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Oct 23, 2024

The Best Outdoor Rocking Chairs Buying Guide

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Rock your days away with these comfortable and stylish picks. In This Article

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Rock your days away with these comfortable and stylish picks.

In This Article

Better Homes & Gardens / Kevin Liang

Your outdoor furniture can make or break the time you spend in your yard. An outdoor rocking chair, in particular, is a lovely addition that can make lounging on the porch or by the pool ten times more enjoyable.

That said, it can be difficult to find pieces that are comfortable, long lasting, and stylish. Jay Richey, assistant manager at Christy Sports, says, "If your home’s style is more traditional, go with [a piece] that has soft curves. For a more modern look, keep an eye out for furniture with sharp lines.”

Assembly, size, style, and weather resistance are important qualities in an outdoor rocking chair that we took into consideration when creating this list.

This classic rocking chair is made from an incredibly durable material using recycled and reusable plastic.

Assembly might be difficult.

The Polywood Presidential Rocking Chair is our best overall pick because it's a classic design, sustainably made, and super durable. This chair is exactly what you imagine when you think of a rocking chair, with the slats, contoured seat, and wide arms. Plus, it’s available in 14 different colors, including nice neutrals and bold shades.

Polywood’s signature lumber is an all-weather material made from recycled and reusable plastic. Any scraps go from manufacturing back to the recycling plant to be remade. It resists corrosion from the elements, due in part to the UV inhibitors and stabilizers, as well as stains.

Peeling, chipping, splintering, etc. are non-issues as well. The only maintenance you need to worry about is cleaning it up with soap, water, and a soft brush whenever you think it needs it.

More great news: This rocker is made in the USA and has a 20-year residential warranty as well as a 3-year commercial warranty. Assembly is required and can be a little tricky, sometimes necessitating an extra hand or a power tool.

Product Details: Material: Recycled plastic | Dimensions: 33.75x26.25x42.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Product Weight: 37 pounds | Color: 14 colors

It’s made of solid wood and is coated in a protective paint layer to fight weathering.

It’s not the highest-quality wood.

The Outvita Outdoor Rocking Chair is made of solid wood and coated with polyurethane paint to provide an extra layer of protection. The sleek and elegant design means you can also use this chair indoors. It’s available in black, white, and natural, with optional cushions.

It can support up to 385 pounds, which is one of the higher weight capacities on our list. We love the ergonomic design, which includes a high back, wide armrests, and a subtle arc on the bottom for a smooth rocking experience.

While it is made of wood, it’s probably not the highest-quality option you’ll find, with some users reporting that it’s flimsier than expected and the wood is easily scratched.

The chair arrives 80 percent assembled. You’ll need to put six parts together in four steps, and the brand says this should take around 15 minutes. The product only weighs 17 pounds, so it can be easily moved and cleaned.

Product Details: Material: Wood and polyurethane | Dimensions: 33.8x24.4x46 inches | Weight Capacity: 385 pounds | Product Weight: 17.2 pounds | Color: Black, natural, and white

The all-weather chair is crafted from sustainably harvested wood with weather-resistant Sunbrella or Outdura fabric cushions.

Its cover is an extra $450.

On the other end of the spectrum is the gorgeous Arhaus Hamptons Outdoor Rocking Chair. The sustainably harvested teak material is not only beautiful, but practical as well. To start, its natural oils keep insects, dryness, and moisture at bay. It’s also inherently resistant to fungus, rot, and warping due to weather fluctuations.

Over time, the wood will develop a patina from the elements. It comes in two wood finishes: fawn and gray. The mold- and mildew-resistant cushions have dense, antimicrobial foam padding that helps them keep their shape while providing you with adequate support.

The foam is encased in water-repellent polyester with weather-resistant Sunbrella or Outdura fabric. These textiles are known for being incredibly durable: They’re stain-resistant, colorfast, and low-maintenance. Heads up: If you want to get a cover to help protect your chair for a lifetime, it’s going to run you an extra $450.

Product Details: Material: Teak hardwood and Sunbrella or Outdura fabric | Dimensions: 30.5x42.25x42.25 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Product Weight: Not listed | Color: Fawn and gray

This pick is extremely portable—lightweight and foldable, with a cup holder and springs that let you comfortably rock on any terrain.

It has a very outdoorsy look that is less aesthetic.

The great outdoors is even better with a rocking chair to relax in, and the GCI Outdoor Rocker Camping Chair is awesome for camping due to its portability. It’s designed with springs that do the rocking, allowing the chair itself to stay flat on the ground in any kind of terrain.

