There is no better seating option than one of the greatest Adirondack chairs on the market during the summertime (and beyond). These traditional chairs, which get their name from the Adirondack Mountain range in northeastern New York, where they were first designed in the early 1900s, can withstand adverse weather thanks to their low-to-the-ground, sloping base and wide armrests. Furthermore, if properly maintained, they will often last you years (as with most high-quality patio furniture). The Frontgate Rowan Adirondack Chair is our top option for 2023 because it withstands the elements and is quite comfortable.
The best Adirondack chairs are difficult to surpass when it comes to lawn chairs. They are not only… [+] are durable and attractive in addition to being created with comfort in mind.
While these sturdy, durable chairs have long been respected, they’ve seen a surge in popularity in recent years—and it’s easy to see why. For starters, they’re the ideal size and shape to accommodate all manner of guests, making outdoor celebrations much more delightful (they’re far more comfortable than your ordinary single-person lawn chair—and, in our opinion, the ideal reading chair). Furthermore, these are high-quality products you won’t have to replace year after year, thanks to their sturdy construction and weather-resistant finishes. From the bright and colorful to the foldable and portable, here are our top picks for the finest Adirondack chairs in 2023, which will improve your garden experience in the next months and years.
- Best Adirondack Chair Overall: Frontgate Rowan Adirondack Chair
- Best High-Seat Adirondack Chair: L.L. Bean All-Weather Classic Adirondack Chair
- Best Adirondack Rocking Chair: Natural Wood Adirondack Rocking Chair
- Best Portable Adirondack Chair: Polywood Classic Folding Adirondack Chair
- Best Bench-Style Adirondack Chair: Pottery Barn Adirondack x Polywood Bench
- Best Value Adirondack Chair: Serwall Adirondack Chair
- Best Plastic Adirondack Chair: Loll Designs Adirondack Chair
- Best Adirondack Chair With Cushion: Malibu Metal Adirondack Lounge Chair With Cushion
- Best Adirondack Glider Chair: Polywood Classic Plastic/Resin Gliding Adirondack Chair
- Best Luxury Adirondack Chair: Williams Sonoma Lanarca Outdoor Natural Teak Deck Chair
- Best Adirondack Chair With Cupholders: Costway Outdoor Adirondack Chair With Built-In Cupholder
- Best Modern Adirondack Chair: Crate and Barrel Paso Teak Wood Outdoor Adirondack Chair
MOST POPULAR
Material: Teak | Color options: Weathered teak finish
It’s not uncommon to find oneself nodding off in this chair—it’s that comfortable. This chair, made of high-quality teak and finished with a weathered finish, is naturally resistant to mildew and can withstand any damp and humid weather. Its smooth, sleek surface means you won’t have to worry about adding a seat cushion, making it the ideal place to soak up the sun’s rays, catch up with a friend, or get lost in a good book.
Are you looking for a promotion? Consider the matching Rowan Adirondack Ottoman, ideal for relaxing and kicking your feet up (ideally aligned with this precise décor style). If you are unhappy with either purchase, Frontgate has a 90-day return policy; you can seek a refund with proof of purchase.
The reviews state that these “comfortable, super well-constructed” chairs live up to the hype—one reviewer “loved them so much we decided we needed two more.” Others say they’re easy to put together. Regarding how well they withstand the elements, one buyer commented that the chairs are “weathering nicely.”
2. All-Weather Classic Adirondack Chair
$299
Material: Wood | Color options: Available in 8 colors
Adirondack chairs aren’t usually ideal for “easy exits” because they can be quite low to the ground. This model by L.L. Bean has a unique design that includes a higher seat for less demanding ups and downs. Adults of all ages can enjoy it without aching joints thanks to its 15-inch seat height. Furthermore, it is made to withstand all weather conditions: it is warp-resistant as well as rot-, crack-, and splinter-proof, so there is no need to worry about carrying it indoors when it rains. It’s also made using Marine-grade hardware.
What the reviews say: These chairs are equal parts “lightweight and sturdy,” so it’s no surprise they’ve delighted hundreds of reviewers. One client claims to have had their chairs for over 15 years, an outstanding feat and proof of the product’s durability.
3. Linon Teak Adirondack Rocker
$125$136Save $11 (8%)
Material: Acacia wood | Color options: Natural teak finish
This rocker-style Adirondack chair is a must-have for anyone who like old-time rocking chairs. This chair is made entirely of acacia wood and has a reclining seat for an extra comfortable experience. It’s also splinter-free and can withstand scratches, chipping, and fading. And the deep-brown teak stain imparts a beautiful, rustic feel without cost.
What the Reviews Say: The Chairs are well-made, sturdy, and feature great craftsmanship; according to the Reviews: “We can hardly believe the reasonable price for such well-made, attractive chairs,” one comment. “I adore these!”
4. Polywood Classic Folding Adirondack Chair
$239$380SAVE $111 (29%)
Material: Polywood lumber | Color Options: Available in 15 colors
With summer in full swing, you may be planning a trip to a beach, campground, or pool right now—in which case, this chair is worth a look. It’s made from recycled plastic and features a barely-there hinge that allows the chair to fold flat, just like Irving Wolpin’s original 1938 design. If you’re not interested in lugging your chair about for day trips, Polywood also makes a stationary version that can be permanently installed on your porch or deck.
