The 12 Best Outdoor Rocking Chairs of 2023
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Grab a good book and spend hours rocking in our favorite outdoor rocking chairs
The Spruce / Sabrina Jiang
Fact checked by Nick Blackmer
There's nothing quite like sitting in a rocker while relaxing on your porch. While traditionally reserved for the front porch, this iconic seat has since expanded to other outdoor spaces like balconies and patios.
"We love styling a bundle of rocking chairs around a fire pit or fire table, creating a backyard destination that feels cozy and comfortable," says Lindsay Foster, Senior Director of Merchandising Furniture at Frontgate.
When shopping for an outdoor rocking chair, you'll want to consider its durability, comfort, and style. To help you narrow down your options, we researched standout designs crafted from various weather-ready materials.
Best Overall: Birch Lane Adina Outdoor Rocking Solid Wood Chair
Our top choice is the Adina Patio Rocking Chair from Birch Lane.
What We Like
Handcrafted from solid wood
Water-tight joinery
Simple and classic
What We Don't Like
May fade over time
Assembly required
Our top choice is the Adina Patio Rocking Chair from Birch Lane. It's made of solid teak wood, a high-strength hardwood that holds up well in wet conditions and direct sunlight. What's more, the handcrafted piece features water-tight mortise-and-tenon joinery, so you can count on long-lasting structural integrity.
The Adina is available in weathered gray or a natural teak finish. Bear in mind the latter will fade over time into a silvery-gray hue, but this won't affect its durability. To maintain the golden-brown hue, you'll need to sand it periodically or apply teak-specific wood oil.
While this outdoor rocking chair doesn't have cushions, the simple design is elegant, classic, and comfortable. Another thing to note is that you'll have to put it together at home, but if you buy it from Birch Lane or Wayfair, you can add expert assembly to your order.
Price at time of publish: $318
Material: Teak wood | Dimensions: 44.5 x 32 x 25 inches | Weight: 29 pounds | Capacity: 250 pounds
Best Budget: Mainstays Outdoor Wood Porch Rocking Chair
On a budget? Consider the Mainstays Porch Rocking Chair.
What We Like
Solid acacia wood
Weather-resistant finish
Traditional slatted design
What We Don't Like
Assembly required
Low weight capacity
On a budget? Consider the Mainstays Porch Rocking Chair. It's made of solid acacia wood, a dense, moisture-resistant lumber that's unlikely to warp in wet outdoor environments. And it features a weather-ready finish for extra protection against the elements.
The traditional slatted high-back design is comfortable and versatile, though we should note this outdoor rocker has a somewhat low weight capacity (250 pounds). While you'll need to assemble it at home, it comes with all the necessary tools and shouldn't take more than a half-hour.
Price at time of publish: $97
Material: Acacia wood | Dimensions: 45 x 34 x 26.25 inches | Weight: 22 pounds | Capacity: 250 pounds
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Best Splurge: BD Studio Portia Outdoor Rocking Chair
If you're open to splurging on a statement rocker, check out the Portia Chair from BD Studio.
What We Like
All-weather design
Resists mold and mildew
Arrives fully assembled
What We Don't Like
Expensive
If you're open to splurging on a statement rocker, check out the Portia Chair from BD Studio. The all-weather design is made of polyethylene, a high-strength, virtually waterproof thermoplastic. According to the brand, it's also resistant to stains, mold, mildew, and sun fading.
This rocking chair features handwoven polyethylene rope over a solid frame of the same material. Available in your choice of three neutral colors, it arrives fully assembled in a modish, eye-catching shape, which helps justify the high price tag.
Price at time of publish: $1,299
Material: Polyethylene | Dimensions: 37 x 32 x 28 inches | Weight: 61 pounds | Capacity: Not listed
Best All-Weather: Sol 72 Outdoor Polywood Modern Adirondack Rocker
This pick boasts an exceptionally durable, all-weather design that resists cracking, splintering, peeling, and rotting year-round.
What We Like
Recycled materials
Infused with UV protectant
Marine-grade hardware
What We Don't Like
Assembly required
The Sol 72 Adirondack Rocker is made of Polywood lumber, a proprietary wood-like material composed of 99 percent recycled HDPE. Featuring marine-grade hardware, it boasts an exceptionally durable, all-weather design that resists cracking, splintering, peeling, and rotting year-round.
