An elderly couple sat at home in an opera riser recliner chair

What is the Best Riser Recliner Chair For You?

At Opera Beds, we know that riser and recliner chairs are an investment. That’s why it’s important to choose the perfect recliner riser that doesn’t just meet your lifestyle and health requirements, but will also stand the test of time. But with so many different styles, sizes and even materials on the market, how do you know which riser recliner chair is right for you? 

In this blog, the experts at Opera Beds explore the different types of electric riser recliner chairs, so you can make sure you’re making an informed decision on your purchase. If you’re still feeling a little stuck on which riser recliner chairs would be best for you, you can get in touch with our team for some extra guidance. 

What Is the Best Riser Recliner Chair Size?

Getting the right size riser and recliner chair is arguably the most important part of choosing your new furniture. Not only will the right fit promote better posture and ensure safety when raising in and out of your chair, but it will also guarantee a more relaxing and enjoyable seating experience.

Riser recliners typically come in three sizes: 

  • Small or petite riser recliner chairs
  • Standard recliner riser chairs
  • Large riser recliner chairs 

The size of chair you need will depend on how much space you need and how tall you are. For example, small riser recliner chairs are designed for those who are shorter than average. The size of your living room can also affect the size of riser recliner you choose to buy. A specialist can help you measure for a riser recliner chair so you can find one that properly supports you. 

Single Motor vs Dual Motor Riser Recliner Chairs

Motor type is another factor to consider when deciding the right riser and recliner chair for you. While there are many differences between single and dual motor riser recliner chairs, the main distinction is the level of control users have over their recline. 

Single motor chairs have just one motor controlling both the backrest and footrest. In other words, when you recline backwards on your chair, the footrest automatically rises at the same time. For many individuals, this makes it easier to use a riser recliner, especially if you have limited dexterity. A single motor recliner chair is also usually cheaper than its dual counterpart.

A dual motor riser recliner chair, on the other hand, has two separate motors. This allows you to independently adjust the backrest and footrest, so you can find the best reclined position for you. We recommend investing in a dual motor recliner chair if you need personalised comfort adjustments - or think you might need them in the future. 

Which Material Should You Choose For Your Recliner Riser Chair?

As well as having a variety of functional elements, riser and recliner chairs also come in different materials. This allows you to find a design that doesn’t just suit your lifestyle and health needs, but your home, too.

Fabric Riser Recliners

A warm and comfortable fabric recliner has the pull and give that allows you to easily sink into your favourite reclining position. They also come in an unlimited range of colours, making fabric riser recliners a great choice if you have specific décor to complement. 

At Opera Beds, you can choose from the materials listed below for your riser recliner. If you’re unsure which fabric you’d prefer, you can request a sample to be sent to your home by contacting us to arrange your fabric samples. 

  • Linen 
  • Anthracite
  • Stone weave
  • Espresso weave
  • Iron weave
  • Moss weave
  • 30+ additional fabrics including Chamonix and velvet

Since fabric is cheaper than leather, a fabric riser recliner is a more affordable purchase than its leather counterpart. Fabric also doesn’t scratch as easily as leather does - great for those with pets who like to flex their claws.

A grey fabric riser recliner chair with button back cushion on a cream carpet

Leather Riser Recliner Chairs

With a timeless aesthetic that never goes out of style, a leather riser recliner chair can fit any and all interior decors. Leather is also extremely durable, meaning your chair gets better with age as any worn areas only give your furniture more character. 


Another standout feature of leather furniture is how easy it is to maintain. Spills and stains can be wiped clean from the fabric, making leather riser recliner chairs for the elderly a good choice for those looking for furniture that requires minimal maintenance. The hypoallergenic qualities of leather upholstery can also be beneficial for allergy sufferers, particularly since fabric tends to absorb more dust mites compared to its leather counterparts.

up close view of the scroll arm of a leather riser recliner chair

Which Armchair Back Cushion Is Best?

The style of back cushion on your riser recliner can affect both the support and style of your chair. The right armchair back cushion should provide enough lumbar support, while ensuring your head isn’t pushed too far forwards.

Waterfall Back

Considered the most supportive of armchair back cushions, recliner risers with a waterfall back allow individuals to adjust the amount of padding inside each section to find the most comfortable seating position. For many, the soft feel of the overlapping sections are the ultimate comfort and support.

Button Back

Another popular armchair back cushion style is button back. This style is inspired by traditional sofa suites, making it a good choice for those searching for a simple, classic design. Riser and recliner chairs with a button back also provide a firmer and flatter feel, ideal for anyone who prefers a chair with less give to support their back in a fixed position.

Contemporary Duo Back

A riser recliner with a contemporary duo back artfully combines a modern aesthetic with a supportive backrest design; the two-part backrest allows for some independent movement between the upper and lower portions of the back, which offers some slight recline variation. The duo back design can also provide additional lumbar support by contouring to the natural curve of your spine.

Need Further Guidance? Chat to Our Team of Experts

Narrowing down what is the best riser recliner chair for you can be tricky, particularly if it’s your first time buying one. At Opera Beds, we’re on hand to help you find the perfect chair - whether that’s exploring the different materials available or experimenting with the various armchair back cushions. Book a no-obligation consultation today and chat to our dedicated team by phone, virtual video call or in-person appointment.

Related articles:

Learn more about the Opera Riser Recliner Chair Range 

We’ll help you find the perfect bed...

Submit a quick enquiry today and we can help you find the perfect bed for your needs.

  • 1-1 Advice Calls
  • Free Brochure & Samples
  • Personalised Quotation

Find out how Opera could help you with your bed needs.
Contact us, or speak to our experts advisors on 0333 222 85 84.

test

Free Consultation

Book Now

Free Brochure

Order Now