The 8 Best Lawn Chairs of 2023 for Relaxing Outdoors
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Our favorite is the Lawn Chair USA Classic Lawn Chair, which is impressively lightweight and versatile.
Real Simple / Amelia Manley
Whether you're embarking on your annual summer camping trip, posting up on the sidelines of a soccer game, or simply lounging in your backyard, a high-quality lawn chair is a warm-weather essential. The only question is, which lawn chair should you buy?
The answer to that question depends on your needs. We spent hours researching the market for the best lawn chairs for every type of purpose, considering factors like usage, material, and portability as we compiled this list.
We also consulted Jessica Foster, Home Depot's online merchant for direct fulfillment for patio furniture. "Your choice of lawn chair will typically always come down to personal taste and style," she says. "Depending on how you would ideally use the chair, you should consider the product's durability and portability. If you plan to move your lawn chair around, consider how stable it is and how much it weighs, and for convenience, try one that folds up easily and includes backpack or handle straps."
Our top pick, the Lawn Chair USA Classic Lawn Chair, is so universal that it's equally suited for park hangs and sports tailgates. Made of aluminum and UV-resistant webbing, it's incredibly lightweight for toting around and boasts a nostalgic retro look that adds to the appeal.
Lawn Chair USA Outdoor Chair
Best Overall Lawn Chair
Who it's for: People seeking a classic, no-frills lawn chair that comes in a variety of colors.
Who it's not for: People who are interested in extra features.
The Lawn Chair USA Webbing Chair is our top pick because it's a universal lawn chair that works for a variety of uses. The rust-free aluminum frame and UV-resistant webbing are incredibly lightweight and easy to fold up, so the chair is portable for camping, tailgating, and hanging in the park. But with a vintage-style look, it's not too sporty to serve as full-time backyard seating.
Those concerned with aesthetics will also be pleased to know that the Lawn Chair USA Webbing Chair is available in a ton of colors and can be re-webbed with a replacement lawn chair webbing kit if you want an update. The kit is also useful to restore well-worn chairs, but buyers needn't worry about excessive wear any time soon—though the webbing will slightly stretch, the seat won't sag and the fabric is fade-resistant.
While we're partial to this Classic version, which sits at an ideal 15.5 inches above the ground, this chair is also available in both a low-back and high-back beach chair option, which are much shorter. Those looking for additional room in the seat can opt for the Magnum version, while picnickers might prefer the equally tall, yet more compact, Picnic style chair.
Price at time of publish: $70
Product Details:
Material: Aluminum and textile
Dimensions: 32 x 24 x 21.5 inches
Weight: 4.2 pounds
Weight Capacity: 225 pounds
Coleman Portable Camping Quad Chair with 4-Can Cooler
Best Budget Lawn Chair
Who it's for: People looking for a comfortable camping chair on a budget.
Who it's not for: People who want a more aesthetically-pleasing lawn chair.
When it comes to the best budget lawn chair, the Coleman Quad Camp Chair is the undoubtable winner. Its affordable price tag simply cannot be beat for what you're getting, which is an exceedingly comfortable polyester-cushioned seat paired with a sturdy steel frame that can support over 300 pounds of weight.
If you're not already sold, then maybe the features will convince you. One armrest is equipped with a built-in insulated pouch that keeps up to four cans chilled, so you'll never be without a refreshing drink. The other armrest includes a cup holder for your open beverage, while a handy side pocket is attached to hold snacks, reading materials, or keys.
The only downside is that this chair weighs 8.3 pounds, which can be a deterrent for adventurers who like to hike to their campsite. But for car camping, tailgating, or any other activity that doesn't require a long trek with your chair, this is by far the best budget choice.
Price at time of publish: $40
Product Details:
Materials: Steel and polyester
Dimensions: 24 x 18.1 x 9.1 inches
Weight: 8.3 pounds
Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
YETI Hondo Base Camp Chair
Best Splurge Lawn Chair
Who it's for: People who can afford to splurge on a stay-put chair.
Who it's not for: People looking for a lightweight option.
On the opposite end of the price spectrum is the Yeti Hondo Base Camp Chair, which is a serious splurge. But its impressive durability, superior comfort, and sleek look are worth the higher price tag, if you can swing it. The mesh FlexGrid fabric is totally breathable and incredibly strong, with the ability to support up to 500 pounds of weight without stretching out. Combined with solid cast joints, it's basically indestructible.
