The 14 Best Patio Chairs of 2023
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From rocking chairs to metal swivel armchairs, we’ve found the best patio chairs
Fact checked by Shereen Jegtvig
There’s nothing like kicking back to enjoy a refreshing beverage on your front porch or patio, and the right patio chair makes all of the difference in that experience. While patio chairs have evolved from utilitarian metal frames or wicker wingback chairs, there’s something nostalgic about how those designs have been reinvented in today’s market. You can also find reclining patio chairs, folding chairs, zero-gravity chairs, and retro egg chairs that are all designed to withstand the outdoors.
If you are nervous about making a more expensive purchase of durable patio chairs, there are several ways you can care for your patio furniture to ensure it's ready for another season of use. “The best time to clean your outdoor furniture and cushions is in the fall, but if you neglected to address the soil, then spring is the time to do it,” says Wayne Edelman, "The Stainmaster" of Meurice Garment Care and CLEAN by Meurice. “Depending on the type of upholstery material and the construction of the cushions, we recommend a thorough brushing and vacuuming followed by either cushion removal cleaning and replacement, power washing, or vacuum soap and water extraction.”
With relevant maintenance in mind, we researched and tested the best patio chairs that are durable yet stylish and functional for various outdoor spaces. In this roundup, you’ll find patio chairs ranging from durable metal frames to modern, elevated wicker armchairs.
Amazon Basics Textilene Outdoor Zero Gravity Chairs
What We Like
Easily folds for storage
Removable headrest
Very comfortable
What We Don’t Like
Lockable feature is hard to use
Looking for a comfortable chair to relax in? Consider a zero-gravity chair, which is designed to move with you for maximum comfort. We recently tested the Amazon Basics Zero Gravity Lounge Chairs and couldn't get enough of how comfortable they were. We sat in them for almost four hours without experiencing any discomfort or pain. The chairs are incredibly easy to set up and made of durable materials, all while remaining affordable at under $160. The chairs arrived completely assembled and were ready to be used.
One of the notable features of this chair is its ability to either lock in a reclined position or move with you as you change positions. This allows you to personalize your seating experience. We encountered some difficulty with the lock feature because the chair would move every time we moved.
In addition to being adjustable, the chairs are also made with high-quality materials. The seat is crafted from textilene mesh fabric that is both comfortable and resistant to wear from the rain. The bungee lacing adds extra comfort by contouring your body and staying cool, even on hot summer days. For enhanced comfort, the chairs are equipped with headrest pillows that can be easily removed, allowing you to maintain a comfortable head position throughout. While we did experience some rain during our testing period, we stored the chairs to ensure their longevity.
In addition to two cozy zero-gravity chairs, this set includes a foldable table where you can conveniently keep your beverages and other outdoor necessities. Overall, we found the set to be a fantastic option for outdoor activities like camping, sporting events, or simply relaxing on the patio. We highly recommend it to anyone in search of a comfortable and versatile outdoor seating option.
How It Performed Long-Term
After testing this set for two months, we can confirm that it's just as comfortable as it was during our initial testing. We left the set outside on a covered porch, and both the chair and table remained undamaged. However, the locking mechanism still does not work. We even asked others to try it out to see if we were doing it incorrectly, but it seems that the lock doesn't work properly. Despite this flaw, we still highly recommend this set, especially for individuals in search of a reasonably-priced recliner for outdoor activities like camping or watching sports.
Price at time of publish: $150
Dimensions: 64.2 x 43.3 x 25.6 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Better Homes & Gardens Ventura Boho Stationary Wicker Egg Chair
What We Like
Statement piece
Comfortable cushions
Rust-resistant metal frame
What We Don’t Like
Expensive
If you’re looking to add a bit of personality to your patio, we recommend the Better Homes & Gardens Ventura Boho Stationary Wicker Egg Chair because of its durable frame yet stylish design. Plus, it’s large enough to curl up and nap in. This chair has a rust-resistant metal frame that’s wrapped in wicker for a retro and boho-inspired design.
The removable cushions are covered with 50 percent recycled polyester and filled with a mixture of polyester fibers, batting, and foam for a super plush yet supporting lounging experience. Polyester is also typically more resistant to staining than natural fibers like cotton or linen, so you don’t have to worry about these cushions getting wet during inclement weather. We do recommend covering this chair during colder months and storing the cushions in a temperature-controlled location to extend their lifespan. This chair is expensive, so we recognize that it may not be in everyone’s preferred price range; however, we love its overall aesthetic and thoughtful design. If you are in the market to splurge on a fun piece of outdoor furniture, this egg chair is a durable and on-trend option.
