Originally Posted by
LisaMarieSS
. If we are offered grade 2 or 3 for the recliner in our price range, does that equate to the 'type' of leather, for instance, is grade 3 an aniline?
No, it does not. The Grade of the hide is strictly a pricing grade, not a leather type. However, since aniline hides are the most expensive, most of then will be grade III and grade IV leathers.
Is there a chart somewhere that shows those equivalents and the countries the leather comes from.
I'm afraid there is not. H&M and all the leather makers are reluctant to provide that. To get that information requires your dealer to know the hides, and on my part I have to call them if I don't a hide source from experience and have a customer inquiry on it. Realistically there are two reasons for that, one is that many of the hides come from China and surrounding Pacific Rim countries, and they are well aware of the backlash against sourcing materials from these countries (in my opinion). However those hides are a large part of their business, and customer are often reluctant to spend the additional money for European or New Zealand leathers.
The other is that a hide such as H&M's Kipling is done by an Italian company that has a satellite operation in China. Some batches of Kipling come from Italy, others from their China operation and it varies by batch. In a World Economy, hides can be moved around and partially processed from one country then moved to the next. At the end of the day, rely on your dealer to provide you with that information if you want to exclude Pacific Rim countries from your leather selection.
I am already dreading getting new furniture because of ALL the different substances it is composed of that you mentioned. I wanted more down, but I guess most of the recliners don't even offer that.
H&M does, you just have to spec it as an option, Ultra Down seats and backs are available on their recliners. While VERY comfy, its does move the hide around more and will result in more hairline 'usage' wear cracks over time as the piece ages. Also, the down in the back can sag a little over time (at the ten year mark for example). Not terribly, but it can occur.
Right now I am looking at the recliner you suggested, and the Higgens, for my hubby. I am interested in the Founders for myself. Do you know if that is suitable for a person my size? (I see what you mean about two matching being unrealistic for our sizes)
The Higgins is going to be too large for you, I think you'll find yourself 'swimming' in it. Here's the three best H&M Recliners I think you will find that will suit you personally based on your height:
# 7079 Hutchinson
# 7036 Founders
# 7034 Theater
Thank you again for your response.