We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.
I don't know about you, but I'll take any excuse to make my home (ha, more like my 300-square-foot studio apartment) a more relaxing environment. Whether stocking the bar cart with a new bottle of Merlot, ordering stuff I saw on TikTok, or grabbing the best sheets money can buy, I will 100% find any way to relieve some stress. And if you’re looking for an ~ergonomic~ solution to up your relaxation game, I’ve got just the thing for ya: zero-gravity chairs.
Created by NASA (because ofc), zero-gravity chairs are designed to mimic the position astronauts are in during blast-off to put the least amount of strain on their bodies, and, no, you don’t need to be an astronaut (or Jeff Bezos) to own one. “A zero-gravity chair places us in a position that allows our feet to be above our heart so that our body is fully supported in a neutral posture,” explains ergonomist Audrey Mitchell, COTA/L, CEAS, founder of Bloom Ergonomics. “I recommend these for people that spend most of their day upright and/or have lower-back pain—but they also have benefits for people with heart health issues.”
Because gravity is constantly putting strain on our bodies, the best zero-gravity chairs work to relieve tension on the muscles, which is something e-v-e-r-y-o-n-e could use, IMO. “While in the chair, our feet and brain are at similar levels to our heart, which allows better circulation because oxygen moves more effortlessly throughout the body,” Mitchell adds. The result: easier, deeper breathing and reduced stress.
Our top picks for the best zero-gravity chairs in 2024:
Here’s the thing: Most zero-gravity chairs are designed to look like those fold-out lawn chairs your parents had for picnics, which is...not always the vibe. And if you want something that doesn’t look like a piece of patio furniture for your living room, then you’ll probably have to bump up that budget—but it’ll be well, well worth it, pinky promise. If you’re looking for a zero-gravity recliner that'll help you lounge in style and won’t be a total eyesore in your home, keep scrolling for all the best options to buy now.
Pros
No assembly required- Statement piece
- Helps relieve pressure on spine and joints
Cons
- May be too large and bulky for smaller spaces
If this aesthetically-pleasing lounger doesn't make you want a nap ASAP, we don't know what will. Made with a unique body-hugging shape (straight out of the MoMA), this recliner takes literally all of the guesswork out of finding the perfect position for rest and relaxation. Just plop your booty down, throw your feet up, and enjoy.
Glowing Customer Review: "It’s so comfortable, soft but firm, and most importantly, it’s ergonomic. I like how it’s compact and does not use up too much space in my home office"
| Materials | Polyester Blend, Foam |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 28.5'' H x 23'' W x 59'' L |
| Weight | 27.18 lbs |
| Colors | Dark Gray, Light Gray, Oatmeal |
Pros
- Adjustable pillow
- Vibration massage capability
- Heating capability
Cons
- Max weight is 285 lbs
- Assembly required
Svago is probs the biggest name in the world of luxe zero-gravity recliners, so you can trust this faux leather lounger to get the job done. It comes with a handheld remote to help you find your perfect position, and as a bonus, this bad boy will give you a full back massage with heat therapy. Sign! Me! Up!
Glowing Customer Review: "Very easy to put together! Many positions, I love that. The heat is so perfect, not too hot , just right especially on your back! Glad I got it!"
| Materials | Faux Leather, Wood |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 43.3"D x 30.7"W x 47.5"H |
| Weight | 88.4 lbs |
| Colors | Brown, Black |
3
this sleek manual recliner
Relax the Back Novus Zero Gravity Manual Recliner
Pros
- Multiple upholstery choices and wood finishes available
- Optional upgrade available to find your perfect position with the touch of a button
Cons
- Maximum weight of 275 lbs
- Expensive investment piece
You remember that bulky La-Z-Boy recliner your uncle had in his basem*nt? Yea, well, this is nothing like that one. The Novus Recliner combines much-needed lumbar support and an articulated headrest for the ultimate sitting experience. And no more fighting with that annoying lever—this sleek recliner adjusts the chair with minimal effort (just the way we like it).
