Are you looking for a reclining office chair?
You’re in the right place!
In this ChairAdviser.com guide, you’ll learn:
- Different types of reclining office chairs
- What to look for
- Top 7 best reclining office chairs
- And much more!
Reclining office chairs can give you the break you need when you’ve been working long hours.
Simply lean it back to the desired angle, kick out the footrest if it has one, and grab a quick cat nap.
Our Top 7 Best Reclining Office Chairs
What Are Reclining Office Chairs?
Reclining chairs aren’t just for lounging at home watching TV in your pajamas.
While it isn’t feasible to complete all tasks while reclining in an office chair, there are some things you can kick back and relax for.
For instance, if you have to take a phone call, you don’t need to keep your chair upright.
Reclining for a while can help relieve some of the pressure on your muscles, reducing pain you might get from sitting for long periods.
Reclining office chairs allow you to keep your body moving a little bit, even if it is just to recline.
When we sit for long periods, our body naturally slouches due to the strain on our spine and muscles.
Being able to recline for a few minutes can give the relief you need to prevent slouching.
It’s nice to take a break when you can!
What Are the Different Types Reclining Office Chairs?
There are several types of reclining office chairs. A fully reclining office chair will allow the user to lean back up to 135 degrees (sometimes even further).
If you deal with back pain from sitting long periods or poor posture, a fully reclining office chair can alleviate some of that pressure.
Partially reclining office chairs offer a lesser recline but are still good for short breaks and tasks that don’t require you to sit straight up.
Many reclining office chairs have footrests for added comfort. That way, you can put your feet up while you are leaning back in the chair.
They are great for grabbing a quick cat nap between tasks!
How Do Reclining Office Chairs Work?
Depending on the mechanism of the chair, most recline in one of two ways. The first is a lever or knob that allows the chair to recline.
Some even just use the pressure from the body of the user to recline back.
Reclining allows your body to relax and eases the natural curve of the spine in the lower back.
Tilt tension works to control how far the chair can recline while in use. It can even be used for active sitting!
What Do You Look for In the Best Reclining Office Chair?
Recline Angle
The first thing you want to look for in a reclining office chair is the recline angle. You want to ensure the chair can lean back as far (or as little) as you want it to.
If you are looking for a chair you can kick back in to grab a short rest, you won’t want a partially reclining chair that doesn’t allow a full tilt back.
Tilt Tension and Lock
If you don’t want the chair to rock while you are using it, you want a reclining office chair with a good tilt lock.
This will prevent the chair from leaning back while you are sitting in it.
Adjustable tilt tension allows you to control how far the chair will lean back when it isn’t locked.
That way, you can set it exactly how you need it for your comfort.
Comfort
A comfortable reclining office chair can ease the pain and pressure sitting puts on your body. Look for cushioning that is soft, but durable.
Memory foam cushions will conform to your body, providing extra support where it is needed.
A cushion that is too soft won’t provide sturdy enough support and can cause issues with back and hip pain.
Lumbar Support
A good reclining office chair will offer some type of lumbar support.
If you want to be able to move the support as needed, you’ll want to find one that has adjustable support.
Lumbar support also plays a part in ergonomics. If you’ll be using the chair often, you want something that has high adjustability to fit your body.
A good, ergonomic reclining office chair can help relieve pain and pressure on the back and legs.
Fabric
Mesh will allow air to flow and keep you cool when you are sitting for long periods.
Many chairs are made with PU leather which look nice, but don’t allow for any airflow while you are sitting.
This can lead to excessive sweating and sticking to the chair.
Adjustability/Ergonomics
A good ergonomic chair will allow the user to modify several areas. The more parts you can adjust, the better it will be for posture and comfort.
Adjustable height is the most common feature on reclining office chairs, but you’ll want one with a good tilt lock so you can adjust the angle where you need to.
Adjustable armrests will allow you to place your arms and elbows comfortably while working.
An adjustable headrest gives your neck and head the support it needs while sitting in the chair for long hours.
You also want a reclining office chair with adjustable lumbar support.
Some chairs offer this with a lever that works the inner part of the support where you need it while others just have a pillow you can move as needed.
