[Updated on 1 February 2025] A few weeks ago I visited a friend who had the most stylish chairs but they were also very uncomfortable. She had sacrificed function for aesthetics and this reduced her pieces of furniture to decorative sculptures. But Adirondack chairs do not just look stylish in your back or front yard, they are also comfortable.
The Adirondack chair was designed by Thomas Lee in 1903 when he was on vacation in Westport, New York. These chairs are basically lawn chairs that have a high slatted back, broad arms and a seat that is lower in the back than in the front. Originally they were made of wood, but in modern times they can be made using synthetic material.
What you need to know about Adirondack chairs
There are many types of outdoor patio chairs, but the Adirondack chair is one of the most popular. When choosing an Adirondack chair, consider the following structural features:
Backrest braces
When you rest your back on the backrest of an Adirondack chair, it is the bracing at the back that helps support that weight. These braces are meant to support the weak points of the backrest and maintain its structural integrity. The lesser the back braces, the greater the risk of you breaking the backrest of your chair.
When you go out shopping for Adirondack chairs, ensure that the chair has at least two back braces. If you are heavier, you may want to consider getting a chair with three crisscrossed back braces. Such chairs are the strongest and they last even longer.
Any chair that squeaks or shifts when you rest your back on the backrest may not have enough bracing.
Back slats curvature
An ideal Adirondack chair backrest should lend support to the natural arch of your back. This is especially true for chairs with slightly curved or completely straight backrests. Slats that slightly curve inwards towards the inner slats provide a mildly curved and cradling backrest. But if the backrest is too curved, it may make you hunch over. This can adversely affect your posture.
Recline
Chairs with greater recline backs do not necessarily provide greater comfort. If the chair is used on a flat surface, it could be extremely hard for the user to get up from the chair. To prevent this, buy an Adirondack chair that has a back that leans slightly, or has an adjustable backrest. There should also be grids on the chair’s rear legs.
Seat slats curvature
Curved seats may cause your legs to feel numb if you sit on the chair for too long. They may also put a lot of strain of your lower back and the areas under your knees. Generally flat seats are more comfortable and they also happen to be better for your posture. But the comfort of a seat depends on your personal preferences. So the best thing to do is try out the chair before you buy it.
Leg Support
The chair’s legs must be thick enough to support the user’s weight. They should also be able to rest on any surface whether it is a flat or irregular surface. The legs need to be sturdy enough to support the arm brackets of the chair.
Before you buy, look underneath the front of the seat to make sure it is supported by a front rail underneath that attaches to the front legs of the chair.
Best Synthetic Adirondack Chairs
We took our time and looked around for the best synthetic Adirondack chairs. Here is what we found:
Top7AdirondackChairsWant to use this infographic on your site?
Original Pawleys Island Green Durawood Essentials Adirondack Chair
- ECO-FRIENDLY DURAWOOD: Durawood is a 3/4-1 thick lumber, compared to 1/2 thick offered by our competitors, thats made from densely compressed recycled plastic milk jugs and soda bottles. It contains no waste-wood fiber so it wont absorb any water and wont rot, splinter or crack. Durawood is fade resistant and will never require paint, stain or any kind of sealant.
- STAINLESS STEEL HARDWARE: High quality 316 marine-grade stainless steel hardware is used on our outdoor furniture, compared to 304 marine-grade used by our competitors, for superior rust resistance. All hardware is painted to match the color of the furniture and strategically place to conceal each bolt.
- FIT N FINISH: Every durawood part has a smoothed surface to reduce the amount of crevices where dirt can accumulate and all edges are rounded off for a detailed finish.
- MORTISE AND TENON JOINTS: We use this ancient form of carpentry, where board meets board, to allow our furniture to fit together and help make it sturdier; rather than just being held together with nuts and bolts.
