Best Beach Chair • Reviews & Buying Guide (November 2024)

Best Overall

WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair

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	Product	Price	Overall Rating	Material Quality	Ease of Use	Sturdiness	Features	Value for Money	load capacity	storage pouch	chair positions	foldable	material	frame	backpack included	pillow included	umbrella included	carry case	sun protection	drinks holder	lightweight	sturdy	dimensions
	WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair	Check Price	4.4	4.5	4.5	4.0	4.5	4.5	240lbs	Yes	Four	Yes	Polyester	Steel	Yes	Yes	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	22in x 31in x 26in
	Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair	Check Price	4.3	4.0	4.0	4.0	5.0	4.5	250lbs	Yes	Three	Yes	Polyester	Steel	No	No	Yes	Yes	SPF 50+	Yes	Yes	Yes	34in x 34in x 55in
	Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair	Check Price	4.7	4.5	4.5	5.0	4.5	5.0	250lbs	No	Three	Yes	Polyester	Steel	No	Yes	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	72in x 22in x 12in
	Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair	Check Price	3.9	4.0	3.5	4.0	4.0	4.0	250lbs	No	Five	Yes	Polyester	Aluminum	No	No	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	30.7in x 26.4in x 7.9in
	Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair	Check Price	4.3	4.5	4.0	4.5	4.0	4.5	300lbs	Yes	Five	Yes	Polyester	Aluminum	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Not provided

Beach chairs are often able to provide you with that delightful sensation of lying on the sand, without the unpleasant feeling of being covered from head to toe in sand. Moreover they’re easy to carry along with your beach bag, beach umbrella anchor, beach mat, and beach table in your beach cart.

If you’re taking your kids to the beach, you might want to bring a beach ball as well as a set of beach toys to keep them busy throughout the day. Also, you should carefully consider the shoes you will need during your trip to the beach: flip flops, beach sandals, or water shoes.

Comfort and safety are both taken into account with the best-known brands of beach chair.

Oftentimes, you’ll just be a few inches off the ground when you’re in a fully reclined state – and this also means you’ll be in easy reach of sunscreen and the beach cooler that you’ve probably packed with loads of sandwiches and soda cans, while being protected from the sun by a nice beach umbrella, a beach tent, or at the very least a sun hat.

Comfort and safety are both taken into account with the best-known brands of beach chair. For example, it’s possible to purchase products which come with armrests that boast a beautiful hardwood finish. Also, there are foldable beach chairs (which we’re going to be discussing in further detail later on) which are cleverly designed to ensure that there’s no possibility of trapping your fingers accidentally.

Do make sure you check whether or not a carry case is included in the box. Some innovators in the industry have gone one better, by ensuring that their chair can also be fashioned into a backpack, while others include discreet shoulder straps.

So, without further ado, let’s jump straight into our buying guide on beach chairs – enabling you to pick the right product ahead of your vacation.

Selection Of The Best Beach Chairs

Here are the best beach chairs for most people according to Outlinist:

WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair

(rated 4.4 / 5)

Material Quality

Ease of Use

Sturdiness

Features

Value for Money

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If you are looking for a beach chair that combines a classic look with features that are bang on trend, then look no further.

The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair offers all of this, as well as great value for money.

Information

The steel frame of this chair has been powder coated so that it will remain looking good no matter what the weather throws at it.

The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair provides a durable solution to sitting outdoors throughout the summer.

The steel frame of this chair has been powder coated so that it will remain looking good no matter what the weather throws at it.

And the 600 x 300 denier fabric of the chair means that it is waterproof – as well as tough and gorgeous.

The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair integrates a versatile beach chair with a functional backpack that allows users to carry all their supplies in one easy journey, so no backwards and forwards from the car to the beach – and to keep both hands free.

This is not just a case of strapping your beach chair to your back; the WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair transforms into a regular, 1500 cubic inch backpack that has room for a small cooler or other items such as your book and your gadgets.

The compartment that allows you to store your items is positioned on the back of the WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair, so once you have unfolded the chair, you can still use it to hold all of your bits and pieces – and it is easily accessible.

load capacity	240lbs
storage pouch	Yes
chair positions	Four
foldable	Yes
material	Polyester
frame	Steel
backpack included	Yes
pillow included	Yes
umbrella included	No
carry case	No
sun protection	No
drinks holder	Yes
lightweight	Yes
sturdy	Yes
dimensions	22in x 31in x 26in

This beach chair features padded shoulder straps so that carrying it, and your other belongings doesn’t hurt your shoulders regardless of the distance that you travel, so taking this beach chair on a vacation that involves walking is entirely feasible.

Once you arrive at your destination, unfolding your chair to create a comfortable place to sit and relax is easy – and you can take advantage of any of the four positions the chair is capable of providing.

The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair also boasts a comfortable pillow that will enhance your comfort – and making the desire to get up from this chair fade away completely.

Pros

The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair weighs just 10lbs so it is highly portable as well as convenient.

A beach chair that transforms into a backpack is an ingenious idea for those who want to take their chairs out of their back yards but who don’t want the inconvenience of being weighed down by carrying everything they need. It’s time to see whether this beach chair ticks all of the boxes.