Price
You’ll obviously need to find a reclining office chair within your budget. The cheapest chair on the market will likely need replaced within a few months of use.
Budget what you can for a reclining office chair and work within your means to find the best quality one for the price you need.
Weight Capacity
The most common weight capacity for reclining office chairs is 250lbs.
If you want something sturdier or you need something with a higher capacity, you can find some with weight capacities of up to 350lbs, sometimes more!
A higher weight capacity typically means a sturdier build since the components have to hold more weight.
Footrest
Many reclining office chairs come with a footrest. This makes it easy to prop your legs up when you are leaning back to get some rest or relax your back.
If a footrest isn’t a feature you are interested in, there are some that do not include one.
You could also find a reclining office chair that has a removeable footrest, so you can simply take off the part you don’t want.
Best Reclining Office Chairs Reviewed
Hbada Office Recliner Chair
Hbada offers a reclining office chair that has several adjustability settings.
The backrest reclines up to 155 degrees, increasing the angle between your thighs and torso. This allows for a comfortable, ergonomic position to sit.
Adjust the height, tilt, lift, and lock settings to your specific needs. The tilt lock of the chair allows these settings to be held in place.
Breathable mesh increases the air flow, keeping you cool and breezy when you are sitting for extended periods.
The pullout footrest allows you to place your feet somewhere other than the floor. You can kick back and take a break as needed.
This chair reduces the strain on your legs with the waterfall designed seat cushion.
Built in lumbar support and a headrest that rotates allow you to get comfortable in many positions while still maintaining good posture.
The weight capacity is 250lbs, but some users might find the seat cushion uncomfortable after a while.
- Pros: 155 degrees recline, 250lb weight capacity, highly adjustable
- Cons: Seat uncomfortable
BestOffice Gaming Chair
The thickly cushioned bucket seat conforms to your body while providing maximum comfort and durability.
This chair is crafted with PU leather, so if you want something more breathable, you’ll want a mesh back chair instead.
Fully adjustable lumbar support and a headrest pillow protect your neck and spine while providing support and comfort.
Enjoy reclining from 90 degrees to 155 degrees.
The heavy-duty metal base and high-quality construction allow this chair to hold up to 250lbs.
Smooth casters swivel 360 degrees so you can easily move the chair where it is needed.
However, the arms are not padded shorter users might have issues with the seat being too long.
- Pros: 250lb weight capacity, recline up to 155 degrees, lumbar support
- Cons: Seat too long for shorter users, arm rests not padded
NOUHAUS Ergo3D
The Ergo3D offers 4D adjustable armrests for added comfort. Move them forward, backward, up, down, side to side, and rotate to fit your needs.
The lumbar support hugs your back, providing your spine with comfort and support.
The Ergo3D reclines up to 135 degrees and is made with Elastomesh, giving you the cool breathable back you need when sitting for long hours.
Not only does it come with dual casters for smooth sailing, but you get an included bonus of blade casters for hardwood floors.
Comfortable and durable, this chair holds up to 275lbs.
Seat depth may be lacking for taller users, and it is more expensive than similar chairs.
- Pros: 135 degrees recline, 4D armrests, 275lb weight capacity
- Cons: Tall users might not be comfortable in the seat, expensive
Respawn RSP-110
Long workdays or gaming sessions are no match for Respawn’s RSP-110. The racecar style chair provides style while remaining comfortable and supportive.
The padded design gives contoured support that hugs your body where you need it the most.
It also includes an extendable footrest, lumbar support pillows and an adjustable headrest.
Infinite locking positions allow you to recline from 90 degrees to 155 degrees. Go from working to napping in an instant.
You’ll get a 5-year limited warranty and year-round support when you choose this reclining office chair.
Weight capacity holds up to 275lbs.
You might notice the material wearing down after repeated use and the cushion might be uncomfortable after awhile for heavier users.
- Pros: 275lb weight capacity, 5-year warranty, 155 degrees recline
- Cons: Material cracks, cushion uncomfortable
JULYFOX Reclining Office Chair
The tilt mechanism in this reclining office chair allows users to recline from 90 degrees to 170 degrees.
