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If you’re shopping for the best Adirondack chairs, you’ll quickly discover a wealth of options to choose from. In our extensive Adirondack chair buyer’s guide, we’ll walk you through all the different considerations so you can make the right choice.

Step 1: Is an Adirondack Chair Right for You?

Browse the considerations below to see if an Adirondack chair would fit your lifestyle.

Function: 

Adirondacks are primarily intended for lounging. They often offer practical features, such as wide armrests to hold drinks or cell phones, supportive contoured seats, and optional cushions and ottomans for linger-worthy comfort.  

Traditional Adirondack chairs are longer due to their reclined backrests, which translates to them taking up more room than upright styles. However, some styles can be folded and stacked, sliding easily into storage to free up space.

Accessibility: 

Traditional designs have low-sitting, tilted seats, and individuals with mobility concerns may have difficulty sitting on or arising from these chair types. 

The reclined backrests may also cause difficulties for those with hip or back problems.

Upright Adirondacks may be better fits for those with accessibility challenges. The taller designs stand up straighter with minimal recline in the seats and backs.

Style: 

From classic to modern, Adirondacks come in a wide variety of styles—but most (if not all) will give off that quintessential summertime relaxation look. The array of designs means there’s an Adirondack for just about every motif. But more often than not, you’ll find these laid-back seats by fire pits, swimming pools, and other settings where comfort and leisure are top priorities.

What to consider when buying an Adirondack chair

Step 2: Explore Material Options

Keep these factors in mind when choosing the best materials for Adirondack chairs:

  • Durability: Your chair must be able to withstand intense climates and years of repeat use.
  • Aesthetics: The seat's design should fit your personal style and require minimal upkeep to maintain its appearance.
  • Value: The Adirondack's benefits offset its cost.
  • Warranty: On the off chance that something happens to your chair, a promise of coverage gives much-needed peace of mind.

Hardwood

Known for its beauty and superior density, hardwood like teak, cherry, and ipe are popular Adirondack chair materials.

Points to Consider:

  • Resistant to strong winds, extreme weather, and scratches
  • Needs periodic refinishing to maintain its looks and longevity
  • Scarcity and slow growth make hardwoods expensive

Softwood

Furniture built from pine, cedar, and other softwoods are beautiful and budget-friendly—attractive qualities to homeowners.

Points to Consider:

  • Faster growth and abundance make softwoods affordable
  • Requires frequent upkeep to prevent sun, water, and pest damage

Aluminum

Aluminum Adirondack chairs are popular due to their lower costs and lightweight designs.

Points to Consider:

  • Resistant to pests, mold, water, and rust
  • Vulnerable to strong winds and overheating in direct sunlight
  • Regular care is needed to prevent corrosion and scratches

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

HDPE is prized for its durability and easy upkeep. It's used in a variety of outdoor applications, from furniture to fencing. 

Points to Consider:

  • Weatherproof and able to handle extreme climates
  • Resistant to fading, water, corrosion, mold, and pests
  • Higher cost is offset by the many offered benefits

Injection-Molded Plastic

Injection-molded plastic is a common furniture material because it's readily available and inexpensive.

Points to Consider:

  • Prolonged sun exposure causes fading, crazing, and cracking
  • Vulnerable to strong winds, stains, and warping
  • Lightweight and easy to maintain

Step 3: Find the Perfect Fit

Once you’ve decided on the right materials, you will want to think about the size, height, and spacing of your Adirondack chairs.

Adirondack Chair Measurements

Most Adirondack chairs stand between 34 to 44 inches tall, 24 to 33 inches wide, and 24 to 38 inches deep. Depending on the material, they could weigh between 7 and 58 pounds.

We suggest spacing Adirondack chairs two to three feet apart so guests have room to move around them and provide three feet of clearance in front for comfortable sitting and standing. A 10-foot square area comfortably fits three to four chairs.

Overall Sit

This refers to the seat size in its entirety. Looking at the overall sit will tell you if there's enough room to rest comfortably or if you should search for a larger or smaller chair. 

Cozy: Just the right amount of room to relax.

Roomy: Offers extra snuggle-up space.

Grand: Large and sturdy with ample elbow room.

Adirondack Chairs Overall Sit

Seat Height

This refers to how high a seat sits off the ground at its lowest point. Lower seats angle downward from front to back, while taller designs come closer to standing parallel to the floor.

Lowest: Sits near the floor with a pronounced pitch, the go-to for serious lounging.