What the reviews say: Most of the reviews for this chair are positive, and hundreds of them exist. Buyers love the practicality of this model, with one saying it’s “easy to store during hurricanes,” while others say it’s unnecessary to store them away during minor showers: “Beautiful product, well-made, and durable through rain and other inclement weather,” one review says. “I’m planning to make another purchase!”
5. Pottery Barn Adirondack x Polywood Bench
$599
Material: High density polyethylene | Color options: Coffee, Sahara, White
Here’s your chance to use Adirondack’s traditional design to create a comfy seating arrangement for two. With a larger capacity, Pottery Barn’s Adirondack x Polywood Bench offers quiet relaxation. The chair is made in America from recycled plastic and has a classic, clean finish with color-stay technology that the company claims will keep the item looking brand new all year. This durable alternative looks great in any outdoor location and is offered in three classic colors.
What customers say: Because this item is new to the Pottery Barn collection, there are few reviews yet. But, as the customer photo above shows, it’s a good-looking bench that gets at least four paws of approval.
6. Serwall Adirondack Chair
$220Save $32 (15%)
Material: Polycarbonate and plastic | Color options: Available in 21 colors
If you’ve been putting off buying an Adirondack chair because of the price or size, look no further. This foldable, plastic-and-polycarbonate version has the same features as the original but at a somewhat lower price. The tall, slatted back, dipped seat, and wide armrests are all stand-out features. It should not fade, crack, chip, peel, or decay. It is also designed to withstand the elements. Seawall also provides a substantial lifetime money-back guarantee if you are unsatisfied with your purchase.
What the Reviews Say: These “easy to put together” chairs “fold very nicely” and come in “great colors unavailable anywhere else,” according to the reviews. However, they also warned that purchasers should look for shipping-related issues while unboxing (and return to the vendor if required).
7. Loll Designs Adirondack Chair
$760$895Save $135 (15%)
Material: Recycled plastic | Color options: Available in 9 colors
Loll, a Minnesota-based business, was created in 2006 to repurpose debris from custom skatepark ramps into outdoor furniture. Today, the company upcycles post-consumer milk jugs and detergent bottles into sturdy plastic components like this Adirondack chair made particularly for Design Within Reach. The chair’s expansive slats and galloping contour make it look as modern as its manufacturing method.
What the reviews say: This pick is high-end, yes, but according to one reviewer, it’s also “worth every penny.” And unlike traditional chair options, these chairs “don’t splinter with wood, they don’t fade, a quick soapy brush and hose can get them nice and clean.”
8. Malibu Metal Adirondack Lounge Chair With Cushion
$199AND UP (WITH CUSHION)
Material: Aluminum | Color options: Black
Yes, it’s more expensive—but your body will thank you. This minimalist version of the iconic Adirondack chair, complete with a comfortable cushion on a lightweight aluminum frame, is ideal for admirers of modern design. While you can buy the frame separately, the cushion is a wonderful investment, particularly if you choose one of the Sunbrella fabric options—they stand up to mold, mildew, and stains.
What the reviews say: Because this model is new to the retailer’s catalog, it has yet to be reviewed by customers. However, given the brand’s overall dependability and the high quality of this chair’s construction, it’s bound to be an excellent pick.
9. Polywood Classic Adirondack Plastic/Resin Gliding Chair
$399$570SAVE $171 (30%)
Material: Plastic | Color options: Available in 7 colors
Polywood’s surfaces are fade-resistant and have a 20-year warranty, making its chairs a great choice. Do you want to know the difference between a rocking chair and a glider? It’s all about the “shape” of the action. A glider glides back and forth with a straight, fixed motion, whereas a rocker moves in an arc-like route. Our smooth ride necessitates the addition of an additional mechanism, which explains why our third Polywood entry is a little bottom-heavy. It also sits more upright than the other Adirondack chairs on our list, which are inclined. Choose a hue that mixes with the chair’s immediate surroundings to make any perceived bulkiness fade into the rest of your décor.
What Customers Are Saying: “I had been looking for gliders like these for a long time and was excited to find them at about half the price of others,” one satisfied shopper says. “Excited to do some front porch sitting on these this spring and summer.”
10. Williams Sonoma Lanarca Outdoor Natural Teak Deck Chair
$1695
Material: Wood | Color options: Natural teak
Here, a teak backrest joins the seat rather than hitting the ground, and it all comes together to make for a sleek, modern design. If left untreated, the responsibly harvested teak that makes up this chair will weather to a silver tone, softening the razor-sharp design. If you don’t like the look of the wood, don’t worry: the chair is also available in metal.
Customers love the Lanarca line from Williams Sonoma; it is consistently among the brand’s best-sellers, according to the reviews.
11. Outdoor Adirondack Chair With Built-In Cup Holder
$164$205Save $41 (20%)
Material: PE | Color options: Available in four colors
Adirondack chairs typically have larger armrests, which would be great for holding beverages or other small items like your phone—but some chairs slope, which means that whatever you place on them could fall right off. Meanwhile, this version has a built-in cup holder that keeps any normal drinking cup upright and makes it easy to store telephones and sunglasses. This is the ultimate relaxing location, with an ergonomic design, an expansive seat, and a retractable footrest.