- HANDCRAFTED IN THE CAROLINAS: Manufactured and assembled in the Carolinas using the finest parts and industry leading techniques. We back our workmanship with a guaranteed Lifetime Warran
The difference between 316 stainless steel and others steel grades is that it contains Molybdenum, which is the element that provides protection against moisture. It is very effective particularly against the saltwater air in marine environments. It is sometimes used to make surgical implants like pacemakers and naval vessels.
- This chair’s synthetic wood is made through extrusion molds where it is dyed to the core. You do not need to paint or repaint it. It is during the extrusion process where UV inhibitors are infused into the chair to maintain its vivid colorfastness under the sun.
- It may look like wood but since no moisture can penetrate the material it cannot rot like wood. Thorough bonding of the polymer during manufacture ensures that it will never splinter or crack during day-to-day use. These chairs are heavy duty and can last a lifetime.
- The chair is sturdy and durable but you have to part with a lot of money to get it. The armrests are also a bit narrower compared to other Adirondack chairs.
Lifetime Faux Wood Synthetic Adirondack Chair
- Classic comfortable design; Constructed of weather-resistant simulated wood
- UV-protected will not crack, chip or peel
- Some assembly required. Please watch assembly video
- Stain resistant and easy to clean
- The beauty of wood without the maintena
- This chair will not lose the vibrancy of its color or peel when placed out in the sun like cheap plastic chairs do. The stainless steel screws used to put the chair together means you also don’t have to worry about rust. You can assemble the chair quickly and also benefit from a 2-year limited warranty.
- The only issue with this chair is that it only comes in two colors: brown and grey. Some users claim that some slats in the seat are brittle and that it sometimes stains easily.
Highwood Classic Westport Synthetic Adirondack Chair
- CLASSIC ADIRONDACK STYLING: This Classic Westport Adirondack chair was designed with relaxing in mind. The contoured seats and angled backrests of Adirondack chairs offer excellent lumbar support, allowing you to sink into a state of pure relaxation. Perfect for your patio, deck, poolside or firepit area
- 100% MADE IN THE USA – The Classic Westport Adirondack chair is made in America and backed by US customer service and support. We believe in quality and integrity so this outdoor Adirondack chair comes with the assurance of a manufacturer’s 12-year residential limited warranty
- WEATHER RESISTANT AND FADE-PROOF – The Classic Westport Adirondack chair is built to withstand the elements for long-lasting durability; And even though it looks like real wood it will not rot, deteriorate or splinter so leave outside year-round without worry
- CAREFREE, LOW MAINTENANCE - Hassle-free ownership as there is no sanding, painting or staining required to keep this Adirondack chair looking good for years to come. Assembled with 304 Stainless Steel hardware
- REALISTIC WOODGRAIN TEXTURE-Extremely realistic texture recreates a natural woodgrain surface on these beautiful chairs; our lumber technology delivers a natural appearance and is extremely dura
- The flat back provides comfort and the chair’s structure can support a lot of weight. It comes in a variety of colors such as mocha, green, black, white, blue, red and more that do not fade easily. It also requires little maintenance.
- They are lighter than some Adirondacks but at the same time have a solid feel to them (weighs 30 pounds).
- Some users complain that the back part of the seat is too low and that the seat height cannot be adjusted.
Sunnydaze All-Weather Synthetic Adirondack Chair
- The chair requires minimal maintenance and you don’t have to worry about the bolts rusting. The back slats are put together in a fan-like design that supports your weight and enhances the aesthetic of your patio. It also has a roomy seat and can withstand most weather conditions.
- You can only choose from four different colors: salmon, brown, gray and white.
Polywood AD5030WH Synthetic Adirondack Chair
- Built to withstand a range of climates including hot sun, snowy winters, and strong coastal winds.
- Polywood lumber is a proprietary plastic containing recycled milk jugs and detergent bottles.
- Weatherproof. Will not splinter, crack, chip, peel, or rot when exposed to the elements.
- Easy to store. Folds flat for easy transportation and storage.
- Comfortable. Contoured to provide the comfortable seating expected of adirondack chai
You will save a lot of money not staining, painting or waterproofing the chair. This chair has been built to withstand strong coastal winds, snowy winters, and other weather conditions.
