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With their low, reclined backs and wide arms, Adirondack chairs exude relaxation. After settling into an Adirondack chair’s natural slope, it can be tough to avoid closing your eyes and dozing. Aside from their laid-back look, these chairs are stable and sturdy, making them ideal for use on a sandy beach, at a lakeshore, or in the backyard.
From traditional wooden chairs to durable molded plastic, the following models include some of the best Adirondack chairs available. Explore these top picks to find your next lounge chair (or chairs) for an outdoor space.
- BEST OVERALL: Lifetime Adirondack Chair
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Best Choice Products Folding Adirondack Chair
- BEST MODERN: Polywood Modern Adirondack Chair
- BEST COASTAL: West Elm Portside Outdoor Adirondack Chair & Ottoman
- BEST LUXURY: Crate & Barrel Paso Outdoor Adirondack Chair
- BEST SUSTAINABLE: Beachcrest Home Shay Plastic Adirondack Chair
- BEST ROCKING: Pottery Barn Adirondack x Polywood Rocking Chair
- BEST FOLDING: Polywood Classic Folding Adirondack
- BEST WITH CUP HOLDER: Qomotop Sky Plastic Adirondack Chair
- BEST COLOR SELECTION: Beachcrest Home Ravenna Adirondack Chair
- BEST SET: AllModern Aviana Plastic Adirondack Chair
- BEST STACKABLE: Adams RealComfort Patio Adirondack Chair
How We Chose the Best Adirondack Chairs
Adirondack chairs are a classic choice for outdoor seating reminiscent of mountain retreats and days spent at the cottage. All of our top picks are sturdy, durable, and ergonomically designed; are ultraviolet (UV)- and moisture-resistant; and have many positive Adirondack chair reviews.
Whether they’re made of wood, resin, or plastic, these Adirondack chairs withstand most weather conditions with protective UV coatings and waterproof materials. Some are made with recycled plastic to provide a sustainable, eco-friendly option.
Most of the Adirondack chairs meet manufacturers’ recommended dimensions of 35 to 38 inches in height, with a chair width of 30 inches and a weight capacity of 250 to 500 pounds.
Many of them collapse for portability and storage. Select picks have large seat backs for added support, cup holders, and ottomans. Most picks come in more than five colorways to match many backyard styles.
Our Top Picks
The best Adirondack chairs combine high-quality materials with a comfortable design. Some include extra perks such as ottomans and cup holders, for those who demand a little more from their favorite chair.
Best Overall
Lifetime Adirondack Chair
Lifetime’s classic Adirondack chair would be a fine addition to many backyard spaces. Available in five colors, including black, brown, rustic brown, gray, and light brown, each provides a real wood feel but with extra perks. Treated with a protective UV coating, this chair stands up to both sun and harsh weather.
A desirable quality of this classic Adirondack chair is its low required maintenance. Unlike real wood, the durable polystyrene design does not need to be painted or varnished to prevent wood furniture issues like cracking or peeling. These little powerhouses also support up to 300 pounds of weight on the deep, reclined seat.
Product Specs
- Material: Polystyrene
- Colorways: 5
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Pros
- Protective UV coating provides long-term protection against sun exposure
- Waterproof design can be left outside during rain or inclement weather
- Matching ottoman included for lounging or personal items
- Lightweight design can be moved or stored easily
Cons
- Chair does not fold; may not be ideal for some users’ storage needs
Get the Lifetime Adirondack chair at Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
Best Choice Products Folding Adirondack Chair
Ranked as one of the most comfortable Adirondack chairs on the market, this foldable Adirondack chair by Best Choice Products weighs 18.75 pounds, which is much less than many other wooden chairs. It folds down for easy transport and should be stored in a covered area during the off-season.
This folding Adirondack chair is made of rot- and pest-resistant hemlock in a natural wood finish. It requires regular weatherproofing treatment to prevent deterioration brought on by exposure to the outdoor elements. The sturdy, strong construction of thiswooden chair supports up to 350 pounds. A tall backrest offers the ultimate comfort and relaxation for loungers of many sizes.
Product Specs
- Material: Hemlock wood
- Colorways: 1
- Weight capacity: 350 pounds
Pros
- Hemlock wood resists rot and pest damage; suitable for those who live near wildlife
- Large seat and wide arms for enhanced comfort and lounging
- Collapsible and easy to store in a garage, shed, or other storage space
- Budget Adirondack chair compared to similar products
Cons
- Requires regular weatherproof treatment to remain in top condition
- Not suitable for withstanding all weather conditions
Get the Best Choice Products Adirondack chair at Amazon, Best Choice Products, or Target.
