What Size Recliner Do I Need?

A Simple Recliner Fit Guide

Finding the right recliner fit involves more than a person’s height. Seat depth, support zones, and the way you like to relax all play a role in finding the right recliner for you. Use this guide to narrow your options and shop with confidence.

If you've started shopping for a recliner, you've probably noticed there are plenty of styles, features, and sizes to choose from. But before comparing fabrics, colors, or upgrade options, it's important to understand one simple truth - Recliners aren't one-size-fits-all. And that's a good thing.

The recliner that feels perfect for one person may not feel quite right for another. Factors like seat height, seat depth, support zones, and personal preferences all influence comfort. Understanding fit can help you narrow your options and focus on the most comfortable recliners for you.

Why Does Recliner Fit Matter?

When shopping for a recliner, most people are looking for two things: a chair that looks great in their space and feels right when they sit down. They might start by asking, "Will it fit my room? Do I like the style? Does the color work with my decor?"

Those questions matter. They're an important part of finding a recliner you'll love. But there's another important piece of the puzzle.

Does my recliner fit me?

A recliner can look great in a showroom or online and still not feel quite right once you sit down. Maybe your feet don't comfortably reach the floor. Maybe the seat feels too deep. Maybe your head isn't fully supported when you recline.

Considering that the average person spends over 1200 hours a year in their favorite chair, small fit differences can have a big impact on your everyday comfort. That's why the best fit isn’t always the most popular recliner. It’s the one that feels right for you.

What Factors Affect My Recliner Fit?

Several factors influence how a recliner feels when you sit down.

Seat Height

Seat height plays a role in how comfortable and supported you feel while sitting down or standing up. A recliner that fits well should allow you to relax naturally, with your feet comfortably reaching the floor.

Seat Depth

A seat that's too deep or too shallow will affect comfort and support over time. When sitting fully back in the chair, your thighs should feel supported while your lower back rests against the back cushion. There should be a small amount of space between the edge of the seat and the back of your knees.

Back, Neck, and Head Support

The right back, neck, and head support can make a difference whether you're reading, watching TV, or simply unwinding at the end of the day. Your head should rest against the cushion without bending your neck, and your shoulders should feel relaxed, not hunched.

Because fit is influenced by several factors, many shoppers find it helpful to compare recliners in person. An in-store La-Z-Boy associate can help you explore different sizes, scales, and support features to identify options that may work best for you.

Are Recliners Available in Different Sizes?

Yes! Many shoppers are surprised to learn that recliners come in different sizes and scales designed to fit a variety of heights, proportions, and comfort preferences.

Scale can be a helpful starting point, but it's not the only factor. Two people of the same height may prefer completely different recliners based on personal comfort preferences, posture, and how they use the chair.

Here’s an example. Two people go shopping for recliners. One has longer legs and a shorter torso. The other has shorter legs and a longer torso. Based on their proportions, they will likely select recliners with different scales to maximize their comfort. Then, they can move on to other comfort and lifestyle details.

Why Can Two Recliners of the Same Size Feel Different?

Dimensions tell part of the story. Design details tell the rest.

Recliners with similar measurements can feel surprisingly different because of factors like cushion firmness, back design, arm shape, and lumbar support. One person may prefer a plush, sink-in feel, while another may want firmer, more structured support.

Neither is right or wrong. It's simply a matter of personal preference. That's also why comfort can be difficult to judge based on specifications alone.

How Do You Like to Relax?

Before narrowing your options, take a moment to think about how you actually use a recliner.

• Do you most often read or watch TV?

• Do you regularly take naps?

• Do you prefer sitting upright or fully reclined?

• Do you want soft or firmer cushioning?

• Is lumbar support especially important to you?

• Would adjustable features make relaxation easier?

Your answers can help you identify recliners that may fit your lifestyle and comfort preferences.

Research Helps. Sitting Tells You More.

Online research is a great place to start. It can help you understand recliner sizes, compare features, explore support options, and identify styles that may fit your needs. But even the most extensive research can’t replace taking a seat.

That's why many shoppers discover that the recliners they expected to love aren't always the ones they choose. Sometimes the chair that checks every box online feels just okay once they try it. Other times, a recliner they hadn't considered immediately feels right the moment they sit down.

There's no substitute for experiencing comfort firsthand, which is highly recommended by Karla Fabritz, La-Z-Boy Senior Sales Strategy Manager.

"Try before you buy. When you think you've found the right recliner, plan to spend ten to fifteen minutes sitting in the recliner while in the showroom. Read, use your phone or tablet, curl up just like you would at home. The longer you sit, the more you'll notice the little details that make it even better...or worse. How does your neck feel? Can you find that ‘just right’ position, or do you find yourself constantly re-adjusting? A few minutes spent up front could save you a lot of discomfort in the long run."

Taking our Recliner Quiz can help narrow your options. Sitting in a recliner can help you make your final decision.

Can I Get Personalized Shopping Help?

Once you've identified your possible options, an in-store associate can help you take the next steps. Not only are they experts in recliners, they also know how important it is to learn more about you, your needs, and your favorite ways to relax.

After discussing all the factors with you in person, they’ll suggest sizes, support features, and seating preferences, then show you recliners to try.

The goal isn't to steer you toward one particular recliner. It's to help you find the recliner that feels personalized for you.

Ready to Find Your Fit?

Now you know that finding the right recliner isn't about chasing trends or choosing the most popular model. It's about finding the best recliner for you.

We highly recommend taking our Recliner Quiz to explore options based on your comfort preferences. Then browse our recliner selection online and visit a La-Z-Boy store to compare different sizes, styles, and support features in person. With the right information and the opportunity to experience recliners for yourself, you can confidently find the recliner that fits and feels just right.

Easy Links for However You Shop

• Not sure where to start? Taking our Recliner Quiz will match you with three styles based on your style and feature preferences.

• Check out a list of our best-selling recliners that customers keep coming back to.

• Want to experience comfort for yourself? Find a local La-Z-Boy store near you.