We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Home Decorating Outdoor Living The 9 Best Adirondack Chairs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed The unofficial chair of summer. By Melanie Fincher Melanie Fincher Melanie Fincher is a commerce editor with four years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content. She was the former SEO writer for Allrecipes, covering product reviews, cooking tutorials, and food news. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on March 20, 2024 In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews Final Verdict Our Testing Process How to Shop More to Consider FAQs Take Our Word for It What Is Real Simple Selects? Real Simple / Rachel Marek Adirondack chairs add an instantly cozy feel to any outdoor space, whether you’re sitting around an open fire pit or enjoying a cup of coffee on the front porch. These deep-seated chairs are unrivaled when it comes to comfort—not to mention durability. Your choice of Adirondack chairs will come down to personal taste and style, but according to Talie Jane, owner and principal designer at Talie Jane Interiors, you should always look for an Adirondack chair that’s both durable and portable. “A lot of Adirondack chairs are very heavy and are therefore hard to move around for gatherings,” she says. “But, at the same time, they should be heavy enough to sustain winds so they can be left outside.” To find the best Adirondack chairs, we tested 23 models in our Lab and in real-world conditions, evaluating them on setup, comfort, support, adjustability, design, durability, and value. In addition to Jane, we also spoke with Lisa Delane, chief of operations and marketing at Living Gardens Landscape Design, for expert pointers on buying Adirondack chairs and positioning them in your space. Our Top Picks Best Overall Adirondack Chair: Polywood Modern Adirondack Chair at Amazon ($249) Jump to Review Best Budget Adirondack Chair: RealComfort Resin Plastic Adirondack Chair at Walmart ($20) Jump to Review Best Wood Adirondack Chair: Christopher Knight Home Hanlee Folding Adirondack Chair at Amazon ($147) Jump to Review Best Plastic Adirondack Chair: Yefu Plastic Adirondack Chair at Amazon ($103) Jump to Review Best Teak Adirondack Chair: Grandin Road All-Natural Teak Adirondack Chair at Grandinroad.com ($349) Jump to Review Best Rocking Adirondack Chair: World Market Slatted Wood Adirondack Rocking Chair at World Market ($180) Jump to Review Best Folding Adirondack Chair: L.L.Bean Classic Adirondack Chair at L.L.Bean ($329) Jump to Review Best Adirondack Chair With Cup Holder: ECCB Outdoor Outer Banks Folding Adirondack Chair at Amazon ($270) Jump to Review Best Bench-Style Adirondack Chair: Union Rustic Dewitt Outdoor Bench at Wayfair ($220) Jump to Review Best Overall Adirondack Chair Polywood Modern Adirondack Chair Amazon View On Amazon $249 View On Wayfair $289 View On Home Depot $179 Our Ratings Comfort 5/5 Durability 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Setup 4/5 Support 5/5 What Stands Out This modern pick is made of durable materials that can withstand outdoor elements. What Could Be Improved It could have added features, like a cup holder. For those with an urban outdoor space to furnish, this sleek Adirondack chair is the best of style, comfort, and durability. This chair was left uncovered through snow, sleet, and minus 30-degree temperatures, and after six months, it looks the same as it did to begin with. In our “tip testing”—our testing for stability in which we tossed two 15-pound medicine balls on the chair and attempted to push it back with medium force—the chair did not rock back or sustain any damage, yet another testament to its durability. The durable Polywood material features UV inhibitors and stabilizers to protect from fading and is designed to stand up to all four seasons without chipping, peeling, cracking, splintering, or rotting. During testing, we cleaned the marshmallow and barbecue sauce with just a little soap and water. After hosing the chair down, the water beaded up and easily wiped away with a towel, allowing us to sit immediately without getting wet. Plus, the smooth Polywood lumber felt nice on the skin and didn't get overly hot when wearing shorts. The angle of the chair also offered lumbar support, keeping us propped up at a comfortable position. But given its heft, this chair isn’t the most portable. It doesn't feature any adjustments or extras, such as cup holders, but if you're looking for a weather-resistant, no-frills Adirondack chair that offers plenty of support, this chair fits the bill. It's even available in over a dozen colors, from neutrals to brights. Considering its durability, we think this is a