What Is A Captains Chair

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
22 min read

Those in search of a new piece of office equipment need look no further. Questions like “what is a captains chair?” “how much do they cost?” “how do I take care of one?” and “what are the benefits?” will all be answered in this article.

What Is A Captain’s Chair?

The online dictionary Merriam-Webster classifies captain’s chairs as armchairs. Those seats are commonly referred to as “saddle seats” because they resemble horse saddles. Seats designed like saddles put riders in a position similar to that of a horse rider: with their legs spread apart, knees positioned lower than their hips, and pelvis tipped forward.

Captain’s chairs have low, curved backs and a saddle seat. Armrests provide additional horizontal support.

One more thing that sets this chair apart is the fact that it offers vertical support. In most cases, spindles are used for this purpose. However, modern versions of captain’s chairs no longer feature this feature.

Where exactly the name came from is a mystery. It was obviously designed and constructed with the occupant’s convenience and pleasure in mind, though.

Fully Upholstered Captain's Chair - George Smith (US)

Likewise, captain’s chairs are now available for purchase for use in automobiles. Captain’s chairs, which are more like airline seats, are an upgrade offered by some automakers.

The ones made for use in automobiles differ slightly in appearance from the real captain’s chairs. On the other hand, they still benefit from the chairs’ reassuring qualities.

How much do they cost?

A captain’s chair’s cost is determined by its material and construction quality. It can also be brand specific.

Prices can be anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. When on the hunt for the perfect captain’s chair, it pays to keep an open mind, factor in your budget, and shop smart.

The following are some things to think about when shopping for a captain’s chair:

Step #1. Know your wood

Knowing the different types of wood that are commonly used for furniture is helpful if you’re shopping for wooden captain’s chairs. The type of wood used in a chair’s construction is an important consideration when selecting a seat.

It’s important to keep an eye out for the particular characteristics of each type of wood. It stands to reason, then, that maintenance requirements for various types of wood will vary.

Step #2. Consider your lifestyle

Your way of life is another factor to think about when selecting a captain’s chair. Can you estimate how often you’ll be making use of it? Having a sense of this will allow you to better budget for a purchase.

Spending a lot of money on an item of furniture you won’t use much seems wasteful to me. You should budget for the captain’s chair based on how often you plan to use it.

Step #3. Check the parts

When purchasing a captain’s chair, especially one that has been previously owned, it is important to inspect each component to ensure it is in good working order. The cushions are the first to wear out after some time. You should inspect the cushions to see if they can be repaired, replaced, or reupholstered.

It’s also important to keep an eye out for the legs. A high-quality captain’s chair will have legs that are joined to the seat rather than glued or nailed. Chairs are more reliable and long-lasting when fitted with such an attachment.

One must also think about the material of the legs. Furniture with plastic, metal, or rubber legs can scratch your floors. They’re not as attractive as sturdy wooden legs, either.

How do you care for a captain’s chair?

The captain’s chair’s material affects how long it will take to wear out. Wood is the typical material for captain’s chairs. Leather and fabric are common in many.

Captain’s chairs made of wood should be stored out of the sun and heat. Protect the wood from wetness and termites by dusting them frequently and applying polishes or sprays.

Leather fixtures also require regular dusting maintenance. Additionally, at least once per month, use a leather cleaning agent. Also, because of the damage that exposure to water, sunlight, and heat can cause, you should store them somewhere dry and dark.

Regular vacuuming of fabric parts is recommended. It is also important to keep them out of the sun.

To further help your chair last longer, try not to eat while sitting in it. It’s not always easy to get rid of food debris. Fabric parts can be easily replaced when they show signs of wear.

What are the benefits of a captain’s chair?

A captain’s chair has the ability to improve the aesthetics of any room. They add a touch of class and tradition to any setting.

The comfort and ample back support they provide are additional bonuses. A captain’s chair can serve as an effective office chair if you do most of your work at home.

