this chair is sturdy, and has a nice look but it is impossible to recline in because the center of balance is positioned too far back. To recline you have to firmly plant your feet on the floor and push back extremely hard. (Yes, i have adjusted the tension to the maximun least tension allowed) so this is not the problem. To stay in a reclined position is virtually impossible without keep constant pressue on the floor with you feet to hold yourself reclined.