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All I Want to Do This Summer Is Relax in These Pool Lounge Chairs

Unwind outdoors on a stylish and comfy chaise.

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outdoor lounging area with sun loungers and a side table
Pottery Barn

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Whether you're sunbathing, reading, or hosting friends in your backyard, a great pool lounge chair is what takes relaxation to another level. Some models offer adjustable reclining positions, while others are designed to sit partially in the pool for an even more resort-like experience.

Our top picks:

To find the best pool lounge chairs, the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluated outdoor furniture for durability, comfort, construction, and weather resistance. Our top picks include options for a wide variety of budgets, styles, and outdoor spaces, but we think the curved wicker design of the Balencia Bronze Chaise Lounges from Frontgate would look lovely in nearly any yard.

Balencia Bronze Chaise Lounges, Set of Two

Pros

  • Adjustable backrest and foldable legs
  • Legs are foldable, and chairs stack for easy storage
  • 20+ cushion colors and Sunbrella and Quick-Dry fabrics available

Cons

  • Large footprint may not work for smaller patios

Made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin for weather resistance, this wicker set of two chaise lounges is popular for its comfort, durability, and elegant curved design that gives your pool area a classic, chic look. We appreciate the adjustable backrest for finding the perfect position for tanning or reading. You can stack the chairs when not in use, plus the foldable legs make storage easier during the colder months.

You can also purchase cushions for these chaises if you want additional padding while lounging. Though these chairs are on the larger side, there are over 20 cushion colors to choose from (including Sunbrella and Quick-Dry fabrics) and you can shop the entire Balencia collection for a cohesive outdoor furniture set.

Dimensions78.75" x 31.5" x 16"
MaterialHigh-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin, aluminum frame
Weight33 lbs
Weight capacityNot listed
Zero Gravity Reclining Lounge Chair with Pillow

Pros

  • Can sit up or recline back with feet raised
  • Folds down flat; easily portable
  • Ergonomic armrests and padded pillow for utmost comfort

Cons

  • Doesn't look as stylish as other chairs on our list

While some pool lounge chairs can run you upwards of a few hundred dollars (or more), you don't have to shell out a ton to recline comfortably by your pool. This Amazon Basics reclining chair features a powder-coated steel frame and a double-bungee support system that secures the water-resistant Textilene fabric to the frame.

You can adjust the chair's height and recline to sit upright or lie back with feet raised in the zero gravity position and we appreciate the padded headrest and ergonomic armrests for extra comfort. The chair folds down flat for easy portability, so you can take it to the beach or on a camping trip too. The downside is that it doesn't look as stylish or luxe as other lounge chairs on our list.

Dimensions31.5" x 26" x 33.9"
MaterialPowder-coated steel, Textilene fabric
Weight17.8 lbs
Weight capacity300 lbs
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Adjustable Chaise Lounge Set with Folding Table

Pros

  • Lightweight and foldable for easy storage
  • Adjustable back with five reclining heights
  • Comes with a foldable table

Cons

  • Cushions only come in two colors

If you enjoy sipping a glass of chilled lemonade or refreshing sangria on a summer evening, having a table poolside makes all the difference. Rather than placing your glass on the ground, where it can be easily knocked over, you can set it on the included rattan table that also folds for easy storage. This side table is large enough to fit a platter of fruit or a bowl of chips, but not so big that it takes up too much space between the two lounge chairs.

Sit upright as you read a book or fully lie down for a nap with the adjustable seats, which feature five reclining heights. The lightweight rattan makes it easy to bring out this three-piece set for the summer season, and the handle on each foldable chair makes carrying them to and from the garage a whole lot easier. Though the chair cushions only come in two colors (beige or a turquoise blue), online reviewers appreciate the helpful customer service and the lack of assembly required.

DimensionsChair: 77" x 25" x 21" Table: 15.75" x 15.75" x 17.75"
MaterialPE rattan, steel frame, polyester fabric and sponge padding
Weight53.7 lbs
Weight capacity350 lbs
On Sale
Rattan Reclining Chair Set
Now 7% Off
Credit: Waroom

Pros

  • Built-in side table
  • Chairs recline to six positions
  • Easy to assemble, according to online reviewers

Cons

  • Shelf can't be folded down

This set of two resin rattan reclining chairs is designed to be weather-resistant—although the manufacturer notes that you'll want to cover them with the included polyester covers in extreme weather. The frame is made from rust-resistant steel, and the cushions are filled with 2.3-inch sponge for extra comfort. There are six positions to lounge in and even a side shelf to rest a book or drink. Some online online reviewers note that the shelf isn't perfectly level and cannot be folded down.