We're also fans of this chair's aesthetic, which seems to simultaneously channel both high-end patio furniture and classic camping chairs to create a luxurious yet athletic vibe. The shades of silvery gray make for a sophisticated color palette that blends seamlessly with its surroundings, whether the chair is situated among nature or on your deck.
Designed as a set-it-up-and-leave-it foldable seat, the Yeti Hondo Base Camp Chair is not meant to be very portable—and it's not. It weighs 16.5 pounds, so you can move it but not very far or very easily. But if you're in the market for a chair that simply resides on the porch, you can't do much better than this one.
Price at time of publish: $300
Product Details:
Materials: Not listed
Dimensions: 26.5 x 30.1 x 32 inches
Weight: 16.5 pounds
Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Chair
Best Adirondack Lawn Chair
Who it's for: People who want a modern upgrade to the classic Adirondack chair.
Who it's not for: People who need a portable lawn chair.
When it comes to outdoor lounging, Adirondack chairs are one of the most enduring (and most popular) options. Our favorite Adirondack lawn chair, the Polywood Modern Adirondack Chair, is a modern version of the original rounded-top model most people associate with the style. With a contemporary, rectangular back and a comfortable waterfall front, the Polywood Modern offers an upgraded look that brings the Adirondack chair into the 21st century.
We also love this chair because it's made of high-quality Polywood, a proprietary blend of plastics crafted primarily with recycled milk jugs. The material can withstand environmental stressors like sun, rain, snow, salt spray, and strong winds, so you can leave your chair outside all year long. Plus, it's available in a variety of different colors.
Price at time of publish: $249
Product Details:
Material: Polywood lumber
Dimensions: 29 x 32 x 34 inches
Weight: 34 pounds
Weight Capacity: 400 pounds
Related:The 6 Best Adirondack Chairs for Lounging, According to Our Testing
Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Lounge Chair
Best Zero Gravity Lawn Chair
Who it's for: People who want a durable chair that reclines.
Who it's not for: People with a tight outdoor area.
For a lawn chair that feels like a trip to the spa, look no further than the Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Lawn Chair. As the name implies, this recliner offers a zero-gravity, weightless sensation by suspending your body in a neutral position, where your feet are elevated in alignment with your heart, encouraging relaxation. Needless to say, it's great for naps.
Though the Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Lawn Chair is an obvious backyard staple, it does fold up easily, so you can rest by the fire at your campsite. No matter where you're lounging, you can modify the angle to your liking with the patented locking system that accommodates positions from 0-170 degrees. Ergonomic natural wood armrests, an adjustable headrest, and a lumbar pillow ensure your comfort.
The Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Lawn Chair also features a convenient cup holder and small table, so you really don't have to move a muscle. And no need to pack it up when you're done relaxing—the powder coated steel frame and padded polyester seat are durable enough to withstand whatever weather Mother Nature is serving.
Price at time of publish: $125
Product Details:
Materials: Steel and polyester
Dimensions: 24 x 30.5 x 43.5 inches
Weight: 19.84 pounds
Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Helinox Chair One Collapsible Camping Chair
Best Portable Lawn Chair
Who it's for: People who want the lightest camping chair on the market.
Who it's not for: People who aren't leaving their backyard.
Campers and backpackers, this one's for you. The Helinox Chair One is the lightest, most portable lawn chair around and will significantly enhance your next camping trip. It weighs just 2.1 pounds and packs into a compact, 14-inch-long zippered pouch, so you can carry it anywhere, even if you're hiking for miles before you set up camp.
If you're wondering how it's even physically possible for a chair to be this light, yet still be able to support up to 320 pounds, it's because the frame is made of an advanced proprietary aluminum alloy that magically provides maximum strength at a minimum weight. Meanwhile, the removable seat and carrying case are both made of a UV-resistant, 600-weave rip-stop polyester that's quite durable and conveniently machine-washable.
Another important feature? The setup is fast and easy thanks to a single internal bungee cord that assembles poles effortlessly. So after a long, strenuous trek up a mountain, you'll be able to take a load off and relax in a matter of seconds. Did we mention it's super comfortable, too?
Price at time of publish: $110
Product Details:
Materials: Aluminum and polyester
Dimensions: 21.5 x 20 x 25.5 inches
Weight: 2.1 pounds
Weight Capacity: 320 pounds
Related:The 9 Best Hammocks for Lounging Outside
ITA Leisure Chair
Best Low-Profile Lawn Chair
Who it's for: People who like to sit close to the ground and people who prioritize style.