Classic: An elevated profile with a subtle recline that supports extended relaxation. 

Highest: Tall and slightly sloped, making standing up a simple task.

Adirondack Chairs Seat Height

South Beach Adirondack Chair: Best for Mobility Challenges

Back Recline

All Adirondack chairs have reclined backrests—it's one of the style's signature features—but the level of lean varies.

Relaxed: The most intense tilt, ideal for cat naps and stargazing.

Conversational: A slighter incline that holds you a little higher.

Upright: Set higher and angled forward, similar to a dining chair.

Adirondack Chair Back Reclines

Step 4: Select the Ideal Style

Explore how Adirondack chair designs have evolved to prioritize comfort, convenience, and diverse preferences.

Modern

A sleek interpretation of the iconic design, modern Adirondacks blend clean lines and crisp angles with the details you're familiar with, such as wide arms and contoured seats.​​

Black POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Chair Slate Grey Quattro Folding Adirondack White Modern Studio Adirondack Chair

Classic

Classic Adirondack styles are the closest in appearance to the original design, boasting soft lines and a timeless charm that appeals to everyone.

POLYWOOD Classic Adirondack Chair in Sand POLYWOOD Vineyard Curvenback Adirondack Chair in Green PLOYWOOD Country Living Adirondack Chair in Navy

Transitional

This fresh take on the traditional design offers stronger angles while maintaining the seat's reclined silhouette, subtle curves, and contours. 

POLYWOOD Nautical Curveback Adirondack Chair in Teak POLYWOOD The Ocean Chair in Aruba POLYWOOD Seashell Adirondack Chair in Mahogany

Folding

These collapsible seats are great travel companions and store with ease. 

POLYWOOD Folding Adirondack Chair in Lime POLYWOOD South Beach Folding Adirondack Chair in Pacific Blue POLYWOOD Classic Oversized Folding Adirondack Chair in Sunset Red

Waterfall Front

This seat features a rounded slat design cascading over the front like a waterfall. It's visually appealing and offers extra knee support.

POLYWOOD Modern Curveback Adirondack in Vintage Finish in Vintage Sahara POLYWOOD vineyard Cureveback Adirondack in White POLYWOOD Grant Park Traditional Curveback Adirondack Chair in Tangerine

Curveback

The ultimate relaxation seat. These curvaceous chairs feature contoured seats and rounded backs that cradle your body.

POLYWOOD Country Living Curveback Adirondack Chair in Slate Grey POLYWOOD Nautical Curveback Adirondack Chair in Teak POLYWOOD Modern Curveback Adirondack Chair in Black

Tall 

Often reserved for alfresco occasions, bar- and counter-height Adirondacks elevate any outdoor meal or happy hour.

POLYWOOD Modern Curveback Upright Adirondack Chair in Green POLYWOOD Nautical Curveback Adirondack Bar Chair POLYWOOD Vineyard Curveback Upright Adirondack Chair in Sand

Grand

Larger-scale seats designed to support individuals who desire ample space to stretch out.

POLYWOOD Modern Grand Adirondack Chair in White POLYWOOD Vinyard Grand Adirondack Chair in Mahogany POLYWOOD Vineyard Grand Adirondack Chair in Slate Grey

Built-In Ottoman

Adirondack chairs with attached ottomans save space without compromising comfort. Pull the footrest out when you want to kick up your feet, then tuck it away beneath the seat when you're finished.

POLYWOOD Palm Coast Ultimate Adirondack with Hideaway Ottoman in Vintage Sahara POLYWOOD Palm Coast Ultimate Adirondack with Hideaway Ottoman in White

Rocking Chairs

Ideal for swaying away summer days on the porch or grouped around a glowing fire, Adirondack rockers combine the best elements of two beloved styles. 

POLYWOOD Vineyard Adirondack Rocking Chair in Lime POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Rocking Chair in Teak POLYWOOD Grant Park Traditional Curveback Adirondack Rocking Chair in Crimson Red

Step 5: Choose the Best Hue

Adirondacks come in ample color options to open up a world of palette-pleasing possibilities. Before settling on seat colors, ask yourself the following questions:

What shades fit my home's current color palette?
Make furniture selections that work with your home's hues, the surrounding landscape, and your tastes.

What outdoor aesthetic am I aiming for?
Select shades that complement the look you want. A dark and moody design calls for black or navy chairs with charcoal cushions, but citrus-hued seats work best with a tropical-themed patio.