Best Modern
Polywood Modern Adirondack Chair
Polywood’s sleek profile can accentuate most any modern outdoor decor with its contemporary angled seat back, ergonomically contoured seat bottom, and waterfall front slats.
A weather-resistant Adirondack chair, with its resin and plastic build, is stain-resistant and won’t crack, chip, rot, or peel when left outside on hot summer days, during frigid winters, and when salty sea mists and coastal winds are at their strongest.
Made of recycled plastic with Color-Stay technology, this modern Adirondack won’t fade in the sun’s UV rays. The chair can be cleaned easily using a soft-bristle brush, soap, and water, and it doesn’t require painting or waterproofing for upkeep.
Product Specs
- Material: Recycled plastic
- Colorways: 14
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
Pros
- Weatherproof resin and plastic construction can be left outdoors in rain or inclement weather
- Made with recycled materials; suitable for the eco-conscious consumer
- Comfortable contoured seat accommodates those with back, shoulder, or hip pain
- Modern design comes in multiple colors to suit a variety of outdoor spaces
Cons
- Some maintenance may be required to keep the chair looking its best
Get the Polywood Modern Adirondack chair at Amazon or Wayfair.
Best Coastal
West Elm Portside Outdoor Adirondack Chair & Ottoman
Add rustic, coastal charm to outdoor seating areas with this solid wood chair from West Elm. Equal parts durable and beautiful, this seat comprises moisture-resistant solid mahogany and eucalyptus. A wire-brushed finish gives it a timeless coastal look, and a protective polyurethane top coat offers protection from the elements.
Angular lines and a textured finish make this contemporary coastal chair ideal for a coastal-inspired city oasis or for outdoor seating at a beach house. For optimum comfort, shoppers can purchase a matching ottoman. This solid wood chair comes in two natural tones and weighs about 36 pounds—a bit heavy but worthwhile for the classic wood construction.
Product Specs
- Material: Mahogany and eucalyptus wood
- Colorways: 2
- Weight capacity: Unknown
Pros
- Solid wood construction is durable enough to last for many years
- Elegant wire-brushed finish provides a luxury aesthetic to a classic design
- Protective polyurethane coating prevents against damage
Cons
- Heavy weight compared to similar options; may be hard to move around or store
- Design does not fold; may be hard for some users to store this wood furniture
Get the West Elm Adirondack chair at West Elm.
Best Luxury
Crate & Barrel Paso Outdoor Adirondack Chair
Bold shapes and contemporary lines set Crate & Barrel’s luxurious chair apart from its classic counterparts. Instead of several wooden slats, this chair features a wide, straight-edge, double-slat back and seat as well as plank-style rear legs for a modern statement.
Crate & Barrel’s chair comes in a variety of colors and is made of recycled materials. The chair has a reclined back and rounded armrests for comfortable seating. Pair this Adirondack chair with the matching Paso ottoman for even better lounging. To avoid damage or deterioration, this chair should be covered or stored indoors during poor weather.
Product Specs
- Material: Plastic
- Colorways: 12
- Weight capacity: Unknown
Pros
- Modern design is unique; provides a luxury aesthetic to an outdoor space
- Choice of several bold color options to match user’s style
- Comfortable seat and ample armrests provide excellent support
Cons
- Does not fold; may be difficult for some users to store
Get the Crate & Barrel Adirondack chair at Crate & Barrel.
Best Sustainable
Beachcrest Home Shay Plastic Adirondack Chair
Made of recycled plastic bottles and stainless steel hardware, this lightweight Adirondack chair is a sustainable, eco-friendly option for outdoor seating. Sturdy and durable, the chair has a laid-back sloped design that gives it a breezy look, blending in with coastal or cottage styles.
It stands 40 inches tall and supports up to 500 pounds. Its seat bottom is 21 inches wide, and the back is 32 inches high. Recycled plastic construction withstands almost any weather, too. To avoid deterioration, this chair should be washed often with warm water, soap, and a light brush.
However, Beachcrest Home’s Shay Plastic Adirondack Chair weighs 51 pounds, does not fold, and requires assembly before use.
