With their low-to-the-ground, slanted base and wide armrests, the best Adirondack chairs can withstand all sorts of inclement weather. They’re also typically far more comfortable than your average single-person lawn chair—and they’ll last you years if you maintain them properly. Our experienced home editors sifted through the highest-rated models, focusing on material, comfort and durability, to narrow our list down to the top 10. Our pick for best Adirondack chair overall is the Frontgate Rowan, which holds up well against the elements while being incredibly comfortable. Our favorite portable Adirondack chair is Polywood’s Classic Folding option, which not only conveniently folds flat, but is also available in over a dozen vibrant colors.
The best Adirondack chairs are durable, attractive and created with comfort in mind.
ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / IMAGE: RETAILER
Named after the Adirondack Mountain range where they were first designed, these classic, durable chairs have long been appreciated, and it’s easy to understand why. Not only do Adirondack chairs make ideal outdoor lounging chairs, but thanks to their solid construction and weather-resistant finishes, you also won’t find yourself needing to replace them year after year. Below, we assembled the 10 best Adirondack chairs in 2024 to suit every outdoor space and lounging style. And to continue prepping for sunnier days ahead, visit our guide to the best patio furniture for any outdoor space.
Material: Sustainable, kiln-dried teak |Colors: 1 color, a weathered finish
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself drifting off in this Adirondack chair—it’s that comfortable. Made from high-quality teak and topped off with a weathered finish, this chair naturally resists mildew, and it can also withstand all manner of wet and humid weather. Its smooth, sleek finish means you don’t have to worry about adding a seat cushion, either, making it the perfect place to bask in the rays of the sun, catch up with a friend or get carried away with a good book.
Looking for the next step up? Consider the matching Rowan Adirondack Ottoman, which is ideal for kicking your feet up and relaxing (it’s also perfectly aligned with this exact décor style). If you’re not satisfied with either purchase, Frontgate has a 90-day return policy; you can request a refund with proof of purchase.
What the reviews say: These “comfortable, super well-constructed” chairs live up to the hype—in fact, one reviewer “loved them so much we decided we needed two more.” Others claim they’re easy to assemble. And in terms of how they stand up to the elements, one customer remarked that the chairs seem to be “weathering nicely.”
Best Portable Adirondack Chair
An Easy-Folding Option That Comes In Vibrant Colors
Polywood
Polywood Folding Adirondack Chair
Material: Sustainable, UV-protected high-density polyethylene (HDPE) |Colors: 15 colors, including Sunset Red and Pacific Blue
With summer upon us, you may very well be planning a trip to a beach, campground or pool right now—in which case, this portable Adirondack chair by Polywood is worth checking out. A spitting image of Irving Wolpin’s original 1938 design, it’s made from recycled plastic and includes a barely-there hinge that allows the chair to fold flat. If you’re less interested in toting your chair around for day trips, Polywood also has a stationary version that can reside more permanently on your porch or deck.
What the reviews say: An overwhelming number of this Adirondack chair’s reviews are positive—and there are hundreds of them. Buyers love the convenience of this model, with one noting that it’s “easy to store during hurricanes.” But others claim it’s not necessary to store them away during mild showers: “Beautiful product, well-made and durable through rain and other inclement weather,” one such review reads. “Definitely planning to purchase more!”
Best Adirondack Chair With Cup Holder
Thoughtfully Designed For Longevity And Comfort
Costway
Costway Chair With Cup Holder
Material: Weather-resistant HDPE |Colors: 4 colors, including black and gray
Adirondack chairs generally have wider armrests, which would be great for holding drinks or other small items like your phone—but sometimes they slope, which means that anything you place on there could slide right off. This option, meanwhile, comes with a built-in cup holder that keeps any standard drinking cup upright, and it makes it easy to store cellphones and sunglasses, too. With an ergonomic design and an oversized seat, this is the ultimate relaxing spot.
What the reviews say: One user commends this Costway Adironadack chair’s thoughtful design: “The use of 304 stainless steel screws for every connection point is a testament to the attention to detail. ... The oversized slatted seat is not only visually appealing but also incredibly comfortable. What sets it apart is the ergonomic 103-degree design of the backrest. It provides excellent lumbar support and cradles your body in a way that makes you want to spend hours in this chair. ... The slatted design not only adds to the aesthetics but also serves a practical purpose—it helps drain rainwater, keeping the chair dry even after heavy downpours.”
Best Budget Adirondack Chair
A Folding Space-Saver For A Reasonable Price
Amazon
Serwall Classic Folding Adirondack Chair
Material: Polycarbonate and plastic | Colors: 28 colors, including Coffee and Apple Green
If you’ve been hesitant to buy an Adirondack chair because of the price or size, look no further. This foldable, plastic-and-polycarbonate version provides the same features as the original with a slightly more reasonable price tag. It features the standard wide armrests, tall, slatted back and dipped seat. It’s also designed to withstand the elements and shouldn’t fade, crack, chip, peel or rot. And if you’re not 100% satisfied with your purchase, Serwall offers a generous lifetime money-back guarantee.
