they don’t actually make you weightless, you might wonder what exactly zero gravity recliners do? This advanced, ergonomic chair distributes your weight evenly when you’re sitting, preventing a concentration of weight in one part of the body.
Zero gravity recliners were designed using the same principles as the reclining seating astronauts use, which distributes the force of take-off evenly over their bodies. This keeps them safe when there’s an increased gravitational pull on the spacecraft.
As our understanding of ergonomics improves — and the realization that furniture should contribute to wellness and not just decor — the zero gravity recliner has become a popular option for luxury seating that is not only relaxing and comfortable, but also offers ample support for your body.
Gone are the days of the basic recliner. Today your options for zero gravity recliners are virtually endless. While it’s exciting to see a growing range of ergonomic furniture, it can also be overwhelming for buyers. We created this buyer’s guide to help you narrow down the extensive options, bringing you one giant step closer to the recliner of your dreams.
If you’re more of a visual person, check out our accompanying infographic which outlines what to consider in a zero gravity recliner.