Best Adirondack Chairs (Oct. 2024) - Rated by CherryPicks' Experts

Adirondack Chair 101: History, Cost & Buying Guide

Authentic, stylish, and comfortable, the Adirondack chair found a place among furniture lovers ever since its first design was released in the early 1900s. With so many modern and classic versions of the Adirondack chair currently available on the market, buyers can choose real-like plastic replicas, or competitively priced, authentic wooden versions of this classic chair.

Easily recognizable by its design, this attractive chair remains more or less the same. It does bring in intricate variations in color, materials used, and appeal. The Adirondack chair is available in different colors and is designed to last a lifetime in tough outdoor conditions.

If you require a chair that naturally fits with the surroundings, then a wicker chair is indispensable, as it requires very little maintenance and remains in good condition even after years of regular use. The iconic Adirondack chair is a sign of hospitality and can be seen around mountain huts down to the backyards of remote ranches.

You can get the right color, design, and make to match your existing furniture. Just refer first to a buying guide as it will save time searching for the right fit. Make sure your choice will last for as long as you want to keep it. The color must not run, and you must be able to leave it outdoors in any weather.

WHAT ARE ADIRONDACK CHAIRS?

Originally developed for outdoor use, Adirondack chairs are essentially made of single pieces of timber or other materials, and are characterized by their straight back seats.

The first Adirondack chair, designed in 1903, provided the ideal chair for outdoor use at a summer home. This design has essentially remained the same; however, several other materials and are now used by innovative manufacturers to create highly appealing Adirondack chairs that can be safely used outdoors in any season.

ESSENTIAL DESIGN CHARACTERISTICS

Adirondack chairs are designed to afford maximum comfort and adaptability in outdoor conditions. For example, the sharp incline of a mountainous region is offset by its straight-back design. Design changes have been introduced over the years to add to its aesthetic value, curvy accents, and straight-line elements that easily distinguish the chair from other offerings in its category.

Fitted with large armrests, Adirondack chairs provide users with comfortable positions with arms rested at the sides. These large armrests can accommodate a beverage or plateful of food as well.

Following a traditional design, the Adirondack chair is essentially made of 11 pieces of highly durable wood meant to last in the outdoors. Modern technology has included insect-resistant wood materials into redwood and cedar, or used all-weather recycled plastic to create environmental friendly chairs.

Characterized by its straight back and seat, an Adirondack chair can be used in any type of outdoor conditions making it one of the most versatile chairs with simple construction to compensate for different conditions.

Design changes are introduced to increase aesthetic value. You’ll find new releases more appealing to look at; they are designed with the same robust features, but changes are made to the original models to create new looks. When wood slats are introduced into rectangular aluminum frames, new designs are created.

ADIRONDACK KITS

Besides adding sophistication and style to the patio, these chairs can easily be assembled as well. Even if you’re purchasing an Adirondack chair for the very first time, it should take you less than half an hour to assemble it. Made of sturdy recycled lumber or plastic, the assembled chair can be easily folded. All you have to do is follow the simple instructions to assemble the chair, then use it varied outdoor settings.

A complete kit consists of all the necessary parts to assemble the chair. For instance, buyers will receive instructions to assemble the seat, armrests, and backrest.

Molded in different shapes, focus is usually to create the perfect straight-back shape which can easily be completed at home. While plastic chairs come in assorted designs and colors, wooden chairs are finished with protective coats of paint, as per design. The basic design consists of 11 pieces of wood that can be assembled into a complete chair.

HIGH DURABILITY

If durability is the important deciding factor before making a purchase, then Adirondack chairs will easily stand the test of time. A reliable brand will offer an astonishing 20-year warranty on its construction and anticorrosive properties. These chairs are meant to last a lifetime with essential features like anti-fungi, anti-staining, and resistance to insect, decay, and moisture damage.

Modern designs, with aesthetic value naturally, combine different materials to increase durability. Even recycled wooden chairs are assembled with well-designed fasteners to increase durability in all sorts of weathering conditions.

WHAT AN ADIRONDACK CHAIR LOOKS LIKE

The Adirondack chair is a popular outdoor chair that provides comfort and relaxation. It can be great when placed outside during summer while having a picnic with family, or relaxing solo on a patio. What does an Adirondack chair look like? How does it provide comfort? This article discusses the construction, history, and unique features of this popular chair.

The name may be a bit intriguing but the Adirondack chair is just a simple chair made of wood or manmade materials. Basically, it is composed of a slightly reclined back, a straight seat, and a pair of wide armrests. The entire chair is made of eleven flat wooden boards. Manufacturers have been coming up with Adirondack chairs made from polymers, hard-impact plastics, and materials other than wood in recent years.

