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Best Leather Bar Stools to Improve the Ambience of Your Home

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 21 Feb 2023

If you want your home bar area to be stylish and inviting, that requires the right furniture. Leather bar stools are the perfect addition to any bar-style seating area, adding texture and a timeless look.

In this post, we are reviewing the top-rated leather bar stools of 2023 to help you find the perfect bar stool for your home. It covers all styles and budget ranges, from classic designs to modern, industrial-style looks. So if you’re looking to invest in a pair of leather bar stools, read on to discover our top recommendations.

Best Overall
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Nathan James Leather Bar Stool
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Best Styling Value
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Walker Edison Leather Bar Stool
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Most Comfortable Seat
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CHITA Leather Bar Stool
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Most Versatile
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Waleaf Leather Bar Stool
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Most Luxurious Finishing
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Maven Lane Leather Bar Stool
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Buyer's Guide To Finding The Right Leather Bar Stools

When you are in the market for a new bar stool, there are several essential factors you should take into consideration. A high-quality leather bar stool should be comfortable and stylish, well-made, and built to last. Below is a comprehensive buyer’s guide for choosing the best leather bar stool, including detailed sections for each product feature. 

Comfort

Comfort is likely at the top of your list when selecting a new bar stool. Before purchasing, try the chair out in person to get a feel for it. The cushioning should be comfortable enough to sit in it for an extended time without discomfort. Also, consider how tall you are; a bar stool that is too high or low may cause pain.

Ergonomics

The most important aspect of ergonomics is lumbar support. When looking for a leather bar stool, ensure that it provides adequate lumbar support with a slightly curved design so your lower back will stay aligned. It will help reduce strain on your back and provide optimal comfort when sitting for long periods. 

Adjustability

Some leather bar stools come with seat height and angle adjustments, allowing you to customize the chair to fit your body and ensure maximum comfort. Look for bar stools with adjustable swivel mechanisms so you can easily adjust the height and angle of your seat without having to stand up. 

Quality of Leather

It’s essential to ensure that the quality of leather used on your bar stool is high enough to last and not tear easily. Look for full-grain leather treated with protective coatings and stains that repel liquids so spills won’t damage the material. The leather should also feel soft and supple, not too stiff or rigid. 

Durability

Durability is essential when selecting any type of furniture, especially when considering leather items due to their high cost. Ensure the stitching is strong and secure, the frame is solid, and any included hardware has durable materials such as stainless steel or brass. Quality craftsmanship will ensure that your bar stool will last many years. 

It is also essential to ensure that your bar stool is constructed well and will not wobble or tip over when sitting in or moving about. Solid wood frames and metal bases typically provide the most secure sturdiness, but if these aren’t options, look for stools with four legs instead of three or opt for an adjustable base instead of a single base design. 

Cushioning

A good cushioning material will provide shock absorption, so you don’t feel fatigued even after prolonged sitting sessions. Look for thick foam cushions with reinforced edges for added stability, which will help keep your posture correct while sitting on the barstool.

Style & Design

Make sure that the style & design of your chosen leather bar stool fits in with existing décor in your home or business establishment. Whether you prefer modern or traditional styling, plenty of options suit all tastes. Take some time browsing different designs before making a purchase decision. 

Leg Design

The leg design of your barstool should be ergonomic. It should naturally curve outward slightly so your feet do not rest flat against the ground but instead on the broadest leg part where it meets the flooring surface. It should also provide adequate clearance, so you don’t feel cramped when sitting on the chair. Many stools also come equipped with protective foot caps or integrated footrests, providing extra comfort by shielding feet from cold floors during colder months.  

Cost 

Consider how much you will spend on a new leather barstool before purchasing. Plenty of great options are available at various prices, so make sure you find one within your budget range that still meets all other criteria before buying it!

Comparing the Top Leather Bar Stool in 2023

1

Nathan James Leather Bar Stool

– Best Overall
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The Nathan James Bar Stool is a stylish and practical seating solution for any bar area, kitchen counter, or dining table. It is a backless stool with a metal frame and a soft foam cushion covered in stain-resistant PU leather for extra comfort and sturdiness. The frame also features a built-in footrest for ultimate convenience. The barstool measures 15 inches in length, 18 inches in width, and 24 inches in height, making it a perfect size for most countertops. Its modern industrial design fits perfectly into any interior, adding a touch of class and sophistication.

The design detail and overall craftsmanship of this bar stool are exceptional. Combining the leather cushion and metal base creates an elegant look that will impress your guests. It has a warm brown color with black accents and will look great in traditional and contemporary settings. But if unsatisfied, you can also purchase it in gold, black, and stainless steel variations. The manufacturer even offers a lifetime warranty on this barstool, so you can be sure it will last as long as possible. This leather bar stool is our top pick overall because it’s stylish, comfortable, and easy to use.

Pros
  • Simple and easy to clean
  • Does not scratch floors
  • Comfortable padded seat 
  • Crossbar on the bottom for resting feet 
Cons
  • The crossbar for feet doesn’t wrap all the way around
2

Walker Edison Leather Bar Stool

– Best Styling Value
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Our next pick is perfect for making the space modern and upscale. Each of the chairs provides a comfortable seating space. The Walker Edison Leather Armless Counter Chairs can hold up to 300 pounds for various activities, such as family meals or completing projects. Included are step-by-step instructions to assemble the set of two chairs quickly and efficiently.