Leave it at 90 degrees to get some work done, then kick it back 170 degrees to take a rest.
It comes with a retractable footrest, so it is perfect for working and resting needs.
The chair is made with PU leather, making it easy to clean. However, the material doesn’t breathe very well, so on hot days it can make it sweaty after a while.
High density foam forms to your body when you sit, giving support and comfort.
The steel frame and heavy-duty base allow this chair to hold up to 250lbs easily.
Simple assembly and all tools are included, so you’ll be ready to go in no time.
Some users had issues with the armrests being too low, but you can always install extra padding if needed!
- Pros: 250lb weight capacity, 170 degrees recline, high density foam
- Cons: Material is hot, armrests too low
Dowinx Gaming Office Chair
Forget your normal reclining office chair. Dowinx offers a reclining chair that has a built-in massage unit.
It is USB powered, so it can be powered by your computer or even a power bank.
The seat is made with leather, so it might be too hot for some users to sit comfortably for long periods.
Full 360-degree swivel allows you to turn however you need to.
The recline function in this chair goes from 90 degrees to 180 degrees, making it ideal for working, gaming, and napping all in one.
It comes with a retractable footrest for the ultimate relaxation.
Adjust the height of the seat and enjoy the head and lumbar pillows that fit all body types.
Its sturdy construction allows users up to 350lbs to sit comfortably and safely.
- Pros: 350lb weight capacity, 180 degrees recline, built in massager
- Cons: Material is hot and lacking ventilation
Duramont Reclining Leather Office Chair
Duramont offers a waterfall seat edge that relieves pressure on the back of your legs and thighs.
The flexible reclining angle gives optimal comfort and adjustability. It adjusts from 90 degrees to 155 degrees.
Lock the angle where you need it and kick out the retractable footrest so you can grab a nap.
Bonded leather gives this chair a stylish look, but the material can be hot and sweaty for some users.
The cushions are soft, but durable, shaping to fit the user’s body.
The heavy-duty metal base and nylon casters support up to 250lbs.
Satisfaction is guaranteed by Duramont, giving you a 1-year warranty in case anything goes wrong with the chair.
It is also easy to assemble and can be ready in just a few steps!
Some users have had issues with the footrest and armrests becoming loose, but you can just tighten the screws back up.
- Pros: 250lb weight capacity, 1 year warranty, 155 degrees recline
- Cons: Hot material, armrests and footrest get loose
Final Thoughts on Reclining Office Chairs
Reclining office chairs offer several benefits, such as:
- Grabbing a nap whenever you want
- Less pressure on legs and feet
- Increases blood flow
- Customize the recline angle for comfort
- Increase productivity
On top of all of those benefits, Healthline indicates there may be some benefits to sleeping in a reclining position. So don’t feel bad about grabbing a cat nap!
Acid Reflux
One benefit of sleeping in a reclined position deals with acid reflux.
When the valve at the end of your esophagus doesn’t close properly, you can bring stomach acid back up your throat.
This causes an uncomfortable burning sensation.
When you lay flat in your bed, gravity stops working the contents of the stomach away from your esophagus, so for many, their reflux is worse when laying down.
Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of sleep apnea.
This causes the muscles in the throat to become relaxed while sleeping, blocking the airway. Several studies have shown that elevation while sleeping can help lessen symptoms.
Sleeping at angles of 30 and 60 degrees have been shown to improve symptoms. These angles are common in reclining office chairs.
Back Pain
Those who suffer from chronic back pain might find it easier to get up from a reclining chair than out of bed.
If the chair lacks lumbar support, put a small pillow behind your back to help prevent your back pain from getting worse.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy comes with its own set of aches and pains, but a reclining office chair for naps and sleeping might help remedy some of them.
Women in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters are advised not to sleep on their back as it can put pressure on a nerve that affects blood flow to them and the baby.
If it isn’t comfortable to sleep on your side, you can sleep in a reclined position in a comfortable office chair.
It can also help alleviate some of the back pain and reflux, too!
Reclining office chairs are a great option for working and gaming. They offer comfort and support and the opportunity to nap.
Being well rested means you are more productive! Grab one of the reclining office chairs in this list and see for yourself.