Product Specs
- Material: Recycled plastic
- Colorways: 7
- Weight capacity: 500 pounds
Pros
- Durable stainless steel hardware is weather-resistant and durable
- Made for all weather conditions; lasts for years in both summer and winter months
- High seat back provides for ample back and neck support
Cons
- Not foldable; and its 51 pounds may make it difficult for some users to store
Get the Beachcrest Home Shay Adirondack chair at Wayfair.
Best Rocking
Pottery Barn Adirondack x Polywood Rocking Chair
A rocking chair makes the perfect seat for relaxing outside on warm days and balmy evenings, and Pottery Barn upgraded the classic Adirondack with rocker rails for ultimate relaxation. This combination of a deep, reclined seat and calm swaying motion makes the chair an ideal choice for everyday outdoor seating.
Pottery Barn’s Adirondack rocker mimics a traditional wood look in water- and UV-repellent recycled Polywood. It comes in three vintage-inspired colors, each with a fade-resistant finish for a low-maintenance bright color that lasts through the seasons. It should be cleaned regularly with mild dish soap and warm water to avoid deterioration.
Product Specs
- Material: Plastic
- Colorways: 3
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Pros
- Classic Adirondack design with a gentle rocking motion
- Polywood material is durable enough for long-term use
- Comes in multiple finishes to suit a variety of outdoor spaces
Cons
- Relatively heavy at 42 pounds; may be hard to move around or store
- Limited colors; only comes in neutral options
Get the Pottery Barn Adirondack chair at Pottery Barn.
Best Folding
Polywood Classic Folding Adirondack
Considered one of the best folding Adirondack chairs, this Polywood chair provides the look and feel of real wood in a bug-, weather-, and sun-resistant recycled plastic. UV inhibitors and stabilizers incorporated into the pigment provide extra fade resistance.
When folded, the chair stores flat. It can be moved easily around the yard and doubles as a camping chair. At 37 pounds, it’s not a lightweight chair, but it’s got the necessary heft to support users weighing up to 325 pounds and stand up to the elements. Though this is not a cheap Adirondack chair, the price reflects the quality. It’s recommended that owners clean this folding Adirondack chair often with soap, water, and a soft-bristle brush to avoid deterioration.
Product Specs
- Material: Recycled plastic
- Colorways: 15
- Weight capacity: 325 pounds
Pros
- Durable-engineered wood construction is durable and weather-resistant
- Comfortable curved seat provides hip and back support
- Collapsible and easy to store in a garage or shed
- Available in multiple colors to suit a variety of outdoor decors
Cons
- Smaller seat size can be an issue for larger users
Get the Polywood Classic Adirondack chair at Amazon.
Best With Cup Holder
Qomotop Sky Plastic Adirondack Chair
Hard to distinguish from wood, the plastic in Qomotop’s Sky Plastic Adirondack chair reduces the price and maintenance needs. But it’s the cup holder that makes this chair a standout. Big enough to hold a favorite drink or a smartphone, the cup holder swivels snugly under the armrest when not in use.
This chair’s size will impress, too. Its 22-inch seat width offers an extra 2 inches over that of a standard-size Adirondack chair. The 350-pound maximum weight capacity adds a full 100 pounds over some models. Like other plastic chairs, this one requires little maintenance except for a protective cover in the off-season.
Product Specs
- Material: Plastic
- Colorways: 1
- Weight capacity: 350 pounds
Pros
- Swivel cup holder is convenient and tucks away when not in use
- Large 22-inch seat width provides comfort and support
- Easy-to-clean construction; simply wash with soap and water
Cons
- Chair is not foldable and requires a protective cover in winter months
Get the Qomotop Adirondack chair at Walmart.
Best Color Selection
Beachcrest Home Ravenna Adirondack Chair
Beachcrest Home’s Ravenna Adirondack chair can withstand the harshest weather conditions and climates without splintering, rotting, and chipping. Made from a durable, sturdy poly material, this chair can be folded flat for easy transport. If owners want to store it during the cold winter months, it takes up minimal space.
With a 14-inch seat height, 29.5-inch seat width, and 29-inch seat-back height, these chairs provide ample room for comfort and relaxation. For those who love a pop of color in their backyard or by the fire, this chair set comes in 14 colorways including white, lime, red, and dark brown.