HOW DOES ADIRONDACK CHAIR PROVIDE COMFORT?

For most people, the Adirondack chair is a simple chair that is used in country cottages during summer. It is usually used for relaxing at the side of a lake while watching birds or the sunset, on the patios while having a cup of tea, and other relaxing activities on balmy summer days.

The Adirondack chair provides comfort by letting your back rest against its slightly reclined back, and allowing your arms rest on its wide flat wooden armrests. Its slanted seat is also comfortable to sit on. It is supported by sturdy legs that are just a few inches from the ground. All of these parts are composed of equally basic wooden planks that are sturdy and can withstand pressure and weight.

FROM WHERE DOES THE ADIRONDACK CHAIR ORIGINATE?

The name of this chair originates from the Adirondack Mountain range in upstate New York. The history tells that it was first created around 1903 by Thomas Lee. While Thomas Lee was at his country cottage in Westport, New York, he was looking for a comfortable chair that could be great for outdoor relaxation. He created several prototypes of a comfortable chair and had his family members test them out.

One of these prototypes was the Adirondack chair as we know it today. Everything about the chair was detailed. If you sit on the Adirondack chair today, it will still provide you with the same relaxing seating position that will allow you to look straight out onto the horizon.

THE FIRST COMMERCIAL ADIRONDACK CHAIR

When Thomas Lee arrived at his final design, he proposed it to his friend Harry Brunnell, a carpenter, who was in need of winter income. Brunnell saw the potential of the Adirondack chair to be a commercial chair for the residents of Westport. He created one and filed for its patent under his name without Lee’s permission. He received US patent #794,777 in 1905 for the Adirondack chair.

Because of this patent, Brunnell was able to manufacture hemlock plank “Westport chairs” with green or medium dark brown paint, each signed by him for 20 years.

WHAT DOES AN ADIRONDACK CHAIR LOOK LIKE NOW?

The original Adirondack chair was made with thick planks of wood that served as the chair’s back. The modern Adirondack chair now uses thinner woods for the back that make it more comfortable. The modern Adirondack chairs are made of more varieties of woods rather than Basswood and Hemlock, and other materials such as recycled plastics, which make them maintenance free.

The first Adirondack chairs were painted with more natural colors but now, they come in different colors. They can complement the surroundings and add more color and style. Moreover, they now come with features such as cup holder, foot extensions, and unique headrests.

HOW THE ADIRONDACK CHAIR GOT ITS NAME: A QUICK HISTORY

Who doesn’t love summer? It is the time of the year when we can have fun outdoors and bask in the heat of the sun. Summer also means relaxing moments on the patio or in the back yard while drinking a cup of tea, or at the side of the river while watching the birds or the sunset. But what adds to your relaxation is the kind of chair you sit on.

The Adirondack chair is a kind of chair that is typically used in these moments. But aside from its structures and features, how did the Adirondack chair get its name?

This article features the history, including how the Adirondack chair got its name, who invented it, its patent, how it was first commercialized, and more. It is a simple chair with a little bit complicated or unique name. So let’s just get straight to the point.

HOW DID THE ADIRONDACK CHAIRS GET ITS NAME?

Many people are unaware of the name of this very simple kind of chair. Others even don’t know that it has a name. The Adirondack chair got its name from the Adirondack mountain range in upstate New York. The history will tell more about how the Adirondack chair got its name.

The first Adirondack chair was made by Thomas Lee in 1903. He was looking for a comfortable chair for his country cottage in Westport, New York. He built several models of chairs which his relatives tested. They agreed on one chair that was the most comfortable. It was made of several pieces of knot-free, flat wooden boards. It had a reclined seat and back, and wide armrests.

THE PATENTED ADIRONDACK CHAIR

Thomas Lee offered his chair to his friend Harry Brunnell. Brunnell was in need for a winter income at that time, and saw the commercial potential of Lee’s chair. Without Lee’s consent, he filed and received US Patent No. 794,777 in 1905 for the Adirondack chair, which he called the Westport chair. This enabled him to manufacture Adirondack chairs (or Westport chairs), and he sold it on the market for 20 years.

THE ADIRONDACK CHAIR TODAY

The Adirondack chair was adapted over the years, giving users and consumers a wider variety of designs and features. They are now made with materials other than wood such as 100% recycled polyethylene and stainless steel. They are also built with different features such as a cup holder, headrest, footrest, and more.

Unlike the original Adirondack chair, they now have more designs and colors which can complement your surroundings.

