For myself, reclining is not about grabbing what is mine, but about taking pressure off my lower spine. Sitting upright in certain seats can be painful after long periods if the seat cushion edge is pressing into my legs just right, which is at times the case as well. I think it is all about being the in the height zone the seats are designed for. 6'3" Mr. P1 feels cramped, but doesn't get the backache. For me, some recline makes all the difference, along with putting my feet up a bit (on my bag, not the seat or wall...gross)