We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

The 12 Best Outdoor Rocking Chairs of 2024

Grab a good book and spend hours rocking in our favorite outdoor rocking chairs

A rocking chair we recommend on a green background

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

There's nothing quite like sitting in a rocker while relaxing on your porch. While traditionally reserved for the front porch, this iconic seat has since expanded to other outdoor spaces like balconies and patios.

"We love styling a bundle of rocking chairs around a fire pit or fire table, creating a backyard destination that feels cozy and comfortable," says Lindsay Foster, Senior Director of Merchandising Furniture at Frontgate.

When shopping for an outdoor rocking chair, you'll want to consider its durability, comfort, and style. To help you narrow down your options, we researched standout designs crafted from various weather-ready materials.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Birch Lane Rocking Solid Wood Chair

Birch Lane Adina Outdoor Rocking Solid Wood Chair

Birch Lane

What We Like
  • Handcrafted from solid wood

  • Water-tight joinery

  • Simple and classic

What We Don't Like
  • May fade over time

  • Assembly required

Our top choice is the Adina Patio Rocking Chair from Birch Lane. It's made of solid teak wood, a high-strength hardwood that holds up well in wet conditions and direct sunlight. What's more, the handcrafted piece features water-tight mortise-and-tenon joinery, so you can count on long-lasting structural integrity.

The Adina is available in weathered gray or a natural teak finish. Bear in mind the latter will fade over time into a silvery-gray hue, but this won't affect its durability. To maintain the golden-brown hue, you'll need to sand it periodically or apply teak-specific wood oil.

While this outdoor rocking chair doesn't have cushions, the simple design is elegant, classic, and comfortable. Another thing to note is that you'll have to put it together at home, but if you buy it from Birch Lane or Wayfair, you can add expert assembly to your order.

Material: Teak wood | Dimensions: 44.5 x 32 x 25 inches | Weight: 29 pounds | Capacity: 250 pounds

Best Budget

Mainstays Outdoor Rocking Chair

Mainstays Outdoor Wood Porch Rocking Chair

Walmart

What We Like
  • Solid acacia wood

  • Weather-resistant finish

  • Traditional slatted design

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly required

  • Low weight capacity

On a budget? Consider the Mainstays Porch Rocking Chair. It's made of solid acacia wood, a dense, moisture-resistant lumber that's unlikely to warp in wet outdoor environments. And it features a weather-ready finish for extra protection against the elements.

The traditional slatted high-back design is comfortable and versatile, though we should note this outdoor rocker has a somewhat low weight capacity (250 pounds). While you'll need to assemble it at home, it comes with all the necessary tools and shouldn't take more than a half-hour.

Material: Acacia wood | Dimensions: 45 x 34 x 26.25 inches | Weight: 22 pounds | Capacity: 250 pounds

Best Splurge

BD Studio Portia Rocking Chair

BD Studio Portia Outdoor Rocking Chair
Courtesy of Burke Decor.
What We Like
  • All-weather design

  • Resists mold and mildew

  • Arrives fully assembled

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

If you're open to splurging on a statement rocker, check out the Portia Chair from BD Studio. The all-weather design is made of polyethylene, a high-strength, virtually waterproof thermoplastic. According to the brand, it's also resistant to stains, mold, mildew, and sun fading.

This rocking chair features handwoven polyethylene rope over a solid frame of the same material. Available in your choice of three neutral colors, it arrives fully assembled in a modish, eye-catching shape, which helps justify the high price tag.

Material: Polyethylene | Dimensions: 37 x 32 x 28 inches | Weight: 61 pounds | Capacity: Not listed

Best All-Weather

Sol 72 Polywood Adirondack Rocker

Sol 72 Outdoor Polywood Modern Adirondack Rocker
Courtesy of Wayfair.
What We Like
  • Recycled materials

  • Infused with UV protectant

  • Marine-grade hardware

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly required

The Sol 72 Adirondack Rocker is made of Polywood lumber, a proprietary wood-like material composed of 99 percent recycled HDPE. Featuring marine-grade hardware, it boasts an exceptionally durable, all-weather design that resists cracking, splintering, peeling, and rotting year-round.

From coastal winds to heavy snowfall, you can count on this outdoor rocking chair to withstand the elements. And since it's infused with a UV protectant, you'll never have to repaint it. The only drawback is that you have to put it together at home, but if you're not up for it, you can add expert assembly to your order for an additional cost.

