best folding chairs

5 Best Folding Chairs and Tips How to Buy The Best One

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Folding chairs are not only comfortable and easy to transport but also versatile. You can carry them to your camping trip or outdoor event or use them in your backyard when you have guests.

If you’re looking for the best folding chair for your office, home, or camping trips, you may feel overwhelmed by the many products on the market. However, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you so you can choose from only the best.

We considered several factors when choosing our options, including lightweight build, durability, dimensions, ample weight capacity, versatility, etc.


Compare Best Folding Chairs

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS PRICE
Helinox Camping Chair
  • Dimensions: ‎19"D x 20.5"W x 25"H
  • Special Feature: ‎Foldable
  • Maximum Weight Recommendation: ‎265 Pounds
  • GCI Outdoor Portable Folding Rocking Chair
  • Dimensions: ‎24"D x 25"W x 31"H
  • Special Feature: ‎Ergonomic, Arm rest, Foldable, Cup holders
  • Maximum Weight Recommendation: ‎250 Pounds
  • TechCare Heavy Duty Adjustable Folding Chair
  • Dimensions: ‎23"D x 19"W x 41"H
  • Special Feature: ‎Arm Rest, 7 Reclining Angles
  • Maximum Weight Recommendation: ‎400 Pounds
  • Winsome Robin 4-PC Folding Chair
  • Dimensions: ‎‎17.64"W x 32.28"H x 20.1"D
  • Special Feature: ‎N/A
  • Maximum Weight Recommendation: ‎N/A
  • Coleman Camping Chair
  • Dimensions: ‎‎‎37"D x 24"W x 40.5"H
  • Special Feature: Fol, Arm Rest, Cushion Availability
  • Maximum Weight Recommendation: ‎325 Pounds

  • Our Top Choices

    Best Overall
    Helinox Camping Chair – You can’t go wrong with this folding chair as it has a high weight capacity, durable construction, and compact size.
    Runner’s Up
    GCI Outdoor Portable Folding Rocking Chair – This chair is ultra-lightweight and folds to a compact size. It has extra features such as a beverage holder and more.
    Our Third Choice
    TechCare Heavy Duty Adjustable Folding Chair – This folding chair reclines to give you different seating positions and can carry up to 400 pounds.

    Now let’s review the above three best folding chairs and two more.


    Best Folding Chairs

    1. Helinox Camping Chair

    Pros:
    • It’s lightweight.
    • Durable as it’s solidly built of aluminum alloy and Ripstop polyester.
    • Backed by a 5-year warranty.
    • It’s easy to assemble.
    • Easy to transport as it folds down to a compact size.
    • It’s available in different colors – black, grey, and sand.
    Cons:
    • It feels a little bit unstable.
    • Can go with the wind and thus need to be tethered.

    If you’re looking for an ultra-lightweight chair with a high weight capacity to accommodate people of different weights, this chair will appeal to you. It’s easy to transport and folds into a compact size that fits into the included carrying sack that’s about the size of a water bottle. Its compact size makes it one of the best camping chairs for camping and outdoor activities.

    The Helinox camp chair measures 20.5W by 19D by 25.5H inches and has a weight capacity of 265lb. It weighs 1lb making it one of the lightest folding chairs on the market

    It has an aluminum alloy frame that makes it strong and lightweight. Its seat is made of Ripstop polyester that can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it long-lasting. The Ripstop polyester is removable and machine washable, making it easier to clean.

    Assembling the chair is easy as it features an internal bungee cord that quickly pulls the legs in seconds. Helinox has backed the chair with a 5-year warranty to assure you that the chair will last for several years.

    Overall, this is a good option for camping, traveling, trekking, and other outdoor activities.


    2. GCI Outdoor Portable Folding Rocking Chair

    Pros:
    • Folds flat for ease of storage.
    • Feature a beverage holder.
    • Has a high weight capacity.
    • Foldable hence easy to store.
    Cons:
    • It doesn’t rock easily.
    • The seat tends to lean forward.