It is also very easy to clean and can be folded flat for easy transportation or storage. It is constructed using high-density Polyethylene (HDPE) lumber, which does not peel, crack, chip or splinter.
- The chair’s contoured seat offers extra comfort. It is also low maintenance and does not corrode if exposed to oil or saltwater conditions. You can also transport it quite easily and don’t have to worry about wine, mustard or other kinds of stains. It comes mostly assembled so you do not have to worry about doing the whole assembly yourself.
- Some users complain that you have to disassemble it before folding it. The chair does not have reclining options.
Highwood Hamilton Folding and Reclining Synthetic Adirondack Chair
- CLASSIC ADIRONDACK STYLING: The Hamilton collection takes the classic design of the Adirondack chair and adds the convenience of a folding and reclining frame. This Adirondack chair folds for easy storage and reclines for ideal relaxation.
- 100% MADE IN THE USA – The Hamilton Adirondack chair is made in America and backed by US customer service and support. We believe in quality and integrity so this folding and reclining Adirondack chair comes with the assurance of a manufacturer’s 12-year residential limited warranty
- WEATHER RESISTANT AND FADE-PROOF – the Hamilton Adirondack chair is designed with relaxing in mind. Built to withstand the elements for long-lasting durability; And even though it looks like real wood it will not rot, deteriorate or splinter so leave outside year-round without worry
- CAREFREE, LOW MAINTENANCE - Hassle-free ownership as there is no sanding, painting or staining required to keep this Adirondack chair looking good for years to come. Assembled with 304 Stainless Steel hardware
- REALISTIC WOODGRAIN TEXTURE-Extremely realistic texture recreates a natural woodgrain surface on this beautiful outdoor Adirodack chair; our lumber technology delivers a natural appearance and is extremely dura
The seat height is 9.5 inches with a width of 20 inches. The material is assembled using 304-grade stainless steel hardware, which means ultra-low maintenance.
- The chair not only looks great but is also comfortable. It also folds flat for storage or transportation and has three levels of seat adjustment. It does not rot like most wood chairs and you can adjust the angle of the backrest for greater relaxation.
- Some users complained about the chair having sharp edges. Others felt that the chair was not sturdy enough.
Polywood South Beach Synthetic Adirondack Chair
- POLYWOOD lumber is a proprietary material which includes landfill-bound and ocean-bound plastics
- Weatherproof and withstands a range of environmental stressors, including hot sun and cold winters
- Cleans easily with soap, water, and a soft-bristle brush. No other maintenance required
- Assembles easily with clear instructions and marine-grade quality hardware
- 20-year residential and 3-year commercial warranty; Made in the
- If you want your backyard patio to look unique, then you will like the wide range of chair colors available. Just like other synthetic Adirondack chairs, it does not need a lot of maintenance. It has a great overall design and can withstand the sun for years.
- They are not easy to disassemble and the backrest is too low. Some users complain that adults’ heads extend over the top of the chair’s backrests when they are seated.
We usually advise our readers not to rely on photographs when choosing Adirondack chairs. Furniture often looks grand, shiny and well designed in photographs. But at the end of day the durability of the furniture is determined by its construction and the material used to make it.
Why Synthetic Adirondack Chairs Are So Popular
Many homes have these chairs in their back and front yards. These chairs are popular because of several features:
Wide armrests
They have a functional or useful design like their extra wide armrest and a slightly curved back. Their armrests are wide enough to use as a table for placing drinks, food, or an end table for reading magazines, books and more. The chairs come in vibrant colors and shapes, which is just what you need to make your yard aesthetically unique.
Comfortable seats
Adirondack chairs have seats that are designed to distribute weight evenly throughout your upper legs and back. You no longer have to endure pain in your legs after sitting in the chair for long periods of time.