10 Best 2nd & 3rd Row SUVs With Captains Chairs in 2022

#1. 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid

Specifications:

  • Price: $30,805
  • Powerplant: I-4 2.5-liter Intercooled Turbo
  • Eight-Speed Automatic with Manual Shifting Transmission
  • 281 horsepower
  • EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 22/29 mpg
  • Seating for Six

The 2022 Kia Sorento is an excellent alternative to the Kia Telluride for shoppers who need a large SUV but don’t want to sacrifice interior space. Both three-row Kias are fashionable and practical. The rear seats of the Sorento aren’t really designed for adults, and when they’re up they take up valuable cargo space that could be used elsewhere. However, if you fold down the middle seat, the cabin becomes suitable for a small family. The Sorento can be a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, but it isn’t as fuel-efficient as the Telluride. It doesn’t matter why you’re interested in taking the Kia for a spin. It rides easily and maneuvers competently. The 2022 Sorento is a top contender in its segment because it offers a wealth of desirable amenities both as standard equipment and as upgrades. This earns it the status of Editors’ Choice.

The second-row captain’s chairs in Sorento SUVs will be replaced by a plug-in hybrid model for the 2022 model year. It gets its 261 hp from a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an automatic transmission with six gears, and an electric motor. The Sorento comes standard with all-wheel drive. According to Kia, the Sorento plug-in hybrid has a city MPGe of 79 and can travel 32 miles on electric power alone. We have no idea how much the PHEV version will set you back, but we do know that it will come in two luxurious trim levels: SX and SX-P.

#2. 2022 Cadillac Escalade

Specifications:

  • Price: $77,840
  • Powerplant: V-8 Gasoline, 6.8 Liter
  • Drivetrain: Automatic, 10-Speed
  • 420 brake horsepower
  • MPG: 14 in the city, 19 on the highway
  • Capacity of Seven Passengers

Cadillac’s flagship vehicle is the 2022 Escalade SUV. It is fully equipped with the most advanced technology and finest luxury amenities. It’s great that Cadillac was able to include so many of these amenities in the Escalade despite the vehicle’s massive size. The interior features luxurious materials like leather, wood, and polished metal. The driver’s information and gauges are displayed on a massive, curved digital screen in the center of the dashboard. The stunning Escala concept car served as inspiration for the Escalade’s exterior, which was then enlarged to XXL proportions to better suit the SUV’s boxy form. In most Escalades, a 6.2-liter V-8 is the default engine. However, for those concerned about their carbon footprint, Cadillac offers a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel inline-six engine as an alternative. Regardless of the powerplant, the Escalade’s ride and handling will not compare favorably to those of a Cadillac sedan.

Even the entry-level Luxury model now comes standard with lane-keeping assist and lane-departure warning. Cadillac’s Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving feature, along with front and rear automated emergency braking, are now standard on the Premium Luxury, Sport, and Platinum models. With the new Touring package, Premium Luxury and Sport models already equipped with air suspension and soft-close doors also gain illuminated door sill protector plates.

Bespoke English Hand | Ref. no. 02839e | Regent Antiques

#3. 2022 BMW X7

Specifications:

  • Price: $75,895
  • 3.8-liter gas/electric I-6 turbocharged intercooled engine
  • An Automatic Transmission With Eight Gears
  • A whopping 335 hp
  • The EPA estimates 19 city mpg and 24 highway mpg for this vehicle.
  • With Room for Seven Passengers

A BMW 7-series sedan was once the go-to choice for a personal chauffeur car. In contrast, the 2022 X7 SUV will become the new status symbol for the affluent. The largest Bimmer is an excellent option for affluent families, as it has more room to flaunt its high price and six seats distributed across three rows. The X7’s rear legroom is inferior to that of competitors like the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and the Mercedes-Benz GLS-class. The X7 is more enjoyable to drive, and it offers more engine options. The engine lineup consists of a 335-horsepower turbocharged inline-six and a 523-horsepower twin-turbo V-8, both of which are paired with an exceptional automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Alpina XB7 boasts a whopping 612 horsepower, an impressive amount for such a large vehicle. Whatever is hidden beneath that massive hood is irrelevant. The 2022 BMW X7 is an Editors’ Choice winner thanks to its luxurious cabin, which is as quiet as a library but more comfortable and entertaining.

