subject: The Wooden Chair That Rocks [print this page] Wooden rockers today still exist in abundanceWooden rockers today still exist in abundance. Common materials used in building chairs include wood, wicker and PVC, with pads from fabrics, leather or vinyl. Some chairs are elaborately upholstered. A few chairs that rock today include large recliners, which are far different in shape from original wood models. This may be the case; many still favor more comfortable chairs with padding, which might be placed directly on the chair in the factory. Alternately, people can buy chair pads to cushion a hard rocking chair. There are many options to choose from when it comes to finishes and fabrics and even chair functionality.
So many choices? Having a difficult time where to begin? Jot down a few ideas about what youre looking for like, an indoor chair or outdoor rocker, color, design, functionality and who will use? Choose a chair ready to rock your porch or home every season, year round comfort.
The wooden rocker is the most widely used out of all the different types of rocking chairs.
Common Wooden Rocker Types:
Traditional
A simple design that rocks back and forth on curved legs and less expensive than other chairs. The lack of moving parts keeps breakage to a minimum. Disadvantages of a traditional rocker include lack of flexibility and, in some cases, space considerations.
Glider
Rather than in arc, a glider uses a series of levers and swivels to move back and forth on a flat plane. The flat range of motion takes up less space and is considered more comfortable by many. On the downside, because it is mechanical, it is more expensive and more prone to breakage than traditional rockers.
Spring
This chair uses a set of mounted springs aside from swinging back and forth in an arc to cause the rocking motion. In most cases, the springs are contained inside a box at the base of the chair, rather than exposed and available to catch fingers and pets. Very durable and can be less expensive than the glider. However, they are often heavily upholstered and padded, which can drive the cost back up.
Swivel
Similar to an office chair, this rocker has swivel mechanism added to allow rocking on a second plane of motion. This means more comfort and flexibility for the user, though it makes the chair that much more complex. Greater complexity usually means higher cost.
Reclining
A reclining feature added to the glider or spring rocker. Users can recline the back of the chair to one or more relaxed positions. Often, releasing the catch disables the rocking feature so as to avoid leaning too far and overbalancing backward. Like swivel chairs, this feature makes the chair more comfortable and flexible, but does increase expense and decrease durability.
Rocking chairs have undergone some remarkable improvements over the years. Truly an heirloom built to last!