Bring it to a soccer game, camping trip, or outdoor concert—it can handle it all. The easily foldable frame is made from powder-coated steel, while the actual seat and back are made of PVC-backed polyester. Other noteworthy details include the padded armrests, built-in beverage holder, and handle.

At 11.8 pounds, it’s light enough for most people to carry alone while still supporting up to 250 pounds. Color options include black, cinnamon red, indigo royal blue, mercury gray, and royal blue. Because it’s meant to be used on the go, it’s not the most stylish option.

Product Details: Material: Powder-coated alloy steel and PVC-backed polyester | Dimensions: 24x25x34.8 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Product Weight: 11.8 pounds | Color: Black, cinnamon red, indigo royal blue, mercury gray, royal blue

This chair features a slight curve in the seat and backrest to take pressure off your spine.

The screws are visible and might detract from the aesthetic appeal.

The Stoog Oversized Outdoor Rocking Hair is heavy-duty and can support up to 400 pounds. The seat is 20.5 inches wide and the backrest is 24.4 inches tall, both of which are slightly curved to take pressure off your spine. We love that this pick is weather- and fade-resistant.

It’s made of stainless steel, polystyrene, and teak wood, making it compatible with all climates. The bolts and screws are also made of stainless steel to prevent weathering and corrosion. The large runners are angled for smooth rocking. The chair weighs 43.6 pounds, which means it can withstand windy conditions.

To clean, simply wipe with gentle soap and water or a sanding block. Should you run into problems, the brand offers a lifetime guarantee against splinters, cracks, chips, peels, and rotting. Keep in mind that assembly is required with this pick. Stain options include black, blue, gray, teak, and white.

You can purchase a single chair, set of two, set of four, or a table and chair set. One thing to note is that the screws are very visible on this chair—some users recommend powder coating them for a more subtle appearance.

Product Details: Material: Stainless steel, polystyrene, and teak wood | Dimensions: 34.6x24x42.1 inches | Weight Capacity: 400 pounds | Product Weight: 43.6 pounds | Color: Black, blue, gray, teak, and white

The all-weather cushions are deep and pillowy, while the lumber is made from recycled and reusable plastic.

If you want patterned cushions, you have to pay extra.

The Polywood Vineyard Deep Seating Rocking Chair is one to consider whenever you want to park yourself in one place for hours and enjoy the sunshine. The pillowy cushions are so deep and comfortable, you’ll never want to get up. They’re covered in all-weather performance fabric that resists moisture, salt, sun, mold, and mildew.

One of the most impressive features is the brand’s lumber material made from recycled plastic. Because it’s an all-weather material, it can withstand every season and climate. You don’t have to worry about stains, UV damage , or corrosion. It’s so low-maintenance that all you need to do is clean it with soap, water, and a soft brush as needed.

Customization options on the POLYWOOD website are limitless: In addition to seven frame colors, you can choose from 42 fabrics. Any of the patterns will run you an extra $130, though. The chair is made in the USA, and weight-tested up to 350 pounds. You're protected by a 20-year residential warranty and a 3-year commercial warranty.

Product Details: Material: Recycled and reusable plastic | Dimensions: 28.5x29.25x37 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Product Weight: 40 pounds | Color: 7 colors

It’s one of the lightest options on our list, which is especially important for folding chairs.

It isn’t the most weather-resistant option on our list.

Folding chairs are a practical option if you’re short on space or on the go, but oftentimes they’re flimsy and uncomfortable. Luckily, you won’t have to worry about that with the Ever Advanced Oversized Folding Rocking Chair. It’s made of alloy steel for durability and comes with a gray or blue cushioned seat.

It’s important for folding chairs to be lightweight for storage purposes. That’s why we love that this pick only weighs 18 pounds, making it one of the lightest options on our list. The cushioned chair gets the job done when extra outdoor seating is needed. The seat measures 18.8 inches deep and 22.1 inches wide for ultimate comfort.

Unlike with most folding chairs, the Ever Advanced chair has firm, supportive armrests, a cup holder, and a side storage pocket. It also comes with a bag for compact storage and measures 16.4 inches wide once folded. But it isn’t highly weather resistant, so keep that in mind when leaving it outside long term.

Product Details: Material: Alloy steel and padded seat | Dimensions: 38.6x25x40.6 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Product Weight: 18 pounds | Color: Gray and blue

The hidden footrest under the seat provides extra comfort without taking up any extra space.

The chair can resist mild weather, but not heavy or repeated exposure to the elements.

What could be more classic than wooden furniture for your porch or backyard? A fan-favorite detail that makes the Christopher Knight Home Alva one of the best outdoor rocking chairs is the hidden footrest. Simply pull it out from under the seat whenever you’re in the mood to sit back and relax even more.