great pick for people who want to leave their patio furniture outside, even during harsh weather conditions. Material: Poly lumber | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Chair Weight: 34 pounds | Seat Width: 20.5 inches Real Simple / Rachel Marek Real Simple / Rachel Marek Real Simple / Grant Webster Best Budget Adirondack Chair RealComfort Resin Plastic Adirondack Chair Lowe's View On Walmart $20 View On Home Depot View On Ace Hardware $26 Our Ratings Comfort 4/5 Durability 3.5/5 Value 4/5 Setup 5/5 Support 4/5 What Stands Out This lightweight Adirondack chair is lightweight, portable, and affordable, with ample lumbar support for comfortable lounging. What Could Be Improved This chair may tip over or move in high winds. This pick provides the aesthetic appeal and comfort of a traditional Adirondack chair, but without the steep price tag of many of its competitors. At just 7.3 pounds, it's the lightest chair on our list and can be easily moved around your backyard or patio to accommodate different gatherings. But this doesn't mean it skimps on durability: This chair took a hit from two 15-pound medicine balls without tipping over or sustaining any damage. The durable plastic is weather-resistant and UV-protected to prevent fading—it even held up to an Iowa winter complete with snow, hail, wind, and rain, without receiving so much as a scratch. (However, high winds did knock it over.) One particularly unique feature of this chair is its built-in lumbar support that curves inward to support your lower back. We also appreciate the nice, wide armrests that easily support a drink (there are no cup holders). But this chair does sit back fairly deep, so getting out of it may prove difficult for some. Cleanup was a breeze—the marshmallow and barbecue sauce lifted with the help of soap, water, and a cloth. Since it’s made of plastic, the water does not absorb into the chair and can be easily wiped away with a towel. This chair comes assembled in one piece, meaning it doesn't require any set-up. The trade-off is that it doesn't fold or break down, which could prove challenging for storage. However, the chairs do stack on top of each other, which can save space for those who purchase a set. Material: Plastic | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Chair Weight: 7.3 pounds | Seat Width: 19 inches Real Simple / Rachel Marek Best Wood Adirondack Chair Christopher Knight Home Hanlee Folding Adirondack Chair Target View On Amazon $147 View On Wayfair $137 View On Bed Bath & Beyond Our Ratings Comfort 2/5 Portability 4.5/5 Durability 2/5 Value 2/5 Setup 3/5 What Stands Out This chair is made of real acacia wood and folds up for compact storage. What Could Be Improved Setup and assembly are challenging and may require two people. If you’re in the market for a real wood chair but don’t want to break the bank on teak, acacia wood is a great budget-friendly alternative. We love the high-end look of this chair (which is available in a natural wood stain as well as several colors), especially given the affordable price point. We set this chair up in a spot that receives lots of direct sunlight, which managed to bleach the cushions on our existing patio furniture, yet this Adirondack chair has held up to six months of use without any fading or other damage. Additionally, the seat on this chair isn’t quite as deep as that of others we tested, making it easier to keep your feet firmly planted on the group—a plus for anyone who struggles to get in and out of chairs. Although it’s not adjustable, the Hanlee Adirondack Chair is foldable, so you can tuck it away during the off-season or when inclement weather is expected. However, we’d still recommend finding a permanent spot for it to live most of the time, as it’s fairly heavy and clunky to carry when folded. The smooth, finished wood feels nice on bare skin (no splinters here), and the finish does a good job repelling water. The barbecue sauce and marshmallows came up very easily without leaving behind any residue, too. Plus, this chair even stood its ground against the medicine ball toss! Where this chair performed worst was in the setup—you’ll definitely benefit from having two people when building this chair. Material: Acacia wood | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Chair Weight: 25 pounds | Seat Width: 19 inches Real Simple / Rachel Marek Real Simple / Rachel Marek Real Simple / Grant Webster Best Plastic Adirondack Chair Yefu Plastic Adirondack Chair Amazon View On Amazon $103 View On Walmart $180 View On Yefulife.com Our Ratings Comfort 4/5 Durability 3/5 Value 4/5 Setup 5/5 Support 4/5 What Stands Out This chair has an adjustable back you can recline in. What Could Be Improved The seat is fairly