• It might have wooden armrests but there’s still a cup holder: The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair sports hardwood arms, which are a great feature when it comes to long term durability, but it also has a very useful cup holder, too, which not all beach chairs with wooden arms do.
• Lightweight means taking wherever you want to is not a problem: There would be little point having a backpack that was so heavy that putting anything in it would make it unusable. The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair weighs just 10lbs so it is highly portable as well as convenient.
• Low enough to paddle, high enough to get out of: The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair measures 11 inches from the ground, which makes it low enough to be able to dip your feet in the pool or sea, but high enough to get out of without having to resort to a block and tackle.
• Folds flat for easy storage – even under your bed: What happens to beach chairs in the winter? Well, they get stored away, don’t they? That, however, is easier with some beach chairs than it is with others, but the WearEver Hi-back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair folds flat enough to go under the bed!
• The high back means you have great support: This high backed beach chair will give you great postural support while allowing you to relax and enjoy your summer downtime regardless of whether you are in your yard, on the beach, on a fishing trip, or camping. In fact, if you are outdoors, don’t forget to take this chair with you.
• Easy to carry, regardless of height: This is not the only beach chair that converts to a backpack that is on the market, but they are not all made equal. For example, some backpack beach chairs are not comfortable for smaller people to carry. Shoppers report, however, that this model by WearEver is as comfortable for someone of 5 feet to carry as it is for someone of 6 feet.

Cons

• Want to lie flat? Sorry, not possible: Many beach chairs have a multitude of positions including totally flat, but not the WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair. If this is important to you, then you need to give this chair the swerve.
• The narrow seat is fine if you have a narrow butt: Some shoppers have complained that the seat on the WearEver Hi-Back Steel Backpack Beach Chair is narrow, which means that it can get uncomfortable if you like to change your sitting position regularly.
• Air miles equals a huge carbon footprint: The WearEver Hi-Back Steel Backpack Beach Chair is an imported product, which has a negative environmental impact. Importing merchandise that can be manufactured in the States also means that support is not being given to employment on home turf.

	WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair	Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair Review »	Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair Review »
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
load capacity	240lbs	250lbs	250lbs
storage pouch	Yes	Yes	No
chair positions	Four	Three	Three
foldable	Yes	Yes	Yes
material	Polyester	Polyester	Polyester
frame	Steel	Steel	Steel
backpack included	Yes	No	No
pillow included	Yes	No	Yes
umbrella included	No	Yes	No
carry case	No	Yes	No
sun protection	No	SPF 50+	No
drinks holder	Yes	Yes	No
lightweight	Yes	Yes	Yes
sturdy	Yes	Yes	Yes
dimensions	22in x 31in x 26in	34in x 34in x 55in	72in x 22in x 12in

Summary

The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair will provide you with years of comfortable seating coupled with the versatility of a useful backpack.

The WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair will provide you with years of comfortable seating coupled with the versatility of a useful backpack. Use this chair to tote all your bits and pieces and then unfold it in order to relax.

All the things that you have carried will still be safe in the backpack pocket on the back of the chair, and you can choose from any one of the four positions this chair will cater for – and you have a pillow for extra comfort.

The downside to this beach chair is that it is an imported product, which doesn’t sit well (pardon the pun) with green issues. Additionally, you will be unable to lie flat, and you may find it difficult to get comfortable with the narrow seat – especially if you want to relax in the chair for long periods of time.

Buy WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair

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Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair

(rated 4.3 / 5)

Material Quality

Ease of Use

Sturdiness

Features

Value for Money

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The consensus among many shoppers is that the Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair stands out from the crowd compared to rival products.

But is this the case? In this thorough review, we’re going to find out.

Information

Along with a comfortable seat that’s been made out of polyester fabric, you also get spacious storage pockets – and even a bottle opener to boot.

In many ways, this reclining beach chair from Sport-Brella goes comfortably above and beyond the call of duty.

Along with a comfortable seat that’s been made out of polyester fabric, you also get spacious storage pockets – and even a bottle opener to boot.

There are also several safety features which mean it’ll be suitable for the whole family on your next summer trip.

The one thing we’ve noticed – and loved – about this beach chair is how all of those extra features have been executed to perfection, meaning that there’s no way they can be branded as another “gimmick” that’s designed to lure you in, even though it’s something that you’d never use.

For example, the cup holder is spacious – and will happily accommodate everything from a takeaway coffee to an ice cold beer.

Meanwhile, the pockets have been fully insulated on the Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair, allowing you to keep those extra beverages nice and cool for whenever it’s time for a refill.

load capacity	250lbs
storage pouch	Yes
chair positions	Three
foldable	Yes
material	Polyester
frame	Steel
backpack included	No
pillow included	No
umbrella included	Yes
carry case	Yes
sun protection	SPF 50+
drinks holder	Yes
lightweight	Yes
sturdy	Yes
dimensions	34in x 34in x 55in

As we fleetingly mentioned, safety has also been given top billing with this product. Eye safety tips have been included on the ribs of the complimentary umbrella, meaning there’s no risk of injury when it’s time to get out of the chair and take a splash in the sea.