BMW makes only minor adjustments to the X7 line’s option bundles for 2022. When I was younger, wireless phone charging in vehicles was the norm. The M50i Model now offers power sunshades for the rear windows and has improved Bluetooth connectivity. For the xDrive40i Model, the Dynamic Handling package is no longer available. This included M Sport brakes, active suspension stabilization, and more. There is no longer a choice to have rear-wheel steering.

#4. 2022 Volvo XC90

Specifications:

  • Price: $51,995
  • I-4 2.0-liter Turbo/supercharged engine
  • Transmission: Eight-Speed Automatic
  • 316 horsepower
  • Gas Mileage: 19 in the City, 27 on the Highway
  • With Room for Seven Passengers

The 2022 Volvo XC90 is a fine option if you’re shopping for a midsize luxury SUV that doesn’t skimp on style or safety features. Several high-end protection measures are integrated into its design. This is the only Volvo with three rows of seating, so it’s a good choice if you have a big family. However, the BMW X5 and the Porsche Cayenne are two of the most stunning vehicles in their segments. Both are more enjoyable to drive than the alternatives, but also significantly more costly. The XC90 offers not one, but two four-cylinder engines, as well as a plug-in hybrid powertrain that boosts power to 400 horsepower and acceleration. However, neither the range of its electric motor nor its fuel efficiency are particularly impressive. However, this is irrelevant because the 2022 XC90 is a top-tier three-row utility vehicle. Our editors have selected it as a top pick.

In 2022, the XC90 lineup will include new standard and optional features. With the Momentum’s base model, you already have navigation capabilities. Things like the rear-view mirror compass and the high-pressure headlight cleaner are standard equipment that all XC90 buyers must do without. Instead, a new bumper is installed at the back with the exhaust pipes tucked out of sight. The upgraded air purification and ventilation systems, head-up display, and 360-degree camera system are all included in the premium Advance package. The heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, and headlight cleaner we discussed earlier are now all part of the Climate package. Some older models that originally had leather on the steering wheel now have a plastic cover instead. Volvo no longer manufactures leather key fobs or the wheel on the center console that selects the drive mode (the touchscreen is now the only method of selecting the drive mode). Automobiles with a plug-in hybrid system can be charged while driving. The recharge model’s electric motor is more powerful, and the battery is larger, allowing the SUV to travel 32 miles on electricity alone.

#5. 2022 Acura MDX

Specifications:

  • Price: $49,045
  • 3.0L V6 Premium Unleaded Engine
  • Powertrain: 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • With 290 horsepower, this vehicle is no slouch.
  • The EPA estimates 19 city/25 highway miles per gallon.
  • Capacity of Seven Passengers

To rephrase: Acura is constantly improving its compact and crossover models with new features and refinements. The MDX, a three-row SUV, was just redesigned and features many improvements. This SUV shares the attractive design language of the RDX and TLX, two other small SUVs from Acura. The cabin is decked out in high-end materials and fittings, making it feel and look like a premium vehicle. This vehicle has standard front-wheel drive but can be upgraded to all-wheel drive. a 3.5-liter V-6 producing 290 hp and a 10-speed automatic transmission make up the standard drivetrain. If you go with the Type S Model, you’ll get an all-wheel-drive system and a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6.

Since Acura is revamping the MDX for 2022, there will be no 2021 models. The RDX and TLX models have recently undergone a cosmetic refresh. This sport utility vehicle is identical to the newest one in appearance and features.