Who it's not for: People need more elevation and people who don't want to spend a lot.
Our favorite low-profile lawn chair, which doubles as a beach chair, is the ITA Leisure Chair. It's also the most attractive chair on this list, with a chic PVC cord seat and a matching powder coated aluminum base that comes in bold hues like sunflower gold, royal blue, and grassy green. Each colorway has a Yoruba name as a nod to the company's innovation as the first ever Black-owned outdoor furniture and goods brand.
Designed in collaboration with Veta, a Mexico City-based boutique workshop, the ITA Leisure Chair is responsibly crafted by hand, so you can trust the quality. It's also easily foldable, so you can bring it from the park to the beach to the backyard. And care is simple—just wipe it with a soft damp cloth as needed and add mild soap if necessary. Though it's meant to be well-used, store it inside to ensure its longevity.
Price at time of publish: $281
Product Details:
Materials: Aluminum and PVC
Dimensions: 20 x 27.8 x 18.3 inches
Weight: 13 pounds
Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Related:The 9 Best Beach Towels, According to Our Tests
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Folding Chair
Best Rocking Lawn Chair
Who it's for: People looking for a portable rocking chair.
Who it's not for: People who want something more stylish.
Rocking can be incredibly soothing. If you agree with that statement, you'll likely love the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocking Chair, which allows you to rock anywhere you go. Whether you're on the patio, front lawn, a concrete parking lot, or a dirt campsite, the patented spring-action rocking technology delivers smooth rocking motion on any surface. It doesn't get more relaxing than that.
In addition to its rocking capabilities, the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocking Chair is a portable chair that quickly and easily folds flat for both transportation and home storage—since not everyone has space to leave their rocker on the porch. The sturdy powder coated steel frame and breathable mesh backrest can support up to 250 pounds in weight, while padded armrests and a built-in cup holder make for a more comfortable, luxurious sitting experience.
Price at time of publish: $70
Product Details:
Materials: Steel and nylon
Dimensions: 24.5 x 24.75 x 34 inches
Weight: 12 pounds
Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Final Verdict
The Lawn Chair USA Classic Lawn Chair came out on top because it's just so universal. With a foldable, lightweight aluminum frame and retro, UV-resistant webbing, it's equally ideal for camping, tailgating, and hanging in the park. We can't ask for anything more.
How to Shop for a Lawn Chair Like a Pro
Usage
The first factor to consider when shopping for a lawn chair is how you intend to use it. If you're looking to lounge in your backyard and don't need something portable, then you can spring for a comfortable, heavier seat like an Adirondack chair or a zero-gravity chair. For camping and tailgating, a lightweight folding chair is your best bet.
Material
All of the lawn chairs on this list are crafted from strong, outdoor-friendly materials, but you'll need a super durable option like the Polywood Modern Adirondack Chair, which can withstand environmental stressors like hot sun, snowy winters, and strong coastal winds, if you plan to leave it outside for an extended period of time.
Portability
Activities beyond your backyard, like camping, tailgating, and hanging in the park, require a lightweight folding lawn chair that you can pack up, throw in your car, and easily carry to your desired destination. The Helinox Chair One is the lightest, most compact option on this list, but the Yeti Hondo Base Camp Chair, the ITA Leisure Chair, and the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocking Chair can all be transported easily, too.
Questions You Might Ask
What is the difference between a lawn chair and a beach chair?
The biggest difference between a lawn chair and a beach chair is the height. Lawn chairs tend to sit higher off the ground than low-slung beach chairs. While both are often waterproof or water-resistant, it's more important that beach chairs are made of a quick-dry material.
How do you clean a lawn chair?
If your lawn chairs are still dirty after hosing them down, scrub them using a rag or a soft brush and a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. A combination of warm water and white vinegar also does the trick.
How do you stop a lawn chair from sinking into the grass?
The easiest way to keep lawn chairs from sinking into the grass is by laying out a tarp, table cloth, or blanket beneath them. If that's not an option for aesthetic or practical reasons, then try adding furniture sliders or cut tennis balls under the legs of your chair.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Morgan Goldberg, a contributing writer for Real Simple with seven years of editorial experience in the interior design, food, and travel spaces. To come up with this list, she spent hours researching the best lawn chairs and narrowed down the options based on usage, material, portability, and more. She also spoke to Jessica Foster, Home Depot's online merchant for direct fulfillment for patio furniture.
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Read the original article on Real Simple.
