Swivel Chair vs. Gliding Chair: Which is Better for You?

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When it comes to choosing the perfect chair for your living room, the options can be overwhelming. It's essential to select a seating option that provides the ideal balance of comfort and function for your needs.

Swivel and gliding chairs are both popular choices when it comes to motion furniture. Although they share similarities, they each offer a unique experience for users. As Magaly del Castillo, an interior designer at La-Z-Boy Cyrville, explains, "Some users may like swivel chairs, but other users may prefer gliding chairs better." Ultimately, it boils down to your personal preferences and requirements.

In this article, we'll compare swivel chairs and gliding chairs in detail, breaking down their descriptions, key differences, pros and cons, and showcasing examples available at La-Z-Boy.

Key Takeaways:

• Swivel chairs allow a full 360-degree range of motion while gliding chairs move back and forth in a linear motion.
• Both chair types are available with versatile features like power options or recline functionality.
• Swivel chairs are ideal for multitasking in open spaces, while gliding chairs are perfect for relaxation, especially in nurseries.
• Room arrangement is crucial–both chairs work best in open-concept settings.
• Motion sickness and mobility concerns can influence your choice between these two options.

In This Article:

1. Description of a Swivel vs. Gliding Chair
2. Key Differences Between a Swivel vs. a Gliding Chair
3. Pros and Cons Breakdown: Swivel vs. Gliding Chairs
4. Examples of Swivel & Gliding Furniture at La-Z-Boy

Description of Swivel vs. Gliding Chairs

Before we enter the in-depth comparison, let’s familiarize ourselves with each side…

What is a Swivel Chair?

A swivel chair is built on a rotating base, allowing the user to pivot 360 degrees. This feature is perfect for smoothly transitioning from watching TV to chatting with guests without needing to reposition the entire chair. 

La-Z-Boy’s swivel chairs come in two styles: a low, round base or a high-leg swivel design for a more elevated look. As a result, swivel chairs can offer both comfort and flexibility.

For more on La-Z-Boy’s swivel chairs, explore our Top 5 Best-Selling Swivel Accent Chairs.

What is a Gliding Chair?

Gliding chairs are also a form of motion furniture. Unlike rocking chairs that move in an arc, gliding chairs offer a smoother, linear motion that is soothing and consistent. 

"It's as if you’re gliding in your furniture," Magaly explains, highlighting the gentle motion that makes them especially desirable for nurseries and relaxing environments. Additionally, gliding chairs at La-Z-Boy can be upgraded to include a swivel base, offering the best of both worlds.

For a deeper dive, see our comparison of Rocking vs. Gliding Recliners.

Key Differences Between Swivel vs. Glider Chairs

Now that we are a little more familiar with what each chair is all about, let’s see what the pros and cons of each of them…

1. Range in Motion

Swivel chairs are designed for full, 360-degree motion. This flexibility makes them a great choice for open-concept spaces. 

On the other hand, gliding chairs provide a smooth back-and-forth movement. Magaly mentions that, for versatility, gliders with a swivel feature can sometimes double as recliners. "This means you get the best of both worlds and then some," she adds.

2. Consideration of Motion Sickness

While the swivelling motion is convenient, it may not be ideal for everyone, especially those prone to motion sickness or mobility issues. As Magaly points out, "Swivel chairs are meant to swivel, so even if you’re not meaning to, you might unintentionally swivel if you're shifting your body." 

In contrast, Gliding chairs provide a controlled, soothing motion that is perfect for calming environments like nurseries. Stabilizers can also be added to ensure extra stability for those with mobility concerns.

3. Functionality & Versatility

Swivel and gliding chairs share similar functionality, including the option to swivel 360 degrees. However, gliders offer a smoother, quieter motion that’s perfect for calming environments like nurseries. At La-Z-Boy, many recliners can be upgraded with swivel bases or power features for added versatility, though it’s important to note that recliners must have the leg rest closed to properly swivel or glide.

Not all recliners can be converted; for instance, wall recliners can’t accommodate swivel bases without losing their close-wall functionality. Rocking recliners, on the other hand, can have a swivel base even in power (with limited swivel range).

To learn more about wall recliners, check out this comparison of Rocking vs. Wall Recliners.

4. Room Arrangement

Both chairs are well-suited for open-concept rooms. "They don’t have to be big rooms," Magaly suggests, "but big enough to fulfill their purpose." She recommends using these chairs as accent pieces or in a central spot between your living room and kitchen to create multiple focal points. 

Placing them strategically can enhance the flow of the space, making it feel more cohesive and inviting. Additionally, these chairs offer flexibility in seating arrangements, allowing you to easily reorient the room for different activities or gatherings.

Pros and Cons Breakdown: Swivel vs. Gliding Chairs

Examples of Swivel & Gliding Furniture at La-Z-Boy

Now that we’ve learned everything there is to know about swivel and gliding chairs, let’s take a look at some of La-Z-Boy’s selections. This will give you a better idea of what a swivel chair or a gliding chair would look like in your home.

1. The Addison - Gliding Recliner

The Addison Gliding Recliner is a staple among La-Z-Boy’s gliding recliners. With a tall back, rolled arms, and clean lines, this chair offers sophisticated styling along with the comfort of a recliner. Customize it with your choice of fabrics and upgrades. As Magaly puts it, “It combines the best of both worlds.”

The Addison is also available as a rocking recliner and a wall recliner. To learn more about the Addison Gliding Recliner take a look at this article.

2. The Reegan - Swivel Chair

Known as "The Magaly Chair," the Reegan Swivel Chair is a personal favourite. This high-leg swivel chair features a 360-degree rotation, elevated by sleek tapered legs. Its contemporary design and ComfortCore® cushions ensure lasting quality. Magaly praises it for being both functional and versatile.

To learn more about the Reegan High-Leg Swivel Chair take a look at this article.

3. The Midtown - Swivel Gliding Chair

Perfect for smaller spaces, the Midtown Swivel Gliding Chair is a sleek and practical option. It offers a full swivel and gentle gliding motion, ideal for unwinding after a busy day. Magaly suggests using it for quiet spaces like nurseries.

To learn more about the Midtown Swivel Glider Chair take a look at this article.

4. The Roxie - Swivel Gliding Chair

The Roxie Swivel Gliding Chair is a stylish addition to any casual decor. Its deep T-seat cushion and rolled arms make it both comfortable and attractive. Roxie can glide or swivel, offering flexibility and comfort, making it a versatile choice for various rooms in your home. With its ability to blend seamlessly with different design styles, the Roxie is perfect for both living spaces and dedicated relaxation areas.

To learn more about the Roxie Swivel Glider Recliner take a look at this article.

What's Next?

You now have a clearer idea of the differences between swivel and gliding furniture. We hope that this article will guide you in making the right choice for you! 

As you begin shopping, take a look at some of our Best Selling Accent Chairs, to see what sparks your interest.

You can start shopping by visiting one of our local showrooms located in Ottawa or Kingston. You can also schedule a visit online before coming in.

Our design consultants are always eager to lend a helping hand. Take advantage of our interior design services to see how our furniture could fit in your home design. To learn more about La-Z-Boy accent chairs in general, take a look at our Comprehensive Accent Chair Buyer’s Guide.

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