Whether you’re lounging on the beach, sitting around the campfire, attending an outdoor concert, or just hanging out in your front yard, a lawn chair is an outdoor essential.
To help you find the best lawn chair for every outdoor event, we tested over 30 lawn and beach chairs and found that portability and comfort were the most important factors to look for when shopping.
We looked for features like headrests, padded seats, and reclining positions to help you feel comfortable lounging, reading, or relaxing for multiple hours. We considered lightweight options with backpack straps, carrying cases, and other convenient features for portability.
Every option on this list exceeded our expectations for comfortable, supportive, and portable lawn chairs for your next park, camp, or backyard adventure.
The Coleman Portable Camping Chair was a breeze to quickly set up and collapse in our backyard, earning our top spot. When keeping up with busy kids, the ease of opening and closing this chair was a lifesaver. Plus, it comes with a carrying case for easy touting on the go.
Speaking of using this chair with kids, it got quickly covered with dirt and chalk during testing. Luckily, the polyester seat was easy to wash with water and the material dried very quickly. The steel frame feels incredibly sturdy, whether sitting on asphalt or uneven grass. We never felt that the chair was collapsing in on itself, like other lawn chairs we tested.
When tested with individuals of different heights and weights, the chair felt equally comfortable. While it’s not padded, the seat mimics a hammock and molds to your body, providing ample support for hours. The wide seat and large armrests add to this chair’s appeal. It also has the highest weight capacity on our list, at 325 pounds.
Now onto the fun features: This chair comes with a cup holder and a four-can cooler pocket. This way, you can keep all of your favorite beverages easily accessible while you watch a game or lounge in the backyard.
Dimensions: 38.3 x 13.5 x 3.1 inches | Material: Alloy steel, polyester | Weight: 8.3 pounds | Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
With a classic attractive design and a budget-friendly price tag, you can’t go wrong with this lawn chair from Hearth & Hand. During testing, we loved how lightweight it felt at just over 7 pounds. While it doesn’t include a carrying bag, we didn’t think it was necessary due to its low weight and included backpack straps.
With steel legs and stylish wooden armrests, this chair felt comfortable to sit in for hours, even on uneven ground. It’s extremely easy to fold and unfold. However, because it’s so light, we recommend storing it indoors on windy days.
We did notice some wear and tear on the wooden armrests after being left in the elements. Because of this, we recommend bringing the chair indoors or using an outdoor furniture cover during inclement weather. You could also consider weather-treating the wood with a stain. But, luckily, the chair was easy to clean by hosing it off after getting covered with dirt or debris.
Other things to note are that this chair has a weight capacity of 250 pounds, which is on the lighter side of this list and it only comes in one green color. If you are looking for a chair with more color choices, opt for our most sturdy pick, which comes in dozens of styles. Still, for an affordable price, this comfortable and lightweight chair is the perfect companion to your beach or camp getaway.
Dimensions: 31.1 x 22.5 x 21.85 inches | Material: Polyethylene, steel, wood | Weight: 7.4 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
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Sturdy legs
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Two ways to carry
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Locks open or closed
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High back
If sturdiness is most important to you when shopping for a lawn chair, we recommend the Kijaro Dual Lock Chair. We used this chair with multiple people with varying body types and they all felt equally supported. Plus, the steel frame’s feet have platforms for extra stability on grass, pavement, or dirt.
Because this chair locks in place when open, it keeps the seat’s fabric fully taut. This makes for a very supportive seat that won’t sag like similar chairs. We enjoyed the extra support, but think it may be too firm for some. But if you prefer a cushioned, soft seat, we recommend our best low-profile pick, the REI Co-Op Outward Low Padded Lawn Chair.
The polyester seat has breathable mesh on the back, which is a lifesaver for hot days. However, we wish the fabric overall were more breathable or there were more mesh elements within the chair.
While this is the heaviest single-person chair on this list, at just over 9 pounds, we still found it extremely portable. It comes with a carrying case with a strap to tout to and from the beach or tailgates. It also has a strap on the chair itself. The dual locking system ensures it stays closed while you carry it, but we prefer to use the bag to make the chair as compact as possible.
Sports fans will love the dozens of designs available showcasing NFL team logos. Show your team pride at the next tailgate or viewing party.
Dimensions: 26 x 35.5 x 37 inches | Material: Polyethylene, steel | Weight: 9.6 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
If you prefer lounging lower to the ground, we loved the padded cushion on this chair from REI. Unlike most low-profile chairs, this one was a breeze to get in and out of, even for taller and older people who tried the chair during our testing period. Plus, the padded polyester seat and back cushion were ultra comfortable.
