Adirondack Chair Buying Guide: Types, Materials & Features
Sit back and unwind.
Adirondack chairs are a staple for outdoor relaxation. They provide a laid-back look for your yard while giving you a comfortable (but supportive) chair to sit back in. From summer poolside lounging to autumn fireside gatherings, Adirondack chairs are perfect for any season or occasion. Keep reading to learn about the types of Adirondack chairs and how to find the best one for your outdoor space.
In this guide:
What Is an Adirondack Chair?
How to Choose an Adirondack Chair
Adirondack Chair Types
Adirondack Chair Materials
More Adirondack Chair Features
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an Adirondack Chair?
Adirondack chairs are a common type of outdoor lounge chair with an iconic silhouette and sturdy construction. They feature low, angled seats, tall, slatted backs, and wide, flat armrests that give them an easily recognizable shape. Originally invented in the early 1900s, these outdoor chairs were designed to provide a stable seat in the uneven mountain terrain of Upstate New York – hence the name “Adirondack” chairs. Today, Adirondack chairs are widely popular for their outdoor durability and versatility.
Adirondack chairs come in different sets and configurations, making it easy to customize your seating to fit your outdoor space. Consider the following options:
- Adirondack Chair Set: An Adirondack set is perfect for anyone who wants a matching set of chairs for two or more people. Sets include two, four, or even six chairs – ensuring that you have matching chairs for everyone to enjoy.
- Adirondack Chair: You can purchase a single Adirondack chair to add a comfortable lounge space to a small patio or balcony. If you’ve previously purchased a set of chairs but are looking to add more seating, consider buying individual chairs to round out your seating area.
- Adirondack Chair With Ottoman: If you love to relax and put your feet up, the best Adirondack chair for you is one that includes an ottoman. The ottoman offers the same slatted look as an Adirondack chair, making it a stylish (and relaxing) addition to your yard. An Adirondack chair with an ottoman requires a bit more space to enjoy the chair and store it away.
- Adirondack Chair With Table: If you’re looking to create an entire seating area, opt for an Adirondack chair with a side table included. The extra table allows you more space for your lounging essentials (like snacks, drinks, or books). The table is designed to match the chair with its slatted look and color.
When choosing the Adirondack chair for your relaxing needs, it’s important to consider material. The material will impact the look and longevity of your Adirondack chair.
- Plastic/Resin: Plastic or resin Adirondack chairs are lightweight chairs, making them a great option if you find yourself moving often or wanting to store them away. They are available in a variety of colors, making them easy to match your outdoor decor. They are durable and will not chip if you decide to stack them on top of each other. Plastic and resin Adirondack chairs are UV-protected and weather-resistant, meaning the sun will not make the color fade.
- All-Weather Plastic: All-weather plastic is strong and resists fading and deterioration, even when left out in the sun or rain. They are available in a variety of colors and are a fun way to add a pop of color to your outdoor decor. All-weather plastic chairs are the best Adirondack chairs if you want to leave your chairs out for the season without worry.
- Wood: Traditional Adirondack chairs are known for their rustic and warm vibe, thanks to their wood construction. Wooden chairs can fade after too much sun and weather exposure, but can be easily maintained with seasonal maintenance, including a topcoat to help combat UV exposure. Pine is a popular option but calls for regular maintenance since it is not termite- and water-resistant. Be sure to check your chair’s maintenance specifications to keep it looking like new season after season.
- Natural Hardwood: If you are looking for a premium wooden Adirondack chair, opt for one made with natural hardwood. Natural hardwoods (like cedar or teak) are strong, durable, and give off a natural rustic look that Adirondack chairs are known for. While they are on the more expensive side, you can rest assured these chairs will last you for many seasons. Yellow cedarwood has a natural resistance to moisture, decay, and insect damage. If left unfinished, the color can turn into a soft gray – some love this weathered look! Some premium woods, like teak, are known for being heavy, strong, and durable. While it may not be easy to transport, a teak Adirondack chair will last you a long time.
Create the ultimate relaxing experience by opting for an Adirondack chair with extra features such as a folding or reclining chair.
- Folding: Take your Adirondack chair with you by opting for one that folds. With what seems like a barely there hinge, you can fold up your Adirondack chair to create a flat chair that is easy to travel with. Bring it with you to the beach, a friend’s house, or your next camping trip. Folding chairs are also a great option if you’re looking to store them away for the season.
- Rocking: Most rockers sway in an arcing motion, giving it a classic rocking movement. Turn your Adirondack chair into the ultimate relaxation spot by opting for a rocking version. This type of Adirondack chair has an arch on the bottom that creates the rocking motion of a typical rocker while offering the large, slatted back of an Adirondack chair.
- Gliders: A typical glider moves smoothly on a fixed path, creating a back-and-forth motion. Bring that same motion to your outdoor lounging with a glider Adirondack chair. It has the same mechanism on the bottom of the chair that creates that smooth, fixed motion. While it is similar to a rocker, the difference is that it has more of a soothing effect because there is no arch on the bottom.
- Curved Back: A classic Adirondack chair has a straight back. If you’re looking for a bit more comfort, opt for an Adirondack chair with a curved back. The slats on the backrest are slightly curved and provide comfort by conforming to your back.
- High Back: An Adirondack chair with a high back has slats on the backrest that are longer than the average Adirondack chair. When you sit back, you have more space on the headrest for a throw pillow. This is perfect if you’re looking for a chair with a bigger visual impact.
- Reclining: Go into full relaxation mode with a reclining Adirondack chair. It is easily adjusted with notches found under the armrests, letting you choose from four different levels for your backrest. If you love dozing off in the outdoors with a summer breeze, this is the best Adirondack chair for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of Adirondack chairs?
The main types are single chairs, chair sets, chairs with ottomans, and chairs with tables.
What materials are Adirondack chairs commonly made from?
They are commonly made from plastic, resin, recycled plastic, all-weather plastic, wood, and natural hardwood.
What features can Adirondack chairs have for added comfort?
Features include folding, rocking, glider, curved back, handcrafted, high back, reclining, and toolless assembly.