Manufacturers have come up with many varieties of models and designs. If you are new to the Adirondack chair market, the following is a list of the best-selling Adirondack chairs today:

KILMER CREEK FOLDING CEDAR ADIRONDACK CHAIR

This wooden chair is made of Western red cedar, which naturally fights rot, decay, and insect damage. It is lightweight and has long natural life. It is solid and sturdy making it a good investment for your homes or country cottage.

It can be easily assembled with easy instructions and can also be folded down for easy storage. It has an overall size of about 36” tall and 36” depth. The seat is about 18” deep and 22” wide which is about the size of a first class airline seat.

CORAL COAST BELHAM LIVING SHORELINE WOODEN ADIRONDACK CHAIR

This affordable Adirondack chair is made of weather resistant and eco-friendly eucalyptus. It has a warm driftwood color that is relaxing to the sight, and can match any outdoor design. It has dimensions of 30.25” W by 36.5” H. The seat height is 37.5”. It provides maximum comfort with a comfort back seat and wide armrests.

INTERNATIONAL CARAVAN CHELSEA ACACIA ADIRONDACK CHAIR

This International Caravan Chelsea Acacia Adirondack Chair is pretty on the patio. It is strong and withstands weather changes because of its stained finish and UV protection. It has rugged finish and shape, and has dimensions of 28” W by 38” D by 37” H.

ADIRONDACK CHAIR VS MUSKOKA CHAIR—WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE AND WHICH IS BETTER?

Everybody loves the comfort it provides, but most people don’t know how this chair was first built or its history.

Most people do not even know its name. This chair, made of several planks of wood with a slightly reclined seat and back, and wide armrests, is called the Adirondack chair. It was also called the Westport chair, and sometimes the Muskoka chair. Is there any difference between the Adirondack chair and the Muskoka chair?

This article looks into the history of the Adirondack chair, the comparison and differences between the Adirondack and Muskoka chairs, their build, and their modern versions.

ADIRONDACK CHAIR VS MUSKOKA CHAIR

The Adirondack chair and Muskoka chair both sport short legs, bent seats, high backs, and wide armrests. Both provide comfort and relaxation on a summer day. A person can sit on one for hours and can be completely taken to a relaxing and calm state.

The difference is that the Adirondack chair is 2” higher from the ground and 2” wider between the arms compared to the Muskoka chair. Another comparison is that the Adirondack chair is built with a flat yoke at the back of the seat, while the Muskoka chair is built with curved yoke.

THE HISTORY OF THE ADIRONDACK AND THE MUSKOKA CHAIRS

In 1903, Thomas Lee built several models of chairs for his country cottage in Westport, New York. He asked his family members to test the models until he came upon the most comfortable model. This chair was made of several pieces of wood built with slightly bent back and seat and wide armrests. It was named after the Adirondack Mountain range in New York. Hence, it was called an Adirondack chair.

Thomas Lee offered the design to his friend Harry Bunnell, a carpenter, who was in need of a winter job. Bunnell saw the commercial potential of the chair. Without Lee’s consent, Bunnell filed for a patent for this chair. Therefore, in 1905, he received the patent which enabled him to sell the chair on the market for 20 years. He called it the Westport chair.

For several years, improvements such as using slats instead of single slabs for the back and seat were made. It became more popular in the 1940s when the first mail order kits appeared. It was brought to Canada by someone from New York.

Soon the chair brought to Canada was called the Muskoka chair. Today, manufacturers build different variations of the Muskoka chair in rocker, glider, and other styles.

WHAT SOME REFERENCES SAY

While the differences between the Adirondack and Muskoka chairs are described above, some references say that the two chairs have no real difference. Both have the same styles if you are looking for a chair that can provide you comfortable seating on your patio, back yard, or overlooking the water.

The name Muskoka chair is commonly used in Canada while the Adirondack chair is used in the US.

ADIRONDACK CHAIRS AND MUSKOKA CHAIRS TODAY

Since many people are going crazy over these chairs, manufacturers are coming up to more styles and designs. Some even incorporate unique features that make the chairs more convenient and easy to assemble. Some Adirondack/Muskoka chairs are built with cup holders, footrests, headrests, and other unique features.

Different varieties of wood are also used, and this is the major factor that sets the price. Some types of woods used are pine, cedar, teak, and oak. The most expensive chair is the one made of teak because it is an extremely hard wood and requires very little or no maintenance.

The polywood is no wood, it is a 100% recycled polyethylene that is eco-friendly. It is very sturdy and strong, and does not need any maintenance. It is the most expensive type in stores.

