Wingback Recliners

Wingback recliners are made for comfort. Add a reading light, and perhaps a portable laptop desk, and you are set for relaxing or for work.

Characteristics of a Wingback Chair

Wingback chairs of all kinds – whether they recline or not – are so named for the “wings” on the top of the chairback. They are curved pieces that attach on the sides of the upper back part of the chair, are upholstered for comfort, and make a resting place for your head while you are relaxing, reading, or watching television. Tucked up in a wingback, you will have no worries about your head sliding off one side or the other of the chair because the wings make a comfortable resting place for your head.

Why Wingback Reclines Well

The back of a wingback chair is usually relatively straight, offering good back support. When it reclines, the chair retains that support, creating a cradle for the seated person’s body. If you are a person who needs to put your feet up in the afternoon, or if you need a comfortable place to work while your feet are elevated, a wingback chair is ideal. Some of the chairs even have the ability to be adjusted – a little more upright on the back, the feet higher than your heart, the little adjustments that increase your personal comfort.

Before Recliners, there were Footstools

Wingback chairs have a history of comfort. Before reclining chairs were invented, wingbacks were often paired with footstools. They were a favorite for placing before an open fire and putting feet up long before it was possible to recline the back. Because of their structure and their upholstery, the wingback chair cupped the warmth from the fire and held it around the person seated before the fireplace. The footstool could be positioned so that feet could be extended toward the fire, toasting them nicely. Throw pillows and soft, knitted blankets added to the general comfort. You can add those things to your reclining wingback, as well, for the snuggly comfort that goes with a pleasant place to rest.

Upholstery for the Wingback Chair

Wingback chairs and wingback recliners can be covered with any upholstery material. They might be a soft leather, faux leather, nubby upholstery material, or elegant brocade. This versatility means that you can probably find a wingback recliner that will go with almost any sort of décor, although they are an absolute natural with Victorian or even Edwardian interior designs. But you can easily fit them in with shabby chic, boho, country or other interior themes.

Sizing your Recliner

Wingback recliners come in various sizes. Before purchasing, make sure that your new chair is a good fit for height, and is rated for the appropriate weight. A small person can snuggle up in an oversized recliner but will be more comfortable in a smaller while. A large person might be disappointed when their comfortable chair breaks if it is not rated for their weight. It is worth a little searching to locate a chair that is “just right” for you.