When it comes to outdoor seating options, rocking chairs and gliders are two popular choices. They are comfortable and motion, allowing you to relax quickly. Invest in outdoor rocking chairs or glider chairs for your patio or porch to enjoy all four seasons.
Glider vs rocking chair: What’s the difference? We’ll compare these from 4 perspectives to help you find the perfect outdoor seating.
What is a Rocking Chair?
A rocker, also known as a rocking chair, consists of two rockers attached to the bottom of the chair legs. Its unique curved rocker enables it to form an arc-shaped rocking motion, allowing people to fully relax. They typically feature a seat, a backrest, and armrests, offering a comfortable seating experience. Invest in rocking chairs for your porch or backyard to enjoy relaxation all year round.
What is a Glider?
A glider is a type of chair that offers a smooth and effortless back-and-forth gliding motion. Just push your feet slightly and it will slide smoothly on the fixed rail. They typically feature a fixed base with a suspended seat that moves in a seamless gliding motion. Gliders often include padded cushions and armrests for enhanced comfort. Whether in the garden or backyard, outdoor gliders provide a comfortable place to relax anytime.
Glider vs Rocking Chair: What's the Difference?
To help you make a better purchase choice, we first have to understand the difference between rocking chairs and glider chairs. While both offer a comfortable and relaxing experience, they each have their own pros and cons. It’s important to delve into their pros and cons to find the outdoor seating that best suits your space and needs.
1.Design and Comfort
There are significant differences between rocking chairs and gliders in terms of structural design and comfort. Here is a comparison of the differences:
Rocking Chairs
- The base is curved, and the legs are equipped with rockers, which can be rocked gently by pushing the ground with your feet.
- Compared to a glider, the rhythmic shaking and larger movement space can make people more comfortable and relaxed.
Glider Chairs
- It consists of a fixed base and a suspended seat that moves forward and backward. It allows for rocking without pushing off the ground, providing greater safety and stability.
- The fixed base only allows the seat to slide a few inches forward and backward. Compared to rocking chairs, glider chairs offer less room and strength to slide, making them suitable for those who prefer a gentle rocking motion.
2. Weight and Volume
Glider vs Rocking Chair: Which is bigger? It is obvious that a glider chair is much larger than a rocking chair. What are the specific differences? As follows:
Rocking Chairs
- Rocking chairs are known for their compact size and portability, allowing for easy rearrangement or storage. Multiple can be placed on the patio or porch at the same time
- Rocking chairs have higher requirements for the ground than gliders. To maintain stability and prevent accidents, it is only suitable for use on flat surfaces.
Glider Chairs
- Glider chairs are larger than rocking chairs and require larger patio and porch spaces. They have a variety of seating options, including single and double seats.
- It is very stable and can be moved and swung on all surfaces. It can rock easily even on uneven surfaces such as sand, grass, or bricks.
3.Aesthetics and Style
Rocking Chairs
- Classic designs, typically made from teak, oak or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) polyolefin wood.
- It can be custom painted to complement your outdoor decor. Rich in style types.
Glider Chairs
- Modern-looking design, usually made of metal or wood with soft cushions for added comfort.
- Available in a variety of colors and clean lines, not custom painted.
4.Cost and Value
The price of rocking and glider chairs will vary based on a number of factors, including materials, craftsmanship, brand, and any additional features. You will need to make the best assessment based on your budget and desired features.
Rocking Chairs
- Basic prices range from $50 to $300.
- High-end rocking chairs with premium materials and sophisticated designs can cost over $500
Glider Chairs
- Glider chairs tend to cost slightly more, usually around $100.
- Glider chairs with added features like reclining mechanisms or footrests can cost upwards of $500.
Which is Better for You?
If you want to buy a rocking chair for your nursery and living room, a glider chair is the perfect choice. It has a wealth of extra features, such as a recliner, footstool or built-in storage space to create a comfortable environment for both children and parents.
If you want to enjoy the sunrise with a cup of coffee on the porch or stargaze on the balcony, a rocking chair is a more suitable choice. Rocking chairs are sturdy and weather-resistant and can be used in all weather conditions, making them ideal seats for outdoor relaxation.
FAQs
Comfort is subjective and can vary depending on personal preference. Some individuals may find the gentle rocking motion of a rocking chair more comfortable, while others prefer the smooth gliding motion of a glider. It’s recommended to try out both options to determine which one suits your comfort needs best.
Yes. However, it is important to ensure child safety. Choose rockers and gliders that are designed for children or use them under adult supervision.
Generally, regular dusting, spot cleaning, and occasional wood conditioning or fabric cleaning can help keep your rocking chair or glider in good condition.
Many gliders have a locking mechanism to secure them in a stationary position. This feature provides stability and allows you to use the glider as a regular chair if desired.
Yes, outdoor rocking chairs can be used near a pool or in coastal environments. However, it’s important to choose materials that are resistant to saltwater, corrosion, and UV rays. Opting for aluminum or HDPE material and choosing weather-resistant cushions.
Outdoor rocking chairs can provide comfortable seating for extended periods, especially with cushions or padding designed for outdoor use. Choosing chairs with ergonomic designs and supportive features enhances long-lasting comfort during outdoor relaxation.