We loved using this chair outdoors so much that we decided to bring it inside for extra seating during parties and movie nights. Outside, the fabric remained cool to the touch, even in the hot sun. Therefore, this is a great chair for the beach or park because it won’t overheat in direct sunlight.
While it doesn’t come with a carrying case, the chair has backpack straps and weighs under 8 pounds. We found the straps very comfortable and easy to adjust, depending on who is carrying the chair. When folded down, the chair clips together, so it stays put while on your back. It also has a top handle for added convenience.
While we love the padding on this chair, it doesn’t make it as weatherproof as other options on this list. The polyester is water-repellent, so it’s fine for small spills and light rainfall, but we recommend storing it indoors during intense storms. If you live in a rainy area, consider our favorite two-person chair instead. Still, we love this pick for an extra comfortable seat outdoors or in.
Dimensions: 23 x 24 x 26.5 inches | Material: Polyester, aluminum | Weight: 7.4 pounds | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
Though it’s the largest and heaviest chair on our list, we were able to open the Kamp-Rite 2-Person Lawn Chair accordion-style with just one hand. This made it easier to walk our dog to sporting events, and he appreciated climbing into the double chair for a comfortable and spacious sitting experience for two
After two hours of watching sports in this lawn chair, we didn’t experience any neck or back pain (and our dog didn’t complain, either). The large chair felt equally sturdy on the uneven sports field and solid concrete.
However, you might want an extra hand to put the bigger chair back in its carrying case. Once inside, the convenient strap makes it easy to carry from place to place. While it’s definitely heavier and takes up more space in your car or portable wagon, it’s still less space than two chairs.
To test this chair’s durability, we left it outside during heavy rain. The rainwater pooled on top of the polyester seat. We shook it off and left it in the sun to dry, which only took a few hours. We’re confident that the sturdy chair could withstand any storm or rainy day without an issue.
The chair has a maximum weight capacity of 500 pounds or 250 pounds per seat, which we found is on the lower size, but still standard for lawn chairs. Another plus of this chair is the pair of cup holders on either side, so both users don’t have to fight over one.
Dimensions: 42 x 17 x 18 inches | Material: Polyester, steel | Weight: 14 pounds | Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
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Lightest on our list
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Removable headrest
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Multiple storage options
At 6.6 pounds, the Kijaro Beach Sling Chair is the lightest chair on our list, making it perfect for long treks across the beach or campsite. It collapses into a compact beach bag you can sling onto your back and be on our way. What’s more, it was one of the most comfortable chairs we tested.
The seat sits low, which we love for reclining and resting, but we still found it easy to get in and out of the chair. It has a removable headrest, so everyone has the option to use it or not. And bring on the heat, because the seat of this chair has breathable mesh throughout, to increase airflow and keep your whole body cooler on warm days.
While being very compact and portable, this chair also has multiple storage options to help keep your essentials close. There are two cup holders, a zippered cooler pocket to store up to six 12-ounce cans, and a detachable water-resistant organizer to store your electronics, wallet, or other essentials you don’t want to get wet or dirty.
Dimensions: 29 x 33 x 33.8 inches | Material: Polyester, steel | Weight: 6.6 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
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Multiple storage options
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Carrying strap
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Padded armrests
Next time you’re camping or lounging on the front lawn and want to whip out a snack, a drink, or need a table to journal, consider the Oniva Sports Chair. Rivaling our best portable pick, this chair has the most storage pockets out of all the chairs on this list, including insulated beverage holders and a zippered pocket for valuables.
During testing, we fell in love with the unique features this chair offers, but we didn’t overlook the portability or comfort. It weighs 8.8 pounds and has straps to sling on your shoulder when folded. This chair doesn’t have any lower back support, but there is extra padding on the armrests and backrest, which we enjoyed.
Unlike other options on this list, there isn’t any recline on the chair. Therefore, it’s more suited for concerts or sports games. If you’re looking to lounge in the sun, look at our best low-profile pick, REI Co-Op Outward Low Padded Lawn Chair, which has a padded seat and reclines slightly.
Still, you can’t beat the storage and accessibility of this option. One tip for collapsing the chair: You have to press against the inner sides of the armrests with your forearms while pressing down the seats with your hands. Don’t worry—after a few times, it becomes second nature.
Dimensions: 19 x 24 x 33 inches | Material: Polyester, aluminum | Weight: 8.8 pounds | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Final Verdict
Our pick for the best lawn chair is the Coleman Portable Camping Chair. The seat conforms to your body, it’s easy to open and close, and it has the highest weight capacity on our list. For a budget-friendly option, we love the Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Folding Lawn Chair, which has a classic design, attractive wooden headrests, and a sturdy base.