What the reviews say: These “easy to put together” chairs “fold very nicely” and come in “great colors unavailable anywhere else,” according to reviewers. That said, they also stated that buyers should watch out for shipping-induced damages upon unboxing (and send back to the vendor if necessary).
Best Adirondack Chair For Families
Stylish, Weatherproof And Wide Enough For 2 Toddlers
Editor’s Pick
Amazon
Polywood Modern
Material: Sustainable, UV-protected HDPE |Colors: 13 colors, including Teak, Tangerine and Aruba
Families with small children looking for an equally comfortable, durable and stylish Adirondack chair need not look further than Polywood’s Modern model. Like our other picks from the brand, this chair is treated with sustainably sourced, high-density PE that’s treated to withstand extremes in heat, wind and precipitation—at the same time offering sleek but comfortable design details like a contoured seat, curved waterfall front and modern back. Plus, as one of our staffers points out, this particular Adirondack chair is wide enough for two small children to fit into, and the armrests are spacious enough for placing drinks.
What our experts say: Deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala shares, “I have a pair of Polywood Modern Adirondack Chairs in black for our backyard fire pit. I love the sleek look of this design, and they’re comfortable, too. Two of my kids fit in a single chair, which is a perk for families, and the armrests are wide enough to balance a drink on for a moment. I went with Polywood given its reputation for durability: I leave the chairs outdoors in New Jersey year-round and they've held up thus far, but we’ve had them for under a year. It didn’t take my husband too long to assemble them. Hoping to add another pair the next time they’re on sale.”
Best High-Seat Adirondack Chair
Uniquely Designed And Tested In The U.S.A.
USA-Made
L.L.Bean
L.L.Bean All-Weather Classic
Material: Partially recycled HDPE |Color: 7 colors, including Classic Navy and Mahogany
Adirondack chairs aren’t always ideal for “easy exits”—after all, they can sit pretty low to the ground. This model from L.L.Bean has a unique design with a higher seat for less strenuous ups and downs. With a seat height of 15 inches, adults of all ages will be able to enjoy it without any aching joints. Plus, it’s made to endure all weather: It’s warp-resistant as well as rot-, crack- and splinter-proof, so there’s no need to worry about lugging it indoors when rain arrives. It’s also made from marine-grade quality hardware.
What the reviews say: Equal parts “lightweight and sturdy,” it’s no surprise these chairs have wowed hundreds of reviewers. One customer says they’ve kept their chairs for over 15 years—an impressive feat and a testament to the durability of the product.
A Rust-Resistant Metal Option With A Cushioned Seat
Pottery Barn
Malibu Adirondack Chair With Cushion
Material: Rust-proof, powder-coated aluminum |Colors: 1 color, black
Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but your body will thank you. Complete with a comfy cushion on a lightweight aluminum base, this minimalist take on the classic Adirondack chair is perfect for fans of modern design. While you can buy the frame by itself, the cushion is an excellent investment, especially if you choose one of the Sunbrella fabric options; they stand up to mold, mildew and stains.
What the reviews say: This model, too, is new to the retailer’s catalog, so it hasn’t been reviewed by customers yet. But considering the brand’s general reliability and the premium construction of this chair, it’s bound to be a good choice.
Best Plastic Adirondack Chair
A Modern Design That’s Eco-Friendly And Comfortable
Sustainable
Design Within Reach
Loll Designs Adirondack Chair
Material: Recycled plastic | Colors: 9 colors, including Sunset Orange and Driftwood Gray
Minnesota–based manufacturer Loll was founded in 2006 to redirect waste from custom skate-park ramps into outdoor furniture. Today, the company transforms post-consumer milk jugs and detergent bottles into sturdy plastic pieces, including this Adirondack chair made exclusively for Design Within Reach. Expansive slats and a galloping profile give the chair a look that’s 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 more traditional wooden options, these chairs “don’t splinter with time, they don’t fade; a quick soapy brush and hose can get them nice and clean.” As for their durability, just ask one of these happy customers: “I don’t have to bring them indoors in inclement weather; winter or summer they are great.”
Best Adirondack Glider Chair
A Smooth Ride That Might Just Rock You To Sleep
Polywood
Polywood Classic Adirondack Glider Chair
Material: Sustainable, UV-protected HDPE |Colors: 7 colors, including Slate Grey and Sand
Polywood’s surfaces are fade-resistant and backed by a 20-year warranty, so their chairs are always a great choice. Curious about the difference between a rocking chair and a glider? It all has to do with the “shape” of the movement. Whereas a rocker moves along an arc-like path, a glider drifts back and forth with a straight, fixed motion. This smooth ride requires an extra mechanism, which explains why this third Polywood entry is a bit bottom-heavy. It also sits more upright than the slanted styles of other Adirondack chairs on this list. To make any perceived bulkiness disappear into the rest of your décor, choose a color that blends into the chair’s immediate surroundings.