From coastal winds to heavy snowfall, you can count on this outdoor rocking chair to withstand the elements. And since it's infused with a UV protectant, you'll never have to repaint it. The only drawback is that you have to put it together at home, but if you're not up for it, you can add expert assembly to your order for an additional cost.
Price at time of publish: $320
Material: Polywood lumber | Dimensions: 34.5 x 32.5 x 29.25 inches | Weight: 37 pounds | Capacity: 400 pounds
Best Wicker: Frontgate Hampton Rocking Chair in Driftwood Finish
Frontgate's Hampton Rocking Chair has a cozy-cool coastal grandmother vibe.
What We Like
All-weather design
Plush and supportive
10-year warranty
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Frontgate's Hampton Rocking Chair has a cozy-cool coastal grandmother vibe. It's handwoven from polyethylene resin wicker and features a UV-protective, anti-mildew finish, so you can count on it to stand up to the outdoor elements. The all-weather material won't rot or splinter, even in extreme temperatures.
And that's not all there is to love about this rocker. It has ultra-plush and supportive foam cushions, and you can choose from more than 90 upholstery options, including several Sunbrella rain-repellent fabrics. We wish the price was more accessible, but it's backed by a 10-year warranty.
Price at time of publish: $1,199+
Material: Polyethylene resin, powder-coated metal, foam, fabric | Dimensions: 36 x 36 x 26 inches | Weight: 26 pounds | Capacity: Not listed
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Best Eucalyptus: Article Lynea Outdoor Rocking Chair
We also like the Lynea Rocking Chair from Article for a eucalyptus option.
What We Like
Scandinavian style
Long-lasting materials
Resists rod and sun damage
What We Don't Like
Partial assembly required
Needs cover in wet climates
We also like the Lynea Rocking Chair from Article. Available with brushed taupe or freckled gray ropes and a complementing frame, this Scandinavian-inspired piece features a simple silhouette and a relatively low profile. Some assembly is required, but it should only take about 15 minutes.
The frame is solid eucalyptus wood, an inherently durable and long-lasting material with impressive resistance to rot and sun damage. As for the seat and backrest, you're looking at water-repellent polypropylene rope. Still, if you live in a particularly wet or snowy climate, the brand recommends using an outdoor furniture cover during the off-season.
Price at time of publish: $549
Material: Eucalyptus wood, polypropylene | Dimensions: 30.5 x 28.5 x 27.25 inches | Weight: 22.5 pounds | Capacity: Not listed
Best Acacia: Hampton Bay Willow Glen Brown Wood Outdoor Rocking Chair with Beige Cushion
The Hampton Bay Willow Glen Rocking Chair features an acacia wood frame with a protective coating to prevent warping and fading.
What We Like
Reasonably priced
Weather-resistant
Versatile aesthetic
What We Don't Like
Assembly required
Only one color
The Hampton Bay Willow Glen Rocking Chair features a solid acacia wood frame with a protective coating to prevent warping, rotting, and fading. It has a diamond lattice backrest and a plush seat cushion with non-porous upholstery, meaning water can't seep in.
This reasonably priced rocker has an impressive 400-pound weight capacity. While you'll have to assemble it at home, it should be a quick process and comes with all the necessary tools. We wish there were more color options, but the natural wood finish and contrasting off-white cushion are endlessly versatile. And you can pair it with other pieces from the Willow Glen collection.
Price at time of publish: $117
Material: Acacia wood, poly fiber, fabric | Dimensions: 41.25 x 37.75 x 26.25 inches | Weight: 12.5 pounds | Capacity: 400 pounds
Best Adirondack: Pottery Barn Adirondack x Polywood Rocking Chair
Pottery Barn carries a great rocker version made of incredibly strong, water-repellent HDPE.
What We Like
All-weather design
Fade-resistant
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
No cushions
When it comes to outdoor furniture, you really can't go wrong with an Adirondack chair. Pottery Barn carries a great rocker version made of incredibly strong, water-repellent HDPE.