How We Tested the Lawn Chairs
Over the years, we’ve tested 33 beach and lawn chairs in our own homes across the country. We used these chairs on sand, gravel, dirt, grass, and concrete for weeks and tested each one on a variety of factors.
- Ease of Use: First, we evaluated how easy it was to open, close, and set up the chair. We took note of any accessories or features that needed tending to before sitting down, such as removable headrests for foldable tables. We did the same evaluation for collapsing the chair and putting it back into its carrying case, if applicable.
- Comfort: Perhaps the most important factor, we determined how comfortable each chair felt after sitting in it for hours. We also asked different friends and family members to try out the chair to note a range of experiences. We took note of how the material felt on our skin, if we felt overheated, and any other features that increased the chair’s comfort.
- Portability: We recorded whether the chair came with straps, handles, or carrying cases that make it more portable. We also carried the chair to and from our destination, noting how it felt and if we thought we could carry it for a long time.
- Durability: After using the chair for weeks, we noticed any wear and tear, chipping, tears, or damage. We noted if it ever felt unstable when used in certain scenarios or if it ever felt like it would collapse. We also exposed the chairs to the elements to test their weatherproof abilities (unless it wasn’t recommended by the manufacturer).
- Overall Value: After testing the chair and comparing it to other models we’ve used, we determined if it was worth the price. We believe all the chairs on this list are worth their price.
The Spruce / Jenica Currie
What to Look for in Lawn Chairs
Material
All of the lawn chairs we tested have steel or aluminum frames and polyester or polyethylene seats. These materials are sturdy, easy to clean, and can withstand days in the rain. Some features that make some lawn chairs stand out above others are breathable mesh panels to avoid overheating (seen on our most sturdy pick, the Kijaro Dual Lock Chair) and padded seats for extra comfort (seen on our best low-profile pick, the REI Co-Op Outward Low Padded Lawn Chair).
The only chair that sways from these common materials is our best budget pick, the Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Folding Lawn Chair, which has wooden armrests. Wood adds an attractive touch to otherwise industrial-looking chairs, but it’s often less weatherproof and harder to maintain.
Portability
The portability of your lawn chair is super important if you plan to carry it to the park, stadium, or local concert venue. All of the chairs on this list have features that make them easy to carry, including backpack straps (seen on our best low-profile pick, the REI Co-Op Outward Low Padded Lawn Chair, which also has a top handle) or a carrying case (like our best two-person, the Kamp-Rite Outdoor 2 Person Double Folding Lawn Chair).
All of the chairs on this list have some sort of strap that makes it easy to move them while collapsed. Our best portable pick, the Kijaro Beach Sling Chair, is the lightest on our list at 6.6 pounds, so it’s perfect for longer journeys.
The Spruce / Jarren Potter
Comfort
We know how important comfort is when shopping for a lawn chair. Luckily, we tested all of these chairs for hours to ensure they’ll stay comfortable and supportive for long periods. If you like a firm seat, opt for our most sturdy pick, the Kijaro Dual Lock Chair. It locks into place when it’s open, keeping the seat taut and supportive without any sagging.
If you prefer a chair with a bit of give, choose our best portable pick, the Kijaro Beach Sling Chair. It’s best for lounging in the sun and even has a removable headrest for extra comfort. Our best low-profile pick, the REI Co-Op Outward Low Padded Lawn Chair has a completely padded seat, so it’s another great choice if comfort is a priority.
Storage
When spending hours outdoors, even if you’re just enjoying the sun in your front lawn, it’s important to have your valuables and outdoor essentials like sunscreen and bug repellent nearby. Multiple chairs on this list have extra storage pockets and cup holders to hold everything you need.
Our best portable pick, the Kijaro Beach Sling Chair, has multiple storage options including a zippered cooler pocket and a water-resistant pouch for valuables. Our best overall, the: Coleman Portable Camping Chair, also has an insulated pocket to store up to four cans.
Perhaps the most innovative chair on our list, our best with table pick, the Oniva Sports Chair, has a table that folds up for dining or coloring for the kids, and then folds back down when you don’t need it.
Speaking of innovative, our best two-person pick, the Kamp-Rite Outdoor 2 Person Double Folding Lawn Chair, is the only chair on our list to accommodate two people, so it’s great for couples, siblings, or furry friends.
The Spruce / Nick Medhurst
Why Trust The Spruce?
This story was written by Julia Fields, an associate editor for The Spruce, who has been writing about the best outdoor seating options for the past three years. For this story, she researched the best lawn chairs on the market, considering different sizes, storage options, and budgets. She also took testing insights into account from editors who used these chairs in their own homes across the country for weeks.
Other patio seating stories by Fields include the best Adirondack chairs, outdoor chaise loungers, and outdoor sectionals.

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