deep on this chair, which may be difficult to get in and out of for those with mobility issues. Made from high-impact polystyrene, this plastic Adirondack chair is embossed with a wood-like texture and even comes in a "teak" color to give the illusion of real wood. We found it easy to assemble, although having a buddy could be helpful when handling the heavier pieces. The back adjusts slightly so you can sit up straighter or recline back further, and the seat comes positioned at a 103-degree angle, creating a deeper chair that is meant to relieve spinal pressure. However, it can be difficult to get in and out of, particularly for those with mobility issues. The chair did sustain some markings when hit with the medicine ball, although it did not show further wear or tear after six months of use (including in minus 36-degree weather). The food stains came up with ease and left no residue behind, and the water from the hose was easy to wipe up. And surprisingly, this chair is tied with the ECCB Outdoor Outer Banks Oversized Folding Adirondack Chair for the highest weight capacity of all those on our list (excluding bench-style Adirondack chairs) at 350 pounds. Material: Plastic | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Chair Weight: 30 pounds | Seat Width: 20.3 inches Real Simple / Rachel Marek Real Simple / Rachel Marek Real Simple / Grant Webster Best Teak Adirondack Chair Grandin Road All-Natural Teak Adirondack Chair Grandin Road View On Grandinroad.com $349 Our Ratings Comfort 4/5 Durability 4/5 Value 3/5 Setup 5/5 Support 5/5 What Stands Out This Adirondack chair is made of high-quality teak wood, withstood outdoor conditions, spills, and stains. What Could Be Improved This chair could have added features like a reclining seat or cup holder. The Grandin Road All-Natural Teak Adirondack Chair showed no damage after six months of use, even surviving late summer storms without any change in its appearance. Teak is considered the cream of the crop when it comes to wood patio furniture because it contains a natural oil that repels water and pests, as well as prevents warping or cracking. And unlike some other types of wood, it doesn’t require any finishing. However, if left untreated—as is the case with this chair—teak will develop a silver patina over time. If you want to prevent this, you’ll need to lightly sand it and treat it with a sealant on occasion. This chair sits higher off the ground than many we tested, making it easy to go from a seated to a standing position. The spacious seat will accommodate most body sizes, and we found the wide armrests impressively comfortable. The marshmallow and barbecue sauce stains came up very easily without leaving any trace behind, while the water from the hose dried very quickly. Given the price, we would like to see a few more bells and whistles, such as adjustable parts, a reclining seat, cup holders, etc. However, you’re really paying for the long-lasting and natural look of teak wood, which will give you years of use with proper maintenance. Material: Teak wood | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Chair Weight: 22.5 pounds | Seat Width: 22.5 inches Real Simple / Rachel Marek Real Simple / Rachel Marek Real Simple / Rachel Marek Best Rocking Adirondack Chair World Market Slatted Wood Adirondack Rocking Chair World Market View On World Market $180 Our Ratings Comfort 3.5/5 Durability 3/5 Value 4/5 Setup 4/5 Support 4/5 What Stands Out This high-quality rocking wood chair comes at an affordable price and has a U.V.-protected finish to withstand sun exposure. What Could Be Improved This chair did sustain some scuff marks during our testing, so it might not be the most durable option on our list. This chair combines the soothing motion of a classic rocking chair with the reclined seat and wide armrests of an Adirondack chair, providing an extra relaxing place to kick back. Made from acacia wood with a U.V.-protected finish, this World Market chair has proven to be surprisingly durable over six months of use, withstanding direct sunlight, rain, and even snow without fading or damage. It did receive some scuff marks after we hit it with the medicine ball, which leads us to believe that it’s best left covered or stored indoors during inclement weather, such as hail or sleet (and the manufacturer recommends this as well). The smooth wood has a charming, rustic look, and comes in natural wood, gray, and white finishes. The barbecue sauce wiped away easily with a damp cloth, but some soaking was required to completely remove the roasted marshmallow residue. Because of the deep seats on this chair, some of us who are 5’5” and under, found it challenging to get the chair rocking. Note that this chair is not adjustable or foldable, nor does it come with any cup holders or extra features beyond its rocking capabilities. The chair weighs just over 28 pounds, which is pretty middle-of-the-road for an Adirondack, so carrying it is doable, but not super easy given that it doesn’t fold. But it is below the median price of all the chairs we tested, making it a great investment that, with proper care, will hold up to years of rocking on the porch. Material: Acacia wood with U.V.