10 Best Outdoor Folding Chairs for 2020
Updated: Aug. 11, 2020Outdoor folding chairs are incredibly convenient for your patio or deck, with lots of stylish options to choose from.
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Shopping for Outdoor Folding Chairs
If you’ve ever scrambled to find enough seating for guests while hosting a party, you definitely understand the appeal of outdoor folding chairs. They’re sturdier and more comfortable than fabric “camping chairs,” but they still fold up into a compact form, allowing you to stash them away in a shed or garage. Plus, if you forget them outside during inclement whether, they’ll hold up just fine.
There are a few factors to consider when shopping for outdoor chairs. First, think about how you’ll use them. Will they be for dining or lounging by the pool? Different styles are more conducive to eating vs. relaxing. You also should know how much storage space they take up, and whether they require any maintenance.
Best All-Around: L.L. Bean All-Weather Folding Chair
For quality and durability, the L.L. Bean All-Weather Folding Chair ($299) is one of the best options you can buy. These American-made chairs are crafted from eco-friendly high-density polyethylene with rust-resistant hardware, so they won’t rot, rust, crack or splinter, even if you use them for years. They come in four fade-resistant colors, and feature an adjustable back for dining or relaxing.
“They are solid and comfortable, and easily fold up to be carried,” writes one reviewer. “In very heavy winds on the coast, they were not blown around.”
Best Budget-Friendly: HDX Earth Tan Outdoor Folding Chair
If you’re looking to grab a few inexpensive outdoor seats, these HDX Earth Tan Outdoor Folding Chairs ($20) are a highly-rated option at a low price. They feature powder-coated steel frames with plastic seats that can support up to 225 lbs., and the ergonomic design is comfortable for eating. Plus, they’re lightweight for easy transport.
Best Splurge: Maya Folding Teak Armchair, Set of 2
For a set of extremely comfortable and stylish chairs, you’ll definitely want to consider the Maya Folding Teak Armchairs ($527 for two). These beautiful outdoor folding chairs are crafted from weather-resistant teak in a natural finish, and they feature a stylish slatted back and curved seat for comfort. They may be a splurge, but these chairs will be a staple in your outdoor living space for years to come.
Best Set: HDX Black Outdoor Folding Chair
Easily provide seats for everyone with these HDX Black Outdoor Folding Chairs ($100 for four). The extra-wide seat is ventilated for comfort and to allow water to drain through instead of puddle. The backrest is also ventilated and flexible. These chairs can support up to 1,000 lbs. each. They’re made from scratch-, stain- and weather-resistant polyethylene and reviewers say they’re surprisingly comfortable.
“They look nicer than your basic folding chairs, and they are quite comfortable since both the seat and the back are flexible,” explains one buyer.
Best Wicker: El Paso Wicker Patio Folding Chairs, Set of 4
Already have wicker furniture on your patio? The El Paso Wicker Patio Folding Chairs ($170 for four) will match your existing decor thanks to their dark brown all-weather wicker seats and backs. Each chair can support up to 200 lbs., and they’re fade-, water- and rust-resistant for durability.
Best Rocker: AmazonBasics Outdoor Folding Rocking Chair
The next time you want to relax on your front porch with friends, simply bring out the AmazonBasics Outdoor Folding Rocking Chair ($66). The chair has a durable steel frame with armrests, as well as a nylon mesh seat supported by elastic cords.
“This product is sturdy, folds easily, is made of quality materials and is well-designed,” says one happy reviewer. “It is on the same comfort level as any other well-made folding lawn chair.”
Best Adirondack: Obadiah Folding Wood Adirondack Chair
Adirondack chairs are a favorite for lounging in the backyard or around a fire pit, and these Obadiah Folding Adirondack Chairs ($145) are easier to store than traditional models. They’re made from acacia wood and come in several finishes. When you need to bring them in for the season, simply fold them up for compact storage.
“These chairs are great,” writes a reviewer, who gave the product five stars. “They fold up easily and compactly too, which saves a ton of space for winter storage.”
Best Bistro: TÄRNÖ Chair
Bistro-style chairs aren’t the sturdiest option out there, but they sure are cute! These affordable TÄRNÖ Chairs ($15) are incredibly compact, especially when folded up. They’re made from a steel frame with acacia wood seats that can hold up against the elements. They’ll be a quaint addition to your porch or deck area, and the frame is available in three colors.
Best Sling Chair: Cabana Chair
Sling-style chairs are ideal for relaxing beside the pool and soaking up the sun. People particularly love these Cabana Chairs ($119), which come with more than 100 different fabric options to match your outdoor decor. The hardwood chairs are handmade in North America with a polyester fabric sling. Reviewers say they’re ideal for hanging out in the summer.
“They are portable and lightweight, and are super easy to carry out to our pool,” writes one reviewer. “More importantly, they are comfortable! My mom uses the chairs in their upright setting to read, whereas my husband prefers to use the chairs as loungers to sunbathe.”
Best Lounge Chair: Lafuma Sphinx Butterfly Lounge Chair
For maximum comfort, the Lafuma Sphinx Butterfly Lounge Chair ($329) is the way to go. These stylish chairs have a sturdy recycled steel frame with padded Sunbrella fabric seats that can be used outdoors and in. The Butterfly Lounge Chairs are lightweight and easy to set up, and they’re ideal for hanging out around a bonfire at night.
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