What the reviews say: “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 buyer remarks. “Excited to do some front porch sitting on these this spring and summer.”
Best Modern Adirondack Chair
A Cool, Structural Take On The Classic
Crate & Barrel
Polywood Paso
Material: Teak |Colors: 12 colors, including Teak and Lime
This attractive option is a fresh and modern take on the classic Adirondack chair. The structural design is thoroughly unique, and the chair comes in 12 different colors, too, from natural wood to a fun, bright turquoise shade. The streamlined double-slat back here also adds a different feel, and the broad armrests are just as comfortable as the original. Pair it with an equally attractive ottoman for added comfort and relaxation.
What the reviews say: Customers seem to love the unique look of this chair, with many commenting on how attractive it is. “Beautiful wood and a sturdy, modern take on a classic Adirondack,” one reviewer raves.
At Forbes Vetted, we’ve researched and written dozens of shopping guides for our home vertical, including an extensive catalogue home furniture and outdoor stories.
We spent hours hunting down popular Adirondack chair styles, reading customer reviews, comparing specs and even polled our team for their firsthand recommendations.
We regularly review this story to re-evaluate picks and ensure it is up to date. It was last updated in April 2024 by home and kitchen writer Fran Sales, who added the Polywood Modern, a favorite from deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala
What To Look For In An Adirondack Chair
Material
Typically, Adirondack chairs are made from either high-quality plastic or a durable wood like cedar, eucalyptus, acacia or teak (by the way, these woods also naturally repel bugs). Oak and pine are also commonly used, though they aren’t as sun- and weather-proof as the other options listed here. When you’re setting out to choose the material of your chair, take all of the above into consideration alongside other important qualities like the overall weight, portability, maintenance requirements, capacity and ease of use of each material. And note, too, that while wood chairs are typically the higher-quality option, they do require regular maintenance. If you want your chairs to last for decades, you’re going to have to stain and seal them. (Investing in a protective cover is also a great idea.) On the other hand, if you’re looking for chairs you can easily move about or stow away, lightweight plastic or polycarbonate materials are the way to go.
Comfort
Adirondack chairs may not be as cozy as, say, a plush sectional sofa, but they’re definitely way more comfortable than your average lawn chair—surprisingly so, in fact. With their unique sloped backs, low seat and wide armrests, these chairs are designed for lounging. And whether you choose wood or plastic, you’re in luck: One material isn’t objectively more comfortable than the other. In any case, you can adjust the feel of your chair by adding outdoor cushions; some of the chairs we’ve shared here even come with them. And the more thought you put into maintaining and protecting the chairs from damage, the more comfortable they’ll be.
Durability
It really just can’t be said enough: The longevity of even the best Adirondack chairs depends on how well they’re maintained. For example, wood chairs need to be stained or sealed once a year, because wood stain naturally fades with sun exposure. With proper care and storage, though, Adirondack chairs made of acacia, teak and eucalyptus can last between 20 and 30 years, if not longer; softer woods like pine, which aren’t as naturally weather-resistant, may only last five years with regular exposure to the elements.
Well-maintained plastic chairs, on the other hand, can last around 10 years (repeated exposure to the elements and UV rays will weaken their construction over time). That’s why it’s a good idea to store away plastic chairs during inclement weather. While some hardy wood chairs can be left outside year-round, it’s also not a bad idea to bring them inside when you’re not using them; at the very least, it’s wise to put protective covers on them during harsh conditions. To know how to best care for your chairs, make sure to read the attached instructions on your particular model.
What Material Is Best For Adirondack Chairs?
Adirondack chairs are typically made from either plastic and wood, and there are pros and cons to both. Wood is more weather-resistant and durable than plastic, and unlikely to chip or peel. But again, wood requires regular maintenance, and you’ll likely want to invest in protective covers.
Plastic, on the other hand, is more portable, affordable and easier to maintain; you can easily travel with these chairs and they don’t require too much upkeep. However, they’re less durable than wood. All that being said, both wood and plastic can last years, so the material that’s right for you depends on your needs and lifestyle.
What Is So Special About Adirondack Chairs?
When it comes to lawn chairs, Adirondack chairs are pretty hard to beat. Not only are they created with comfort in mind, but they’re also durable and very attractive. Plus, if you opt for a lighter design made of plastic or a folding model, they’re highly portable, making them easy to transport from your backyard to the beach or campground. And with proper care, all of these chairs can last decades, which makes them well worth the investment.
Why Do People Think Adirondack Chairs Are Comfortable?
Again, with their contoured design, the best Adirondack chairs are far more comfortable than most other lawn chairs—despite their wooden construction. They feature low, roomy seats and sloped reclining backs to support your spine, plus wide armrests to provide ample space for your elbows, phone or drink. And since they’re constructed from sturdy materials, the chairs shouldn’t wobble when you lean into them. Together, these qualities make for an outdoor chair you can really lounge in. Plus, if your chair isn’t as comfortable as you’d like, you can easily fix that by adding a pillow or cushion.
