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. 

 

 

What to Consider when Buying a Riser Recliner?

Unlike a traditional chair, a riser recliner chair offers personalised seating positions and enhanced comfort to suit you. However, it’s important to choose a chair that provides proper support and is the right size for you and your space.

With over 20 years of experience, at Opera Beds, we recognise the right chair can make life easier for you or a loved one. Here are our top considerations to help you choose the right chair:

Single or Dual Motors?

Riser recliner chairs are powered by an in-built motor which allows you to adjust the chair and operate the rise feature. However, the number of motors which determine how much control you have over the chair’s functions.

For example:

  •       Single motor chairs: These riser recliner chairs are equipped with a single motor that facilitates simultaneous lowering of the backrest and raising of the footrest. Single motor riser recliner chairs are an excellent choice for individuals who require a chair for everyday sitting activities but also need the flexibility to recline. These types of chairs are the cheapest option due to their limitations compared to a dual-motor chair.
  •       Dual motor chairs: These types of riser recliner chairs are run by two individual motors. One motor controls the backrest and the other controls the leg rest. These chairs offer greater control and customisation.

Learn more about the differences between single and dual-motor riser recliners in our helpful guide.

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 

 

Frequently asked questions

For many people, living with hip pain can be challenging and impact quality of life. Below are some answers to the top commonly asked questions about hip pain.

What exercises can you do to relieve hip pain while sitting?

Movement is a great way to help alleviate hip pain and regain your strength.

The bridging exercise can be done laid down on your bed and is a good place to start getting your movement back.

How to do the bridging exercise:

  • Step 1: Lying on your back with your arms either side. Your knees should point towards the ceiling
  • Step 2: Using your arms to support you, slowly bring your hips up towards the ceiling.
  • Step 3: Hold this for a few seconds and then slowly bring your hips down to the floor.

Adding exercises into your routine gradually to help your hip pain. Start off small and gradually add more repetitions to your daily routine.

Does using a footrest alleviate hip pain?

Absolutely! Using a footrest promotes more ergonomic sitting positions which can ease hip discomfort. A footrest supports your legs and ankles which takes the strain away from your hips. Choose a footrest that keeps your thighs parallel to the floor and keeps your knees at a right angle. Alternatively, a riser recliner chair has an elevating leg rest which is a perfect way to easily lift our legs.

What should you avoid for hip pain?

Avoid high-impact activities, prolonged sitting, and poor posture. Stay clear of chairs with inadequate support or firmness, as they can worsen hip pain and strain your joints.

See how a riser recliner can support you today

With a wide selection of riser recliners, our friendly team at Opera is here to help you. Get started with a 1-1 consultation where we’ll get to understand your exact requirements. Learn more and start your journey to improved comfort and making life easier.

A sales lady showing a customer the remote control of an Opera riser recliner chair

Related Articles

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 +1 888 553 0605.

test

Free Consultation

Book Now

Free Brochure

Order Now