Assembly is required for this set, but reviewers say that it's easy. We appreciate the wicker look of these chairs and that the cushion covers are machine washable.

Dimensions78" x 25.6" x 16"
MaterialPE rattan, steel frame, sponge cushion, polyester fabric
Weight83 lbs
Weight capacity350 lbs
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5
Best for Parents

Step2 Flip Seat

Flip Seat
5
Best for Parents

Step2 Flip Seat

Credit: Step2

Pros

  • Ergonomic seat for the pool's edge
  • Foldable for easy storage and transportation
  • Can also be used for sporting events, at the beach, or camping

Cons

  • Not stylish

Keeping an eye on swimming kids is crucial for their safety, but it can be difficult to see from a lounge chair or tiring to stand along the pool. This chair from Step2 allows you to sit comfortably on the edge of your in-ground pool with the support of a backrest. Dip your legs into the water without fully submerging and be within arm's reach of your children—a feature that our testers loved.

A winner of a past Good Housekeeping Parenting Award, this chair is foldable for easy storage and transportation, is easy to clean, and comes in nine colors. Plus, it's versatile: You can use it at the beach or for camping, and it fits on top of coolers for kids' sporting events. Lexie Sachs, executive director of strategy & operations at the GH Institute, tried this chair herself and was pleasantly surprised by how "ergonomic and comfortable it felt." However, she says it's "not the most attractive."

Dimensions24" x 19" x 21"
MaterialPlastic
Weight9 lbs
Weight capacity250 lbs
Soleil Chair
Credit: Frontgate

Pros

  • Can lounge in the water or poolside
  • Water- and weather-resistant
  • Shape provides lumbar support

Cons

  • Can not recline backrest

This chair is ideal if your pool has an in-water shelf or ledge. Simply move the chair from the patio to the shallow ledge and cool off in the water while lounging in it. Available as a single or a set of two, the curvy shape provides lumbar support and can be placed in up to 9 inches of water.

Unlike many plastic loungers that fade or discolor after seasons in direct sun, this chair is designed to maintain its color and appearance for years of poolside use. While you cannot adjust the backrest—you'll be sitting mostly upright in this chair—it's a comfortable and versatile option for a pool lounge chair.

Dimensions39" x 18.5" x 36"
MaterialPolyethylene
Weight25 lbs
Weight capacityNot listed
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Eucalyptus & Mesh Stacking Chaises, Set of Two

Pros

  • Compact and modern
  • Chairs are stackable
  • Weight capacity of 500 pounds

Cons

  • Covers sold separately

It's all fun in the sun until the weather changes, and you have to move your pool chairs into the garage until next summer. Thankfully, it won't be a struggle to fit these Pottery Barn chaises into your storage area. You can stack up to eight of these chairs on top of each other, and you can even remove the legs. Each chair is made from eucalyptus grandis wood that's 100% certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

We love the compact profile and streamlined silhouette and appreciate that the chairs have a weight capacity of 500 pounds and that the eucalyptus and mesh are designed to be weather-resistant. You can choose between two neutral finishes, but you will have to purchase rain covers separately—an important note given the higher price tag on these lounge chairs.

Dimensions75.5" x 30.5" x 37"
MaterialFSC-certified eucalyptus grandis wood, mesh
Weight55 lbs
Weight capacity500 lbs
Double Chaise Lounge with Canopy

Pros

  • Includes canopy and detachable pillows
  • Attached wheels for easy mobility

Cons

  • Can be hard to get out of

Staying safe from the sun while lounging by the pool is often a priority, and this two-person chaise provides shade and comfort, thanks to its adjustable canopy and detachable headrest pillows. The frame is made of powder-coated steel, designed to be rust-resistant, and the chaise has wheels that make it super easy to move around. One online reviewer notes, however, that they found it hard to get out of—but you may not even want to get up.

Dimensions54" x 79" x 70"
MaterialVinyon, polyethylene
Weight56 lbs
Weight capacity440 lbs
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Two-Person Patio Lounge Chair
Credit: Tangkula

Pros

  • High weight capacity of 710 pounds
  • Can be separately adjusted
  • Two acacia wood wheels on both sides

Cons

  • Assembly can be difficult

Whether you're catching up poolside with your best friend or snuggling close with your significant other, a two-person lounge chair can make your patio area more inviting. We especially like this one because you can adjust each side separately and choose from five reclining positions.

It also has a steel frame and two acacia wood wheels for easier setup. The textured polyester cushion is machine washable and designed to be weather-resistant. Online reviewers do note that assembly can be tricky.

