Kick Back in Style With the Best Patio Chairs (2024)

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.

A great patio chair should withstand outdoor elements and be comfortable. Look for a durable weather-resistant material like wicker or metal. Wooden furniture looks beautiful in your outdoor space but often comes at a higher price and may fade over time. Plastic is often the cheapest option but not the most durable.

To find the best choice, consider where your patio chairs will live (out in the sun or under a covered patio), the style you love, and your home's climate. For the most comfortable patio chairs, look for head and footrests, outdoor cushions, and lower back support. Rocking chairs are great for front porches, while stackable folding chairs work best for small outdoor spaces or outdoor dinner parties.

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.

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.

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.

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.

After testing this set for two months, we can confirm that it's just as comfortable as it was during our initial testing. 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.

Dimensions: 64.2 x 43.3 x 25.6 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

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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 can 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.

Dimensions: 33.9 x 29.4 x 36.4 inches | Material: High-grade poly lumber | Weight Capacity: 400 pounds

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What We Like

  • High weight capacity

  • Comfortable seating

  • Sturdy frame

What We Don't Like

  • Cushions get dirtied easily

If you happen to be in search of a seating option that provides both comfort and durability for your outdoor space, then you might want to check out the Better Homes & Gardens Willow Sage All-Weather Wicker Outdoor Loveseat and Ottoman Set (Better Homes & Gardensis owned byThe Spruce'sparent company, Dotdash Meredith). After two weeks of testing, we found the patio seating to be quite comfortable. We loved spending time in the chair, especially with our dog, who would often relax there alone to soak up the sun.

The cushions are both cozy and practical, as they are designed with fade-resistant and stain-repellent fabric. This means you can relax with your drink of choice without worrying about accidental spills. During our chair testing, it rained, and we were impressed with how well the cushions wicked away the rainwater. In fact, we noticed pools of water on the fabric afterward.

Although the beige color is versatile and suits many outdoor spaces, we wish more color options were available. After two weeks of outdoor use, the cushions had accumulated quite a bit of dirt. Fortunately, we were able to clean them easily with just soap, water, and a rag.

This delightful set is designed with a steel frame that is powder-coated to resist rusting, staining, and peeling in any weather. The loveseat is capable of supporting a weight of up to 450 pounds, providing ample support for two people to sit comfortably.

The ottoman can also double as an extra seat, with a maximum weight capacity of 225 pounds. We were impressed to note that the wicker material used on this set does not fade even when exposed to high temperatures and sunlight, ensuring that it will maintain its lovely appearance for years to come.Dimensions:29.13 x 50.98 x 28.74 inches (loveseat), 42.91 x 19.49 x 11.22 inches (ottoman)︱Material:Wicker, steel frame︱Weight capacity:450

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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. During testing, we loved the mid-century modern design that 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, which we loved. Just open up the box, remove any packaging, and relax. We will note that this chair is constructed from eucalyptus wood, which is susceptible to fading just like teak wood, but after weeks in the snow, wind, and rain, it looked perfect.

The neck cushion is removable and can be cleaned in the washing machine. We recommend storing it indoors during inclement weather, but it's designed to be fade-, weather-, and UV-resistant. The chair weighs under 30 pounds, so it's easy to move around your space or store away for the winter. 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.

Dimensions: 37 x 25 x 43 inches | Material: Eucalyptus wood | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

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What We Like

  • Well-designed

  • 360-degree swivel

What We Don’t Like

  • Difficult to move

Swivel armchairs are growing in popularity because they are versatile in smaller settings and can 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 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 from 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.

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.

Dimensions: 32.5 x 32.5 x 34.5 inches | Material: Rustproof aluminum frame, all-weather wicker, performance fabric cushion | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

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 price, 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.

Dimensions: 35.9 x 21.5 x 27.9 inches | Material: Steel and textilene | Weight Capacity: 225 pounds

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 looking to one-up their backyard relaxation.

Dimensions: 38 x 22.6 x 38 inches | Material: Steel frame and olefin fabric | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

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 thanks to a steel frame, it’s much more durable than traditional wicker. The cushion is also constructed with olefin, a popular outdoor fabric that’s resistant to wear from fading and stains.

The frame is backed by a 3-year warranty for any manufacturing defaults, and the fabric is also backed by a 1-year warranty. 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.

Dimensions: 36 x 27.5 x 28 inches | Material: Steel frame and olefin fabric | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

What We Like

  • Durable

  • Classic design

  • Easy to maintain

What We Don’t Like

  • Will fade over time

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 or 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 it to a color of your choice. Oiling the chair is an easy way to refresh its appearance without permanently changing its natural color.

Dimensions: 44.5 x 24.75 x 31.75 inches | Material: Teak wood | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

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 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 four 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.

Dimensions: 30.75 x 17.5 x 18 inches | Material: Polypropylene resin | Weight Capacity: 1,000 pounds

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.

Dimensions: 38.2 x 25.2 x 36.61 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

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.

Dimensions: 35 x 18.5 x 21.5 inches | Material: Aluminum and rattan | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds

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 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.

Dimensions: 34.25 x 28.5 x 22.5 inches | Material: Steel | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

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.

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, 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 lightweight enough to move around in case 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.

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.

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FAQ

  • 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.

Our Experts:

  • Wayne Edelman, "The Stainmaster" of Meurice Garment Care and CLEAN by Meurice
  • Julia Fields, associate editor at The Spruce
  • Daniela Galvez, senior editor at The Spruce
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