First off, this chair is covered with a textured leather which means items placed on the arms and the chair back don't slip off, and neither does my Mom slip out of the chair like the smooth leather ones we tried.  We mainly bought this chair because of the automated lumbar support (works like a dream) and the power lift feature (I can't begin to tell you how helpful it is for her to have help getting in and out of this wonderful chair).  She was adamant that she refused to spend this kind of money for a chair, but I persisted, and now I can't get her out of it! lol