The slatted acacia wood frame comes in two finishes that highlight the rich variation in the grain: gray and teak. Comfortable curved armrests are just one more perk of the distinctive shape that stands out among more generic options on the market.

Heads up: While this rocking chair can resist mild weather, heavy and repeated exposure to the elements could shorten its lifespan. As such, you’ll want to cover or store it when bad weather hits. The weight capacity is 400 pounds and assembly is required.

Product Details: Material: Acacia wood | Dimensions: 41.75x24.75x39.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 400 pounds | Product Weight: 28.7 pounds | Color: Teak and gray

It features a deep seat and high back for maximum comfort.

The weight capacity is on the lower end of our list.

Metal rocking chairs don’t have to be boring. The International Caravan Iron Scroll Patio Rocker has a simple yet artistic design that complements most outdoor spaces. We love the curves featured in the chair’s runners and that they allow for smooth rocking.

The frame and seat are made of iron, so it’s weather- and water-resistant. The iron material will also help protect against UV light fading. The chair features a deep seat (34 inches) and a high back for maximum comfort. The wide armrests add to the overall look as well as comfortability.

You can use this chair as-is or add seat cushions to match your outdoor space’s aesthetic. Keep in mind that this chair’s weight capacity is 250 pounds, which is one of the lowest on our list. Also, assembly is required.

Product Details: Material: Iron | Dimensions: 34x30x39 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Product Weight: 25 pounds | Color: Black

The wicker base is made from HDPE, which is a low-maintenance plastic.

Treat the wood portions with oil to keep them in top condition.

Natural wicker isn’t known for being extremely weather-resistant. That’s why we love the mixed-material Outdoor Interiors Wicker and Eucalyptus Outdoor Rocking Chair. The frame is made of eucalyptus wood, while the seat and back feature HDPE wicker.

Many outdoor furniture pieces are made from HDPE, which is a durable, waterproof, and weather-resistant plastic. You won’t have to worry about fading or chipping with this material, and the upkeep is extremely low maintenance.

With this pick, you’ll get the best of both worlds without sacrificing design or durability. The extra-wide seat allows for maximum comfort, and the brown and gray color palette will blend nicely with most outdoor spaces.

Assembly is required, and the package includes stainless-steel hardware to withstand corrosion and weathering. It’s recommended that you treat the wood with oil a few times a year to keep it in top condition. The weight capacity is only 250 pounds, which is one of the lowest on our list.

Product Details: Material: Eucalyptus, HDPE, stainless steel, and teak wood | Dimensions: 24x38x40 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Product Weight: 30 pounds | Color: Brown and gray

This cozy chair is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

It can be difficult to sit upright in this chair.

The Homefun Oversized Papasan Rocking Chair is not quite a double-seater, but is larger than a single seat. It measures in at 30x28x31.5 inches and features thick, high-density cushions and an extra-wide seat.

We like that the Homefun pick is stylish enough to use in an indoor living space as well. The chair is available in 13 colors, including pink, green, navy, and beige to best match your outdoor space.

The rocker has an anti-tipping design and leans back 30 degrees. The runners include plastic foot pads and plastic strips to keep the chair sturdy. While we love the extra-cushioned seat, it’s important to note that this chair leans back slightly, making it difficult to sit upright.

Product Details: Material: Wrought and cast iron, rattan, and alloy steel | Dimensions: 30x28x31.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 330 pounds | Product Weight: 30 pounds | Colors: 13

Together, the spindle accents and narrow slats create a timeless yet current silhouette that goes with most decor styles.

It’s recommended for covered outdoor use, and the cushion has to be purchased separately.

With a stunning combination of durability and design, the Grandin Road Nantucket Rocking Chair is made of mahogany and eucalyptus with a polyurethane finish to protect it from the weather. The spindle accents emphasize the traditional aesthetic, while the slats (subtly contoured for comfort) are on the narrow side, making it feel more current.

You can pick from one of five classic neutrals: greige, black, neptune, white, and natural. The rocking chair weighs 26 pounds, though the weight capacity isn’t listed. Overall, it’s 42.25 inches high with a width of 24.5 inches and a depth of 34.25 inches.

Worth mentioning is that the chair is specifically recommended for covered outdoor use (like on a porch as opposed to in an open yard. Also, the complementary all-weather cushion has to be purchased separately (you can snag the matching side table as well).