Product Specs
- Material: Resin
- Colorways: 14
- Weight capacity: 330 pounds
Pros
- Easy-to-fold design is simple to store in a garage or shed
- Safe for all weather conditions; can be left outside in any weather
- Resists cracking, splintering, and chipping over time
Cons
- Heavy 72-pound construction may be difficult for some users to move around
Get the Beachcrest Home Ravenna Adirondack chair at Wayfair.
Best Set
AllModern Aviana Plastic Adirondack Chair
AllModern’s Adirondack four-chair set offers an instant upgrade to an owner’s outdoor furniture. The timeless design of this set’s style is comfortable and durable, made of heavy-duty molded plastic resin that is resistant to UV rays, water, mildew, rust, and fading. With a look that imitates more traditional wood models, this set can withstand the outdoor elements year-round. Cleaning is a breeze, too, with just soap and water.
A definite plus of this four-chair set is that it is available in a wide selection of colors, so shoppers have options to find the perfect complement to their outdoor aesthetic among the 28 colors.
Product Specs
- Material: Resin and recycled plastic
- Colorways: 28
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds (each)
Pros
- Huge selection of colors to match many outdoor furniture styles and decor
- Made from recycled materials; suitable for the eco-conscious consumer
- Weather- and UV-resistant design can withstand summer and winter months
Cons
- Some assembly required; may require more than 1 set of hands
Get the AllModern Adirondack chairs at Wayfair or AllModern.
Best Stackable
Adams RealComfort Patio Adirondack Chair
While not strictly an Adirondack chair, the brand borrowed from that typical style to create this line of patio chairs. Made of weather-resistant resin that supports up to 250 pounds, these chairs are a durable option for those looking to add a relaxing seating arrangement to their backyard patio. Featuring the trademark sloped back, these chairs may not be the best choice for sitting around a formal dining table, but they’d certainly be right at home around a fire pit or other relaxed outdoor gathering.
A great space-saving bonus of these chairs is that they are fully stackable, so you can store them neatly during the colder months and easily bring them back out when inviting people over for an outdoor get-together. The chairs are available in five stylish colors.
Product Specs
- Material: Resin
- Colorways: 5
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
Pros
- Great for outdoor gatherings; lightweight enough to be moved around if needed
- Sturdy construction can withstand the elements and heavy-duty use
- Stackable and easy to store in a garage, shed, or other storage space
Cons
- Limited color selection; may not suit some users’ preferences
- Not a traditional low-seated Adirondack lounge chair
Get the Adams Adirondack chair at Ace Hardware or The Home Depot (4 colors).
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing an Adirondack Chair
Adirondack chairs represent a major investment in backyard seating. Whether shoppers prefer traditional weather-resistant woods or are more inclined toward the plastic variety, the top Adirondack chairs bring style and comfort to an outdoor area. To help consumers make sure they’re getting the best of the best, the following guide outlines key features and considerations that often factor into the decision.
Material
The best outdoor Adirondack chairs are typically made of wood. Cedar, teak, redwood, and Shorea (a tropical hardwood similar to teak) naturally resist insects, sun, and weather damage, while eucalyptus and acacia are also considered top bug- and weather-resistant materials.
Oak and pine are common, too, but both bring distinct advantages and disadvantages. Although oak is strong and durable, it doesn’t resist sun damage as well as other woods. Neither does pine, which doesn’t hold up well in poor weather. So though pine may be more affordable, it’s a less suitable wooden chair option for those looking for longevity.
Plastic is another option. Though this type typically varies in quality, the best plastic Adirondack chairs are usually made of top-quality resins. These chairs cost about the same as the wood variety but imitate them well in appearance and feel, with some weighing almost as much as their all-natural counterparts.
Durability
The best all-weather Adirondack chairs have sturdy construction, quality material, and protective finishes. Wood varieties like cedar, acacia, eucalyptus, and redwoods offer the best weather and bug resistance but need a new coat of stain or treatment with a wood sealer at least once a year to maintain their aesthetic appeal. Keeping a protective cover over wooden chairs when they aren’t in use helps preserve them, too.
Durable Adirondack chairs made of high-quality plastics resist water, don’t attract bugs, and are available in various color choices that consumers won’t find with wood varieties. Chairs made with UV- and weather-treated plastic rival wood in durability and often surpass it in portability, since plastic weighs less than wood.
When properly maintained, plastic and plastic-composite Adirondack chairs typically last for 10 years or longer. Placing a protective cover over them during harsh weather to prevent fading and wear and tear can extend their lifespan.