-protected polyurethane finish | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Chair Weight: 28.7 pounds | Seat Width: 20 inches Real Simple / Rachel Marek Best Folding Adirondack Chair L.L.Bean Classic Adirondack Chair L.L.Bean View On L.L.Bean $329 Our Ratings Comfort 5/5 Durability 4/5 Value 5/5 Setup 4.5/5 Support 4.5/5 What Stands Out This sturdy Adirondack chair folds flat for storage. What Could Be Improved This pick isn't available with a natural wood finish. This poly lumber Adirondack chair is a part of L.L. Bean’s All-Weather furniture collection, so it’s been tested by the brand for durability and weather resistance. But should you ever want to store it during the off-season, it folds flat, taking up minimal space in your garage or shed. It has a sturdy, weighty build that keeps it secure to the ground, even during high winds, and it stood its ground during our tip-over testing. Just keep in mind that it’s on the heavier side of those we tested, and some might find it too heavy to carry beyond a short distance. The chair is comfortable and features a higher seat than previous versions, so getting out of it is a bit easier. It comes with wide armrests that offer plenty of room for a beverage or a book (though, no cup holders). During our hose test, the water ran right off the surface of the poly lumber and the barbecue sauce wiped off with ease. The roasted marshmallows we applied required a bit more effort, as we had to scrub them out of the grooves of the poly lumber, though they eventually came off, too. The chair comes in seven different color options, though none of them have a “real wood” look (the mahogany color comes the closest). It can also be paired with the All-Weather Footstool for the complete lounge experience. Material: Poly lumber | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Chair Weight: 37 pounds | Seat Width: 20 inches Best Adirondack Chair With Cup Holder ECCB Outdoor Outer Banks Folding Adirondack Chair Amazon View On Amazon $270 View On Eccboutdoor.com Our Ratings Comfort 5/5 Durability 5/5 Value 5/5 Setup 3/5 Support 5/5 What Stands Out This vibrant chair has cup holders and a comfortable curved back. What Could Be Improved It's heavier than most and may be difficult to carry. The ECCB Outdoor Outer Banks Folding Adirondack Chair has a hefty build that gives the impression of long-term durability. And after six months, it looks the same as when we first got it, although the screws do require periodic tightening. Thanks to its curved back and waterfall front slats, we also found it extremely comfortable. The poly lumber has a smooth surface and is available in over 20 colors, ranging from mahogany to lime green. Plus, this is the only chair on our list that comes with a cupholder—actually, two fold-out drink holders: one for cups and one for stemmed wine glasses that doubles as a cellphone holder. Although this chair doesn't come with any adjustments, it does fold. Just keep in mind that it’s the heaviest chair on our list, so it may be cumbersome to carry—a trade-off for its solid build. We also noticed that it doesn’t stay folded once in storage, which can be frustrating for those with limited storage space in a garage or shed. Considering it's constructed with poly lumber, it was no surprise that the stains lifted with ease and the water beaded on the surface as opposed to soaking into the chair. In short, we think this chair is made to last many seasons, and its fun color varieties and drink holders are just the icing on top. Material: Poly lumber | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Chair Weight: 39.5 pounds | Seat Width: 22 inches Real Simple / Rachel Marek Best Bench-Style Adirondack Chair Union Rustic Dewitt Outdoor Bench Wayfair View On Wayfair $220 Our Ratings Comfort 4.5/5 Durability 4/5 Value 4/5 Setup 2.5/5 Support 5/5 What Stands Out This two-seater can hold up to 500 pounds and is made of durable acacia wood. What Could Be Improved This pick could be easier to assemble. This Adirondack loveseat is ideal for a smaller deck or patio, as it takes up far less space than two separate chairs, yet comfortably seats two people and holds up to 500 pounds. Not to mention, it costs less than most single-seater Adirondack chairs we tested. Made