Dimensions81" x 50" x 12.5"
MaterialPE rattan, steel, polyester fabric
Weight66 lbs
Weight capacity710 lbs
On Sale
Floating Chaise Lounge Chair with Umbrella

Pros

  • Suspended C-shaped design creates floating effect
  • Pad, pillow, and umbrella are removable for cleaning
  • Built-in shade

Cons

  • Cushion ties may wear out

If you enjoy lying on your beach towel under an umbrella, then you'll appreciate the poolside equivalent. This suspended chaise with an attached umbrella. The four stabilizing feet serve as a base, and the umbrella will keep your face in the shade while you lounge outside.

The cushion and pillow are made from polyester fabric and polypropylene fiber, and you can remove both for cleaning. One online reviewer noted that the cushion ties did not hold up after multiple summers.

Dimensions43.5" x 74" x 82"
MaterialPolyester, polypropylene fiber, steel
Weight80 lbs
Weight capacity265 lbs
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On Sale
Malibu Metal Stackable Chaise Lounge, Set of Two

Pros

  • Mesh seats are breathable and cool
  • Chaises are stackable
  • Sleek black powder-coated aluminum frame is designed to be rust-resistant

Cons

  • Metal can get warm in direct sunlight

While rattan, wood, and plastic are often popular material choices for pool chaises, metal provides a durable, minimalistic style. This set of two lounge chairs is made of rust-resistant aluminum with a weather-resistant powder-coated finish. Not only does the metal look sleek, but it's also meant to last outside, even in the elements.

The breathable polyester mesh seat keeps these chairs cool and comfortable, and they can be stacked for easy storage when not in use. One important thing to keep in mind, though, is that metal can get warm in direct sunlight. The manufacturer recommends using chair covers for this reason.

Dimensions78" x 34.5" x 39"
MaterialAluminum, polyester mesh
Weight45.5 lbs
Weight capacity300 lbs
12
Best for Reading

Ostrich Chaise Lounge

Chaise Lounge
12
Best for Reading

Ostrich Chaise Lounge

$70AmazonAlso Consider
Credit: Ostrich

Pros

  • Openings allow you to lie face down and read comfortably
  • Lightweight at under 10 pounds
  • Carrying strap for easy portability

Cons

  • Listed weight capacity may not be accurate

If you love to read by the pool, then it's time to purchase a lounge chair that will make your favorite pastime a whole lot easier. This lounger lets you lie face-down with openings for your face and arms so you can read comfortably. It's available in 12 fun colors from pink (pictured) to neon green, so you're bound to find a style that matches your vibe.

The chair is also lightweight, features a carrying strap for easy portability, and offers four reclining positions so you can find the perfect adjustment. Keep in mind that some online reviewers noted that the manufacturer's listed weight capacity is not entirely accurate.

Dimensions22" x 72" x 12"
MaterialAlloy steel frame and polyester
Weight9.8 lbs
Weight capacity250 lbs
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Fully Flat Reclining Adjustable Chaise Lounge

Pros

  • Five reclining positions including completely flat
  • Wheels make moving it around easy
  • Water- and UV-resistant material

Cons

  • Some many not like the sportier style

This chaise lounge has five reclining positions, so you can lie completely flat to upright, depending on what's most comfortable for you. Plus, you can purchase this chair as a set of two and/or with a matching table.

The aluminum chair has resin legs and a sturdy Textilene fabric seat, designed to be water- and UV-resistant. It has a smooth feel and provides ventilation on a hot, sunny day. There are two wheels to make moving it around easier and the chair can be stacked with other ones for storage. This chaise has a streamlined look that balances sporty with modern, but it's definitely a more basic style.

Dimensions66" x 22.8" x 37.2"
MaterialAluminum frame, resin legs, Textilene fabric
Weight26 lbs
Weight capacity380 lbs
Portside Outdoor Textilene Lounger

Pros

  • Made with FSC-certified wood
  • Elevated design and look
  • Textilene fabric is heat-resistant and breathable

Cons

  • Only three reclining positions

For a coastal look, this West Elm lounger offers an elevated yet simple design in three wood finishes. Not only is the chair made of Textilene fabric that's designed to be heat-resistant and breathable for ultimate outdoor comfort, but the frame is made of solid mahogany and eucalyptus wood that's FSC-certified. We appreciate that this pool lounge chair is sourced from responsibly managed forests and from recycled or consciously grown materials, per the manufacturer's statement on the site.

It only has three reclining positions, which is on the lower end compared to other adjustable chaises on this list.