Price at time of publish: $347
Dimensions: 58.46 x 41.37 x 36.61 inches | Material: Metal and polyester | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Highwood Hamilton Folding & Reclining Adirondack Chair
What We Like
Easy to clean
Durable
Comfortable
What We Don’t Like
Difficult to change recline positions
We had the chance to test the Highwood Hamilton Adirondack Chair during our Adirondack chair testing and it blew us away with its durability and easy-to-clean surface. While this is certainly a splurge compared to other patio chair options, we’ve found that it’s worth the investment, even after six months of use.
We are able to assemble this Adirondack chair in just 10 minutes thanks to threaded inserts for the bolts and separate pieces. While this chair does have an adjustable back that can switch between three positions, we found that this feature requires two hands to properly and safely engage the chair back in the different slots.
This chair is made from imitation plastic wood that does not splinter, fade, or deteriorate over time like actual wood. This material is also much easier to keep clean compared to other outdoor furniture materials. We had no issue wiping away barbecue sauce, and we were also able to remove melted marshmallows after a bit of scrubbing. We also appreciate that this chair can be folded in half for storage, although it can be left outside during cooler months.
How It Performed Long-Term
After six months of using this chair in one of our homes, we’ve found that it lives up to its high-quality material expectations. While it feels slightly narrower than other Adirondack chairs we’ve used, it’s still comfortable to sit in.
Price at time of publish: $546
Dimensions: 33.9 x 29.4 x 36.4 inches | Material: High-grade poly lumber | Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
The 7 Best Adirondack Chairs of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Pottery Barn Huntington Square Arm Swivel Lounge Chair
What We Like
Well-designed
360-degree swivel
What We Don’t Like
Difficult to move
Swivel armchairs are growing in popularity because of their versatility in smaller settings and ability to accommodate conversation in any direction. We love the Huntington Square Arm Swivel Lounge Chair from Pottery Barn because it’s a durable yet stylish chair that can be used on any patio aesthetic. This chair is constructed with a rustproof aluminum frame wrapped in an all-weather wicker. A fluffy cushion makes all the difference in this chair’s comfort, and you can purchase covers made in one of two fabric types. Plus, you can choose among 39 different fabric colors.
If you’re looking to really ensure this chair’s durability, we recommend purchasing a cover made in one of the two performance fabrics that Pottery Barn offers: a high-performance cushion cover or a Sunbrella cushion cover. Both options are available in 32 and 13 colors, respectively, so you’re sure to find a cushion cover that matches your patio’s aesthetic. Pottery Barn also sells cushion and furniture cleaner to keep the wicker from discoloring with age and water exposure (both products are listed at the bottom of the chair’s purchase page).
We love that this chair has a 360-degree swivel with no tilt or rock, making it safe for little ones who may treat the swivel function as a play feature. Although we appreciate this chair’s frame and outer materials' durability, we wish it was slightly lighter. At 64 pounds, it will likely require at least two people to move it to a new location, if you ever redesign your outdoor space. Overall, we think this chair is a great option, even given its higher price point. With the amount of customization offered and this high-quality design, it’s a splurge-worthy piece of furniture that will last several years on your patio.
Price at time of publish: $1,599
Dimensions: 32.5 x 32.5 x 34.5 inches | Material: Rustproof aluminum frame, all-weather wicker, performance fabric cushion | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
StyleWell Mix and Match Stackable Sling Outdoor Patio Dining Chair
What We Like
Easy to clean
Stackable
Fade-resistant seat
What We Don’t Like
Not the most comfortable
This stackable outdoor chair can be paired with a small side table to create the perfect bistro set on a small balcony or backyard patio. It’s made with a rust-resistant steel frame to withstand wear during inclement weather. The seat is also fade-resistant, so this chair won’t lose any of its charm over time. It’s also incredibly affordable at under $20, so you can maximize your patio budget to fully decorate your space.
We will point out that this chair may not be the most comfortable design, but the sloping back and webbed seat do make it more comfortable than a standard metal chair. It could be made even more comfortable with an outdoor pillow.
Price at time of publish: $20
Dimensions: 35.9 x 21.5 x 27.9 inches | Material: Steel and textilene | Weight Capacity: 225 pounds
Lark Manor Eita Recliner Patio Chair with Cushions
What We Like
Weather-resistant fabric
Rust-resistant
Removable seat cushion
What We Don’t Like
Full assembly required
Heavy
This recliner from Lark Manor has a removable cushion that can be stored during inclement weather. But if you forget to remove this cushion for any reason, the olefin fabric is resistant to stains, water, and fading, so the occasional rain won’t damage it. This chair’s metal frame is also rust-resistant, so it can stay outside year-round. We do recommend purchasing a chair cover for it to preserve its lifespan better.