Versatile Design
Adirondack chairs can serve a variety of purposes. They can be used as lounge chairs for the poolside or as outdoor dining furniture. You can buy folding, rocking, swing, loveseat, tall, double, and kids Adirondack chairs. You can also buy Adirondack chairs made of plastic, resin, plywood, teak, wood, and more.
FAQ's
Q1. What makes synthetic Adirondack chairs better than wooden ones?
Synthetic Adirondack chairs are tougher and easier to care for than wooden ones. They're resistant to moisture, rot, and insects, plus they don't need regular painting or sealing. Plus, they're often made from recycled materials, so they're a pretty eco-friendly choice.
Q2. Are synthetic Adirondack chairs comfortable?
Yes, synthetic Adirondack chairs are made to be comfortable. Features like wide armrests, ergonomic backrests, and contoured seats offer great support and comfort. Some models even let you adjust the recline settings for extra relaxation.
Q3. How do I clean and maintain my synthetic Adirondack chair?
Cleaning synthetic Adirondack chairs is simple. Just use water, soap, and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive substances, as they can harm the surface. These chairs are low-maintenance compared to wood, which needs regular sealing and staining.
Q4. Can synthetic Adirondack chairs withstand extreme weather conditions?
Yes, high-quality synthetic Adirondack chairs are built to handle all kinds of weather, from intense sunlight to rain and snow. Materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and weather-resistant polystyrene make sure the chairs won't fade, crack, or warp.
Q5. Are synthetic Adirondack chairs environmentally friendly?
Many synthetic Adirondack chairs are made from recycled plastics, making them a more eco-friendly choice than traditional wooden ones. Choosing synthetic materials helps reduce the need for wood and supports recycling plastic waste.
Q6. How can I choose the right synthetic Adirondack chair for my needs?
When choosing a synthetic Adirondack chair, think about things like weight capacity, backrest design, seat comfort, and the quality of the materials used. It's also good to look for solid construction with strong hardware, preferably stainless steel, to make sure it lasts longer.
Q7. Do synthetic Adirondack chairs come with a warranty?
High-quality synthetic Adirondack chairs often include a manufacturer's warranty lasting from a few years to a lifetime. Be sure to check the warranty details before buying so you know what's covered and for how long.
Q8. Are there different styles and colors available for synthetic Adirondack chairs?
Sure, synthetic Adirondack chairs come in all types of styles and colors. Whether you choose traditional or modern styles, you can find chairs that seamlessly complement your outdoor décor. A lot of manufacturers offer chairs in bright, fade-resistant colors that keep looking good over time.
Q9. Can synthetic Adirondack chairs be left outside year-round?
Yes, synthetic Adirondack chairs are designed to handle outdoor conditions all year round. But if you live somewhere with extreme weather, it might be a good idea to cover them up or store them during bad weather to make them last longer.
Q10. How do synthetic Adirondack chairs compare in price to wooden ones?
Synthetic Adirondack chairs may cost more initially, but their durability and low maintenance make them a cost-effective long-term choice. They do not demand constant maintenance of wooden chairs, thereby saving your time and money on maintenance.
Conclusion
Synthetic Adirondack chairs are actually good for the environment because they are not made of wood. They look like wood but they perform better than wood Adirondacks and last longer. They are the best solution for people who prefer sitting outdoors, especially during the summer.
The best synthetic Adirondack chairs have the following features:
- They do not chip or crack like most low-quality plastic chairs
- They do not need to be repainted because their color is infused during manufacture into the material used to make the chair
- They do not rot because they are generally moisture resistant
- Depending on the quality of the stainless steel hardware of the chair, you may not have to worry about rust or corrosion
- These chairs are just good to look at because of their timeless design
If you have come across a good synthetic chair different from the ones we have listed, please share it with us in the comment section.
We bought PLYWOOD AD5030WH Classic Folding Adirondack chairs a month before. Bought two of these chairs in a bright blue and we think they’re beautiful. They seem to be sturdy and they fold up nicely. But these chairs are okay, not the best quality. The slats are wide apart and it makes it more uncomfortable. The backs are flats. After sitting a while, our back started hurting.