Is a glider worth the extra money, or is an old-fashioned rocking chair just as good?

The most important thing is your comfort. If you are talking about an old wooden rocking chair, then yes, the extra money is worth it. If you are talking about a good comfy padded rocking chair, then NO it is not worth the extra money. Just make sure you have some kind of foot stool to push off from if you are nursing or doing alot of rocking. the gliding feature is a bit more comfortable, but not really important to the baby. I bought a regular rocking chair and got the gliding feature added (most furniture stores will do this). I love my regular rocking chair. wouldnt trade it. Have rocked both kids to sleep until 2 years old! So four years of combined rocking and LOVE it. Be comfy.. that's all that matters