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, buying stuff I saw on TikTok, or grabbing the best sheets money can buy, Imma 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 2023:
Here’s the thing: Most zero-gravity chairs are designed to look like the fold-out lawn chairs parents sit in during their kids’ soccer games, 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 shell out the big bucks—but it’ll be well, well worth it, 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, then keep scrolling for all the best options to buy now.
If this aesthetically-pleasing lounger doesn't make you want a nap like 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.
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.
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!
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 basement? 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).
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).
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.
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this top-rated zero-gravity chair
Human Touch Perfect Chair PC-420 Classic Manual Plus
7
this top-rated zero-gravity chair
Human Touch Perfect Chair PC-420 Classic Manual Plus
Back of chair is not designed with the same leather finish
Human Touch is another big name in the world of indoor zero gravity recliners, and the Perfect Chair PC-420 is the ~perfect~ balance of function and style. Available in a leather or vegan leather finish with a hand-carved wooden base, this stunner is the kind of chair you’ll never wanna leave.
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.
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.
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.
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 $$$ but seriously stylish option from DWR: this molded foam-cushioned recliner that comes in TONS of upholstery and color options. The cool cast-aluminum frame makes this piece look so refined, while the full recline position will give you that fun, floating sensation.
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
Chaise Sanders 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.