Glowing Customer Review: "I purchased the Zero Gravity Recliner 16 years ago (2005). Have sat in it for 10 hours a day ever since. It's basically flawless. Cradles you like a baby. Far better than a normal recliner. I did not get the power recliner and do not feel that it is necessary. However, the retractable footrest is necessary unless you are 5 feet tall. Best single purchase I've ever made. Despite the price, you will eventually achieve the cost of pennies on the hour."
| Materials | Leather or Faux Leather |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 47.5"H x 29.5"W x 39"D |
| Colors | Black, Wine, Black Onyx, Buckskin, Coffee Bean, Bridle |
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
4
this swiveling zero-gravity chair
Design Within Reach Vala Swivel Recliner
Now 40% Off
Pros
- Multiple colors and materials available
- Doesn't look like your typical recliner
- Swiveling seat with auto-return
Cons
- Pricey
- Some customers aren't fans of the auto-return swivel capability
Yes, it’s very pricey, but how gorge is this sleek recliner? It comes in just about every color and material imaginable, so you can totally customize it to match your decor, and with a simple seated push, you can go from upright to a full, weightless recline.
Glowing Customer Review: "We were seeking a chair that had some shape and maintained a low profile in the room while feeling inviting. This chair has been a pleasure to sit in, recline in, swivel in and also look at for my partner and our 3 kids. We are enjoying it!"
| Materials | Mode (Polyester), Pebble Weave (Viscose, Cotton, Acrylic, Polyester), Pecora (Australian Wool, Polyamide, Peruvian Alpaca Wool), Prone Leather, Beck (Wool, Nylon) or Raise Leather |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 39⅛" H x 31⅜" W x 61¾" D |
| Weight | 74 lbs |
| Colors | 50+ |
Pros
- Stylish statement piece of furniture
- Free curbside delivery
Cons
- Pricey
This mid-century modern lounger from Kathy Kuo Home is upholstered with gorgeous top grain leather and designed to give you that weightless-feeling recline (while looking WAY prettier than a fold-out camping chair).
| Materials | Viscose, Linen, Polyester, Parawood |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 36'' H x 27.5'' W x 36-56'' D |
| Weight | 57.32 lbs |
| Colors | Black, Natural |
6
this stylish zero-gravity chair
Blu Dot Deep Thoughts Leather Chaise
Pros
- Adjustable lumbar pillow
- Ships fully assembled
Cons
- Natural leather leads to color variation
- Pricey
Available in three muted color options, this wildly stylish chaise lounge chair from Blu Dot combines comfort with aesthetic to make you feel like you’re lounging in the world’s best hammock. You’ll love its sleek steel tube frame and aniline leather seat, and your body will love its perfectly ergonomic design.
| Materials | Leather |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 22” W x 60” D x 39” H |
| Weight | 49 lbs |
| Colors | Ink, Camel, Loden Green |
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Pros
- No assembly required
- Fabric is Oeko-Tex certified (free of harmful toxins) and uses Batyline for resistance to rot, mildew, UV radiation, and fading
- Foldable design
Cons
- Hardware may loosen over time
Okay, yes, I said no patio furniture, but if you’re not looking to drop more than a few hundred bucks, then this pretty pastel bb from Pottery Barn is your best option. It’s ergonomic, elegant, and—most importantly—affordable, and it’ll legit make you feel like you’re floating on air.
| Materials | Polyester, Steel |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 32.5" W x 34.5" D x 27" H |
| Weight | 14.5 lbs |
| Colors | Magnolia, Ocean, Chlorophylle |
8
this padded outdoor zero gravity chair
Lafuma Futura Air Comfort Zero Gravity Recliner
Pros
- AirComfort padding and headrest is plush and breathable for outdoor lounging
- Can fold up when not in use
Cons
- Designed for outdoor use as opposed to inside
If you're looking for an outdoor zero-gravity recliner, allow me to introduce you to this under-$300 option on Amazon. Featuring super plush AirComfort padding and a headrest, this outdoor chair is ideal for lounging and loved by reviewers for its comfy, ergonomic design. Sure, it's not a luxe piece of furniture for inside your home, but if you're looking for a more affordable way to kick back and relax, this is it.
Glowing Customer Review: "Did lots of research for brands that would hold up. Found this one to be very reliable with warranty of 5 years I believe. My husband uses this to go to motorcycle track days, or just to lay back and listen to music in his heated garage. He loves it and esp. likes that there is no pressure on his back--it really does provide a great rest. Padding is very adequate and after a couple of moths use, we see no wear."
| Materials | Polyester, Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 32.7"D x 25.5"W x 46"H |
| Weight | 18.1 lbs |
| Colors | Acier Black, Taupe Grey, Coral Blue, Bordeaux Red |
Pros
- Headrest can be moved to suit your comfort
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Assembly required
- Some reviews say assembly instructions are difficult to understand
Get you a chair that rocks (literally!). Made for both indoor and outdoor use, this rocking chaise lounge requires minimal maintenance, is easy to clean thanks to the mesh fabric, and is made to last.