Plus, the umbrella has also been treated with a metallic undercoating which gives it a UV protection rating of SPF 50+, in line with recommendations from the Skin Cancer Foundation. However, do bear in mind this product hasn’t necessarily been given a stamp of approval by this organization.

Instead of being an extra which continually seems to get in your way, the umbrella for this beach chair is fully detachable through the quick release tips that Sport-Brella has included. Better still, when it’s time to get back into the shade, you can secure the canopy back onto the chair in seconds.

Pros

With a load capacity of 250lbs at its most, you won’t have any trouble sidling into the chair, even if you’re a little on the heavy side.

Now that we’ve enjoyed a whistle-stop tour of some of this Sport-Brella beach chair’s top features, let’s dive in and take a look at the advantages to this product in further detail. Inexpensive yet functional, you can also look forward to:

• The recliner adjusting in three positions for your comfort: You’ll have no problem finding your happy place with this Sport-Brella beach chair. It’s easy to alternate between each mode, and the hinges aren’t stiff – which can often be a sign that the product lacks sturdiness and reliable parts.
• You can swivel the umbrella in three directions: This gives you complete 360-degree flexibility. Whether you want to tilt it upwards or downwards or to the sides, you’ll have no problem positioning the canopy into that perfect position for reading a book, or something on a tablet device.
• It’s a beach chair that’s actually really strong: With a load capacity of 250lbs at its most, you won’t have any trouble sidling into the chair, even if you’re a little on the heavy side. This generous weight allowance has been afforded to this beach chair thanks to its steel construction.
• Lightweight at just 10lbs, with a carry case included: All too often, it can seem like a real ordeal when you’re transporting a beach chair from place to place – and it’s almost like an albatross on your neck. But thanks to a free accessory provided by Sport-Brella, you’ll forget you’re carrying it!
• An extra-wide seat has been included for your comfort: It’s never pleasant when a beach chair is far too narrow, as you can almost begin to feel claustrophobic. Thankfully, this beach chair is generous in its dimensions – with its width and length both measuring in at 34 inches.
• And yes, there’s even an adjustable footrest: If you weren’t already convinced that this Sport-Brella beach chair provided luxury, this accessory should provide all of the evidence you need. Better still, it can be folded down when necessary – so it will never get in your way.

Cons

Although the Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair is by no means short of admirers, it does have a fair share of detractors – especially from people who have used this product over several seasons. Here are some of the most common downsides:

• The product is heavier and bulkier than other beach chairs: Although this chair does appear to be rather lightweight, it seems that its overall size can be a problem when you’re carrying it from the car to the beach. After all, a larger chair means it’ll be larger when folded!
• The shade diameter of the umbrella is disappointing: According to other buyers, there have been some gripes associated with how much protection you get from the sun from the attachable umbrella. Plus, it won’t be effective at all if you’re unlucky enough to be caught out in a light shower.
• Some buyers aren’t enamored with its appearance: There is also criticism about the appearance of this Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair – as some believe that it looks rather unusual. This may seem like a rather bizarre disadvantage, but it’s proof that you can’t please all the people all the time.

	Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair	WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair Review »	Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair Review »
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
load capacity	250lbs	240lbs	250lbs
storage pouch	Yes	Yes	No
chair positions	Three	Four	Three
foldable	Yes	Yes	Yes
material	Polyester	Polyester	Polyester
frame	Steel	Steel	Steel
backpack included	No	Yes	No
pillow included	No	Yes	Yes
umbrella included	Yes	No	No
carry case	Yes	No	No
sun protection	SPF 50+	No	No
drinks holder	Yes	Yes	No
lightweight	Yes	Yes	Yes
sturdy	Yes	Yes	Yes
dimensions	34in x 34in x 55in	22in x 31in x 26in	72in x 22in x 12in

Summary

It’s functional, got loads of additional features, and it’s exceptionally comfortable for lying and sitting in, too.

We really like this beach chair. It’s functional, got loads of additional features, and it’s exceptionally comfortable for lying and sitting in, too. Hey – it might not be the best-looking product that money can buy, but no beach chair has it all, right?

There are two colors available for you to choose from – midnight blue or firebrick red. Both are quite eye-catching, and you should find that the fabric doesn’t suffer from fading over time. This is, in part, thanks to how the material has been protected to a standard of SPF 50+ – helping to keep you protected from UV rays.

Given the price point, you can almost feel like you’re stealing this beach chair from Sport-Brella. It’s an investment that you’re almost definitely not going to regret.

Buy Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair

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Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair

(rated 4.7 / 5)

Material Quality

Ease of Use

Sturdiness

Features

Value for Money

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What better way is there to relax in the sun than by stretching out on a comfortable beach chair?

These days, modern beach chairs have so much more to offer than simply a place to lie down – have a look at this one by Ostrich.

Information

Toting this beach chair couldn’t be easier because it comes with its own carrying strap for instant portability and relaxation.

The Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair is a lightweight option for relaxing in your yard or on the beach.

In fact, because it weighs a mere 9.7lbs, you can take this Ostrich long chaise beach chair anywhere you like.

Toting this beach chair couldn’t be easier because it comes with its own carrying strap for instant portability and relaxation.

The Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair offers three different positions: two for comfortable reclining and the third so that you can lie completely flat in order to enjoy the sun’s rays and for an even tanning session.

The Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair features a patented open face cavity and horseshoe arm slots so that you can lie on your stomach easily. A traditional lounge chaise beach chair means you have to have your head to one side, which can lead to uneven facial tanning.

load capacity	250lbs
storage pouch	No
chair positions	Three
foldable	Yes
material	Polyester
frame	Steel
backpack included	No
pillow included	Yes
umbrella included	No
carry case	No
sun protection	No
drinks holder	No
lightweight	Yes
sturdy	Yes
dimensions	72in x 22in x 12in

A pillow is included with the Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair so that you can support your head and neck while you soak up those rays. This pulls down over the face cavity for when you choose to lie on your back.

The weight capacity for the Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair is reported to be 250lbs – but many shoppers have said that the sturdiness of this beach chair means that it can take more than this.

The Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair is available in four different colors so you can mix it up a little, or choose beach chairs that match your other outdoor furniture or accessories. Choose from green, pink, red or blue.

This lounge chaise beach chair from Ostrich has a height of 12 inches from the ground, and although that may be low for this purpose, some shoppers have said that the open face feature has allowed them to use the chair as a massage table.

Pros

The patented face hole on this Ostrich model is cushioned for comfort and support.

Lying in the sun is something that many people enjoy – but it can be spoiled by a beach chair that isn’t comfortable, so let’s have a look at what else the Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair has to offer so that you can decide if it is the one for you.

• Reading can literally be a pain when you sunbathe: Lie on your back and hold a book up in order to read will soon have your arms aching; lie on your front and you have to lean on your elbows. Use this lounge chaise beach chair and you can put your arms and face through the cavities to easily manage a book, magazine or newspaper.
• Padded cushioning that will support your face: It’s all well and good having a cavity that will allow you to lie on your stomach but the last thing you want is the edges of the material digging into your face and leaving red marks. The patented face hole on this Ostrich model is cushioned for comfort and support.
• The panda look is definitely not this season: If you enjoy sunbathing and reading you will recognize this dilemma. The sun glares onto the page, which makes your eyes ache; put sunglasses on and you end up with pale rings round your eyes. Lie flat on this lounge chaise and use the facial cavity and you will find that it creates its own shade underneath it – perfect solution.
• Durability that means season after season: The Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair has been constructed from hard wearing, heavy duty polyester and powder coated white steel so, according to Ostrich, you will be good to go summer after summer.
• Buy your Ostrich lounge chaise with confidence: It is inevitable that sometimes things go wrong with a product. These occasions are frustrating but it’s good to know that a manufacturer is prepared to back you up. Ostrich offer a 90 day limited warranty with this lounge chaise beach chair.
• Lightweight means lower fuel consumption for your auto: If you are heading on out on a road trip, then fuel consumption is inevitable – but the heavier your load, the more that you use. Fortunately that doesn’t mean sacrificing your Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair; it’s lighter weight means that you can take it anywhere.

Cons

So, we’ve had a look at the good stuff, so it’s now time to have a look at the other side of the coin and have a look at the disadvantages of the Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair.

• You don’t even have to be very tall to be uncomfortable: The Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair is 72 inches from top to toe. Yep, you do the math – that’s just 6 feet, and of course you are not going to lie with the top of your head on the frame so that means that if you are taller than, say 5 feet 7 or 8 inches your feet are going to hang off the end.
• Lying on your back could lead to back ache: Some shoppers have reported that the fabric is extremely taut on this Ostrich Lounge Chaise, which means that it doesn’t give at all when you lie or recline on your back and so doesn’t give any lumbar support.
• Rusting mechanism doesn’t help with reclining: It has been reported that the mechanism that allows the Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair to be repositioned rusts quite easily, which then makes movement difficult, if not impossible.

	Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair	WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair Review »	Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair Review »
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
load capacity	250lbs	240lbs	250lbs
storage pouch	No	Yes	Yes
chair positions	Three	Four	Three
foldable	Yes	Yes	Yes
material	Polyester	Polyester	Polyester
frame	Steel	Steel	Steel
backpack included	No	Yes	No
pillow included	Yes	Yes	No
umbrella included	No	No	Yes
carry case	No	No	Yes
sun protection	No	No	SPF 50+
drinks holder	No	Yes	Yes
lightweight	Yes	Yes	Yes
sturdy	Yes	Yes	Yes
dimensions	72in x 22in x 12in	22in x 31in x 26in	34in x 34in x 55in

Summary

Available in four different eye catching colors, this lounge chaise looks good and offers three different positions to lie flat or to recline.

The Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair has many virtues, including the patented face cavity that allows you to lie much more comfortably on your stomach than some other beach chairs. It is lightweight, which means that it’s good to stick in your trunk or to use its carrying handle to take it to the shore.

Available in four different eye catching colors, this lounge chaise looks good and offers three different positions to lie flat or to recline – and should anything go wrong you can rely on the manufacturer’s warranty.

The overall length of this beach chair however could be longer in order to accommodate taller people, and its lumbar support could be better. And, of course, a recliner is no use if it doesn’t recline so perhaps some rust inhibitor would improve this model.