Portability
A full-size Adirondack chair isn’t exactly easy to carry. Long and sometimes heavy, some solid wood models weigh more than 100 pounds. If shoppers are looking for Adirondack chairs for the beach or the lake, they may want to consider buying small, folding versions of these chairs.
Folding Adirondack chairs collapse in on themselves for easier storage and carrying. These make the best Adirondack chairs for fire pit gatherings, tailgating sessions, camping trips, and other outdoor events. Plastic options tend to weigh less than wood varieties, so a folding Adirondack chair made of plastic or plastic-composite materials may be the best bet in terms of portability.
Style
Adirondack chairs come in a variety of colors, from natural, stained-wood styles to colorful, patterned options. Traditional wooden Adirondack chairs feature an angled back with a rounded top and large armrests. This classic and simple look fits in with most decor types and traditional homes in particular. Deep wooden hues often work best in this case.
For those who want to buck tradition, a wide array of other styles offer whimsical deviations from the standard. For modern homes, consider a contemporary Adirondack chair that features straight rather than curved lines. Lighter colors make a great pick for coastal or beachside outdoor seating. Bright colors and patterns suit the eclectic urban porch.
Additional Features
Various manufacturers have modified the classic Adirondack design with a few unexpected perks. These include:
- Rocking and sliding take relaxation to the next level on a porch or dock.
- Ottomans and built-in footrests let the lounger lean back comfortably and prop up their feet. (These particular perks may take up more space on a porch or patio and may add more weight to the chair.)
- Built-in cup holders in the form of simple cut-outs in the armrests let users relax with a cold one close by.
- Built-in side tables offer extra space for snacks and drinks.
FAQs
Many shoppers looking for Adirondack chairs have specific questions. Some wonder whether a specific color, material, or style is typically better, while others often ask about upkeep and maintenance of outdoor chairs.
Here are answers to a few of the most commonly asked questions about Adirondack chairs to help you decide whether one of these outdoor classics is for you.
Q. What is the difference between Adirondack and Muskoka chairs?
While they have a similar design, Muskoka chairs typically have a lower back and seat than Adirondack chairs and their yoke is curved rather than flat. While this may be appealing to some users, others may find this uncomfortable if they have issues with their back or hips.
Q. Can you leave Adirondack chairs outside?
That depends on the material your chairs are made of and what the weather’s like where you live. Some woods and plastics can withstand harsh weather elements year-round. Others can’t. For example, HDPE can be left outside in any weather since it is resistant to water, rust, and wind.
Q. What color Adirondack chair should I get?
Color choice depends on your style and how you want to use them. If you want a natural look, cedar, teak, or acacia can do the trick. But plastic Adirondacks offer more color varieties if you are interested in a pop of color in your backyard or cottage space.
Q. What are the most popular colors for Adirondack chairs?
Wood tones are among the most popular colors for Adirondack chairs since they offer a classic look for a backyard or outdoor space. But many also prefer navy blue, gray, and white (usually found with plastic models) since these are neutral colors that can accommodate most outdoor areas.
Q. How do you clean an Adirondack chair?
Wooden Adirondack chairs can be cleaned with a power washer and then wiped down with a damp cloth to protect the wood from damage. For plastic and resin, use water, mild soap, and a cloth or sponge to remove debris and dirt. Just remember to let the chair dry completely before storing to ensure that mold and mildew do not build up.
Q. How do you store an Adirondack chair?
While most Adirondack chairs include weather treatments, storing them under a cover and in a shed helps them last longer. Folding chairs are the easiest to store in small spaces like garages or sheds. If you prefer the cover route of storing your chairs, ensure that the cover you choose is made with premium vinyl to maximize protection from the elements.
Q. How long do Adirondack chairs last?
The typical lifespan of an Adirondack chair is about 10 years. It can last longer than that with proper care, including storing the chair(s) during winter months, cleaning regularly, and preventing damage.
Q. How do you paint an Adirondack chair?
First, clean the chair, removing dirt and particles. Once dry, use a brush to apply oil-based paint to a wooden chair or standard exterior gloss paint to a plastic one. For ample durability, wooden Adirondack chairs can also be painted with exterior latex enamel paint for increased longevity.
Q. How do you recycle an old Adirondack chair?
Adirondack chairs can be taken to any local recycling center.