#6. 2022 Tesla Model X performance

Specifications:

  • Price: $106,440
  • Electric motor
  • Transmission: Fully Automatic
  • The engine has 1020 horsepower.
  • Six Passenger Capacity

Manufacturers of high-end electric vehicles like the 2022 Tesla Model X take great pride in their product. It’s a standout in the expanding EV-crossover market because it’s quick, technologically advanced, and features flashy gimmicks like Falcon-wing rear doors. The Model X has all-wheel drive and is powered by two electric motors, for a total of 670 horsepower. Plaid, a variant with three motors, can reach 60 miles per hour from rest in just 2.5 seconds and generate 1020 horsepower. Tesla claims that a larger version of the electric vehicle will be available by the end of 2022. Although it’s not quite as fast as the Model S sedan, the Model X still manages to impress with its deceptive quickness considering its bulky dimensions. The interior of the Model X is very cutting-edge, with a large touchscreen mounted high on the dashboard for controlling the vehicle’s various functions via touch. Space for the whole family is provided by the extra row of seating in the third row, and the second row can be converted into captain’s chairs if desired.

Formerly known as “Long Range,” the name has been changed to “Model X.” Its previous range of 363 miles per charge has been reduced to 351. Additionally, the high-performance Plaid trim, which was introduced last year, now has a revised estimated range of 335 miles per charge, down from 340. Still present is last year’s aggravating yoke-style (rectangular) steering wheel.

#7. 2022 Infiniti QX60

Specifications:

  • Price: $47,875
  • Transmission: 6-speed automatic Transmission Engine Size: 3.5L Premium Unleaded V-6
  • Constantly Variable Transmission
  • It has 295 horse power.
  • EPA estimated fuel economy for the city: 19 mpg and the highway: 26 mpg
  • Maximum Capacity of Seven Passengers

The QX60, a three-row SUV, received an extensive makeover for 2022. It looks more impressive and has a more luxurious interior.

The 2022 Infiniti QX60 is a midsize, three-row SUV. It’s made for those who have the disposable income to buy a luxury sport utility vehicle. The QX60 Monograph concept previews a new look for the 2022 QX60 that departs slightly from Infiniti’s current design language. The new QX60’s cabin has been redesigned from the ground up to provide a more premium feel and look than its predecessor’s. That drivetrain includes a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The QX60 will face stiff competition from the likes of the BMW X5, the Lincoln Aviator, and the Mercedes-Benz GLE-class, all of which are also in the mid-size SUV segment. At any rate, it appears that Infiniti has introduced something novel and exciting with this redesign of a crucial SUV in the company’s lineup.

#8. 2022 Toyota Highlander

Specifications:

  • Price: $36,620
  • The I-6 Gas/Electric Engine is 2.5 Liters in Capacity
  • Changeable-Velocity (CVT) Transmission
  • 243 horsepower
  • 35 mpg combined (city/highway) fuel economy
  • Holds Eight Passengers

It has stylish 18-inch bronze wheels and is available in Cement or Wind Chill Pearl paint. The interior features unique bronze door protectors and seats with a geometric pattern and bronze accents. A power seat with an adjustable height is now standard on all XLE and higher trims. But the Highlander is unchanged in 2022. Apart from that, nothing else has changed.

It’s aiming to be in the middle of the pack of family SUVs, joining the ranks of the suvs that feature captain’s chairs and a third row of seats. It serves multiple purposes, is cozy, and looks great. This three-row ute is versatile and convenient due to its many features. The Highlander is one of the few three-row SUVs available with a hybrid powertrain in addition to the standard V-6. You can get either front- or all-wheel drive with either of the engines. Toyota captain chair has also gone the route of value packaging with the Highlander. All trim levels of the Highlander include the car’s desirable infotainment and driver assistance features as standard equipment. Choosing a more expensive Highlander trim will give the impression that you’re riding in a much more expensive vehicle. It’s about as refined as you’d expect an SUV from Lexus to be. Lacking is any sort of interaction between the driver and the vehicle. The Highlander has a comfortable cabin and swift acceleration. The Kia Telluride, the Hyundai Palisade, and the Mazda CX-9 are all more entertaining choices.

