What Is an Adirondack Chair?

The adirondack chair is one of the most recognizable pieces of outdoor furniture ever designed. With its wide armrests, reclined seat, and slatted back, the adirondack chair has been a fixture on porches, patios, and lakefronts for over a century. Originally designed in 1903 by Thomas Lee in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, this iconic chair was built to sit comfortably on uneven, sloped terrain — which is why the seat sits low and the back reclines at a gentle angle.

At Carolina Patio Furniture, we’ve been helping Charlotte-area homeowners find the perfect outdoor seating since 1979. Over those decades, adirondack chairs have remained one of our most consistently popular styles — and for good reason. They’re comfortable, timeless, and available in materials that range from traditional wood to virtually maintenance-free poly lumber.

Adirondack Chair Materials: Which One Is Right for You?

The material you choose for your adirondack chairs will determine how they look, how long they last, and how much maintenance they require. Here’s what you need to know about each option.

Poly Lumber (HDPE Recycled Plastic)

Poly lumber adirondack chairs are made from high-density polyethylene — recycled milk jugs and detergent bottles transformed into dense, durable lumber. This is the fastest-growing segment of the adirondack market, and it’s easy to see why:

• Zero maintenance — no painting, staining, or sealing required
• Weather-resistant — won’t rot, crack, splinter, or fade
• Color options — available in dozens of colors that go all the way through the material
• Eco-friendly — each chair diverts hundreds of milk jugs from landfills
• 25+ year lifespan with residential use

The main trade-off is weight — poly lumber chairs are heavier than wood, which can be a positive (wind-resistant) or a drawback (harder to move). Browse our poly lumber furniture collection to see the full range of styles and colors available.

Teak

Teak is the gold standard for wooden outdoor furniture. Naturally rich in oils that repel water, insects, and decay, teak adirondack chairs can last decades with minimal care. New teak starts with a warm honey tone and gradually weathers to a distinguished silver-gray patina if left untreated. If you prefer the original color, an annual application of teak oil will maintain it.

Teak adirondack chairs are a premium option — expect to pay more than pine or cedar — but the longevity and beauty make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

Cedar and Pine

Cedar adirondack chairs offer natural insect resistance and a pleasant aroma. They’re lighter than poly lumber and less expensive than teak. Cedar weathers to gray over time and benefits from periodic sealing or staining. Pine is the most affordable wood option but requires the most maintenance — plan on staining or painting every 1-2 years to prevent rot.

Resin and Plastic

Molded resin adirondack chairs are the budget-friendly entry point. They’re lightweight, stackable, and easy to clean. However, they typically don’t match the comfort, durability, or aesthetics of poly lumber or wood options. For a chair you’ll use daily for years, we generally recommend stepping up to poly lumber.

Adirondack Chair Styles

The basic adirondack shape has inspired numerous variations over the years. Here are the most popular styles you’ll find today.

Classic Adirondack

The traditional design with a fan-shaped slatted back, wide flat armrests, and a contoured seat. This is the style most people picture when they think of an adirondack chair. It works beautifully in any setting — from a lakeside dock to a Charlotte backyard.

Modern / Contemporary Adirondack

Modern adirondack chairs feature cleaner lines, a slightly more upright seating position, and sometimes curved or solid backs instead of the traditional slat design. These pair well with contemporary outdoor spaces and modern architecture.

Folding Adirondack

Folding models offer the same comfort as traditional adirondacks but collapse flat for storage. This is ideal if you have limited storage space or want to tuck chairs away during winter months. Many poly lumber manufacturers now offer folding versions that are just as sturdy as their fixed counterparts.

Adirondack Rockers

Combining the laid-back comfort of an adirondack with the gentle motion of a rocking chair, adirondack rockers are perfect for front porches and covered patios. They’re available in all the same materials as standard adirondacks.

How to Choose the Right Adirondack Chair for Your Space

Picking the right adirondack chair isn’t just about material — consider these factors:

• Space: Standard adirondack chairs are about 30-32 inches wide. Plan for at least 36 inches between chairs if you’re placing them side-to-side, plus room for a small table between them.
• Surface: Adirondacks sit best on flat surfaces — patios, decks, or level lawn areas. On soft ground, wider feet or glide accessories help prevent sinking.
• Sun exposure: If your seating area gets full sun, poly lumber won’t fade or get uncomfortably hot (unlike metal or dark plastic). Light colors stay coolest.
• Usage frequency: For daily use, invest in poly lumber or teak. For seasonal or occasional use, cedar or resin may be sufficient.
• Accessories: Many adirondack lines include matching ottomans, side tables, and cup holders. Buying a coordinated set creates a polished look.

Adirondack Chair Maintenance by Material

Poly Lumber Care

Wash with soap and water as needed. That’s it. Poly lumber doesn’t need staining, sealing, painting, or covering. For stubborn stains, a magic eraser or mild bleach solution works well.

Wood Care (Teak, Cedar, Pine)

Clean annually with a wood-specific cleaner. Apply teak oil (for teak) or exterior wood stain/sealant (for cedar and pine) once per year. Store or cover during extended wet periods. Sand and refinish every 3-5 years as needed.

Resin Care

Wipe down with soapy water. Store indoors or under cover during winter to prevent brittleness from UV exposure over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adirondack Chairs

Are adirondack chairs comfortable for long periods?

Yes — the reclined angle (typically 100-110 degrees) distributes your weight evenly across the back and seat, making adirondacks surprisingly comfortable for extended sitting. Adding a seat cushion or lumbar pillow makes them even more comfortable for hours of relaxation.

How much do quality adirondack chairs cost?

Expect to pay $150-$300 for a quality resin chair, $300-$500 for cedar, $400-$800 for poly lumber, and $800+ for premium teak. At Carolina Patio Furniture, our factory-direct pricing means you’ll typically pay less than retail chains for comparable quality.

Can adirondack chairs stay outside year-round?

Poly lumber and teak adirondacks can absolutely stay outside year-round in the Charlotte, NC climate. Cedar and pine benefit from covering or moving under shelter during prolonged rainy periods. Resin chairs should be stored during winter to prevent UV degradation.

What’s the weight capacity of an adirondack chair?

Most quality adirondack chairs support 250-350 pounds. Heavy-duty models in poly lumber can support 400+ pounds. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications if weight capacity is a concern.

See Adirondack Chairs in Person at Our Charlotte Showroom

Photos and descriptions can only tell you so much. The best way to choose an adirondack chair is to sit in one. At our Charlotte showroom, you can compare materials side by side, test different styles, and see the full range of color options in person. Our staff has been helping customers find the right outdoor furniture since 1979 — we’ll help you find the perfect adirondack chairs for your space and budget.

Visit Carolina Patio Furniture at our Charlotte, NC location. We’re a factory-direct manufacturer, which means better quality at lower prices than big-box retailers.