Lafuma Zero Gravity Chair

Zero-gravity recliners allow you to lean back far enough that you become horizontal, taking all the weight off the spine and allowing the blood to flow freely. It's not only a great way to relax, but can also help relieve back pain by alleviating the pressure exerted on back muscles all day, by providing the same position as adjustable hospital beds.

The design was inspired by the same sitting position as those of NASA astronauts, who needed a comfortable, natural sitting position that would minimize stress on the body during takeoff, and is now available for all of your terrestrial relaxation needs.

Lafuma makes several zero-gravity reclining chairs, though mostly variations on the idea rather than total departures. The most popular design is the Lafuma RSX Recliner, followed by the Futura Clipper.

The Lafuma RSX recliner is sort of "the" Lafuma chair, constructed of steel tubing, with either a mesh or padded cushion suspended by elastic laces for extra comfort. The footrest makes the reclining quite easy, the construction will last for years outdoors, the cushion can be removed for easy laundering, it folds up for easy storage, and the elastic laces can be inexpensively replaced to extend the life of the product. Sound good? It is. In fact it'll probably be more comfortable than most of the chairs in your house.

So the only decision to make besides what color you want is whether to get the mesh or cushioned seat. The mesh will be better in hot weather and rain, and require less cleaning, but the cushion will provide more cushioning (obviously). Take your pick.

And if you're over 6 feet tall, you'll want the RSX XL, designed for taller people.

The Lafuma Futura Clipper offers the same construction and options as the RSX, but uses plastic clips to attach to the seat instead of elastic lace. This makes the seat much easier to remove and install for cleaning, plus the lace won't gradually stretch out over the years and need a replacement. This is great for those who like things low maintenance, though the RSX might offer a bit more comfort because of the extra give provided by the elastic cord.

Once again, the Futura Clipper comes in a few varieties, issued with either a mesh or padded seat (though the padded version is sometimes hard to find, so you might have to buy the cushion separately), in regular or XL sizes for those over 6 feet tall.

Because the Lafuma chairs feature replacement parts, you can buy replacement straps or cushions after they've worn themselves out. This might also be the only way to get the padded cushion if you have trouble finding the padded chair models online.

Not all accessories are available at all times, but you'll probably be able to find a sufficient replacement, especially on some of the more standard models and colors, particularly the RSX mesh seats, which are easier to find.

Just make sure to buy the correct model, whether RSX or Futura Clipper, so that it will fit the chair correctly. And go ahead and collect every color. That way your Lafuma zero gravity recliner can change colors with the seasons to fit your fashion whimsy!