    Our second choice for best folding chairs is made by GCI, and it’s a good choice for customers who prefer lightweight chairs for outdoor activities such as camping and trekking. It features a durable steel frame, making it perfect for heavy usage. The seat has a breathable mesh material to allow water to pass through, making the chair convenient for wet seasons.

    Another notable thing about this innovative chair model is that it can transform into a rocking chair, a feature that suits people who often sit for long hours.

    The GCI outdoor rocking chair measures 4W by 25D by 34.8H inches and has a maximum weight capacity of 250lbs. It weighs 11.8lbs.

    In addition, the chair folds easily and opens effortlessly, making it convenient for any outdoor activity. A limited lifetime warranty backs it, and thus you can rest assured that your new chair is covered for any damage that may happen to it.

    Overall, this lightweight chair features convenient carrying handles for easy transportation. It’s suitable for camping and backyard usage.


    3. TechCare Heavy Duty Adjustable Folding Chair

    Pros:
    • It has over seven different angles.
    • Has durable and sturdy frame.
    • Has ample weight capacity of over 400 pounds.
    • It has a breathable fabric.
    • Can recline up to 7 positions.
    Cons:
    • It cannot be placed on slippery surfaces such as hardwood or tile surfaces.
    • Some customers feel that it’s too small.

    If you’re looking for a folding chair that can recline back whenever you want to lean back, the TechCare Heavy-duty adjustable reclining chair will suit you. It’s made of durable materials that are perfect for prolonged usage. It has a breathable mesh that prevents your back from sweating.

    The heavy duty folding chair is heavier than the two we’ve already reviewed as it weighs 14 pounds. However, this comes with the advantage of sturdiness when you’re sitting on it. In addition, this folding chair comes with seven adjustable angles for reclining to allow you to find a comfortable angle to fit your body.

    It can hold a maximum weight capacity of 400 pounds and measures 41 inches by 23 inches by 19 inches. The TechCare reclining chair is a perfect option for those looking for a backyard seat or camping chair.


    4. Winsome Robin 4-PC Folding Chair

    Pros:
    • It has a stylish wooden design.
    • It’s available in several colors to suit your décor.
    • Versatile as you can use them both indoors and outdoors.
    • Sturdy construction.
    • They are easy to fold.
    Cons:
    • Heavy people may find them wobbly.
    • Comes in a set of 4. You cannot purchase one.

    Whether you want a chair for your outdoor or indoor space, the Winsome Robin 4-PC folding chair can be a great option. It’s one of the best ultra-high back folding chairs you can use in your backyard or at parties.

    They have a natural color, and their grain makes them stand out. Winsome has solidly built the chair using a wooden frame, making it durable for heavy usage.

    The Winsome Robin folding chair can hold up to 250lbs, and you can use the chair for different functions. Their foldable design makes them easy to store and transport. Moreover, folding to a horizontal design requires minimal effort.

    Overall, if you’re looking for a folding chair that won’t clash with your décor, Winsome’s stylish wooden chairs will suit your needs as they come in a wide range of finishes, including white, take, and walnut. Their classic sated seat and back design add a stylish café look to your backyard.


    5. Coleman Camping Chair

    Pros:
    • It has a durable steel frame.
    • It comes with plenty of accessories.
    • Comfortable seating and back area.
    • Lightweight and sturdy
    Cons:
    • It’s pretty large even when folded.

    Built for camping and outdoor enthusiast, the Coleman Camp Chair is superficially an ordinary chair, but it includes nifty accessories and some design features that accentuate its aptness for outdoor activities such as beach sitting and fishing.

    It’s a quality folding chair that’s easy to use, comfortable, and reliable, and thus worth every penny you spend on it.

    The steel frame construction guarantees the chair’s longevity and makes it withstand drops, rugged terrains, and every challenge thrown at it.

    Although the Coleman Portable Camping Chair has a lightweight design, it has one of the highest weight capacities among the five best folding chairs we have reviewed in our guide. It weighs eight pounds and has a weight capacity of 325 pounds. For overweight people, this is a chair you can trust to hold your weight without crashing.