Full assembly is required with this chair, and we recommend having a helper nearby to ease the process. This chair also weighs just over 60 pounds, so it may be difficult to move without assistance. Overall, we think this reclining patio chair is a great option for anyone who’s looking to one-up their backyard relaxation.
Price at time of publish: $399
Dimensions: 38 x 22.6 x 38 inches | Material: Steel frame and olefin fabric | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Hampton Bay Rosemont Stackable Black Steel Wicker Outdoor Patio Lounge Chair
What We Like
Weather-resistant cushion fabric
3-year warranty on frame
1-year warranty on fabric
Easy to clean
What We Don’t Like
Only available in one color way
If you’re looking for the aesthetics of wicker in a modern colorway, we recommend the Rosemont Patio Lounge Chair from Hampton Bay. This chair features a classic curved back and angled arms, but it’s much more durable than traditional wicker thanks to a steel frame. The cushion is also constructed with olefin, a popular outdoor fabric that’s resistant to wear from fading and stains.
A 3-year warranty backs the frame for any manufacturing defaults, and the fabric is also backed by a 1-year warranty too. We appreciate that the cushion covers can be removed for laundering, and the frame can be wiped down after inclement weather. While we think the black frame and tan cushion are a great alternative to typical brown wicker, we understand that it may not be everyone’s taste. However, this chair is still an affordable seating option for a sun porch or back deck.
Price at time of publish: $100
Dimensions: 36 x 27.5 x 28 inches | Material: Steel frame and olefin fabric | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Birch Lane Adina Outdoor Rocking Solid Wood Chair
What We Like
Durable
Classic design
Easy to maintain
What We Don’t Like
Will fade over time
Expensive
The Birch Lane Adina Outdoor Rocking Solid Wood Chair is a great investment piece that will last on our porch for several years. Whether you dress it up with a throw pillow, outdoor cushion or keep it plain, we love the classic design of this teak wood rocking chair. It’s constructed with tenon-mortise joinery (a version of a tongue and groove joint), which makes it incredibly durable, and the pieces won’t separate over time like traditional screw joinery. We also love that this chair is a great option for aging adults who may struggle to get out of typical low-seated patio chairs.
This rocking chair requires some assembly, but the instructions are very thorough. You will need a Phillips screwdriver and rubber mallet for assembly, which the manufacturer does not provide. As noted previously, teak wood will fade to a silver patina with time and exposure to rain. To prevent this, you can regularly oil this rocking chair with teak oil, or you can stain the rocking chair to a color of your choice. Oiling the chair is easy to refresh its appearance without permanently changing its natural color.
Price at time of publish: $365
Dimensions: 44.5 x 24.75 x 31.75 inches | Material: Teak wood | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Emma + Oliver Resin Folding Chair
What We Like
Removable seat cushion
Fade-resistant material
Easy to store
What We Don’t Like
Not sold separately
A set of folding chairs can be a great resource for hosting larger gatherings in your backyard or on your patio. This set of 4 chairs from Emma + Oliver is made from a UV-treated polypropylene resin that resists fading and won’t chip or wear down like painted chairs. The removable vinyl seat cushion can also be replaced once it wears over time.
While these chairs are easy to fold, they can also be stacked, so you can store them in a way that suits your home. These chairs are also sold in a set of two, if you don’t need 4 for your patio, but they are not sold individually. They have an impressive 1,000-pound weight capacity, and a wide base, making them sturdy on both concrete and grass.
Price at time of publish: $159
Dimensions: 30.75 x 17.5 x 18 inches | Material: Polypropylene resin | Weight Capacity: 1,000 pounds
AllModern Roberta Outdoor/Indoor Metal Rocking Chair
What We Like
Perfect for small front porches
Easy to assemble
Durable
What We Don’t Like
Limited rocking capability
This metal rocking chair from AllModern is the perfect pop of color to add to a small front porch or apartment balcony. It comes together with just a little bit of assembly and has a tall back, making it comfortable to lean in. However, it does have limited rocking capabilities with the back bar on the legs.
The seat is also only 16 inches deep, so it may not be very comfortable for taller users. Despite these design issues, we think this rocking chair is a reasonably priced option that can be made even more comfortable with a pillow or cushion. You can also leave it out year-round without worrying about its frame wearing over time.