Their faux leather finish offers a stylish look that is easy to maintain, and you can easily clean it with a damp cloth. The armless design makes these chairs comfortable and versatile enough to use in any setting. The counter-height design makes them an ideal seating option for kitchen islands, tall pub tables, and other surfaces. 

Pros
  • Well-built and sturdy 
  • The low back design fits perfectly with bar décor  
  • Comfortable to sit on 
  •  Color is true to pictures
Cons
  • It can be wobbly if not properly constructed
3

CHITA Leather Bar Stool

– Most Comfortable Seat
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This next bar stool is a unique piece of seating craftsmanship that will surely add style and functionality to any home. The barstool is constructed from high-quality materials, including solid birch wood and CertiPUR-US-certified foam, making it incredibly durable and able to stand up to the demands of everyday use. The legs have a layering technique that results in a beautiful depth of color, and the seat has a luxurious pure white fabric that adds an elegant touch to any room.

The CHITA Upholstered Bar Stool features 360 free swivels, meaning that the direction of the seat rotates with the body, making it easy to stand up without needing to move the chair. It also has a 300-pound weight limit to accommodate individuals primarily and small comfortably. The thickened and heightened foam creates a soft sitting feeling for added comfort, and the stool is easy to assemble with just a simple connection of the wooden base to the upholstered seat.

Pros
  • Swivels completely around
  • Lots of colors to choose from
  • Features a modern and clean look 
  • Backed by an excellent customer service
Cons
  • Can arrive without hardware 
4

Waleaf Leather Bar Stool

– Most Versatile
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The Waleaf Bar Stools provide the perfect comfort and style for your home. Featuring a high-quality PU leather seat and ergonomic backrest, these stools give superior support to your body. The thick cushioned back and seat ensures maximum comfort, while the rolling-back top adds an elegant touch. The heavy-duty iron frame is scratch-resistant and boasts non-slip feet.

The unique design of these bar stools makes them suitable for various settings, including pubs, coffee rooms, dining rooms, bars, lounges, and entertainment centers. They also provide a stylish addition to any home. Cleaning is also made easy thanks to the waterproof nature of the material. With the durable build quality and elegant design, these bar stools will surely last you for years.

Pros
  • Color and quality are great
  • Easy to clean and maintain 
  • Can support full-figured people
  • Offers good value for the price 
Cons
  • They can have bubbles in them.
5

Maven Lane Leather Bar Stool

– Most Luxurious Finishing
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The following leather bar stool is an outstanding choice for anyone looking to add an elegant, timeless style to their home. The intricate detailing of the Maven Lane Bar Stool is truly remarkable, with precise craftsmanship and hand-applied nailhead trim that gives it a sophisticated look.

The durable hardwood frame construction provides long-term durability and stability, while a kiln-dried process helps enhance its strength and stability. The mortise and tenon joinery adds to its sturdy construction, giving it even more excellent durability. The seat is 25 inches high, providing comfortable seating for you and your family. It has a  high-density foam cushion for maximum comfort. Plus, the return swivel allows you to rotate the stool 180 degrees.

Pros
  • Rock solid and heavy-duty construction
  • Boasts toolless assembly 
  • Upscale, beautiful, and luxurious 
  • Comfortable and firm cushion 
Cons
  • Pricey compared to other similar products

People Also Asked

Q: How much does a leather bar stool cost?

A: The cost of a leather bar stool can vary depending on the type and quality of leather used and other features such as added cushioning or support. Generally, a good quality leather bar stool can cost anywhere from $140 to $500.

Q: What is the weight capacity of leather bar stools?

A: The weight capacity of a leather bar stool can range from 250 pounds to 500 pounds depending on the type and build of the stool. It is best to check with the manufacturer or retailer for specific weight limits.

Q: Are leather bar stools comfortable to sit on?

A: Generally speaking, leather bar stools are comfortable to sit on. The cushioned seating provides support, while the high backrest ensures good posture, providing extra comfort.

Q: Do leather bar stools come in multiple colors?

A: Yes, many different types and styles of leather bar stools are available in multiple colors, such as black, brown, white, red, tan, and more. 

Q: Are leather bar stools easy to maintain and clean?

A: Yes, most leather bar stools are easy to maintain and clean if you don’t treat them with harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild soap to clean a leather bar stool. Once cleaned, allow it to dry completely before using it again. 

Q: What type of leather do bar stools use?

A: Most leather bar stools use genuine premium cowhide or faux synthetic leather such as polyurethane or vinyl. Some stools may also feature PU-coated split cowhide leathers that are more affordable but still provide durable performance and luxurious style. 

Q: How high are leather bar stools?

A: The height of a leather bar stool can range from 25 inches up to approximately 40 inches, depending on the style and design of the particular model purchased. 

Q: Are leather bar stools durable and long-lasting?

A: Yes, provided that they are adequately cared for and maintained over time, quality crafted leather bar stools can last for many years without showing signs of wear and tear or fading in color due to sun exposure or other elements. 

Q: Are there any warranties available for the leather bar stool?

A: Yes, some manufacturers may offer limited warranties for their products ranging from 1 year up to 5 years, depending on the product model purchased. They may cover any manufacturing defects in materials or quality during everyday use within the warranty period. Still, specific exclusions may apply, so it is best to check with the manufacturer regarding their specific warranty policies and guidelines before purchasing a product.

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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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