#9. 2022 Mercedes Benz GLS

Specifications:

  • Price: $78,900
  • 3.0L Gas/Electric I-6 Intercooled Turbo Engine
  • Automatic 9-Speed Transaxle
  • Power output: 362 horse power
  • With an 18/24 mpg fuel economy in the city and on the highway
  • Capacity of Seven Passengers

In 2022, Mercedes-Benz will release the GLS-class, their most powerful and luxurious SUV to date. It sets it apart from other luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The Mercedes GLS captain chairs are equipped with a 362-horsepower turbocharged inline-six that receives assistance from a 48-volt hybrid system. Thanks to its poised and responsive handling, the GLS is surprisingly enjoyable to pilot. The GLS can be upgraded with a camera system that detects and records road damage. This vehicle has standard all-wheel drive and air suspension. Additions to the GLS can include a camera that scans for road damage. Seating for seven is possible, though with the optional second-row captain’s chairs installed, capacity drops to six. Anyone riding in a GLS should find its cabin roomy and accommodating. Among large SUVs, the Mercedes-Benz GLS has less than stellar fuel economy compared to competitors like the Land Rover Range Rover and the Lincoln Navigator. However, it’s comparable to the GLS and other large SUVs in terms of their sporty on-road demeanor.

Captains Chair - Leather Yew and Mahogany Reproduction Desk Chairs - A1 Furniture

#10. 2022 Genesis GV80

Specifications:

  • Price: $51,295
  • Drivetrain: I-4 2.5-liter Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded
  • Transmitter: 8-Speed Automatic Transmitter
  • A whopping 300 horse power!
  • The EPA estimates 21 city mpg and 25 highway mpg for this vehicle.
  • Capacity of Five People

The only new feature on this year’s GV80 is captain chairs, which are standard. A new, premium Prestige Matte finish has been introduced by Genesis. The exterior chrome and paint are transformed into a matte finish. Choose from Melbourne Gray, Matterhorn White, or Brunswick Green for your very own Prestige Matte.

The GV80, Genesis’ flagship SUV, hits all the right notes for 2022. The interior is luxurious and serene, thanks to the soft leather upholstery. When you open the GV80’s driver’s door, you’ll immediately get the impression that you’re in a luxury vehicle. We feel compelled to give it our highest recommendation. Aggressive drivers may enjoy the Audi SQ8 and Porsche Cayenne. Even so, the GV80 provides a pleasant and relaxing ride.

FAQs

What SUVs have 2nd-row captain seats?

There are a number of luxury SUVs on the market with second-row captain seats, including the Bentley Bentayga, BMW X7, Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Cadillac XT6.

What is the captain’s chair in SUV?

The single, bucket seats in the second row of SUVs and minivans are known as captain’s seats (or captain’s chairs).

Are captain’s chairs worth it?

Each individual in a captain seat has more back support because the seat was designed specifically for that person. A captain’s seat is preferable to an aisle seat because there is more legroom and passengers aren’t crammed in together.

Does 4Runner have captain chairs?

You can select either the standard bench seat or the captain’s chairs for the second row. This means that there are only five seats in a standard 4Runner, but it is possible to add a third row to increase capacity to seven people.

Which Atlas has captain’s chairs?

The Atlas normally has three rows of seats, but the middle row can be converted into captain’s chairs if more legroom is needed. Seat heating, ventilation, and leather upholstery are all options for the first two rows.

Conclusion

It’s safe to say that a captain’s chair is a top-notch and trustworthy piece of furniture. It’s not just pretty to look at; it serves a purpose, too. When used for long periods of time, the back support is excellent.

Your search for the ideal captain’s chair can now begin with the knowledge of its definition, price, care requirements, and advantages.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

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