5 Best Outdoor Rocking Chairs: Review & Buying Guide

Let’s face it: rocking chairs are fantastic. They’re a classic, nostalgic style that works, and you can find them anywhere from grandma’s front porch to the local mall. They can have a modern or classic look, be lightweight and portable, or heavy-duty and sturdy. The possibilities are endless!

The best rocking chairs are made of wood or metal, are comfortable, and sometimes even have cup holders. A good rocking chair can help with stress relief, improve sleep, and relieve back pain. However, a bad rocking chair can do the opposite. There are even folding travel rocking chairs.

We want to make sure your next rocking chair not only provides a soothing experience that helps with stress relief and concentration (self-care is essential!) but also has the durability and versatility to stand the test of time. We’ll help you figure out what kind of rocker will fit into your life best—and make it a reality. Let’s get started!

Short on Time? Here’s Our List

Rocking chairs against window at the porch of a home with wood and brick wall

With so many options out there, how do you choose the best outdoor rocking chair? We reviewed several qualities and came up with this list that contains the best outdoor rocking chairs. Here they are:

  1. Christopher Knight Home Rocking Chair with Water-Resistant, Teak Finish/Cream Cushion (on Amazon)
  1. Shintenchi Outdoor 3-Piece Rocking Bistro Set, Wicker Patio Furniture Porch Chairs Conversation Sets (on Amazon)
  1. Best Outdoor Folding Rocking Chair – Best Choice Products Foldable Rocking Patio Chair
  1. Most Affordable Outdoor Rocking Chair- B&Z KD-22B Black Wood Rocking Chair
  1. Best Portable Outdoor Rocking Chair – Amazon Basics Lounge Rocker
  2. BONUS folding option: the GCI Outdoor MaxRelax Pod Rocker (also on Amazon)

Things to Look for in an Outdoor Rocking Chair

Outdoor rocking chairs are in a league of their own. They take you to a world of relaxation where there are no worries and nothing to do but sit back, enjoy the breeze, and sway.

There are quite a few things to consider before buying one of these chairs, so we’ve put together a list of the most important criteria to keep in mind while shopping. 

Materials 

Without a doubt, the material of the rocker has a significant effect on what kind of experience you’ll have! The most popular materials are wood and metal. Both have their pros and cons. Wood is sturdy and classic, but it can be pretty heavy.

On the other hand, metal is light but easy to dent or rust over time. The best rocking chairs come with wood, so look for quality wood (like cedar or teak) instead of particleboard. Look for finishes that won’t peel off or fade. 

Style

Rocking chairs come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors. If you’re going to invest in an outdoor rocking chair, make sure it’s one you can leave outside all year long.

Metal and plastic frames are great because they won’t warp with humidity or exposure to the sun. They also tend to be more durable than other materials like wicker. 

Accessories

Rocking chairs don’t have to be boring! They usually come with accessories. Look for options that include pouches with storage underneath, armrests, and cushions for extra comfort.

Some rockers come with cup holders and remote-control access, while others have built-in speakers or reading lights for convenience. These features add character to your new rocking chair.

Comfort

There are many things to look for in the best outdoor rocking chair. You want it to be comfortable—which requires considering the product materials and how wide or deep it is.

You also have to think about what style you prefer: will a wooden rocker with a lot of exposed wood meet your needs, or do you need a glider with a protective finish?

And while we’re on the subject of comfort, think about how much room you have (if you live in an apartment, in some cases, you may need a smaller option).

Health Benefits of Rocking Chairs

Did you know that rocking chairs can be good for your health? Sure, they’re great because they’re comfy and stylish, but they also provide some health benefits.

It’s true! If you want to improve your health, try this simple trick: sit in a rocking chair. Below are some of the health benefits of rocking chairs:

Stress reduction

Sitting still and rocking in a chair may sound like a waste of time. But in reality, it could be a great way to reduce stress and improve your health. Rocking chairs have been around for centuries, but there are several specific benefits that these chairs provide.

Whether you sit on your porch or in your backyard, rocking chairs give you a chance to feel the air on your skin and listen to the sounds of nature as you move back and forth. The simple act of sitting in an outdoor rocking chair increases serotonin—a hormone that helps boost mood and reduces stress.

Improves sleep quality

In addition, rocking chairs improve sleep quality. The rocking motion is similar to that of a baby the mother rocks. The move helps the baby relax and sleep because it replicates what it feels like inside the womb.

The same principle applies when we rock in a rocking chair. It makes us feel relaxed and sleepy because it mimics our early life in the womb, so we can fall asleep quickly after using a rocking chair.

However, if we are not going to sleep soon but instead are trying to reduce stress, it is better to go for an active form of relaxation such as yoga or meditation. 

Relieves back pain 

They also have the added benefit of being able to soothe the pain. Rocking chairs relieve back pain by moving the pelvis forward and backward, strengthening muscles and joints. According to a recent study, rocking chairs are great for your back.

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that sitting in a gently rocking chair was as effective as taking a pain reliever for those with lower back pain. Even if the chair didn’t eliminate the pain, it significantly reduced it.

The 6 Best Outdoor Rocking Chairs

Fireman and patriotic themed worn wooden front porch in Cape

1. Christopher Knight Home Rocking Chair with Water-Resistant, Teak Finish/Cream Cushion (on Amazon)

Sporting a modern, minimalist design and crafted from long-lasting acacia wood, this sleek garden rocker blends in with almost any interior’s aesthetic. The long rockers allow for deep, soothing motions that are perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Choose this rocker and relax outside in the summer heat, cooling yourself off with refreshing breezes as you enjoy the view. This chair features acacia wood, bringing a modern look to your space while remaining rustic. The wooden rocking chair is the perfect addition to your porch and will complement most home decor styles.

It is a perfect accessory to your space that provides classic style and comfort. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy day in your backyard or just getting a unique new chair for the living area, this item will make your space shine.

Revitalize your place with a chic, modern-day accent rocky chair. Your home’s interior design may be what sets you back once in a while, but not with this item. Make the most of your money and buy this Christopher Knight rocker now!

Pros

  • Durable.
  • Modern and Stylish.
  • Soothing and relaxing motion.

Cons

  • Not very solid, but a good value for the price.

2. Shintenchi Outdoor 3-Piece Rocking Bistro Set, Wicker Patio Furniture Porch Chairs Conversation Sets (on Amazon)

A three-seater outdoor sofa set comes with a wicker resin and stainless steel. The fabric is breathable mesh, covered with PU leather, and waterproof, clean, and comfortable. The color will not fade in the sun.

This rocking chair back is adjustable to your desired angle, and it has a 360-degree rotation for your full enjoyment and relaxation. The patio furniture cushions are made of high-density sponge and covered with high-pressure sponge outside to prevent sagging. Easy to clean water spilled on the surface because of waterproof fabric material.

Enjoy a cup of coffee on your patio or in your garden with the Japanese-style rocking bistro set. Chairs are spacious, weather and UV resistant, it is suitable for indoor or outdoor use.

The furniture set comes with a lightweight, eco-friendly black wicker, smooth powder coat, and UV-resistant resin wicker. The chair is perfect for any outside space to bring nature right into your backyard, patio, or even indoors in your living room as a conversation piece.

Enjoy a comfortable rocking bistro set, relax and entertain with family and friends. Enjoy the outdoors, even during those hot summer days, take a soak in the pool, read a book in your bistro set or listen to some music.

The 3-seat sofa sectional furniture rocker is incredibly comfortable with soft cushions and a rocking feature. It is suitable for a summer BBQ patio party, poolside relaxing patio furniture, indoor sectional bistro set to add some fun to your everyday life.

Finally, you can go to the beach without leaving anything to chance. The thick cushions and protective zippered covers offer lasting comfort and clean-up ease. Have a seat, relax, rock back and forth, take in the ocean air – your furniture won’t let you down.

You no longer have to worry about cleaning or storing the cushions during winter. You can add a mattress if you like to turn it into a bed, plus its rocker feature is a great way to relax.

Pros

  • Adjustable three-seater rocker
  • Great comfort
  • Waterproof
  • Very relaxing
  • Stylish
  • Lightweight
  • Weather and UV-resistant

Cons

  • It flattens out quickly when used by people weighing 300lbs

3. Best Choice Products Foldable Lounge Chair (on Amazon)

With this comfortable patio lounge chair, you’ll enjoy hours of relaxation under the sunshine while you and your friends’ bond over watching sports on the big screen TV. Place this cozy patio chair in your garden and lay back to soak up some sun while being shielded by the umbrella overhead.

The folding chairs are lightweight and portable. They are perfect for a day at the park, beach, or next social activity. Lightweight, mobile design plus flexible materials make these the ideal choice for you or your child’s next visit to the beach, park, or even a sporting event!

This portable U chair folds easily and quickly, making it easy to take anywhere you want to go. This folding lawn chair adds a comfy seat to any patio, and it is easy to put up and take down as needed. Relieve tension, improve blood circulation and reduce joint stress.

The setup and take-down are quick and easy! It’s an outdoor garden chair that you can use to read your favorite book, have a nap or relax. Take it with you to the beach, park, or use it at home for relaxing! Reach from a full recline to a sitting position without struggling, collapsing, or getting a crick in your neck.

Enjoy the perfect patio experience in your backyard!

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable 
  • Comfortable
  • Folds easy for easy storage
  • Easy to set up

Cons

  • It would help if you moved the chair forward to rock. It isn’t a natural rocker.

4. B&Z KD-22B Black Wood Rocking Chairs Adult Patio Carved Vintage Outdoor Indoor (on Amazon)

This blackwood rocking chair is a BEAUTIFUL, high-quality rocking chair made from solid hardwood with an attractive varnish finish. Constructed from sturdy hardwood oak, finished with a lead-free catalyzed varnish finish, and tested to comply with CSPIA standards.

It is a comfortable rocking chair with high-quality wood and finished using only the highest quality materials to ensure years of joyful use. The details of our chair, like the carved arms, turned legs, and acceptable construction, make this a piece of delight.

It is a rocking chair that provides comfort and relaxation, with high-quality assembly and durable construction. Again, this is more descriptive and explanatory than original and creative, but it includes the key attributes the manufacturer wanted to highlight.

With this, you will have a very comfortable rocking chair that you can use outside on the patio or inside your den. It comes already assembled, so you don’t have to worry about putting it together.

Looking for something great to add to your decor as you want to redecorate your home? This chair is the right choice. When you sit in this rocking chair, you feel yourself as if being seated at the porch of your own house. Every piece is carefully crafted by hand, with great care on every joint and carved work.

Relax after a long day and enjoy the music, read your favorite book or relax by yourself. The rocking chair will rock you to dreamland every time in style and comfort.

This rocking chair is be a great addition to your garden, deck, porch, or even bedrooms to rock your little one to sleep. You will experience ease in assembly and enjoy hands-on work following the instruction.

The RATTAN WOOD Oak is durable and made to last. Thus, these rocking chairs are of top quality and are guaranteed to stay in top condition throughout your time as a happy owner.

Pros

  • Easy to assemble
  • Durable
  • Attractive and nice-looking
  • Comfortable and relaxing

Cons

  • The wood is not solid

5. Amazon Basics Outdoor Lounge Rocker (on Amazon)

It can be a challenge to find a quality folding chair that you can enjoy in a wide variety of places. This navy-colored lounge rocker has an ergonomic, textilene mesh seat with elastic cording for support and comfort. It offers excellent value!

Relax with this stylish and functional portable rocking chair. It is an excellent choice for camping, vacation, whether at work, on the porch, or taking a trip. 

The Zero Gravity Folding Lounge Rocker can accommodate weight of up to 300 pounds. This chair provides comfort, convenience, and versatility. Take it anywhere for indoor or outdoor use.

It folds for easy storage and transport in the included carry bag. Also, it’s ultra-lightweight, it’s easy to bring along wherever you go. Sitting in this Zero Gravity chair feels more like floating, and you’ll never have to get up to adjust your back or legs.

Enjoy a comfortable spot to enjoy the soft summer breezes or relax in the shade of your umbrella. Be the envy of your friends as you rock comfortably on your porch all summer long. With this rocking chair, you’ll get good at rocking and relaxing.

Pros

  • Great comfort.
  • Lightweight.
  • Easy to fold for storage. 
  • Stylish and versatile. 

Cons

  • It is not suitable for short people or those over 5ft 7.

Conclusion

If you love sitting on a porch or in your front yard, then you know there’s nothing quite like relaxing in an outdoor rocking chair. With this guide, you can choose the best outdoor rocking chair and make your shopping decisions faster. Feel there is a product we left out? Let us know what it was in the comments section!

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