There’s a notion that outdoor folding chairs are tacky. To that, I say you just haven’t met the right ones. When done right, outdoor folding chairs are arguably your most useful and versatile piece of outdoor furniture — not to mention the least hassle (Ever tried to store an outdoor couch? Exactly).
These chairs, even from the best outdoor furniture brands, definitely deliver in terms of bang for your buck. As interior designer Nina Lichtenstein explains, ‘Outdoor folding chairs provide a blend of practicality, style, and versatility that is hard to beat. With modern designs and high-quality materials, they can be a chic addition to any outdoor space, while their ease of storage and portability make them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maximize their outdoor living area.’
I’ve spent hours sifting through all the duds because, let’s be honest, there are still a lot of less-than-attractive outdoor folding chairs out there. I'm incredibly picky, so rest assured that this selection includes only the most swoon-worthy seats.
‘Opting for an outdoor folding chair over traditional varieties can be a game-changer for your outdoor living experience,’ says Nina — and I'm going to prove why. Informed by real reviews, expert insights, and, of course, my seasoned eye for style (I shop for a living), here’s why outdoor folding chairs might just be your best backyard upgrade yet.
Outdoor Folding Chairs
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Price: $128.44
Was: $288
This sturdy chair boasts a frame made of teak wood — an unheard-of luxury for under $130. Happy reviewers call it a fantastic dupe for other, more expensive outdoor sling chairs on the market. I’m loving the cabana stripe, which gives off a vacation vibe without fail. If you prefer solid colors, it’s available in cream and navy as well. Consider placing a small side table between two for a resort-like backyard setup.
Price: $122
Material: Resin
I’ve never seen an outdoor folding chair quite like this one (in the best possible way). It’s ultra-sleek with mid-century details. Unlike most other chairs made of metal, plastic, or wood, this is made of resin, which is resistant to water, UV rays, mildew, and rust. I went with olive green for its organic appeal, but it’s available in other compelling colorways, including red, dark gray, and taupe.
Price: $199
Materials: Solid eucalyptus, polypropylene rope
I’m absolutely shocked that this Article chair is less than $200—it looks so expensive! According to its description, ‘It’s like a hammock, but it’s actually a chair. And like a hammock, it folds up and tucks away.’ What could be better than that? There aren’t any reviews yet, but if I know anything about Article’s outdoor furniture offerings (and furniture in general), you can expect top-tier quality.
Price: $298
Material: Steel
Where most outdoor furniture falls short in the color department, this sweet set makes up for it in every way. Blue, yellow, green — you name it — this is the cheerful backyard addition that the doctor ordered. Perfect for placing around a bistro table to enjoy a morning coffee alfresco. To make these chairs even more charming, consider adding outdoor cushions for a pop of color and enhanced comfort.
Price: $399
Now, this one might just be my favorite. This absolute showstopper by Rove Concepts is timeless and plush — what you might imagine at a 5-star resort. It’s crafted for comfort but also lightweight and portable, making this chair well worth the splurge. If you’re unsure how it will fit in your outdoor space, utilize Rove Concepts’ AR Planner, a 3D design scene you can access right from your device — technology is a glorious thing!
Price: $145.99
Was: $159.99
This sleek and modern spin on the classic Adirondack chair is a sight for sore eyes. Crafted from engineered wood with a brown finish, it seamlessly complements the rest of your wood outdoor furniture collection. If the lack of cushions gives you pause, rest easy (literally) knowing that its slanted silhouette is ergonomic — fancy lingo for incredibly comfortable. Plus, it comes fully assembled, unlike most outdoor chairs at this price point, saving you the hassle upon delivery.
Price: $332
A nod to the classic director’s chair, this option from Rove Concepts offers no shortage of Hollywood charm. It’s so stylish you might even want to use it indoors during the off-season. But if not, it folds super slim, making it easy to stash in a corner or under a bed. The frame is crafted from teak — chic, chic, chic in every way.