Price at time of publish: $116
Dimensions: 38.2 x 25.2 x 36.61 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Bayou Breeze Patio Dining Armchair (Set of 2)
What We Like
Won’t wear like traditional wooden rattan
Distinct design
Easy to assemble
What We Don’t Like
May fade
Not best for lounging
Transport your patio to a French bistro with this set of chairs that imitate the classic French bistro rattan chair design. We love the affordable price point given the detailed woven seats and durable aluminum frames that are meant to look like bamboo. The aluminum frames are an especially appealing feature given traditional bamboo rattan chairs eventually wear down from weather exposure.
These chairs require some assembly, but they are only separated into two pieces, so the process should be smooth. Based on our experience with similar chair designs, the seat color may fade from sun exposure. If this is a cause for concern, we recommend keeping these chairs under a covered patio. These chairs also may not be the best pick for you if you’re hoping to lounge on your patio. However, they are great to sit in while sipping coffee or iced tea.
Price at time of publish: $294
Dimensions: 35 x 18.5 x 21.5 inches | Material: Aluminum and rattan | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
The 6 Best Zero-Gravity Chairs of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Birch Lane Fleur Swing Lounger with Cushion
What We Like
Folds flat for easy storage
Moves as you move
No assembly required
What We Don’t Like
Susceptible to fading
If you’re looking for a chair that you can fully relax in, we recommend the Birch Land Fleur Swing Lounger. This mid-century modern chair moves as you move thanks to its wooden latticework seat that’s flexible rather than stationary. It can also fold up at the end of a season for easy storage in a garden shed or storage closet.
There’s no assembly required with this chair. Just open up the box, remove any packaging, and relax. We think this chair would be especially great located beside a pool or in a sunny spot on your patio. We will note that this chair is constructed from eucalyptus wood, which is susceptible to fading just like teak wood, so using teak or linseed oil to polish this chair will maintain its rich, stained finish. Overall, we think this chair is not only an attractive design but an appealing option for anyone hoping to lounge in the sun on their patio.
Price at time of publish: $200
Dimensions: 37 x 25 x 43 inches | Material: Eucalyptus wood | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Crosley Furniture Griffith Metal Outdoor Chair
What We Like
Powder-coated finish
Retro design
Lightweight
What We Don’t Like
Not the most comfortable
This retro chair is perfect for smaller spaces like apartments or condos. The powder-coated steel frame is rust-resistant and won’t chip like traditional paint. We love how lightweight this chair is, so you can easily move it to accommodate different furniture arrangements or store it during colder seasons.
It requires no assembly and is available in several fun, vibrant colors. It may be best to purchase a removable cushion or outdoor throw pillow for this chair as the metal seat may not be comfortable to sit in for long periods. However, we still think it’s a charming design that’s also durable enough to leave out year-round.
Price at time of publish: $149
Dimensions: 34.25 x 28.5 x 22.5 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
POLYWOOD Vineyard Patio Chair
What We Like
Easy to clean
Durable
Can be left out year round
What We Don’t Like
Assembly required
While we have not had the opportunity to test this specific chair from POLYWOOD, we did test the POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Chair. POLYWOOD uses a high-density recycled plastic that imitates wood grain but is much more durable than standard fir or teak wood. It will not fade or crack from the extensive sun and rain exposure. We found during testing that POLYWOOD’s chairs are also very easy to clean because you can hose down any major messes or wipe small spots clean with a wet paper towel.
Assembly is required with this specific chair model, as is most of the brand’s furniture. We struggled a bit during the assembly process for the Modern Adirondack Chair, but we think the help of a power drill could speed up the process. While this chair is certainly more expensive than other models in our roundup, we think it could serve as a beautiful garden bench year-round or as a permanent seating option on your patio.
Price at time of publish: $280
Dimensions: 35.25 x 25.50 x 24 inches | Material: Eco-friendly recycled plastic | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
What to Look for in Patio Chairs
Size
Before shopping for patio chairs, you should consider the size of your outdoor space, as this will determine the size and type of chair you can accommodate. For smaller front porches and balconies, consider a chair that’s collapsible for easy storage or a chair that’s lightweight enough to move around in case that you need to use that space for a different purpose. The Crosley Furniture Griffith Metal Outdoor Chair is a great option for smaller outdoor spaces because it’s lightweight enough to be moved around, yet it’s still durable and affordable. If you’re able to accommodate a larger chair, you can be more creative with the type and style of chair you purchase.
