Upholstered bar stools make up the majority of bar stools on the market, and it is easy to see the reasons for their popularity. There are a large number of ABS resin stools on the market, with ergonomic seats injection moulded from a durable, impact resistant polymer, as well as acrylic resin . These are formed from translucent Perspex that creates a striking futuristic look, bathing a room in colour if light is shone through, and even Bauhaus inspired metal stools. These styles are sleek and chic, with minimalist lines that makes them superb in many locations, but even with their attractive designs, upholstered stools always prove the more desirable.

Faux leather accounts for the largest range of bar stools on the market, with soft upholstery that gives a luxuriant touch. Faux leather is available in a mind boggling array of colours, from minimalist black and white to traditional brown and cream all the way through to striking primary colours like red and yellow and even funky orange. Aside from these resplendent colours, there a various styles that utilise contrasting two-tone faux leather for added visual impact and may even have an ABS shell to frame the seat.

Real leather is the other form of upholstery and provides an opulent, upmarket feel like no other. With an unmistakeable aroma and tactile feel, genuine leather is a natural material that adds a high class feel to any kitchen or breakfast bar. Hard wearing and resilient to stains, leather ticks all the boxes and reinforces the feel of quality these stools exude, perfect for the discerning individual.

Both leather and faux leather are used to cover the padded cushion and backrest sections of stools, beneath which you can find cosseting high density foam padding. The thickness of the foam depends on the model of stool; some items have a thin layer that keeps the overall look slender and elegant, whilst others have several pliant inches that support your body in comfort for even extended periods of use. The foam is accentuated in some designs by stitch detailing that gives the surface a quilted or segmented look, adding further visual impact.

The dense foam is what makes these upholstered stools sought after, and means they are ideal for all occupants, from the young to the old. These stools are either built on wooden or steel frames, in a variety of styles to suit. Wooden frames are usually found as four legged designs that provide superb rigidity and stability on all floors, whilst steel frames come in one of two finishes.

Chrome plating is a scratch resistant, polished mirror finish whilst brushed stainless steel stools are worked by hand into a subtle striated surface, ideal in contemporary settings. Whether a gas lift bar stool, which comes with an integrated variable height and 360 degree rotating hydraulic mechanism, or a fixed frame stool, all come with integrated floor guards that help keep scuffs and scrapes at bay, perfect from wood to tile flooring.