Finding the perfect recliner when you’re on the shorter side can be challenging. Many standard recliners are designed for average to tall individuals, leaving shorter people with uncomfortable seating options where their feet dangle and their backs lack proper support. The right recliner should allow your feet to touch the floor while seated and provide proper lumbar and neck support.
We’ve researched and compiled this list of the 7 best recliners for short people, focusing on models with appropriate seat depths, heights, and proportions. Each option offers comfort without overwhelming your frame, ensuring you can relax properly without strain or discomfort.
Recliner Chair Swivel Rocker Recliner
This versatile swivel rocker recliner combines multiple functions in one compact design, making it ideal for shorter individuals. The chenille beige upholstery offers both style and durability, while the smaller dimensions ensure a comfortable fit without overwhelming your space. The manual reclining mechanism is smooth and easy to operate, requiring minimal effort to achieve your desired position.
The chair’s swivel and rocking capabilities add versatility, allowing you to turn to face different directions or gently rock while relaxing. Convenient side pockets provide storage for remotes, books, or other small items you want to keep within reach.
Best for:
Adults under 5’5″ who need a multifunctional chair that can swivel, rock, and recline in smaller living spaces or nurseries.
Pros:
- 360° swivel function combined with rocking and reclining capabilities
- Compact dimensions ideal for shorter individuals and small spaces
- Soft chenille fabric that’s both comfortable and durable
- Side pockets for convenient storage of small items
- Neutral beige color that complements most decor styles
Cons:
- Manual operation may require some strength to operate
- Limited color options available
Overall Rating:
Recliner Chair 360 Swivel Rocker Chair
This compact swivel rocker recliner is specifically designed with shorter individuals in mind. The chair features a 360-degree swivel base that allows for easy repositioning, while the gliding and rocking functions provide additional comfort options. The upholstered fabric offers a soft touch while maintaining durability for everyday use.
With its smaller proportions, this chair ensures that shorter people can sit with their feet flat on the floor while still enjoying full back support. The side pockets are perfectly positioned for easy access to remotes, magazines, or other small items you want to keep close at hand.
Best for:
Shorter adults looking for a versatile chair that works well in living rooms or nurseries, especially those who appreciate the ability to swivel, rock, and recline.
Pros:
- Full 360-degree swivel capability with smooth operation
- Compact dimensions specifically suited for shorter individuals
- Comfortable gliding and rocking functions for versatile relaxation
- Practical side pockets for convenient storage
- Sturdy construction that supports up to 300 pounds
Cons:
- Assembly required which may be challenging for some
- Limited recline positions compared to power recliners
Overall Rating:
Sweetcrispy Massage Recliner Chair
The Sweetcrispy Massage Recliner combines comfort with therapeutic features in a size that works well for shorter individuals. This dark grey recliner includes built-in massage functionality with multiple modes and intensities to help relieve tension and soreness. The adjustable lumbar support ensures proper positioning for your lower back, which is especially important for shorter people who often struggle with standard-sized recliners.
Designed as home theater seating, this recliner offers multiple reclining positions while maintaining a smaller footprint that won’t overwhelm your space. The compact dimensions ensure that shorter users can sit with their feet on the floor while still enjoying full back support.
Best for:
Shorter adults who want therapeutic massage features combined with comfortable reclining in a home theater or living room setting.
Pros:
- Built-in massage function with multiple modes and intensity levels
- Adjustable lumbar support for proper back positioning
- Compact dimensions ideal for shorter individuals
- Multiple reclining positions for customized comfort
- Durable dark grey upholstery that hides stains
Cons:
- Massage motor may produce some noise during operation
- Requires access to an electrical outlet for massage features
Overall Rating:
Amada Power Recliner Chair
The Amada Power Recliner offers electric operation that’s perfect for shorter individuals who may struggle with manual recliners. This chenille-upholstered chair features a convenient remote control that allows you to adjust your position with the touch of a button, eliminating the need for physical strength to operate the reclining mechanism.
The thick seat cushion provides excellent support while the compact dimensions ensure that shorter people can sit comfortably with their feet touching the floor. Side pockets offer convenient storage for the remote, books, or other small items you want to keep within reach.
Best for:
Shorter adults who prefer effortless electric operation and need a comfortable recliner for living rooms, bedrooms, home theaters, or RVs.
Pros:
- Electric operation with remote control for effortless adjustment
- Thick, comfortable seat cushion for extended sitting
- Compact dimensions ideal for shorter individuals
- Soft chenille upholstery that’s both comfortable and durable
- Versatile enough for various rooms including RVs
Cons:
- Requires access to an electrical outlet
- Slightly higher price point than manual options
Overall Rating:
Recliner Chair for Adults Padded Deep Seat
This linen-upholstered recliner features a padded deep seat that provides excellent comfort while still maintaining dimensions suitable for shorter individuals. The chair is designed as a reading chair with adjustable positions, allowing you to find the perfect angle for relaxation, reading, or watching TV.