from sturdy acacia wood, the chair remained good-as-new after we hit it with two 15-pound medicine balls. It was comfortable to sit in and tall enough to allow us to rest our head against the back, too. This chair also folds up for storage, though we wouldn’t want to carry this chair very far, as it weighs over 40 pounds. The barbecue stain came off the smooth wood finish with ease, though we had to work a bit on the roasted marshmallow residue (as was the case with many wood chairs we tested). The chair comes in both a natural wood finish and a gray finish. Assembly was somewhat lengthy and involved, and you’ll likely need a second person to assist. Note: The first chair we received arrived defective, but we were able to receive a functional replacement for testing. Material: Acacia wood | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds | Chair Weight: 41.9 pounds | Seat Width: 42.5 inches Final Verdict Our top pick is the Polywood Modern Adirondack Chair because it offers style, support, and stability. Plus, the poly lumber material is extremely weather-resistant and easy to clean. For something more budget-friendly, we recommend the RealComfort Plastic Adirondack Chair, a lightweight option that's easy to move around. Our Testing Process We acquired 23 Adirondack chairs and put them through a series of rigorous tests in our Lab and later in our own outdoor spaces. We began our Lab tests by using the manufacturer's instructions to assemble each chair (given it did not come pre-assembled) and timed how long it took to build. Once each chair was built, we assessed its design, including whether it came with any additional features, such as cup holders (the only one on our list to feature them is the ECCB Outdoor Outer Banks Oversized Folding Adirondack Chair). We then sat in each chair for five minutes to assess its comfort, using any adjustment features and keeping in mind that Adirondack chairs will vary in comfort depending on the individual. Next, we performed what we called a "tip test" to determine how steady and durable each chair was: We tossed two 15-pound medicine balls into the seat of each chair and tried pushing each chair back with medium force, noting whether it stayed in place, rocked, or fell over. To evaluate how easy each chair was to clean, we simulated everyone’s favorite fireside snack—s’mores—by smearing one roasted marshmallow on the arm of each chair. We did the same with barbecue sauce, allowing each substance to sit for 10 minutes. Using a damp towel and dish soap, we then cleaned the stains and took note of any change in color or texture. Finally, we carried each chair outside—folding it when applicable—and evaluated it for portability. Once outside, we hosed off each chair, taking note of whether the water soaked into the wood or beaded up, and whether the moisture had any ill effects on the chair. After our Lab testing was complete, we brought home the top-performing chairs and used them in our own outdoor spaces, including on patios, decks, and backyards. Based on our experience, we evaluated their long-term performance after six months of use. How to Shop for Adirondack Chairs Like a Pro Material Adirondack chairs come in two broad categories—wood and plastic—which can be broken down even further depending on the type. Teak is among the most durable of all hardwoods: "Selecting teak is probably your best bet for a long lifespan of the chairs and we always recommend covering furniture when not in use, especially in areas with harsher weather," says Delane. "Other hardwoods like cedar and redwood are also great options as they naturally resist insects, sun, and weather damage." Some people prefer the rustic look of real wood, which will only gain character with time. However, wood requires regular refinishing or treatment with a wood sealer or conditioner to maintain top-notch shape. Plastic tends to be more affordable and easier to clean, although it's prone to chipping or cracking with time and may require replacing every few years. Jane recommends poly lumber (commonly referred to by the name brand version, Polywood, which manufactures our best overall pick), a durable, weather- and UV-resistant material made from recycled plastic that is designed to emulate the look of wood. It makes a great wood alternative if you want to avoid regular maintenance but prefer the durability and stability of wood. Some poly lumber furniture can even be embossed with a grain texture for a real-wood look. Portability When it comes to Adirondack chairs, it's important to strike the right balance between portability and stability. By nature, Adirondack chairs tend to be more bulky and hefty so that they'll stay secure on the ground. However, you