Material: Polywood lumber | Dimensions: 34.5 x 32.5 x 29.25 inches | Weight: 37 pounds | Capacity: 400 pounds

Best Wicker

Frontgate Hampton Rocking Chair

Frontgate Hampton Rocking Chair in Driftwood Finish
Courtesy of Frontgate.
What We Like
  • All-weather design

  • Plush and supportive

  • 10-year warranty

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

Frontgate's Hampton Rocking Chair has a cozy-cool coastal grandmother vibe. It's handwoven from polyethylene resin wicker and features a UV-protective, anti-mildew finish, so you can count on it to stand up to the outdoor elements. The all-weather material won't rot or splinter, even in extreme temperatures.

And that's not all there is to love about this rocker. It has ultra-plush and supportive foam cushions, and you can choose from more than 90 upholstery options, including several Sunbrella rain-repellent fabrics. We wish the price was more accessible, but it's backed by a 10-year warranty.

Material: Polyethylene resin, powder-coated metal, foam, fabric | Dimensions: 36 x 36 x 26 inches | Weight: 26 pounds | Capacity: Not listed

Best Eucalyptus

Article Lynea Outdoor Rocking Chair

Article Lynea Rocking Chair
Courtesy of Article.
What We Like
  • Scandinavian style

  • Long-lasting materials

  • Resists rod and sun damage

What We Don't Like
  • Partial assembly required

  • Needs cover in wet climates

We also like the Lynea Rocking Chair from Article. Available with brushed taupe or freckled gray ropes and a complementing frame, this Scandinavian-inspired piece features a simple silhouette and a relatively low profile. Some assembly is required, but it should only take about 15 minutes.

The frame is solid eucalyptus wood, an inherently durable and long-lasting material with impressive resistance to rot and sun damage. As for the seat and backrest, you're looking at water-repellent polypropylene rope. Still, if you live in a particularly wet or snowy climate, the brand recommends using an outdoor furniture cover during the off-season.

Material: Eucalyptus wood, polypropylene | Dimensions: 30.5 x 28.5 x 27.25 inches | Weight: 22.5 pounds | Capacity: Not listed

Best Acacia

Hampton Bay Willow Glen Outdoor Rocking Chair

Hampton Bay Willow Glen Brown Wood Outdoor Rocking Chair with Beige Cushion
Courtesy of The Home Depot.
What We Like
  • Reasonably priced

  • Weather-resistant

  • Versatile aesthetic

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly required

  • Only one color

The Hampton Bay Willow Glen Rocking Chair features a solid acacia wood frame with a protective coating to prevent warping, rotting, and fading. It has a diamond lattice backrest and a plush seat cushion with non-porous upholstery, meaning water can't seep in.

This reasonably priced rocker has an impressive 400-pound weight capacity. While you'll have to assemble it at home, it should be a quick process and comes with all the necessary tools. We wish there were more color options, but the natural wood finish and contrasting off-white cushion are endlessly versatile. And you can pair it with other pieces from the Willow Glen collection.

Material: Acacia wood, poly fiber, fabric | Dimensions: 41.25 x 37.75 x 26.25 inches | Weight: 12.5 pounds | Capacity: 400 pounds

Best Adirondack

Pottery Barn Adirondack Rocking Chair

Pottery Barn Adirondack x Polywood Rocking Chair
Courtesy of Pottery Barn.
What We Like
  • All-weather design

  • Fade-resistant

  • Easy to clean

What We Don't Like
  • No cushions

When it comes to outdoor furniture, you really can't go wrong with an Adirondack chair. Pottery Barn carries a great rocker version made of incredibly strong, water-repellent HDPE.

The fade-resistant faux wood material is super easy to clean—just wipe it down with a mild soapy solution or hose it off for a quick refresh. This outdoor rocking chair is available in three neutral hues: cool-toned brown, beige, and crisp white. It doesn't have cushions, but this is pretty standard for Adirondacks.