Buy Ostrich Lounge Chaise Portable Beach Chair

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Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair

(rated 3.9 / 5)

Material Quality

Ease of Use

Sturdiness

Features

Value for Money

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Are you planning a vacation, or some time at the beach? If so, then maybe it’s time to buy some new beach chairs.

Or maybe you are looking forwards to some family time in your own yard. However you plan on spending your summer down time, it’s time for those chairs!

Information

This beach chair is available in a variety of great colors so you can opt to complement existing beach or yard furniture and accessories or go for contrast.

The Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair offers no nonsense functionality with a great look and easy maintenance.

Enjoy any one of the five different positions from sitting straight up to lying flat for using in any outdoor location.

And when you’re done, simply fold your Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair flat for easy storage.

The Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair is available in a variety of great colors so you can opt to complement existing beach or yard furniture and accessories or go for contrast. Colors available are: graphic arts green stripe; Pacific blue; persimmon; surfology blue stripe; red new and blue palm; surfology print, and tropical lagoon fish.

It’s all very well and good having bright and exciting colors initially – but what about fading? The Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair features polyester fabric that is fade-resistant for enduring bright colors.

load capacity	250lbs
storage pouch	No
chair positions	Five
foldable	Yes
material	Polyester
frame	Aluminum
backpack included	No
pillow included	No
umbrella included	No
carry case	No
sun protection	No
drinks holder	No
lightweight	Yes
sturdy	Yes
dimensions	30.7in x 26.4in x 7.9in

You can be certain that your fingers will be safe with the Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair. The arm rests boast a no-pinch feature that makes these beach chairs stand apart from many others.

These classic beach chairs are also waterproof so it won’t matter if they caught in an unexpected downpour or if they get sea water on them – you can simply shake it off and give them a quick wipe down without them experiencing any damage.

The armrests on the Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair are made from hardwood and have a marine finish so you can be sure that they have been constructed with durability (as well as good looks) in mind.

The seat of the Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair measures 8 inches from the ground, so you will need to think about whether this could be problematic for you because some people find it hard to get up from a low sitting position.

Pros

This chair is very comfortable – and one of the reasons for this is that the seat is roomy enough for you not to feel constricted.

It is becoming obvious that the Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair has a lot to offer but it is time to take a closer look to see what other advantages it has to offer so you can decide whether it is the chair for you.

• The take to any event beach chair: Weighing in at only 10lbs, the Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair is light enough to stick in the trunk of your car for those special days out. And because they fold flat, they don’t take up much room so there’s always room for the beach toys and the picnic.
• If rust is not the look you are after: Then these beach chairs should be on your shopping list. The lightweight aluminum from which the frame is constructed is rust-resistant so you are not going to be faced with ugly oxidation on an otherwise attractive chair.
• When sitting close to the ground has its advantages: When you sit on a Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair, you will be perched just 8 inches from the ground – which is great if you want to sit poolside or at the edge of the ocean and cool your feet in the refreshing water.
• For those last few yards to your beach spot: It’s likely that wherever you go, you are going to get out of the car and walk to your ultimate destination. That means that you will have to carry your beach chairs with you – and to make your life easier, these chairs have handy shoulder straps.
• Roomy seat so you won’t feel squished: The Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair is very comfortable – and one of the reasons for this is that the seat is roomy enough for you not to feel constricted, or to stop you changing your sitting position.
• A value for money beach chair that does what it should: Sometimes it can be tempting to spend more than we can afford because we think we will be getting something that is better quality. That isn’t the case with this beach chair: it is a great price and offers sturdiness and comfort.

Cons

Are you considering buying one or more of the Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chairs? If the answer is yes, then hang fire (and onto your bucks) until its disadvantages have been looked at.

• Weight limit is not as great as some other beach chairs: The overall weight limit on a Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair is 250lbs, which falls short of the maximum weight of many of its competitors. Obviously, this may or may not be an issue for you.
• Position sliders may let the whole thing down: The position sliders on this beach chair are made from plastic, which is a let down. Some shoppers are concerned that they should be made from the same aluminum as the frame for a longer lasting beach chair life.
• Perpendicular arm rest for re-positioning isn’t the best: In order to re-position the Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair, the arm rest needs to be perpendicular to the support on the side otherwise the cog that locks it into place won’t connect, which can be a bit awkward.

	Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair	WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair Review »	Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair Review »
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
load capacity	250lbs	240lbs	250lbs
storage pouch	No	Yes	Yes
chair positions	Five	Four	Three
foldable	Yes	Yes	Yes
material	Polyester	Polyester	Polyester
frame	Aluminum	Steel	Steel
backpack included	No	Yes	No
pillow included	No	Yes	No
umbrella included	No	No	Yes
carry case	No	No	Yes
sun protection	No	No	SPF 50+
drinks holder	No	Yes	Yes
lightweight	Yes	Yes	Yes
sturdy	Yes	Yes	Yes
dimensions	30.7in x 26.4in x 7.9in	22in x 31in x 26in	34in x 34in x 55in

Summary

The great looks of this chair will last for years to come thanks to its rust-resistant aluminum frame and its fade-resistant material.

The Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair offers a classic style combined with modern looks and a sturdy construction. Its ability to take up five different positions, including lying completely flat makes it a versatile chair for watching events, or even the world go by, as well as completely reclining to do some serious sunbathing.