Type and Style
Patio chairs are available in a variety of styles, including recliners, rockers, gliders, loungers, club chairs, and bistro chairs. You should first consider the aesthetic that you’d like to create, and then you can identify a color family to play off of in your furniture and decor. We love the Pottery Barn Huntington Square Arm Swivel Lounge Chair because it can be customized by purchasing cushions that are available in 39 different colors. While it’s a more expensive piece, it’s made from durable materials that are easy to clean and will last several years.
Material
Patio chairs are also available in a variety of materials, and it’s important to select a chair that an withstand rain and other weather conditions. Many of the chairs in this roundup are made from rust-resistant metal or steel. You can also find chairs made from high-grade plastic like the Highwood Hamilton Made in the USA Adirondack Chair and POLYWOOD Vineyard Patio Chair, which are both also constructed with plastic that imitates wood grain. We also featured a few wooden chairs that are made from eucalyptus, acacia, or teak wood. All of which are great outdoor materials. While wood is more likely to fade with time, some users quite enjoy the natural patina.
In addition to the frame material, you should also pay attention to cushion material. Many outdoor cushions are constructed from outdoor fabrics like olefin, Sunbrella, or textilene. These fabrics are designed to be fade-, water-, and stain-resistant, so they make for great investments if your budget allows. You can learn more about outdoor fabrics through our buying guide. More affordable chair options may have cushions covered in polyester, which can be easily spot treated and is generally more resistant to staining. “If the cushions did not come with a water-resistant/stain-resistant finish, it is best to apply one before using the cushions,” says Wayne Edelman, "The Stainmaster" of Meurice Garment Care and CLEAN by Meurice.
If you’ve never dealt with cleaning polyester before, Edelman suggests: “Polyester is pretty resilient, but do not scrub or rub too hard in any one area. A solution of warm water and mild detergent will remove most stains.” You can also reference our guide for how to clean outdoor cushions and fabric furniture.
If maintenance is your main concern, you can easily clean patio furniture, with the appropriate materials to ensure it lasts several years. “Patio furniture is best cleaned seasonally or before it is put away,” says Edelman. We suggest paying special attention to the manufacturer’s care guide before using any cleaning solutions that may remove paint or lacquer. In addition to cleaning, you can ensure furniture stays pristine with proper storage. “It is important to keep the furniture covered with a waterproof covering when not in use—these coverings also protect the cushions from sun damage,” Edelman adds.
Comfort
Once all of the technical details are out of the way, your most important priority should be the comfort of an outdoor patio chair. While plain metal chairs are among the more affordable options, they are not comfortable to sit in for long periods of time. We recommend dressing up metal chairs with a throw pillow or removable cushion. Lounge chairs allow you to stretch out and relax your limbs, making them a wonderful option for extended comfort, if you have the space. We love the Amazon Basics Zero-Gravity Chair because it can allow it to respond to your movement as you sit up or recline. It’s also foldable, making it an affordable and portable option for users with smaller outdoor spaces.
The Spruce / Rachel Marek
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of patio chair is most durable?
There isn’t a specific style of patio chair that’s more durable than the rest, but we do recommend investing in a patio chair with a durable frame made from weather-resistant materials, as outlined above. Powder-coated aluminum, steel, or high-density polyethylene (plastic), are all great materials to consider that will last several years.
How long should outdoor patio chairs last?
While there’s no set timeline for how often patio chairs should be replaced (like mattresses, pillows, and other household items), some materials can last as long as 8-10 years with proper care and storage. We recommend investing in a patio chair cover to extend the lifespan of a chair. If you have room to store your patio furniture or the cushions, we recommend doing so during the winter months.
Do patio chairs need cushions?
Not every patio chair comes with a cushion. Some patio chairs are comfortable enough without a cushion like the Birch Lane Fleur Swing Lounger, which has a responsive seat, making it comfortable despite the wooden construction. Many club chairs, recliners, and lounge chairs will have accompanying cushions, which make them all the more comfortable to relax in.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Emma Phelps is an associate editor for The Spruce who specializes in all topics related to home organization, gardening, and cleaning. For this roundup, Phelps researched popular patio chair styles and reviewed the best materials to endure all types of weather. She then considered popular brands and products ranging in price from $500 to $20. The roundup is a compilation of popular styles that will fit a variety of budgets and personal tastes. To learn the best techniques for maintaining outdoor patio furniture, Phelps contacted Wayne Edelman, "The Stainmaster" of Meurice Garment Care and CLEAN by Meurice, who provided insight on cleaning different fabrics and properly storing furniture.