What the reviews say: Customers love how sturdy, comfortable, and durable these chairs are. They love the extra convenience features, with one client saying, “The attached ottoman is very comfortable.” I love having them extended so I can rest my legs.”
12. Paso Teak Wood Outdoor Patio Adirondack Chair
$499
Material: Teak | Color options: Available in 10 colors
This attractive alternative is a fresh and modern take on the classic Adirondack chair. The structural design is unique, and the chair is available in ten hues ranging from natural wood to a vibrant, vivid turquoise tint. The streamlined double-slat back offers a distinct feel, and the wide armrests are equally comfortable as the original. For enhanced comfort and relaxation, pair it with an equally attractive ottoman.
What the reviews say: Customers seem to love the unique appearance of this chair, with many praising its beauty. “Beautiful wood and a sturdy, modern take on a classic Adirondack,” one reviewer says.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
Our professional editorial staff has researched and created several patio furniture stories, including an in-depth, first-hand, tested assessment of patio umbrellas. We spend hours reading customer reviews, speaking with furniture and design experts, and generally hunting down only the best of the best options for every article we publish so that you can feel confident when browsing our curated list of picks—and that was certainly the case when it came to producing this list of the best Adirondack chairs. We also often update our product-centric stories to ensure they are current and all products are in stock. This story was most recently updated in July 2023.
How To Choose An Adirondack Chair
Material
Adirondack chairs are often made of either high-quality plastic or durable wood such as cedar, eucalyptus, acacia, or teak (which naturally repel pests). Oak and pine are also popular but are less sun- and weather-resistant than the other possibilities listed here. When deciding on the material for your chair, consider all of the above factors and other crucial characteristics like overall weight, portability, maintenance requirements, capacity, and convenience of use. Also, while wood chairs are often the higher-quality option, they do necessitate frequent upkeep. You’ll need to stain and seal your chairs if you want them to survive for decades. (Investing in a protective cover is also a great idea.) On the other hand, if you’re searching for chairs that can be easily moved or stowed, lightweight plastic or polycarbonate chairs are the way to go.
Comfort
Adirondack chairs aren’t as snug as a sumptuous sectional sofa, but they’re far more comfortable than your regular lawn chair—in fact, shockingly so. These chairs are designed for reclining, with their unique sloped backs, low seat, and broad armrests. And, whether you choose wood or plastic, you’re in luck: neither material is objectively more comfortable than the other. In any case, you can change the feel of your chair by adding outside cushions; some of the chairs we’ve shown you come with them already. The more thought you put into preserving and protecting the chairs, the more comfortable they will be.
Durability
It truly cannot be overstated: the longevity of even the best Adirondack chairs depends on how well they are maintained. Wood chairs, for example, must be stained or varnished once a year because wood stain gradually fades with sun contact. Adirondack chairs made of acacia, teak, and eucalyptus can last between 20 and 30 years, if not longer, with good care and storage; softer woods like pine, which aren’t as naturally weather-resistant, may only last five years with continuous exposure to the elements.
Plastic chairs, on the other hand, can survive for about ten years if properly maintained (repeated exposure to the elements and U.V. radiation will degrade their construction over time). That is why, during inclement weather, it is a good idea to store plastic chairs. While certain sturdy wood chairs can be left outside all year, it’s also a good idea to bring them inside when not in use; at the very least, put protective coverings on them during inclement weather. Make sure to read the directions that are included with your specific model to learn how to best care for your chairs.
Are Adirondack Chairs Worth The Investment?
Adirondack chairs are hard to top when it comes to lawn chairs. They are not only created with comfort in mind but also highly attractive and durable. Furthermore, if you choose a lighter design made of plastic or a folding model, they are incredibly portable, making them easy to carry from your garden to the beach or campground. These chairs may last decades with careful care, making them well worth the price.
Are Adirondack Chairs Comfortable?
Again, despite their wooden material, the greatest Adirondack chairs are significantly more comfortable than most other lawn chairs due to their curved design. They include low, roomy seats, sloped reclining backs to support your spine, and large armrests to accommodate your elbows, phone, or drink. The chairs should not wobble when you lean towards them because they are made of sturdy materials. These characteristics, when combined, make for a truly relaxing outdoor chair. Furthermore, if your chair isn’t as comfortable as you’d want, you may easily remedy the situation by adding a pillow or cushion.
What Material Is Best For An Adirondack Chair?
Adirondack chairs are normally made of either plastic or wood, and both have advantages and disadvantages. Wood is more weatherproof and durable than plastic and less likely to chip or peel. However, as previously stated, wood requires frequent upkeep, and you will most likely want to invest in protective covers.
Conversely, plastic is more portable, less expensive, and easier to maintain; you can quickly transport these chairs, and they don’t require much maintenance. They are, however, less durable than wood. Both wood and plastic can survive for years, so the material that’s best for you is determined by your wants and lifestyle.
