Best patio chairs for kicking back under the Sun and stars

Expand your living space into the great outdoors.

By Pam Collins | Updated Nov 22, 2021 7:58 PM EST

Gear

Enjoy the view from your porch. Robin Jonathan Deutsch, Unsplash

With a little bit of planning, any outdoor space can feel like an extra room in your home. All you need to begin furnishing your patio is a chair or two, and you’ll have a special place to greet the day, gaze up at the stars, or enjoy a glass of wine with a friend. Patio chairs can be just as stylish as indoor living and dining room sets, but they’re also designed to withstand sun, rain, heat, cold, and humidity, so they can last across many seasons. These top picks show the range of options that will fit your lifestyle needs.

Materials. Some models, such as the iconic slatted Adirondack chair, with its wide back and uniquely angled seat, can be found both poolside and on the edge of the woods. These chairs can be crafted from hardwood and may require refinishing, though, while models made out of plastics and recycled materials may not require special care.
Cushions. If you’re looking for a little extra comfort in your patio chairs, designs with removable cushions are a smart choice. While outdoor cushions are often made with fabric that’s resistant to water, stains, and ultraviolet light, they can still get soaked through in a rainstorm or buried under a pile of snow. Fortunately, you can stow the cushions somewhere dry without having to move the chairs themselves. Cushions are also available in a range of colors for an easy and affordable refresh of your decor.
Function. The most versatile chair designs—such as café-style patio chairs with a straight back and flat seat—are great for dining and working at a table, but they’re not always the most comfortable for kicking back. Rocking chairs, lounge chairs with a built-in ottoman, and generous wicker armchairs, however, are less adaptable, but they still may become a favorite spot for your downtime or to give your guests a place to chill out as you make dinner.