    Another outstanding feature is the comfort of this chair. It has a spacious seating room and comes with padded back support to give you a comfortable resting place while camping.

    Coleman Quad also provides plenty of accessories, including a built-in cooler fitted on the armrests to hold up to four cans. You can easily access your drinks while relaxing on your chair. There are also side pockets to allow you to store your snacks, books, or magazines.


    Best Folding Chairs Buying Guide

    When purchasing a folding chair, there’re several factors you should keep in mind. Here are the primary considerations:

    Type of Folding Chair/Material

    The materials used to make the seat and frame are important considerations. If you’re buying a folding chair that will be frequently used, then you’d want a chair that will last longer and feel comfortable.

    There are many types of folding chairs in the market, and it can be hard to spot the right one. Here are the main types of folding chairs:

    • Plastic folding chairs. These are made from tube metal. They usually are lightweight and easy to store.
    • Wooden folding chairs. They are classier than plastic chairs and feature sophisticated designs to add aesthetic appeal to your room.
    • Hammock folding chairs. These have a cloth or rope mesh suspended on a metallic or wooden frame. They are perfect for camping.
    • Metal folding chairs. These have a metallic frame and are thus very sturdy. Most are suitable churches, halls, meetings, parties, etc.
    • Mesh folding chairs. Although pricey, these chairs are great for a hot outdoor environment.

    When buying a folding chair, the first step would be to know the type that best suits your needs. Whether it has a metallic or plastic frame, you must ensure that it holds up to the environment you put it through.


    Weight capacity

    All chairs have a weight limitation; thus, you must consider this before ordering. Kids’ folding seats may hold between 150lbs and 225lbs. Adult chairs have a higher weight capacity ranging from 250lbs and 500lbs.

    If you intend to purchase folding chairs for renting out to weddings and meetings, then you’re likely to look for an option that can accommodate individuals with varying weights. However, if you only intend to use folding chairs at home, you can go with those that fit the heaviest person at home.


    How do you plan to use the chair

    Knowing what you intend to use your folding chairs for can help narrow your options. If you want to purchase chairs for an event, then you should focus more on the style of chair and weight capacity.


    Size

    Size is another consideration you should keep in mind. Therefore, check the chair’s dimension in folded and unfolded positions. This will help determine how many chairs will fit in your space. Averagely, dining chairs measure 17 inches by 17 inches. Therefore, folding chairs will be smaller, although you can find options with broader or deeper seats.


    Frequently Asked Questions about Folding Chairs

    Can folding chairs break?

    Like other chairs, folding chairs can break if you exceed their weight capacity. However, other things can make a chair break, including poor choice of material used for construction, the style of folding chairs, and the joints.

    What are the standard materials used to construct folding chairs?

    Metal, plastic, and wood are the standard materials used to make folding chairs. Each material has its benefits and downsides, and it’s up to you to choose what suits you better.

    Are folding chairs suitable for home usage?

    Yes, folding chairs can be used in outdoor environments such as under the shade in your compound or patio. However, folding chairs are best used outdoors, such as during camping, along the beach, or on your vacation. Their lightweight and portable design make them suitable for use on the go.

    What folding chairs are best for camping and outdoor activities?

    Folding chairs that best suits the outdoors are those marketed as camping chairs. In most cases, these have UV-resistant fabric and are water-resistant. In addition, they have several additional features, such as cup holders on their armrests and side pockets. These chairs are sturdily built to withstand different weather conditions.

    How can I make a folding chair more comfortable?

    A folding chair does not have a lot of cushioning, as they’re designed to minimize the space they occupy and weight. However, some people make them more comfortable by adding a slipcover or extra cushioning to the seat. If you’re to add cushioning to your chair, make sure it’s breathable and water-resistant.


    Final Verdict

    Shopping for the best folding chair doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, especially with the five options in this guide. Finding the perfect one for your needs will take a few minutes.

    We considered many factors when compiling our list of the best folding chairs, including durability, weight capacity, usage, and extra features.

    Therefore, you can’t go wrong with any of the five folding chairs in this guide. Pick one that best suits your needs, and you won’t be disappointed.