want to ensure that they're still lightweight enough to move for outdoor gatherings or for storage during the winter months. Our best budget pick, the RealComfort Plastic Adirondack Chair, is a lightweight option that can easily be carried around a backyard, but it’s prone to tipping over in high winds. Folding Adirondack chairs collapse for easier storage and carrying, making them ideal for bringing to and from the lake and/or mountains or just moving around the backyard. Size and Comfort The appeal of Adirondack chairs lies primarily in their comfort—there's nothing better than sinking into the spacious seats by a wood-burning fire pit with a glass of wine or a warm cup of tea. Traditionally, Adirondack chairs have deep, angled seats, with straight angled backs and wide armrests. For those with limited mobility, a shallower seat angle will make it easier to transition from sitting to standing. A chair with a wider seat will accommodate loungers of all sizes and make for a more comfortable experience in general, and a smaller seat will be better for seating children. Some chairs even feature waterfall front slats, curved backs, lumbar support, and more. You can also find bench-style Adirondack chairs, such as the Union Rustic Dewitt Acacia Outdoor Bench, which can seat two in less space than two separate Adirondack chairs. For added lumbar support and comfort, both Delane and Jane suggest adding pillows and keeping blankets nearby. Style You'll find Adirondack chairs in a variety of shapes and colors, from the traditional rounded-top Adirondack chairs to the more modern straight-top chairs. For a more rustic look, a wood chair with a natural stain is a great choice, while a colorful chair is well suited to an urban outdoor space. In terms of styling, Adirondack chairs are statement pieces in themselves: "I think Adirondack chairs are best left untouched," says Jane. "The beauty of them is in the design and the simplicity." Delane says arranging four chairs around a firepit has a classic look and feel, and adding pillows and blankets can create a more warm and inviting atmosphere. Additional Features Some Adirondack chairs come with bonus features for added comfort and convenience, such as built-in cup holders, ottomans or footrests, and reclining or rocking abilities. For example, the World Market Slatted Wood Adirondack Rocking Chair is our pick for the best rocking Adirondack chair and features a reclined back and wide armrests with the motion of a classic rocking chair. More Adirondack Chairs to Consider Highwood Hamilton Folding & Reclining Adirondack Chair: If you're willing to spend a bit more for an Adirondack chair with more than one seating option, this one has three reclining positions and folds completely flat for easy storage. Questions You Might Ask How do you clean Adirondack chairs? It depends on the material of your chair, but most Adirondack chairs can be cleaned with a quick wipe down: "You can wipe down your chairs with a damp cloth and should cover them during the winter months or when not in use to preserve their lifespan," says Delane. To remove stains, gently wipe the surface with a combination of mild soap and water. For all-over messes, such as pollen or dirt, most Adirondack chairs can be sprayed down with a hose—but always be sure to refer to the manufacturer's instructions, especially for wood chairs, which will require the occasional refinishing. Can Adirondack chairs be used inside? While you can technically use Adirondack chairs inside, their bulky build makes them better suited for outdoor use. Still, Jane notes that “covered patios or porches would be a great place for an Adirondack chair as well." Can you leave Adirondack chairs outside? Most Adirondack chairs are designed to withstand all kinds of weather, so you can leave them outside year-round. However, no matter the material, your chair will last longer if you store it under a protective cover or in a storage closet during the off-season. Take Our Word for It This article was written by Melanie Fincher, associate commerce editor for Real Simple with three years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content. To compile this list, we tested 23 Adirondack chairs in our Lab and in our own outdoor spaces, evaluating them based on setup, comfort, support, adjustability, design, durability, and value. For expert advice on what to look for when shopping, we consulted Talie Jane, owner and principal designer at Lake Tahoe-based Talie Jane Interiors, and Lisa Delane, chief of operations and marketing at Living Gardens Landscape Design. What Is Real Simple Selects? Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company. Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit