A good garden chair is more than just a place to sit. It's the piece of furniture you use most in the garden — at breakfast, during a long summer afternoon or at an evening dinner outside. Yet many people pay more attention to the table or lounge set than to the chair itself. In this overview we list the best garden chairs of 2026, organised by type and use, so you make the right choice.
Which types of garden chairs are there?
Garden chairs come in many flavours. Which type suits you best depends on how you want to use the chair:
- Dining garden chairs — straight back, higher seat, ideal for the dining table
- Lounge garden chairs (armchairs) — spacious seat, low height, armrests, for relaxing
- Adjustable garden chairs — backrest adjustable from upright to nearly reclining, versatile
- Stacking chairs — space-saving, easy to store, ideal for small terraces
- Hanging chairs — on a stand or ceiling mount, for maximum relaxation
Which material suits you?
| Material | Advantages | Maintenance | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium | Lightweight, rust-free, durable | Minimal | Modern |
| Wicker / rattan | Warm look, comfortable | Low | Classic / Mediterranean |
| Rope | Exclusive, weather-resistant, unique | Low | Premium / modern |
| Teak / acacia | Natural, timeless, strong | Annual oiling | Natural / classic |
| Textilene | Supple, quick-drying, colourful | Low | Casual / modern |
| Plastic / polywood | Affordable, lightweight | Minimal | Casual |
Best dining garden chairs of 2026
A dining garden chair sits at the dining table. You spend 1–2 hours in it on average, so comfort matters more than you'd think. Choose a chair with a slightly tilted backrest, sufficient seat depth and cushions if you want to sit for a long time.
What to look for
- Seat height: 44–48 cm for a standard 72–75 cm dining table
- Armrests: pleasant for long meals, but check whether they fit under the table
- Cushions: not always included as standard — check this beforehand
- Stackable: handy if you want to store the chairs after use
At Boender Outdoor you'll find an extensive range of dining garden chairs from Apple Bee and Garden Impressions — from sleek aluminium models in carbon black to warm acacia chairs with rope accents.
Best lounge garden chairs of 2026
A lounge garden chair — also called a lounge armchair — is meant for maximum relaxation. Low seat, wide armrests, deep seating and always fitted with a cushion. Ideal as an addition to a chair-sofa lounge set or as a standalone armchair on the terrace.
What to look for
- Seat height: 35–45 cm — lower than a dining chair
- Cushion thickness: at least 8 cm for real comfort
- Weather resistance: choose all-weather materials if the chair stays outside
- Frame: aluminium or steel for durability, rattan or wicker for atmosphere
Browse our range of lounge garden chairs.
Best adjustable garden chairs of 2026
The adjustable garden chair is the most versatile choice: upright for the table, half-reclined for an afternoon nap. Ideal for anyone who wants two types of chairs in one. Popular are adjustable aluminium models with textilene or wicker upholstery.
What to look for
- Number of positions: the more positions, the more flexible
- Locking mechanism: must click stably into place, not fall back
- Armrests: adjustable or removable is extra comfortable
- Footrest: some models have a pull-out footrest
Osborne Adjustable Garden Chair
Best stacking chairs for outdoors
Stacking chairs are the practical choice for small terraces or people who want to use the garden flexibly. They stack easily in a corner or garage, and are quickly brought back out in good weather.
What to look for
- Stackable up to: most models stack 6–8 pieces high
- Weight: aluminium stacking chairs are the easiest to move
- Cushions: removable and washable is a must for stacking chairs
- Set of 4: often better value than buying separately
Browse our range of stacking chairs.
Best hanging chairs for the garden
A hanging chair is the ultimate in summer enjoyment. There are two variants: a standalone hanging chair you attach to a tree or balcony, and a hanging chair with a stand you can place anywhere. The second variant is by far the most popular.
What to look for
- With or without a stand: with a stand gives more placement freedom
- Material: wicker egg chairs give a luxury resort feel; textile hanging chairs are more affordable
- Weight capacity: always check the maximum weight (usually 100–120 kg)
- Cushion: a good cushion completes the hanging-chair feeling
Browse our hanging chairs from Garden Impressions, available in wicker and textile versions.
Apple Bee or Garden Impressions?
Garden Impressions has by far the widest choice in every type of garden chair, from dining to hanging chairs, at a sharp price.
Apple Bee excels mainly in premium dining and lounge chairs with Bee Wett® cushions and a heavier aluminium frame.
| Garden Impressions | Apple Bee | |
|---|---|---|
| Price range | € 150 – € 550 | € 320 – € 1,100 |
| Warranty | 2 years | 3 years |
| Best for | Wide choice, every chair type | Premium dining & lounge |
What else to look for when buying a garden chair?
- Combine smartly — choose chairs that match your existing table or lounge set in colour and style
- Weather resistance — if the chair stays outside, choose aluminium, all-weather wicker or rope
- Maintenance — aluminium and plastic require the least maintenance. Wood needs seasonal treatment
- Budget — count on a solid quality chair for a fair price. Cheaper is possible, but lifespan is shorter
Conclusion
The best garden chair of 2026 depends on your use: mainly eating at the table? Choose a comfortable dining chair with cushion. Want to relax? Choose a lounge armchair or adjustable chair. Want to save space? Go for stacking chairs or a hanging chair with a stand.
Browse our complete garden chair range at Boender Outdoor, or get in touch via phone, email or WhatsApp for personal advice.
