The Adirondack–an American classic. These chairs are synonymous with laid-back outdoor style. The gently sloped seat, ample armrests, and classically reclined design make it a favorite for porches, patios, gardens, and lakeside retreats.
But as Adirondacks have grown in popularity, it seems like there’s virtually no end to new styles, brands, and quality on the market. How do you choose the right one for your outdoor spaces?
This guide explores everything you need to know, from style and size to materials, comfort, and maintenance. You’ll also see how Finch’s Adirondack chairs stand out with smart design details like hidden screws that create a smoother finish and longer-lasting beauty.
1. Core Features of all Adirondack Chairs
It may seem elementary, but when shopping for Adirondack chairs, it’s important to start with the basics, as some manufacturers use the Adirondack name for seats that hardly qualify.
Since its invention in 1903, the Adirondack chair has boasted the same core design elements. While variations exist, it is distinctly known for its:
- Sloped seat and tall back that cradle you in a relaxed position
- Wide armrests that double as a handy spot for drinks or books
- Laid-Back Low Profile that sets you in a subtly reclined position
At the end of the day, if you don’t have these features, you don’t have an Adirondack chair.
2. Style Considerations
While an Adirondack chair’s classic silhouette is instantly recognizable, today’s Adirondacks come in a variety of styles. It’s important to consider your personal taste and the style and atmosphere of the space where your chairs will go. The most common styles of Adirondacks include:
Traditional Adirondack Chairs
These have the classic high back, gentle slope, and generous armrests that have made this chair iconic.
Modern Adirondack Chairs
These offer a sleek, updated take on the original, with simplified lines–often with slightly narrower slats or more angular armrests.
Folding Adirondack Chairs
Perfect for small spaces or seasonal storage, folding Adirondack styles give you flexibility to tuck them away when needed.
Adirondack Rockers
Combining the relaxed seat of an Adirondack with the soothing motion of a rocking chair, these are ideal for porches or any spot you want to unwind.
Adirondack Gliders
Pairing the charm and comfort of classic Adirondack chairs with the blissful movement of a glider, Adirondack gliders are a popular choice for those looking for easy movement in their outdoor seating. For those looking for even more freedom to move, swivel gliders may be a great fit.
No matter the style, Finch’s Adirondack chairs come in a wide range of colors and finishes so you can find one that fits seamlessly with your outdoor décor.
3. Comfort is Key
A chair can look beautiful, but if it’s not comfortable, nobody will want to sit in it. Most Adirondack chairs are assumed to be comfortable, but the degree of comfort can vary dramatically depending on a few key factors. When shopping, take the time to get these details right. You’ll find it well worth the effort.
Seat Angle and Depth
A steeper seat angle creates a more reclined position for lounging, while a gentler angle is easier to get in and out of. Deeper seats feel more relaxed but may not suit everyone’s height. At Finch, our Adirondack chairs have a moderate slope that feels loungey and natural.
Back Height and Support
A taller backrest supports your shoulders and neck, making it easier to lean back and enjoy a sunset. The curvature of the backrest changes the seating experience as well, with both flat-backed options and more naturally rounded backrests such as those found in Finch’s SeaAira Adirondacks.
Armrest Width
Wide arms provide a comfortable resting spot for your forearms and can also hold a book or beverage. Too long, and the chair looks odd. Too short or narrow, and you risk restless and awkward arm placement–and a spilled drink in your lap.
Optional Cushions
Cushions can make any Adirondack chair more comfortable and inviting. If you expect to spend significant time relaxing in your Adirondacks, don’t underestimate the effect the right cushions can have. Finch offers weather-resistant cushions that are designed to fit perfectly with their chairs.
When buying cushions, size is important. Choosing cushions made specifically for Adirondacks, like those sold by Finch, ensures the dimensions match your chair precisely and provide back-of-leg cushioning just below your knees.
4. Ease of Sitting and Standing
Adirondacks are extremely comfortable when built right. But for some, traditional Adirondack chair designs may sit too low. They make getting into and out of the chair difficult for many, especially for those with aging joints.
If you prefer a more accessible seat, but still love the Adirondack style, consider raised Adirondack designs, such as Finch’s Perch Adirondack, or more upright seating options inspired by the Adirondack aesthetic, such as Finch’s Great Bay collection.
5. Finding the Right Size
Chair size matters when choosing an Adirondack that will feel great and look balanced in your outdoor space.
Standard Sizes
Typical seat heights are 14 to 16 inches from the ground, which gives the relaxed, low-to-the-ground feel that makes Adirondack chairs unique.
Wide and Tall Options
If you are taller or prefer more room, consider a chair with a wider seat or taller backrest.
Small Spaces
For smaller decks or patios, smaller-profile Adirondack can offer the same comfort without overwhelming the space. Folding Adirondack chairs are another great option for small or multi-use spaces.
Mega Chairs
Mega chairs throw out the traditional Adirondack playbook. They’re less about comfort, and more about FUN! Oversized Adirondack chairs can be a visual wow factor, and have a way of inviting folks to gather together, sometimes to relax, but more often for photos. Talk to a Finch Dealer about customizing any of Finch’s Adirondacks as a Mega chair.
Child-size Chairs
When friends and family are gathering, everyone needs a seat, both big and small. Child-size Adirondacks and Adirondack rocking chairs are perfect for making space for the next generation around the campfire or patio.