ADIRONDACK CHAIR MODELS

Several Adirondack chairs that are best sellers on the market today are the All Things Cedar Adirondack Chair, the Café Amish Adirondack Chair, the International Caravan Chelsea, the Acacia Adirondack Patio Chair, and the Kilmer Creek Folding Cedar Adirondack Chair. They sport 100% wood and a well-built construction. They require very little maintenance and can withstand different weather conditions.

DOING THE MATH: THE COST OF AN ADIRONDACK CHAIR

Adirondack chairs are extremely comfortable chairs used on patios, backyards, and other outdoor hangout places. They are mostly used during the summer.

While many people are unaware that this simple wooden chair has a name, they undeniably love it for the homey feel it provides. It is made of several wooden planks, but their cost varies from the affordable to the expensive. If you are first-time buyer, you might be wondering about the price of an Adirondack chair.

Adirondack chairs can be made of different kinds of woods, and other materials. The kind of material used can tell how much does an Adirondack chair will cost. Therefore, we will look the kinds of woods and materials used for building this chair and see how much each material adds to the cost of an Adirondack chair.

HOW MUCH DOES AN ADIRONDACK CHAIR COST?  LOOKING AT THE WOOD

You should consider different factors when choosing an Adirondack chair. These include the features, durability, and comfort it provides. But among the factors, one major thing sets the quality and price: the kind of wood, or material that used for building the Adirondack chair.

COMMONLY USED WOODS AND MATERIALS USED FOR ADIRONDACK CHAIRS

TEAK

Teak is the hardest wood and it is long lasting; it could last for up to 70 years. It will not crack, split, rot, or be damaged by insects, even when it is left out in extreme weather conditions. The special oil in the heartwood of the teak is responsible for its strength and durability. It will fade a little, but to keep it looking like new, it is recommended that you apply a teak sealant once a year.

Adirondack chairs made of teak wood usually cost around $700 or more. It could be one of the most expensive kinds of Adirondack chairs you could find on the market because it is maintenance free and extreme durable.

PINE

Many people like pine because of its bright unfinished look which fades in a silvery gray as years pass by. It will cost around $150. However, pine is a soft wood that can be scratched or dinged. It is also prone to rot, and can be infested with insects when left outdoors.

If you like the price and understand its potential factors, a pine Adirondack chair could be a good chair for you. You only need to perform regular maintenance such as refinishing, repainting, storing it inside, and resealing it.

CEDAR

Cedar is less durable than the teak, but more durable than pine. It is resistant to rot and insects. As with teak, cedar could use a special oil called cypressene to prevent decay and protect it against insect damages.

Cedar can be best in wet climates because it can adjust naturally to surrounding moisture conditions. The price will be the same as the pine Adirondack chair. Choose cedar if you are willing to perform regular maintenance, live in a wet climate, and like the reddish color.

OAK

Oak is also a very durable and hard wood that can match the features of teak. It will cost as much as cedar and pine. It is beautiful and heavy. However, oak is less resistant to rain damage than cedar.

Several maintenance activities should be done with oak to keep its durability and beauty. You often need to reseal and refinish it. If something is spilled on it, you need it immediately wipe it away to prevent a permanent stain. Avoid putting it directly under the sun as it may cause darkening or streaks. Regularly apply a sun-resistant stain or keep it in a shady location.

POLYWOOD

Polywood is not really a wood but it is difficult to tell. The price is as high as $100, much higher compared to cedar, oak, and pine Adirondack chairs. However, this price could be just right and reasonable because polywood is an environmentally friendly material made of recycled plastic, and yields more benefits when it comes to maintenance.

WHY ARE ADIRONDACK CHAIRS SO EXPENSIVE?

Today, Adirondack chairs are popular not only in homes but at resorts, parks, and other recreational places. Therefore, many home furniture stores offer Adirondack chairs that come in different designs. The design is only one factor that makes an Adirondack chair expensive.

Adirondack chairs are made of expensive, rare woods such as teak, cedar, eucalyptus, and other special woods. These woods are strong, don’t strip easily, and are resistant to rot, rust, decay, insect damage, and other unwanted elements. They also come with different features such as headrests, sun protection, cup holder, footrest, and more. Modern types are also made of man- made materials instead of wood.

HOW ADIRONDACK CHAIRS WERE FIRST COMMERCIALIZED?

Thomas Lee offered his chair to his friend Harry Brunnell, a carpenter, who was looking for a winter income during those times. Brunnell realized the potential of Lee’s chair in the commercial world. Therefore, he applied for and received US Patent Number 794,777 in 1905 for the chair without Lee’s consent.

This patent enabled Brunnell to create and sell the chair, which he named the Westport chair. He marketed it for the next 20 years.