The great looks of this chair will last for years to come thanks to its rust-resistant aluminum frame and its fade-resistant material – and if it gets wet you won’t have to wait hours for it to dry before you use it again.

The maximum weight load, however, is not as great as for other beach chairs, which could be a problem for some people, and the re-positioning structure and execution could be better and made simpler.

Buy Rio Brands 5 Position Classic Lay Flat Beach Chair

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Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair

(rated 4.3 / 5)

Material Quality

Ease of Use

Sturdiness

Features

Value for Money

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Summer days are meant for lounging and enjoying the fun times that the longer days have to offer.

Having a beach chair come along for the ride simply adds to the comfort of these sunny pleasures – and the right chair will make you the envy of the beach.

Information

Perfect for every family member to relax on, the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair has a weight capacity of 300lbs.

The Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair makes chilling in the sun a joy. It offers comfort as well as practical functionality.

Enjoy sitting upright to watch a ball game on the beach, or lie fully stretched out. With five positions to choose from, this chair is right for all outdoor occasions.

Perfect for every family member to relax on, the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair has a weight capacity of 300lbs.

The Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair has been constructed from 600 denier polyester fabric for a robust and attractive chair that will withstand the heat of many summers. According to the manufacturer, this is the only beach chair that you will need for years to come.

Available in a range of color options, the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair adds vibrancy to any outdoor activity with its eye-catching good looks. Choose from multi-color, blue, green and light blue, or red and blue.

Whichever color option you choose, you will discover that each Backpack Cooler Beach Chair carries the distinctive Tommy Bahama logo, as well as the tag line: ‘The Coolest Spot in Paradise’, each of which mark out these beach chairs instantly.

load capacity	300lbs
storage pouch	Yes
chair positions	Five
foldable	Yes
material	Polyester
frame	Aluminum
backpack included	Yes
pillow included	Yes
umbrella included	No
carry case	No
sun protection	Yes
drinks holder	Yes
lightweight	Yes
sturdy	Yes
dimensions	Not provided

Purchase the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair and you will discover that the days of struggling down to the sand carrying towels, a beach chair and all of your other paraphernalia are just a bad memory. Folding down to create a backpack, this chair makes transportation easy.

Gone, too, are the days of having to drink warm soda or beer when you set up your beach chair – or having to tote a separate cooler with you – the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair has its own insulated cooler built in.

Other features of the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair include cargo pouches to carry your book, sunglasses and sun protection, and a folding towel bar so you’re good to go – wherever you go!

Pros

Being able to adjust the pillow that is included with the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair offers more in the way of comfort.

A beach chair is not exclusive to the beach. It is an integral part of many outdoor activities from tailgating before a game to a camping trip – and as such it needs to be comfortable as well as fitting in with your other requirements, so let’s have a look at what this one has offer.

• Powerful colors that will stand the test of time: The Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair has been created to fit in to the beach scene perfectly – and that includes the parrot-bright range of colors it is available in. To ensure those colors remain vibrant, they have been treated with UV protection to prevent fading.
• Adjustable pillow for the ultimate in comfort: Being able to adjust the pillow that is included with the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair offers more in the way of comfort. Position it so that your head and neck are supported while you catch the rays.
• Padded shoulder straps for easy backpack carrying: Even if you drive to your location, there’s a chance that you will need to do some walking to get to your eventual destination – and if you have other things to carry or are waking over tough terrain you need to have your hands free. Not only does this chair become a backpack but the shoulder straps won’t dig into you.
• …With the option of carrying by hand: If you are only walking a short way, you may prefer to just grab your chair and go. That’s fine, because the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair boasts a rubber carry handle just for those occasions.
• How to keep the sand out of your drink: The Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair features a useful cup holder in the chair arm so you don’t need to balance your bottle, can or cup on the sand and risk a mouthful of mica every time you have a sip.
• Molded chair arms and room for gadgets: The arms of this Tommy Bahama beach chair are constructed from molded plastic for a more comfortable arm position. And, although you can store your gadgets in the cargo pocket, it’s good to have your cell phone handy so the chair sports a holder for it in the arm.

Cons

It isn’t often that everyone is unanimous in thinking that a product offers only the best, so it is time to have a look at what might stop you from choosing the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair.

• Backpacking when you’re on the short side: Some shoppers have reported that the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair is not the most comfortable to use as a backpack if you are around the 5ft mark. It’s still doable, but perhaps not for very long.
• Zippers that should stay zipped for longer: One of the complaints that a few purchasers of the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair made was the weakness in the various pouch zippers. They have a tendency to break after only a few uses, which can lead to the contents falling out.
• Low to the ground can be a problem: The seat of this beach chair is only a few inches from the ground, which can make it difficult to get out of. If it was a little higher it would be possible to get better purchase with your feet on the ground rather than having to make an undignified scrabble.

	Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair	WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair Review »	Sport-Brella Recliner Beach Chair Review »
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
load capacity	300lbs	240lbs	250lbs
storage pouch	Yes	Yes	Yes
chair positions	Five	Four	Three
foldable	Yes	Yes	Yes
material	Polyester	Polyester	Polyester
frame	Aluminum	Steel	Steel
backpack included	Yes	Yes	No
pillow included	Yes	Yes	No
umbrella included	No	No	Yes
carry case	No	No	Yes
sun protection	Yes	No	SPF 50+
drinks holder	Yes	Yes	Yes
lightweight	Yes	Yes	Yes
sturdy	Yes	Yes	Yes
dimensions	Not provided	22in x 31in x 26in	34in x 34in x 55in

Summary

The aluminum frame makes this beach chair lightweight for carrying, yet its 600 denier fabric makes it capable of holding up to 300lbs.

The Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair is a sturdy chair that is suitable for many outdoor activities – from lounging on the beach to being a spectator at a game. Being able to transform it into a backpack makes getting it about easy – and its onboard storage areas are practical and useful.

The aluminum frame makes this beach chair lightweight for carrying, yet its 600 denier fabric makes it capable of holding up to 300lbs. The UV protection that the chair offers means that the bright colors won’t fade regardless of how much sun exposure it has, which augers well for many years of looking good.

On a not so good note, the zippers should be of a better construction, and it would be better if the height of the seat was altered to make it easier to get out of. There isn’t a lot that can be done about how tall you are but bear it in mind if you want to use this chair as a backpack.

Buy Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Beach Chair

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Buying Guide

If you’re a regular beachgoer, and hate the idea of constantly having to hire out chairs from your chosen destination, buying your own can save you cash.

But to get the best return on your investment, it’s wise not to skimp on quality.

The beach chairs of today are a far cry from what they used to be – creaky, unstable products where you lived in constant fear that you were going to fall through the middle of it and get up trapped.

Although some beach chairs can appear to be a one-stop-shop for your entire holidaying experience, remember that it’s unwise to pay through the nose for features you’re probably never going to need.

Now, they’re the epitome of comfort. Some manufacturers even include pillows at the top of the lounge chair – meaning that they become a highly desirable destination for a brief snooze in the afternoon, or a snuggly den where you can read a newspaper.

What’s more, most products these days are also poles apart from their garish counterparts that you’ll likely remember from the 1960s and 1970s.

Gone are the dull stripes which seemed to adorn every single beach chair in existence – as they have now been replaced with beautiful splashes of color which will make you stand out from the crowd wherever you go. Now… who said that you couldn’t make a fashion statement with a practical product?

Although some beach chairs can appear to be a one-stop-shop for your entire holidaying experience, remember that it’s unwise to pay through the nose for features you’re probably never going to need.

For example, some chairs can come with several cup holders where you can store your drinks – and I think we can all agree that this is a little over the top. Just one is going to be more than sufficient in most cases, and this means that you get the opportunity to use the armrests for stretching out and watching the world go by.

In this buying guide, we’re going to explore the five characteristics of beach chairs that you really need – stuff that you should make sure is executed to the finest quality so you don’t suffer from buyer’s remorse in the months after purchase.

Storage pouch

During a heat wave, it’s likely that the beach will be teeming with people who all had the same idea: hit the waves, enjoy the sunshine, and make sandcastles. However, the downside to this is how space to pitch up your gear can be at a premium.

Because of this you should heavily consider choosing a beach chair which comes equipped with nifty pockets where you can store some of the essentials.

Always check to see whether your storage pouch comes with a mesh lining.

It helps guarantee that nothing is going to get lost during your travels, and means grabbing the sunscreen or a carton of orange juice for the kids can be achieved without even having to get up. Now that’s relaxation at its fullest!

What you’ll be able to stow away in this storage pouch depends on the beach chair you opt for, and how cavernous the space it provides really is. Sometimes, pockets can be so shallow that they’ll accommodate nothing more than a pair of sunglasses, while others are far more generous and can fit towels and several books.

Always check to see whether your storage pouch comes with a mesh lining. You will find this useful for two reasons.

Firstly, it helps to ensure that condensation from any cold drinks doesn’t cause the rest of your stuff to become damp. Plus, it also makes drying towels and swimsuits a lot easier, because there will be plenty of air circulating through the storage pouch at all times. Better still, it also means that it’s a safe place to store your sandwiches and snacks for lunchtime – as the last thing you want is bits of sand and dirt coming into contact with your food.

It’s important that the manufacturer constructs the storage pouch out of a resilient material which isn’t going to tear easily.

After all, it’s highly plausible that you might rely on this pocket to keep your car keys or wallet in a safe place – and you don’t want any jagged edges to create an irreparable tear in the fabric.

Material

Moving on down the shopping list, pay a great deal of thought to the materials which have been used to construct the beach chair – both in terms of fabric, and the frame which ensures it remains sturdy and weatherproof when placed on the ground.

Although aluminum is the lightest frame on the market by a country mile, freeing you up to carry other stuff as you trudge to your favorite spot on the beach, it can dent if you’re not too careful – but this shouldn’t affect its structural integrity all that much.

Wood also comes recommended because it won’t conduct heat and become dangerously hot, even if it’s been left out in the sun for most of the day.

Wood also comes recommended because it won’t conduct heat and become dangerously hot, even if it’s been left out in the sun for most of the day. Sure, they might be a little heavier, but in terms of safety around children, they’re unrivaled. You should purchase some varnish as an accessory, as giving it a bit of treatment every summer – when combined with gentle sanding – keeps it looking as good as new.