6. Materials Matter
Material plays a big role in how your Adirondack chair looks, feels, and lasts. When shopping for an Adirondack, you’re most likely to encounter the following:
Wood
Cedar, teak, and other hardwoods offer natural warmth and charm. However, wood requires regular maintenance, like sealing or staining, to protect it from the elements.
Metal
Metal offers a modern look and durability, though these chairs can get hot in direct sun and may rust over time.
Poly Lumber
Finch’s Adirondack chairs are made from poly lumber, a recycled material that offers the look of painted or stained wood without the upkeep. Poly lumber is both weather- and UV-resistant and will not rot, crack, or splinter.
Unlike wood, poly lumber does not need to be sealed or stained…ever. It also does not absorb moisture, making it ideal for humid or coastal environments. Because it is heavier than wood or metal, it stays put even in windy conditions (no more chasing furniture through your neighbor’s yard in the rain!).
Consider Sustainable Materials. As a shopper, your choices have an impact beyond your patio. Choosing furniture produced locally and made from sustainably sourced materials matters! Finch furniture is proudly produced in Lancaster, PA, and made from responsibly sourced and recycled materials.
6. Durability and Longevity
A good Adirondack chair should last for years, standing up to sun, rain, and snow without fading or breaking down. But determining how well an Adirondack chair will hold up, before you buy it, can be challenging.
A pro tip: do some research or ask your salesperson to show you examples of furniture that have been in use for 5-10 (or more) years. You’ll see for yourself how a brand holds up (or doesn’t).
A few things to consider when looking for long-lasting Adirondack chairs include:
Weather Resistance of all Materials
Evaluate the core material–often wood, metal, or poly lumber.
Poly lumber is designed to handle everything from blazing sun to freezing cold. It resists moisture, insects, and salt air, making it a perfect choice for any climate.
Wood and metal options may vary greatly, depending on the quality and sealants or treatments used.
Don’t forget to consider the fasteners as well. Poor quality fasteners can be ground zero for rust and rot, especially in wet or coastal climates. That’s why Finch only uses marine-grade fasteners.
Color Stability and Longevity
Depending on the materials used, the color of your furniture may fade or change over time. For some, a weathered look is desirable. For others, it may mean more work recoating or repainting every few years.
In contrast, all of Finch’s Adirondacks are made with poly lumber. Since the color is integrated in the poly itself, the color does not fade or peel over time.
Quality Construction & Warranty
Quality matters. Plain and simple. This can be hard to tell at first glance but becomes evident when you begin looking at the details. Rough edges, loose joinery, and minor imperfections are often warning signs, signaling furniture built to sell, not to last. Finch’s Adirondack chairs are built with mortise and tenon joinery and hidden pocket screws. Each chair is scrutinized by quality control to ensure a perfect fit, a lasting build, and a finished product that looks great down to the finest details.
If you’re not able to see and sit on the furniture yourself, the warranty (or lack thereof) can be a quick indicator of the quality you can expect. Finch offers a 20-year residential warranty on all of their furniture, including their entire Adirondack collection.
7. Maintenance Requirements
When choosing an Adirondack chair, it’s important to consider the level of maintenance that will be needed to keep it looking great for years. This can vary based on the material, quality, and location of the chairs. A chair in an indoor sunroom will require much less maintenance than a chair set on an exterior deck.
As mentioned, wood and metal may require sanding and recoating after several seasons of use. Some may also require regular cleaning with specialized products like soap oils, along with winter storage.
Poly Adirondack chairs require significantly less maintenance on average. Regular cleaning consists of using mild soap and water with a soft brush or cloth to wash away dirt and dust. Poly chairs require no painting, sealing, or significant winter storage.
8. Color and Aesthetic Choices
When shopping for an Adirondack chair, color is an obvious consideration, and one of the most fun parts of the process.
When picking a color for your Adirondack chair, you may want to consider your outdoor setting and other furniture and decor that you intend to have in that space.. Don’t overlook personal preference and style either.
A few broad categories of colors to guide your color considerations:
- Earth Tones. Soft earth tones and wood-grain finishes blend beautifully with gardens and wooded yards. These also pair well with most surrounding colors.
- Clean & Crisp. Bright white, navy blues, greys, and beiges can create a crisp, breezy look that works well for modern settings.
- Bold Statements: Reds, greens, and bright yellows add energy and fun to any patio.
Finch offers a range of color options, custom combinations, and even wood-grain textures so you can match your Adirondack chair to your personal style and outdoor décor. The Finch Furniture Visualizer allows you to play with color combinations online.
9. Price
With quality and style ranging dramatically, prices for Adirondack chairs range significantly as well.
Buying a high-quality Adirondack chair is an investment in years of comfort and outdoor enjoyment. For high-quality Finch Adirondack chairs, it’s an investment that pays dividends for 20+ years.
As a smart shopper, it’s important to consider how much you value longevity, comfort, ease of maintenance, and style over the expected lifetime of your furniture.
At Finch, our customers tend to buy for life and to value the confidence of having furniture they love that lasts for decades.
Conclusion
An Adirondack chair is more than just a seat. It is an invitation to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you love the classic shape, modern updates, or the unbeatable durability of poly lumber, Finch has an Adirondack chair to fit your life.Explore Finch’s complete Adirondack Chair Collection and start designing your perfect outdoor Adirondack chairs with Finch’s visualizer today.
