The glider rocker is part of the rocking chair family, yet the major components differ and the glider has a motion all of its own. They both move smoothly and quietly. Both the rocking chair and the glider rocker bring us relaxation and comfort which makes either one a great addition to our home.
The rocking chair has two curved rockers under the legs. As the occupant of the chair shifts his weight or pushes off with his feet, the rocking motion begins.
The glider rocker moves horizontally forward and back. Rather than sitting on curved rockers, the base of the glider sits firmly on the floor.
This makes it impossible for a child or pet to be caught under the rocker while in motion. Side panels extend downward from the chair arms or seat. Attached to the insides of these side panels is the essential framework which connects the seat to the base. This framework, with linkage and ball bearings, is what allows for the gliding motion. This motion is parallel to the floor.
To further demonstrate the difference between rocking and gliding, I offer this example. (Probably best not to try this at home) Set a glass of milk on the seats of each chair. Start the motions of both rockers and watch the levels of milk in each glass. The glass on the glider will remain level, while the glass on the rocker will want to spill out as the chair rocks forward and then again as it rocks backwards. Remember how your mom felt about spilled milk?
Raised in a home with rocking chairs and four siblings, we enjoyed the benefits of rocking for years. Our spilled milk episodes occurred at the dinner table. (love you, Mom) When I moved out of my parents house, I purchased a glider rocker which has since then been part of my own home. When someone visits me, it is the first seat they go to. In addition to my glider rocker, I now have a gliding love seat, which I personally love. When my long work day is over, that is where I choose to go to relax. I can actually rock myself to sleep while enjoying the smooth gliding motion.
The technology of the glider rocker has led to designs with additional features. One of those features is the swivel motion. This is convenient because you can swivel the chair while remaining seated to face another person or activity in the room. Another popular feature added to the glider is the reclining option. A lever on the side of the chair locks the reclining position, allowing the occupant to lay back and relax. These additional features in the same chair offer optional choices of pleasure for the occupant.
Like the rocking chair, the glider rocker is a great addition to the living room, bedroom, family room or den. The glider can also be used in a nursery to calm an infant, or placed by a lamp to create a cozy reading space. From babies to the elderly, people of all ages experience that feeling of well-being from the steady gliding motion.