Material: High-density polyethylene | Dimensions: 41 x 34.5 x 31.5 inches | Weight: 42 pounds | Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Acapulco

Hashtag Home Outdoor Travers Rocking Wicker/Rattan Chair Set

Hashtag Home Outdoor Travers Rocking Wicker/Rattan Chair Set

Hashtag Home

What We Like
  • Ergonomic shape

  • Weather-resistant

  • Several colors available

What We Don't Like
  • Assembly required

Acapulco chairs were first popularized in mid-century Mexico. They traditionally have three skinny legs, but you can also find rockers, like this one from Hashtag Home. The weather-resistant Travers outdoor rocking chair has a mildew-resistant steel frame and a UV-resistant wicker construction. This is a great option for a larger patio or deck because the chairs arrive in a set of two.

While the egg-like, cupped shape may look odd, it is considered ergonomic. You'd be surprised by how comfy this thing is, and despite the ultra-lightweight design, it can support up to 300 pounds. This retro-meets-modern chair comes in four chic colors too, including this bright, tropical teal. The only drawback is that it calls for at-home assembly, but luckily, all of the tools needed are included.

Material: Steel, wicker | Dimensions: 30.7 x 27.6 x 34.7 inches | Weight: 24.6 pounds | Capacity: 300 pounds

Best Traditional

Grandin Road Nantucket Rocking Chair

Grandin Road Nantucket Rocking Chair

Grandin Road

What We Like
  • Solid hardwood

  • Slatted seat and backrest

  • Weather-resistant finish

What We Don't Like
  • Cushion sold separately

Interested in a more traditional design? The slatted Nantucket Rocking Chair from Grandin Road might be your best bet. It's made of solid hardwood and features a weather-resistant polyurethane finish to repel water and prevent sun fading, but the brand still recommends adding a protective finish once a year to ensure its longevity.

You can choose from five classic colors: black, nautical blue, stark white, gray-wash, or natural-wash wood. There's also a complementing seat cushion with an all-weather cover, but you'll have to buy that separately.

Material: Solid wood | Dimensions: 42 x 34 x 24.5 inches | Weight: 26 pounds | Capacity: Not listed

Best with Cushions

West Elm Portside Rocking Chair

West Elm Portside Rocking Chair
Courtesy of West Elm.
What We Like
  • Kiln-dried frame

  • FSC-certified wood

  • Weather-resistant upholstery

What We Don't Like
  • Only one color

If you prefer something with cushions, West Elm has you covered. The Portside Rocking Chair has a solid mahogany and eucalyptus wood frame, kiln-dried to ensure long-lasting durability with outdoor use. Not only that, but the lumber is sustainably sourced from trees certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

The thick cushions are comfy, supportive, and covered in weather-resistant fabric. This rocker only comes in one color, and it's undoubtedly expensive. But if you can swing the price, you won't be disappointed with the quality—plus West Elm's white-glove delivery includes professional assembly.

Material: Mahogany and eucalyptus wood, foam, weather-resistant fabric | Dimensions: 37.5 x 32.5 x 30 inches | Weight: 51.5 pounds | Capacity: Not listed

Best Waterproof

Loll Designs No. 9 Lounge Chair

Loll Designs No. 9 Rocking Lounge Chair
Courtesy of Loll Designs.
What We Like
  • Year-round, all-weather design

  • Made of recycled materials

  • Several colors available

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

  • Assembly required

If you live in a rainy climate, you might want to get a 100 percent waterproof rocker, like the No. 9 Lounge Chair by Loll Designs. It's made of recycled HDPE, which is not only waterproof but also fade-resistant, exceptionally durable, and virtually maintenance-free. Meanwhile, aluminum inserts and steel fasteners provide dependable structural strength.

You can place it outdoors year-round, even in an uncovered area, without worrying about damage from the elements. The minimalist-modern design is slightly wider than average, with an extra-deep seat. And it comes in nine hues, ranging from neutrals to statement bolds. In the end, we just wish it was more affordable.

Material: High-density polyethylene, aluminum, stainless steel | Dimensions: 37.5 x 29 x 23 inches | Weight: 35 pounds | Capacity: 300 pounds

Final Verdict

Our top choice is the Birch Lane Adina Patio Rocking Chair. Handcrafted from solid wood with water-tight joinery, this outdoor-friendly piece has a timeless aesthetic that'll work on any porch, deck, or patio. But if you live in a particularly wet, sunny, or coastal climate (or just want something more modern-looking), the all-weather Sol 72 Outdoor Polywood Adirondack Rocker might be a better choice.