POLYWOOD Lumber Color Combinations

How will the climate impact furniture colors?
It depends on your environment, but there are a few general considerations to make. Darker shades are better at hiding stains and dirt, but they absorb heat more quickly than lighter colors—not ideal for areas that experience intense sun. 

Additionally, climates with higher sun exposure can cause colors to fade faster. No material is completely immune to fading, but your safest bet is to choose ones that offer some UV resistance. You can also increase color longevity by using durable covers and moving seats to shaded areas or storage when they're not in use.

Color Schemes

Browse our suggested outdoor color schemes to put your Adirondacks in the best light.

Coastal Comfort
Evoke the serene ambiance of the seaside with this cool, calming color palette. The selection of relaxing shades creates an airy, casual atmosphere that beckons you to sit back and relax.

POLYWOOD Home Coastal Comfort Style

  1. Country Living Modern Adirondack Chair 3-Piece Set in Slate Grey
  2. 16" Outdoor Throw Pillow in Glacier Spa, Sky Blue, and Natural Linen

Earthy Oasis

Design an earth-toned color scheme by drawing on your home’s surrounding landscapes. The resulting look is warm and welcoming to all who enter.

POLYWOOD Home Earthy Oasis Style

  1. Seashell Adirondack Set with Ottomans in Green
  2. 16" Outdoor Throw Pillow in Spiced Burlap, Dune Burlap, and Grey Mist

Sunny Side Setup

Warm and cheerful, a sun-kissed color palette energizes an open-air room and encourages lively conversations.

POLYWOOD Home The Sunny Side Style

  1. Country Living Curveback Adirondack Chair 3-Piece Set in Lemon
  2. 16" Outdoor Throw Pillow in Glacier Spa, Buffalo Plaid Dune Burlap, and Cabana Stripe Sky Blue

Monochrome Home

Elegant yet simplistic, a monochrome scheme relies on various shades of a single color, which turns down the visual noise and brings balance to a space.

POLYWOOD Home The Monochrome Style

  1. Modern Grand Upright Adirondack Chair with Ottoman in Black
  2. 16" Outdoor Throw Pillow in Grey Mist, Ash Charcoal, and Midnight Linen

Dreamy Desert Dwelling

Highlighting the natural beauty of arid landscapes, this color palette shines with warm neutrals and refreshing hints of green. 

POLYWOOD Home The Dreamy Desert Style

  1. Modern Folding Adirondack Chair 5-Piece Set with Ottomans and 18" Side Table in Sand
  2. 16" Outdoor Throw Pillow in Grey Mist, Spiced Burlap, and Ocean Teal

Tropical Getaway

Mirror the lush greenery and clear blue skies of the tropics with this colorful palette.

POLYWOOD Home The Tropical Getaway Style

  1. 16" Outdoor Throw Pillow in Leaf Marine Indigo, Trellis Glacier Spa, and Leaf Sky Blue
  2. Palm Coast Adirondack in Lime

Mediterranean Escape

Bring the sun-soaked style of southern Europe to your home with this warm-meets-cool color scheme. 

POLYWOOD Home The Mediterranean Escape Style

  1. 16" Outdoor Throw Pillow in Spiced Burlap, Trellis Dune Burlap, and Marine Indigo
  2. 3-Piece Nautical Grand Adirondack Set in White

Timeless Elegance

A true classic transcends trends. Try this refined color combination in your home to create an inviting and enduring aesthetic.

  1. 16" Outdoor Throw Pillow in Midnight Linen, Sky Blue, and Natural Linen
  2. Classic Folding Adirondack 3-Piece Set in Navy

Pastel Paradise

Soft and subtle, this color scheme leans on light hues to create a delicate and airy vibe.

  1. Vineyard 3-Piece Adirondack Set with Angled Connecting Table in White
  2. 16" Outdoor Throw Pillow in Natural Linen, Sky Blue, and Glacier Spa

Step 6: Accessorize

Surround your Adirondack with comfort-boosting accessories.

  • Ottomans or footstools for a place to kick up your feet. 
  • Cushions and headrest pillows for extra support.
  • A basket of thick blankets to stay warm on chilly days.
  • Patio umbrellas in complementing colors for added shade.

Which POLYWOOD Adirondack is the Most Comfortable?

Comfort is subjective, so choosing a seat that gives you the most relaxing experience is a discovery you get to make on your own. Easily peruse all of our styles with our POLYWOOD Adirondack comparison guide.