THE ADIRONDACK CHAIR TODAY

Today, the Adirondack chair is used on patios and other outdoor places, wherever you want to relax in comfort. While they were very simple in the past, Adirondack chairs are now modern with more features, designs, and materials. They can be also made of 100% recycled polyethylene, stainless steel, and materials other than wood.

They also come in different colors and designs and some of today’s models have features that provide more comfort and convenience. These are all new Adirondack chairs, but the comfort and basic design they had in the past is still there.

CHOOSING THE IDEAL ADIRONDACK CHAIR

Several factors, like durability, aesthetics and functional value, must be considered when choosing your Adirondack chair. This straight-back seat generally follows the traditional design to compensate for mountainous inclines, and can therefore be used on uneven surfaces as well. Factors like impact of direct sunlight and rainy weather on the chair must also be taken into consideration.

Ideally, a chair that is pleasing to the eye and fulfils specific user needs is the ideal chair. Sitting on the porch for hours may require a higher degree of comfort, while users relaxing on the beach may want larger armrests to accommodate their drinks and snacks. People using portable chairs in their gardens, lawns, and backyards may prefer collapsible chairs that can be easily folded and stored during the winter.

Specific designs are needed to match the environment of a mountain cabin. Painted or tinted with a rustic natural finish adds to the overall value and rugged looks of an outdoor setting. On the other hand, a stately mansion may prefer the latest designs to increase aesthetic value with matching plastics and fixtures.

SHOPPING FOR ADIRONDACK CHAIRS

If you are looking for more specific models and prices of Adirondack chairs, the Café Amish Adirondack Chair, International Caravan Chelsea Acacia Adirondack Patio Chair, All Things Cedar Adirondack Chair, and Kilmer Creek Folding Cedar Adirondack Chair are some of the extremely durable chairs which are cost effective for their price of over $100.

If you have the budget, and your main concern is sturdiness, comfort, and the ability to last for years, how much an Adirondack chair costs is not an issue.

FINAL VERDICT

Every product in this category resembles the Adirondack chair but looks different from each other because of subtle changes in design, color combinations, and other factors.

While some products like the Patio Sense Coconino Wicker Adirondack Chair, and the Best ChoiceProducts Wicker Adirondack Chair are sold as new or used products, the Lifetime 60064 Adirondack Chair and the POLYWOOD AD420BL Modern Adirondack Chair are sold only as new products.

At times, the Fir Wood Adirondack Chairs with Table may not be available as a complete set, but users can keep visiting this site for attractive offers on this product.

If a highly durable and modern product is required, the POLYWOOD AD420BL Modern Adirondack Chair comes in many colors and it closely resembles the classic Adirondack design; its 20-year residential warranty guarantees buyers receive a durable product that provides value for money when offered at attractive discounted prices.

Round Up of the Best Adirondack Chairs (Verified to Buy)

• 1. SERWALL Folding Adirondack Chair Patio Chair Lawn Chairs Outdoor Chairs...
• 2. POLYWOOD AD420BL Modern Adirondack Chair, Black
• 3. MUCHENGHY Outdoor Folding Adirondack Chair Weather Resistant Patio Chair with...
• 4. LUE BONA Adirondack Chairs Set of 4, Black Poly Adirondack...
• 5. Cecarol Oversized Adirondack Chair, Poly Lumber Patio Fire Pit Chair...
• 6. Keter Alpine Adirondack 2 Pack Resin Outdoor Furniture Patio Chairs...
• 7. YEFU Adirondack Chair Plastic Weather Resistant, Patio Chairs 5 Steps...
• 8. EFURDEN Adirondack Chair, Polystyrene, Weather Resistant & Durable Fire Pits...
• 9. Adirondack Chairs Set of 2 Plastic Weather Resistant, Outdoor Chairs...
• 10. WUTUTUEE Adirondack Chair Weather Resistant Folding Outdoor Patio Adirondack Fire...

Made of UV-resistant HDPE material, this product can withstand strong coastal winds, hot sunny weather, and snowy winters. It will not crack or chip even after it is exposed to extremely rugged outdoor conditions. Made in the US, this chair can be easily transported.

Top 10 Adirondack Chairs Brands on Amazon

Here is the list of top rated brands that evaluated by CherryPicks.

• SERWALL
• POLYWOOD
• MUCHENGHY
• LUE BONA
• Cecarol
• Keter
• YEFU
• EFURDEN
• WUTUTUEE
• Flash Furniture

Top 10 Adirondack Chairs Sellers: CPR Seller Rank List

CPR sellers rank is based on CherryPicks-AI bestselling ranking system that helps us analyze each seller's sales trends. The List of top seller ranks is our in-house data, essential for our product ranking to help you make the right shopping choice.