Product Details: Material: Mahogany and eucalyptus | Dimensions: 34.25x24.5x42.25 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Product Weight: 26 pounds | Color: Greige, black, neptune, white, and natural

This pick is durable and has one of the highest weight capacities on our list.

It’s only available in black and white.

The Devoko Outdoor Rocking Chair is as durable as plastic gets. The product itself weighs in at 50 pounds and the weight capacity is 400 pounds, making it one of the highest on our list. It’s made of high-density polyethylene, which is ideal for withstanding weathering and extreme temperatures.

The material doesn’t rust or rot like metal and wood might, and you won’t have to worry about cracks or fading. It’s also been painted to prevent oxidation. Assembly is required, but the seat and seat back are pre-installed, so you’ll only need to complete three steps.

We love the ergonomic design with a tall backrest, wide armrests, and a slightly curved seat. Though black and white and classic colors, we wish there were more color options to match all outdoor designs and aesthetics. Overall, this pick is great for all types of climates, and since it’s water-resistant, it can even be used by the pool.

Product Details: Material: Plastic, resin, alloy steel | Dimensions: 34.4x26.5x41.7 inches | Weight Capacity: 400 pounds | Product Weight: 50 pounds | Color: Black and white

The best outdoor rocking chair overall is the Polywood Outdoor Rocking Chair because it’s classic, sustainable, and durable. Our budget pick is the Outvita Outdoor Rocking Chair because it’s made of solid wood and can withstand weathering.

When purchasing outdoor furniture of any kind, you need to pay careful attention to the materials that make up the actual components. Many of the options on our list boast steel frames for durability. Wood (whether solid or composite) is another popular material.

“Once you know that (it's in the user manual that you should archive for future use), you can develop a care and maintenance schedule,” Richey says. “I recommend setting annual care and maintenance reminders in your online calendar so you don't neglect anything important.”

Assembly might not be the most important consideration when buying furniture, but it’s still important. Some pieces require two people to get the job done, while others can be quick and easy just for one as long as you have the right tools.

Selecting the correct size of furniture is key whether you’re designing indoor or outdoor spaces. “You’ll use similar guidelines for selecting outdoor furniture as you would indoor furniture,” says Richey.

“Keep in mind size and scale, adequate space for walking around the furniture, and how you’ll actually use the furniture.” He always recommends opting for something larger if you can. (“No one wants to feel like a little kid in Santa’s lap in a rocking chair.”)

Functionality isn’t all that matters when you’re purchasing outdoor rocking chairs. Quality outdoor furniture is an investment and you have almost limitless color, size, and silhouette options to match your personal style.

“When you’re considering purchasing outdoor furniture, think about the pieces in terms of having similar durability as any of the other materials on the outside of your home,” says Richey.

The furniture will spend most, if not all, of its lifespan outside—you want to make sure it will be durable enough to survive the elements. The more weather resistant and durable the outdoor furniture is, the longer it will last.

Even the best outdoor rocking chairs can vary pretty dramatically in cost. While there are options that fall out of this spectrum, you can expect to pay between $300 (like the Grandin Road Nantucket Rocking Chair) and about $900 each.

Outdoor rocking chairs can last for an owner's lifetime or even longer. “I've seen some high-quality chairs that have been taken care of by the owners and they still look new years after they're purchased,” Richey says. “Properly cleaning, maintaining, and protecting the chairs are key factors in the lifespan of the furniture.”

Most do to some extent, especially if you’re purchasing at a retailer like Amazon. Luxury options like often arrive assembled.

Outdoor rocking chairs have to be weather-resistant to an extent, but the level of resistance can vary depending on the material and your weather conditions. “Natural wood, for instance, will show signs of age, but if cleaned and maintained, it comes back to life,” Richey says.

“Other composite materials that are specifically designed for extended outdoor use may require very little cleaning and maintenance," Richey says.

“The three most reliable materials for outdoor furniture are powder-coated cast aluminum, wrought iron, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE),” states Richey. Aluminum is naturally lightweight, durable, and rust- and corrosion-resistant, and powder coating makes it resistant to chipping and scratching.

Wrought iron is incredibly durable as well, to the point that it can last for generations if maintained properly, especially if treated with a weather-resistant finish every few years. Finally, there’s HDPE, which has it all: It’s all-weather, waterproof, recyclable, low-maintenance, and like the others, very durable.

Quincy Bulin is a writer who covers products and home topics, making this story the ideal intersection of her work. Addie Morton is a contributing writer for Better Homes & Gardens who specializes in home and lifestyle content. To find the best outdoor rocking chairs, they conducted hours of research, and Bulin consulted Jay Richey, assistant manager of Outdoor Furniture at Christy Sports.