Genuine leather and high-quality faux leather (PU leather) are the most practical upholstery choices for users who may have continence issues, eat or drink in the chair, or require easy-wipe cleaning. Spills clean up immediately without penetrating the surface. Leather is durable and maintains its appearance well under heavy use. The main drawback is temperature regulation: leather feels cold on first contact in winter and warm in summer. It can also feel sticky against bare skin in warm weather. High-quality faux leather (bonded leather and PU alternatives) has improved considerably — at mid-to-premium price points, the difference between faux and genuine leather is minimal in daily use.

Fabric (woven or knit upholstery) is the most comfortable material for long periods of sitting — it breathes, feels consistent in temperature regardless of the season, and is softer against the skin than leather. The drawback is that fabric absorbs spills rather than repelling them, and is harder to clean thoroughly once stained. For users without continence concerns who prioritise comfort for extended daily use, a quality stain-resistant fabric is often the best choice. Most riser chair manufacturers offer fabric options with stain-resistant treatment — these retain the comfort benefits while improving cleanability. Check the specific stain resistance rating of the fabric offered before purchasing.

Velvet and premium textured fabric options are available on higher-specification chairs and add a quality aesthetic to the living room. The trade-off is that velvet and textured fabrics show wear and marks more readily than flat fabrics or leather. For users who prioritise aesthetics and are confident about minimising stain risk, these options are attractive. For users who need easy cleaning as a practical priority, standard fabric or leather is more appropriate.

Consider: how much time will be spent in the chair daily; whether easy cleaning is a practical requirement; whether the chair will be positioned near a heat source (leather near a radiator can crack); and the user's skin sensitivity to different materials. When possible, try the upholstery in person — fabric samples provided by manufacturers give a good indication of texture but not how it feels under body weight in a fully reclined position.