Glowing Customer Review: "Love this chair. Only problem we see is that there should be some sort of arm pad on chair. If you leave it in the sun it gets really hot and will burn you. Easy to follow instructions. Only took about 20 minutes for us to put it together. Everyone fights over this one."
| Materials | PVC, Polyester, Steel |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 157"D x 55.5"W x 76"H |
| Weight | 23 lbs |
| Colors | Beige, Grey |
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
10
this timeless zero-gravity chair
Design Within Reach Risa Recliner
Now 50% Off
Pros
- Multiple colors and materials available
- Designed with molded foam cushions topped with a feather layer for added comfort
Cons
- Assembly required
- Some reviews say that slight pressure at the foot rest can cause the recliner to close
Another $$$ but seriously stylish option from DWR: this molded foam-cushioned recliner that comes in TONS of upholstery and color options. The cool cast-aluminum frame makes this piece look so refined, while the full recline position will give you that fun, floating sensation.
Glowing Customer Review: "Purchased one in black. Chair is very heavy, so it does not slide around. Very comfortable; those with back issues love it. We've had it around 2 years now and it has held up great. Dogs have nested in it so it can scratch but we've used cleaner. Great chair"
| Materials | Mode (Polyester), Pebble Weave (Viscose, Cotton, Acrylic, Polyester), Pecora (Australian Wool, Polyamide, Peruvian Alpaca Wool), Prone Leather, Beck (Wool, Nylon) or Raise Leather |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 39⅜" H x 30¼" W x 33" D |
| Colors | 50+ |
What to consider when choosing a zero-gravity chair:
We will a-l-w-a-y-s support a zero-gravity chair purchase, but before you hit that add to cart button, here are a few things to consider:
Material
While zero-gravity chairs are allll about comfort, some fabrics are more comfortable (and functional) than others. Zero-gravity chairs made with leather definitely give a more luxe aesthetic but can be on the pricier side. Leather provides longevity that some fabrics cannot, is easy to clean, and you can rest assured that it won't hold odors like some softer fabrics. Suede is also a popular choice, but please note it's more high-maintenance to protect and clean. For something a bit more budget-friendly and soft, you can opt for a polyester fabric blend. Unlike natural fabrics, it is more resistant to wear and tear as well as fading.
For outdoor chairs, you may want to consider a chair made from a more weather-resistant material, like a mesh, with steel water-resistant legs.
Size
This may sound like a "duh," but you'll want to make sure you measure your space and the chair's dimensions carefully before buying. While a chair may look like it will fit in its upright position, it's important to also consider its length and measurements when fully reclined. Also, make sure to check the weight limit. We want to ensure your furniture lasts as long as possible and feels comfortable for anyone who decides to lounge.
Reclining and additional features
Some zero-gravity chairs have the ability to recline, and others are static. Determine which one you'd benefit most from before ordering, because chairs that remain permanently in a reclining position will automatically take up more space. Other features to consider include pillows for additional comfort, cushioning, built-in cup holders, and attached side tables (yes, some have those).
Why trust Cosmopolitan?
As you probably know, Cosmo's lifestyle team spends all day, every day scouring the internet, testing products, and reading reviews so we can bring you the type of high-quality content we’d want for ourselves (and our standards are preeeetty darn high, TBH).
We also try to make sure the products we feature are good for both you and our planet. If we wouldn’t buy something for ourselves, we sure as heck won’t recommend it to you—and we’re always gonna keep it really, really real. Pinky swear.
Corinne Sullivan
Editor
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
Chaise Sanders
Associate Editor
Chaise Sanders is an Associate Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers anything from lifestyle and beauty to entertainment and style. Wanna upgrade your skincare game? She's got you covered with the best facial cleansing brushes. Or maybe you're in need of a new true crime show to binge? Got that covered too! Prior to joining the Cosmo team, Chaise was an editor at Country Living (also part of the Hearst fam) where she interviewed celebs like Dolly Parton, LeAnn Rimes and even Martha Stewart. Now, as one of the Big Apple's newest residents, there's a good chance that you can catch her checking out an Insta-worthy cafe or spending way to much $$$ in vintage stores.