What to Look For in an Outdoor Rocking Chair

Material

Material is a critical consideration when buying outdoor furniture. "If placed in an uncovered space, an HDPE plastic material would be best for durability," recommends interior designer Jennifer Hunter of Jennifer Hunter Design. However, she explains that more traditional wooden designs (such as acacia, teak, and eucalyptus) work well in covered porches and patios.

According to Lindsay Foster, Senior Director of Merchandising Furniture at Frontgate, all-weather wicker (usually made of polyethylene resin), like the Hampton Rocking Chair in Driftwood Finish from Frontage, is the most low-maintenance. "But depending on the space and personal preference, teak, aluminum, or mixed materials are all great alternatives," she says.

Weather Resistance

Beyond an outdoor-friendly frame material, many rocking chairs are treated with a weather-resistant finish. This can help repel water, prevent fading, and keep splintering, rotting, and cracking at bay. For a fully waterproof option, we recommend the No. 9 Rocking Lounge Chair, which you won't have to worry about in rainy climates.

Some wooden designs feature water-tight joinery for extra moisture resistance. "Furniture items placed in direct heat can manipulate the finish, and with rain, it can wither the material," Hunter adds, which is why it's so important to ensure your outdoor furniture is properly sealed and protected from the elements—even weather-resistant outdoor teak furniture.

Assembly

Most outdoor rocking chairs sold online call for at-home assembly. They typically come with all the necessary hardware and tools, and most often, the process is pretty quick. That said, some designs are a bit more complex and may even be a two-person job. If assembly is a big consideration in your buying process, consider the Portia Outdoor Rocking Chair, which arrives fully assembled.

If you're not up for it, consider hiring a professional to put your chair together. Many retailers allow you to add expert assembly to your order for an additional fee.

FAQ
  • What are the different styles of outdoor rocking chairs?

    You can find outdoor rocking chairs to align with nearly any decor theme, from traditional and mid-century to rustic and contemporary. There are also specific silhouettes, like Adirondack and Acapulco.

    "Don't be afraid to mix styles to elevate visual interest," says Foster. "For example, placing a more modern rocking chair with farmhouse-style architecture can create a visually appealing juxtaposition." She adds that cushions "can bring an unexpected pop of color or texture" to your outdoor furniture arrangement.

  • Can you put rocking chairs on a deck?

    As long as they have a weather-resistant design, rocking chairs make excellent deck seating. While other furniture categories have more distinct indoor versus outdoor styles, most rocker designs won't look out of place, no matter where you put them. And the deck is far from your only option!

  • Can wood rocking chairs stay outside?

    It depends on where you live and what time of year it is. Hunter recommends keeping wood rockers in a covered area if you reside in a wet climate, as well as when the sun is scorching hot.

    "I always like to place an outdoor rocking chair under a roofed front or back porch to maintain its durability from rain or shine," says Foster. Furniture covers can also help safeguard the material against the elements.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Theresa Holland interviewed two experts for this article, including interior designer Jennifer Hunter of Jennifer Hunter Design and Lindsay Foster, Senior Director of Merchandising Furniture at Frontgate. With their buying tips and insight in mind, she researched today's best outdoor rocking chairs. After considering dozens of options, she narrowed it down to visually pleasing, versatile designs made of durable, weather-ready materials.

As a freelance commerce writer and product reviewer, Holland specializes in furniture, textiles, home improvement, and lifestyle. You can find more of her writing on Byrdie, People, and Travel + Leisure.

The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Wanneng, Phongxiong, et al. Physical Properties of Tectona grandis Grown in Laos. Journal of Tropical Forest Science, vol. 26, no. 3, 2014, pp. 389–396.

  2. Yamamoto K, et al. (2003). Moisture Distribution in Stems of Acacia mangium, A. auriculiformis and Hybrid Acacia Trees. Japan Agricultural Research Quarterly: JARQ. 37. 207-212. 10.6090/jarq.37.207.

  3. Mohd Ayob, Nurul Atiqah, et al. Water Resistance and Tensile Strength of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Composites. Advanced Materials Research, vol. 1134, 2015, pp. 34–38. doi:10.4028/www.scientific.net/amr.1134.34

  4. Bektas, Ibrahim, et al. Comparison of natural dried eucalyptus wood fiber morphology in different conditions. Presented at International Multidisciplinary Congress of Eurasia, August 23, 2017.

Advertisement