Rocker Recliner vs. Glider Recliner: Which Is Better for Your Home?

Est. Reading Time: 7 Mins

Choosing the right recliner can feel overwhelming, especially when deciding between a rocker recliner and a glider recliner. While both offer movement and comfort, they are designed for different lifestyles, room uses, and comfort preferences.

“One of the first questions I ask customers in our Kanata showroom is where the recliner will live and how they plan to use it day to day,” says Racha Pharaon, Sales Consultant at La-Z-Boy Kanata. “Once we understand that, the rocker versus glider decision usually becomes very clear.”

In this guide, we clearly explain the differences between rocker and glider recliners, so you can choose the option that best fits your space, budget, and daily routine.

Key Takeaways:

• Rocker recliners move in an arched rocking motion that many people find familiar, relaxing, and engaging
• Glider recliners move smoothly back and forth on a straight track, creating a quieter and more controlled motion
• Glider recliners at La-Z-Boy typically cost $200 to $300 more due to their swivel base and specialized construction
• Rocker recliners offer more customization options, including power recline, adjustable headrests, lumbar support, heat, and massage
• Both recliner types are available in multiple sizes, fabrics, and leathers, allowing you to personalize comfort and style

In This Article...

• What Is a Rocker Recliner?
• What Is a Glider Recliner?
• Rocker Recliner vs. Glider Recliner Pros and Cons
• Key Differences Explained
• Best Rocker Recliners at La-Z-Boy
• Best Glider Recliners at La-Z-Boy

What Is a Rocker Recliner?

A rocker recliner combines a traditional rocking chair motion with the ability to recline. It moves in an arched, front-to-back path and provides a rhythmic motion that many people associate with relaxation.

At La-Z-Boy, rocker recliners offer up to 16 reclining positions, allowing users to fine-tune how upright or reclined they want to sit. Once the footrest is engaged, the rocking motion stops, creating a stable and supportive reclined position. This is among other Exclusive Reclining Features from La-Z-Boy Recliners.

“Rocker recliners tend to appeal to customers who like an active, familiar motion,” explains Racha. “A lot of people grew up with traditional rocking chairs, so this movement feels natural, especially for watching TV or relaxing in the evening.”

What Is a Glider Recliner?

A glider recliner moves back and forth along a straight, fixed track instead of an arched path. This creates a smooth, controlled glide that feels gentle and consistent.

Most La-Z-Boy glider recliners also include a 360-degree swivel base, allowing you to rotate the chair without standing up. Unlike rocker recliners, gliders at La-Z-Boy typically feature one locking footrest position, which helps keep the motion quiet and predictable.

According to Racha, “Glider recliners are especially popular with parents and condo owners. The smooth glide and swivel make them easy to use in smaller spaces, and they’re noticeably quieter, which really matters in nurseries or shared homes.”

Rocker Recliner vs. Glider Recliner: Pros and Cons

Key Differences Explained

Motion and Movement

The biggest difference between a rocker recliner and a glider recliner is how they move.

Rocker recliners follow an arched rocking motion that can be increased with momentum. Many people enjoy this dynamic movement because it feels familiar and interactive, similar to a classic rocking chair.

Glider recliners move in a straight, linear path, offering a calmer and more controlled glide. This motion is often preferred by people who want a soothing, predictable experience, especially in quiet environments.

“If someone tells me they want something calming and predictable, I’ll usually point them toward a glider,” says Racha. “But if they like a bit of momentum and movement while they sit, a rocker is often the better fit.”

Base Construction

Rocker recliners are built on a vertical rocker base, which supports their arched movement and multiple reclining positions. This base allows flexibility but can produce more mechanical sound.

Glider recliners use a round swivel base combined with a gliding track. This construction provides excellent stability, smoother motion, and the ability to rotate the chair, which is helpful in tighter spaces or rooms with multiple focal points.

Both designs use reinforced materials to ensure long-term durability and stability.

To learn more about the Quality of La-Z-Boy and its construction, take a look at this article.

Noise Level

Noise level is an important factor for many shoppers.

Rocker recliners can produce a clunking or clicking sound when changing reclining positions. This sound is normal and is part of La-Z-Boy’s locking footrest mechanism.

Glider recliners are generally quieter because they use fewer locking positions and a smoother track system. This makes them a popular choice for nurseries or light sleepers.

“Noise is one of those details customers don’t always think about at first,” notes Racha. “Once they test both styles in-store, they immediately notice that gliders are quieter, while rockers have more audible locking points when reclining.”

Functionality and Features

Glider recliners are valued for their multi-directional functionality. Most models allow you to glide, swivel, recline, or lock the chair in place, offering flexibility depending on the moment.

Rocker recliners focus more on customized comfort. Many models offer advanced upgrades such as power recline, adjustable headrests, lumbar support, heat, and massage, making them ideal for users who want highly personalized seating.

“Rocker recliners really shine when it comes to upgrades,” says Racha. “If someone wants power recline, adjustable headrest or lumbar support, we almost always land on a rocker because the options are far more extensive.”

To learn more about Custom Furniture at La-Z-Boy, take a look at this article.

Model Availability at La-Z-Boy

Selection is another major difference.

La-Z-Boy offers over 70 rocker recliner models, making it easier to find the right size, style, and comfort level. Rockers are also available in more configurations, including loveseats and sofas.

Glider recliners are more limited, with around 10 models, but they are designed with specific use cases in mind, such as nurseries and compact spaces.

Best-Selling Rocker Recliners at La-Z-Boy

• Pinnacle Rocking Recliner – Known for its tall back, plush cushioning, and continuous chaise support
• Rowan Rocking Recliner – A modern design that maximizes seating space while maintaining smooth motion
• Trouper Rocking Recliner – A contemporary bucket seat design with excellent lumbar and head support
  
  

Best-Selling Glider Recliners at La-Z-Boy

• Harbor Town Gliding Recliner – Compact and modern with glide, swivel, and recline functions
• Sparrow Gliding Recliner – Tall back and classic arms, making it a favourite for nurseries
• Finley Gliding Recliner – Structured silhouette with plush cushioning and smooth glide motion

What’s Next?

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

You can start shopping by visiting one of our local showrooms located in Ottawa, Gatineau 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 recliners in general, take a look at our comprehensive recliner buyer’s guide.

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What is the Difference between a Rocker Recliner & a Wall Recliner?

Loveseat vs. Sofa