Despite the “deep seat” description, this recliner is actually well-proportioned for shorter people, with a seat height that allows your feet to rest comfortably on the floor. The side pockets provide convenient storage for books, remotes, or other items you want to keep close at hand.
Best for:
Shorter adults who enjoy reading or watching TV and need a comfortable, adjustable chair for living rooms, bedrooms, or RVs.
Pros:
- Well-padded seat and back for extended comfort
- Multiple reclining positions for customized relaxation
- Dimensions suitable for shorter individuals
- Durable linen upholstery that’s both stylish and practical
- Convenient side pockets for storage
Cons:
- Manual operation requires some physical effort
- Limited color options available
Overall Rating:
Recliner Chair with Cup Holders and Side Pockets
This beige recliner combines practicality with comfort in a size that’s perfect for shorter individuals. The chair features built-in cup holders that keep your beverages secure and within easy reach, eliminating the need for side tables. The manual reclining mechanism offers multiple positions to suit your comfort needs.
The compact dimensions ensure that shorter people can sit with their feet flat on the floor while still enjoying full back support. Side pockets provide additional storage for remotes, magazines, or other small items you want to keep close at hand.
Best for:
Shorter adults who want a practical recliner with beverage storage for living rooms, bedrooms, or nurseries.
Pros:
- Convenient cup holders that keep beverages secure
- Compact dimensions ideal for shorter individuals
- Multiple reclining positions for customized comfort
- Side pockets for additional storage
- Neutral beige color that complements most decor
Cons:
- Manual operation requires some physical effort
- Cup holders reduce the overall width of the armrests
Overall Rating:
Yaheetech Corduroy Recliner Chair
The Yaheetech Corduroy Recliner offers a modern aesthetic with its dark green corduroy upholstery, making it a stylish addition to any living space. This adjustable recliner is designed with compact proportions that work well for shorter individuals, ensuring proper support without overwhelming your frame or your room.
The soft corduroy fabric provides both comfort and durability, while the adjustable reclining positions allow you to customize your seating angle for reading, watching TV, or napping. The chair’s home theater design makes it perfect for creating a cozy viewing space.
Best for:
Shorter adults looking for a stylish, modern recliner for living rooms or home theaters who appreciate the texture and appearance of corduroy.
Pros:
- Soft, durable corduroy upholstery with a premium feel
- Modern design with an attractive dark green color
- Compact dimensions suitable for shorter individuals
- Multiple reclining positions for customized comfort
- Sturdy construction for long-term use
Cons:
- Manual operation requires some physical effort
- Corduroy fabric may trap more heat than other materials
Overall Rating:
Factors to Consider When Choosing Recliners for Short People
Proper fit is essential – feet should touch the floor while seated
Seat Depth
Perhaps the most critical factor for shorter individuals is seat depth. A seat that’s too deep will force you to sit forward, preventing your back from touching the backrest properly. Look for recliners with a seat depth between 19-21 inches, which allows shorter people to sit with their back against the backrest while keeping their knees bent at a comfortable 90-degree angle.
Seat Height
The ideal recliner for shorter people should have a seat height that allows your feet to rest flat on the floor. Look for chairs with seat heights between 18-20 inches. If the seat is too high, your feet will dangle, causing discomfort and potential circulation issues during extended sitting.
Back Height
While taller individuals need higher backrests for proper support, shorter people often find that standard back heights push their head forward uncomfortably. A recliner with a back height between 38-42 inches typically works well for shorter individuals, providing proper neck and head support without forcing an awkward position.
Reclining Mechanism
Consider whether you prefer a manual or power reclining mechanism. Manual recliners typically require some physical strength to operate, while power recliners allow you to adjust your position with the touch of a button. For some shorter individuals who may have less leverage due to their height, power recliners can be easier to operate.
Footrest Position
When reclined, the footrest should support your legs without gaps. Many standard recliners have footrests that extend too far for shorter legs, leaving a gap between the seat and footrest. Look for recliners with adjustable footrests or models specifically designed with shorter proportions.
Additional Features
Consider what additional features might enhance your comfort, such as lumbar support, headrests, massage functions, heating elements, cup holders, or storage pockets. These features can add significant value but should be secondary to finding a recliner with the right dimensions for your height.
Finding Your Perfect Recliner
Selecting the right recliner when you’re on the shorter side doesn’t have to be challenging. By focusing on appropriate dimensions—particularly seat depth, seat height, and back height—you can find a comfortable chair that properly supports your body without overwhelming your frame or your space.
Each of the recliners we’ve reviewed offers unique features while maintaining proportions suitable for shorter individuals. Whether you prefer a swivel rocker, a massage recliner, or a power recliner with remote control, there’s an option that will meet your needs and provide the comfort you deserve.
Remember that proper fit is essential not just for comfort but also for preventing strain and pain during extended sitting. A recliner that’s properly sized for your height will provide years of comfortable relaxation and support.