The fade-resistant faux wood material is super easy to clean—just wipe it down with a mild soapy solution or hose it off for a quick refresh. This outdoor rocking chair is available in three neutral hues: cool-toned brown, beige, and crisp white. It doesn't have cushions, but this is pretty standard for Adirondacks.
Price at time of publish: $499
Material: High-density polyethylene | Dimensions: 41 x 34.5 x 31.5 inches | Weight: 42 pounds | Capacity: 300 pounds
Best Acapulco : Hashtag Home Outdoor Travers Rocking Wicker/Rattan Chair Set
Acapulco chairs, like this option from Hashtag Home, were first popularized in mid-century Mexico.
What We Like
Ergonomic shape
Weather-resistant
Several colors available
What We Don't Like
Assembly required
Acapulco chairs were first popularized in mid-century Mexico. They traditionally have three skinny legs, but you can also find rockers, like this one from Hashtag Home. The weather-resistant Travers outdoor rocking chair has a mildew-resistant steel frame and a UV-resistant wicker construction. This is a great option for a larger patio or deck because the chairs arrive in a set of two.
While the egg-like, cupped shape may look odd, it is considered ergonomic. You'd be surprised by how comfy this thing is, and despite the ultra-lightweight design, it can support up to 300 pounds. This retro-meets-modern chair comes in four chic colors too, including this bright, tropical teal. The only drawback is that it calls for at-home assembly, but luckily, all of the tools needed are included.
Price at time of publish: $300
Material: Steel, wicker | Dimensions: 30.7 x 27.6 x 34.7 inches | Weight: 24.6 pounds | Capacity: 300 pounds
Best Traditional: Grandin Road Nantucket Rocking Chair
Interested in a more traditional design? The slatted Nantucket Rocking Chair from Grandin Road might be your best bet.
What We Like
Solid hardwood
Slatted seat and backrest
Weather-resistant finish
What We Don't Like
Cushion sold separately
Interested in a more traditional design? The slatted Nantucket Rocking Chair from Grandin Road might be your best bet. It's made of solid hardwood and features a weather-resistant polyurethane finish to repel water and prevent sun fading, but the brand still recommends adding a protective finish once a year to ensure its longevity.
You can choose from five classic colors: black, nautical blue, stark white, gray-wash, or natural-wash wood. There's also a complementing seat cushion with an all-weather cover, but you'll have to buy that separately.
Price at time of publish: $299
Material: Solid wood | Dimensions: 42 x 34 x 24.5 inches | Weight: 26 pounds | Capacity: Not listed
Best with Cushions: West Elm Portside Rocking Chair
If you prefer something with cushions, West Elm has you covered.
What We Like
Kiln-dried frame
FSC-certified wood
Weather-resistant upholstery
What We Don't Like
Only one color
If you prefer something with cushions, West Elm has you covered. The Portside Rocking Chair has a solid mahogany and eucalyptus wood frame, kiln-dried to ensure long-lasting durability with outdoor use. Not only that, but the lumber is sustainably sourced from trees certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
The thick cushions are comfy, supportive, and covered in weather-resistant fabric. This rocker only comes in one color, and it's undoubtedly expensive. But if you can swing the price, you won't be disappointed with the quality—plus West Elm's white-glove delivery includes professional assembly.
Price at time of publish: $999
Material: Mahogany and eucalyptus wood, foam, weather-resistant fabric | Dimensions: 37.5 x 32.5 x 30 inches | Weight: 51.5 pounds | Capacity: Not listed
Best Waterproof: Loll Designs No. 9 Rocking Lounge Chair
If you live in a rainy area, you might want to get a 100 percent waterproof rocker, like the No. 9 Lounge Chair by Loll Designs.
What We Like
Year-round, all-weather design
Made of recycled materials
Several colors available
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Assembly required
If you live in a rainy climate, you might want to get a 100 percent waterproof rocker, like the No. 9 Lounge Chair by Loll Designs. It's made of recycled HDPE, which is not only waterproof but also fade-resistant, exceptionally durable, and virtually maintenance-free. Meanwhile, aluminum inserts and steel fasteners provide dependable structural strength.