Dimensions27" x 81.8" x 42.1"
MaterialSolid mahogany and eucalyptus wood, Textilene fabric
Weight45.1 lbs
Weight capacityNot listed
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Portable Folding Backpack Beach Lounge Chair

Pros

  • Only weighs 9 pounds
  • Adjustable backpack straps for easy carrying
  • Built-in storage pouch

Cons

  • Some may find it too low to the ground

Lounging oceanside is a dream, but lugging a chair there is annoying. That's why a lightweight, easy-to-carry lounge chair is key if you're a frequent beachgoer or pool-hopper.

This lightweight chair (weighing just 9 pounds!) features adjustable backpack straps for easy carrying, plus a storage pouch accessible while on the move. The steel frame is designed to be rust-resistant, and the polyester fabric is quick-drying. Plus, there are five reclining positions. However, the chair sits very low to the ground, which can make it difficult for some individuals to get in and out of.

Dimensions25.57" x 21.75" x 26"
MaterialPolyester, steel frame
Weight9 lbs
Weight capacity250 lbs

How we choose the best pool lounge chairs

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To identify the best pool chairs, our experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab reviewed product specifications, analyzed online customer reviews, and evaluated key details such as materials, weight capacity, comfort features, and storage options. We prioritized loungers made with durable, water- and UV-resistant materials designed for outdoor use and considered a range of styles and price points to suit different needs and budgets. Our recommendations are based on this research and on our experience evaluating outdoor furniture and related products at the Good Housekeeping Institute.

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What to look for when shopping for pool lounge chairs

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Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking for the right pool lounge chair for your space:

✔️ Size: Before you purchase a pool chair, it's important to take note of how much space you have in your backyard or pool area. Think about where you plan to place your lounge chair and if it will fit comfortably with space to walk around it. As with all furniture purchases, measure your space beforehand and pay close attention to the product's listed dimensions. Another important note: "Consider how long the chair will be when it’s fully reclined to make sure you have enough space," says Emma Seymour, assistant director of the Textiles Lab. You want to enjoy every reclining position your chair offers!

✔️ Weight: Some pool chairs are designed to be lightweight and portable, while others made of wood or steel can be very heavy. There are some that feature two wheels so they're easier to move around. Consider whether you will move your chair or keep it in one place all season.

✔️ Weight capacity: Make sure the chair can accommodate all body sizes that will be using the chair, whether it's kids, just you, or two people at once.

✔️ Material: Water- and UV-resistant pool chairs and cushions will last longer and stay in great condition summer after summer. Some materials are lighter than others, making them easier to move and store if needed.

✔️ Climate: Think about how often it rains where you live, how hot the summer season is, and if your pool chairs will be exposed to direct sunlight. You may want to opt for a heavy-duty pool chair if you live in a climate with more intense weather. And if your chair will remain outside year-round, consider how (and if) it will stand up to cold and snow.

✔️ Storage: Consider where and how you'll store your chairs in the off-season. Do you have a garage or indoor space that will fit them? Or do you have a protected area you can stack them under? Having a storage space in mind before you buy will ensure you can fit your chairs. Plus, proper storage will keep your chairs protected and thus help them last longer. You may also opt to purchase a chair cover if you don't have a designated storage area.

What material is best for pool lounge chairs?

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It's best to opt for materials that are water- and UV-resistant, as this will help ensure the chair will withstand the elements. And since you'll probably be sitting or lying on your lounge chair while wearing a wet bathing suit, consider a quick-drying mesh lounge chair. Note: If your chair has cushions, "make sure to fully dry out the cushions before storing them to prevent mold from forming," says Seymour.

Heavy-duty, weather-resistant teak and plastic will withstand rainstorms and stay in optimal condition. A lightweight material like rattan makes it easier to move chairs, which can be suitable for someone who wants to switch between sunny and shady areas of the backyard.

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Do you need to cover your pool lounge chair?

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If you want to keep your pool lounge chairs in great condition long-term, then the short answer is: Yes. "It’s best to cover the chair with a fitted, waterproof cover and put the cushions away indoors when not in use or in the off-season," recommends Seymour. While you may not always have time to cover your chairs before it rains, limiting your outdoor furniture's exposure to the elements will help maintain its longevity. Some chairs come with a cover, while others require a separate purchase. You'll also want to make sure you have a good place to store your chair and its cushions so that they are protected when not in use.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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Isabella Cavallo, assistant commerce editor at the GH Institute, most recently updated this story. She was a competitive swimmer for years and loves everything to do with the pool.

Cavallo spoke with Lexie Sachs, executive director of strategy & operations, who has expertise in materials and furniture, and Emma Seymour, Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab senior analyst at the GH Institute. Seymour graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science in Fiber Science and Apparel Design and a minor in Gerontology, and has tested luggage, towels, and more.

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