Price: $167.99
This patio furniture set is a real winner. Earning an impressive 4.7/5 stars from 127 Wayfair reviews, these chairs have it all. They don’t look like typical foldable chairs with their intricately woven nylon stripes, reminiscent of leather indoor styles. The acacia wood frame is substantial, setting these apart from more flimsy portable varieties. One reviewer raves: ‘Have had this set for over a year now in the Florida sun, and it has held up very well! Very happy with it!’
Price: $489.95
You can find cheaper Adirondack chairs elsewhere, but they won’t last like this one from Raymour & Flanigan. It may look substantial, and while that’s true, you’ll be shocked at how slim it folds thanks to its ingenious design. Go for white or mahogany to lean into this American classic, or have fun with one of the brand’s many vibrant colors. My favorites are green (pictured), tangerine, and sunset red.
Price: $146.99
Was: $584
This “garden chair” would look lovely in any setting. Made from 100% beech with 100% organic charm, it features a beautiful contrast between the textured grain of the wood and the ultra-stuffed cushion on top. Note that there’s no varnish, so consider adding this later if you want the piece to last.
Price: $389.99
These chairs have such a unique design. They’re very vertical, adding a touch of modern drama wherever you place them. The slatted backs look incredibly high-end and are adjustable to five different positions for maximum relaxation. Made of teak, they require minimal maintenance, and the cushions are easily removable for washing. Ideal for a patio or deck.
Price: $279
Did you know that L.L. Bean makes furniture? If not, let me enlighten you with this sustainably harvested eucalyptus hardwood chair. It might look hard and uncomfortable, but its design bends to mold to your body — genius. The included polyester pillow adds a darling touch. Perfect for catching some sun immediately, it arrives fully assembled. Keep in mind, though, that this beautiful chair does require oiling (reviewers suggest twice a year). If you can live with that, $279 is an incredible price for a chair this good.
What are the Advantages of Outdoor Folding Chairs?
According to interior designer Nina Lichtenstein, ‘the most obvious benefit of outdoor folding chairs is their portability. Unlike bulky, stationary chairs, folding chairs can be easily transported, making them perfect for picnics, camping trips, beach outings, or simply moving around your yard.’
They also offer greater versatility in seating arrangements compared to traditional chairs. ‘If you’re hosting a larger gathering, you can quickly bring out extra seating without cluttering your space permanently. Once the event is over, they can be folded and put away, maintaining the aesthetic and functionality of your outdoor area,’ explains Nina.
Additionally, outdoor folding chairs fold flat, ‘which makes them incredibly easy to store.’ This is especially beneficial for those with limited storage space, adds the designer.
Where Should I Store Outdoor Folding Chairs?
‘One of the standout features of outdoor folding chairs is their ease of storage,’ raves interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. ‘When not in use, these chairs can be folded down to a fraction of their size,’ significantly expanding your storage options. ‘They can be stacked in a corner, placed in a storage shed, or hung on garage walls,’ she explains. ‘Their compact nature also makes them easy to transport in car trunks for impromptu outings.’
How Should I Care for Outdoor Folding Chairs?
Outdoor folding chairs, like all outdoor furniture, benefit immensely from regular cleaning. According to Nina, wooden chairs should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution, while ‘metal chairs can be wiped down with a damp cloth.’ For fabric seats, she recommends using a gentle brush and soapy water.
Nina also advises protecting your outdoor folding chairs from the elements. Although many (including all the ones in this edit) are weather-resistant by design, ‘it’s always a good idea to store them in a dry place during extreme weather conditions.’ She adds, ‘using chair covers can provide an extra layer of protection against rain, snow, and UV rays.’
For longevity, a little maintenance goes a long way. ‘Wooden chairs may need occasional sanding and re-oiling to maintain their finish,’ Nina explains. ‘Metal parts should be checked for rust and treated promptly to prevent deterioration,’ while ‘fabric parts should be inspected for tears or wear and replaced as needed.’
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