You can place it outdoors year-round, even in an uncovered area, without worrying about damage from the elements. The minimalist-modern design is slightly wider than average, with an extra-deep seat. And it comes in nine hues, ranging from neutrals to statement bolds. In the end, we just wish it was more affordable.
Price at time of publish: $995
Material: High-density polyethylene, aluminum, stainless steel | Dimensions: 37.5 x 29 x 23 inches | Weight: 35 pounds | Capacity: 300 pounds
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Our top choice is the Birch Lane Adina Patio Rocking Chair. Handcrafted from solid wood with water-tight joinery, this outdoor-friendly piece has a timeless aesthetic that'll work on any porch, deck, or patio. But if you live in a particularly wet, sunny, or coastal climate (or just want something more modern-looking), the all-weather Sol 72 Outdoor Polywood Adirondack Rocker might be a better choice.
What to Look For in an Outdoor Rocking Chair
Material
Material is a critical consideration when buying outdoor furniture. "If placed in an uncovered space, an HDPE plastic material would be best for durability," recommends interior designer Jennifer Hunter of Jennifer Hunter Design. However, she explains that more traditional wooden designs (such as acacia, teak, and eucalyptus) work well in covered porches and patios.
According to Lindsay Foster, Senior Director of Merchandising Furniture at Frontgate, all-weather wicker (usually made of polyethylene resin), like the Hampton Rocking Chair in Driftwood Finish from Frontage, is the most low-maintenance. "But depending on the space and personal preference, teak, aluminum, or mixed materials are all great alternatives," she says.
Weather Resistance
Beyond an outdoor-friendly frame material, many rocking chairs are treated with a weather-resistant finish. This can help repel water, prevent fading, and keep splintering, rotting, and cracking at bay. For a fully waterproof option, we recommend the No. 9 Rocking Lounge Chair, which you won't have to worry about in rainy climates.
Some wooden designs feature water-tight joinery for extra moisture resistance. "Furniture items placed in direct heat can manipulate the finish, and with rain, it can wither the material," Hunter adds, which is why it's so important to ensure your outdoor furniture is properly sealed and protected from the elements.
Assembly
Most outdoor rocking chairs sold online call for at-home assembly. They typically come with all the necessary hardware and tools, and most often, the process is pretty quick. That said, some designs are a bit more complex and may even be a two-person job. If assembly is a big consideration in your buying process, consider the Portia Outdoor Rocking Chair, which arrives fully assembled.
If you're not up for it, consider hiring a professional to put your chair together. Many retailers allow you to add expert assembly to your order for an additional fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different styles of outdoor rocking chairs?
You can find outdoor rocking chairs to align with nearly any decor theme, from traditional and mid-century to rustic and contemporary. There are also specific silhouettes, like Adirondack and Acapulco.
"Don't be afraid to mix styles to elevate visual interest," says Foster. "For example, placing a more modern rocking chair with farmhouse-style architecture can create a visually appealing juxtaposition." She adds that cushions "can bring an unexpected pop of color or texture" to your outdoor furniture arrangement.
Can you put rocking chairs on a deck?
As long as they have a weather-resistant design, rocking chairs make excellent deck seating. While other furniture categories have more distinct indoor versus outdoor styles, most rocker designs won't look out of place, no matter where you put them. And the deck is far from your only option!
Can wood rocking chairs stay outside?
It depends on where you live and what time of year it is. Hunter recommends keeping wood rockers in a covered area if you reside in a wet climate, as well as when the sun is scorching hot.
"I always like to place an outdoor rocking chair under a roofed front or back porch to maintain its durability from rain or shine," says Foster. Furniture covers can also help safeguard the material against the elements.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland interviewed two experts for this article, including interior designer Jennifer Hunter of Jennifer Hunter Design and Lindsay Foster, Senior Director of Merchandising Furniture at Frontgate. With their buying tips and insight in mind, she researched today's best outdoor rocking chairs. After considering dozens of options, she narrowed it down to visually pleasing, versatile designs made of durable, weather-ready materials.
As a freelance commerce writer and product reviewer, Holland specializes in furniture, textiles, home improvement, and lifestyle. You can find more of her writing on Byrdie, People, and Travel + Leisure.
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