MotionCraft vs. Hooker Leather Recliners: Which is better?

MotionCraft vs. Hooker Leather Recliners: Which is better?

Customer Question

I want to buy a leather recliner. I am looking at recliners from Hooker and Motioncraft. The MotionCraft recliner is considerably higher in price, but a lot more comfortable. What is the difference in quality between these 2 recliners?

MotionCraft recliners are better quality than Hooker recliners. In general, they will last longer and feel better.
 
Hooker has two different recliner lines. The Hooker brand is imported.
  • Like other imported reclining furniture in its price range, it will have an average lifespan of 3 - 5 years before the foam in the non-removable cushions wears out.
  • At that point, the seating becomes noticeably less comfortable. (The lower estimated lifespan is based on heavier than normal use or use by larger than average persons.)
Hooker also owns the Braddington Young line of reclining furniture. BY is made in the USA. Braddington Young and MotionCraft are of comparable quality.
  • Both MotionCraft and Bradington Young should last 20+ years with periodic maintenance.
  • Most of Hooker's "leathers" will be "leather match" or "bonded leather." These are very different (and much cheaper) than the high quality leathers used by MotionCraft or Bradington Young. 
Although Hooker may offer an all-leather option for its reclining furniture, it would not be a good value.
  • Good quality top grain leather can hold up for 20+ years.
  • That extra cost is wasted when combined with cushions, frames and mechanisms that are unlikely to last much more than 5 years. 

Check out my article, Who are the best American made reclining sofa companies? 

  • Hooker is not listed, since it is imported, but is roughly equivalent in quality to Flexsteel.
  • The top 9 brands listed (including both MotionCraft and Bradington Young) in the article are all superior in quality to Hooker's imported line.

Photo shown above is courtesy of Motioncraft.

 

Return

Ask the Furniture Expert