Then there’s steel, another popular contender for beach chair frames. However, you’ll normally find such products are on the pricier end of the market, and there’s no guarantee that they will be fully resistant against rusting.

Moving onto the fabric, you’ll want something that’s tough without compromising on your comfort. It should be so soft that you can effortlessly drift away to the sound of crashing waves, without having to budge around and find the perfect position.

It’s important that this material offers plenty of ventilation, too – otherwise your back could become rather sweaty because it hasn’t been allowed to breathe and get some fresh air.

Polyester is particularly common – and this is in part because of how it’s durable and can handle the beach chair constantly being shunted into different positions. It’s also unlikely to lose its color over time.

An idea you might want to consider, for added luxury, is taking along a towel which you can drape over the chair. It’ll keep you warm if the clouds set in, and guarantees added softness, too.

Umbrella included

We love beach chairs which boast this feature – as usually, umbrellas are an accessory that you would feel compelled to purchase separately anyway. Once you’ve applied some strong sunscreen, a dependable canopy means you can feel less guilty about dozing off for a little while as you enjoy an afternoon nap.

You should check to see whether or not the position of the umbrella is adjustable – after all, if your chair has several positions, yet the canopy is inflexible, you’ll find yourself thinking that this is a gimmicky feature with no real value.

Thankfully, most umbrellas can swivel in three directions, allowing you to tilt it and tweak its height until it’s in an optimal position.

Thankfully, most umbrellas can swivel in three directions, allowing you to tilt it and tweak its height until it’s in an optimal position. And, once you’ve read that gripping chapter of your favorite book – or perhaps completed a particularly grueling crossword puzzle – you can normally fold it behind the chair to carry on sunbathing.

Always make sure that the fabric which has been used for the umbrella is UV resistant. Although it won’t shield you completely from UVB rays which can endanger the skin indirectly, you will help to lower the risk of sunburn or unwanted damage.

One feature that’ll put your mind at ease is a metallic undercoating, as this indicates the fabric has been treated to offer sun protection to a standard of SPF 50 or more.

Any umbrella which has been affixed to a beach chair should also have your family’s safety in mind. If it’s placed directly over the lounger, it’s possible that your head could collide with the umbrella once you get up.

For this reason, most manufacturers of these high-end products include safety tips on the end of an umbrella’s ribs, helping to stop something sharp from coming into contact with your eyes.

A final flourish of detail that never goes amiss are umbrellas which can be detached from the beach chair effortlessly. They normally include clips that attach and detach the accessory in a matter of seconds – perfect for indecisive holidaymakers.

Carry case

This characteristic of beach chairs is normally found in products which have been tailored for holidaymakers heading on backpacking or camping vacations.

However, in recent years, it’s become far more of a mainstream feature – given how it gives you plenty of freedom to lug around sand buckets, toys, coolers (and your children!) from A to B.

In some cases, you may not be given a storage bag by the beach chair manufacturer – but a carrying strap which can be placed over your shoulder, making it look like an oversized tote bag of sorts.

In some cases, you may not be given a storage bag by the beach chair manufacturer – but a carrying strap which can be placed over your shoulder, making it look like an oversized tote bag of sorts.

Bearing this in mind, you should check to see what the beach chair’s dimensions are when the product is folded, as if it’s rather long, it can end up dragging along the floor and scuffing the frame – as well as being really uncomfortable to take with you.

We’ve read extensive reviews before bringing this buying guide to you – and it appears that one major gripe that many shoppers have with complimentary carrying bags and cases is how they’re not very well designed.

This often means that packing away the beach chair after you’ve enjoyed a day of sun, sea and sand can be nothing short of a nightmare – as the bag doesn’t appear to be wide enough (or deep enough) to properly accommodate the chair in its folded state without part of the frame peeping out.

Plus, if you end up getting impatient and trying to effectively shoehorn the beach chair into the case, you end up with another problem: bags made out of weak fabrics can often split, meaning that you’re left without any accessory to transport it at all.

As such, you should always check to see what other shoppers’ experiences are with carrying cases that have been included for free alongside your chosen beach chair. Although they can be an absolute blessing when they’re made with love and care, it’s something of a hollow gesture when they aren’t up to the task.

Lightweight

Most manufacturers these days do provide information about how much their beach chair weighs when it’s in a folded or compact state. This can give you a clear idea of whether or not it’ll be easy to manage if you have a long way to walk from a car park to the beach. If you’re not familiar with kilograms, which seem to be the norm these days for providing weight, don’t despair – you can normally get a conversion into pounds with a nifty converter!

For the most lightweight option, we highly recommend aluminum – not least because you’re also guaranteed that it’ll be quite an inexpensive material, too.

Now, as we explored earlier, the frame that you select for the beach chair will have a considerable influence on how much the product weighs – and the same goes for heavy-duty fabrics which can send the scales spinning.

For the most lightweight option, we highly recommend aluminum – not least because you’re also guaranteed that it’ll be quite an inexpensive material, too.

The great thing about selecting an aluminum beach chair is how you also won’t have to compromise on the load capacity of the product. In layman’s terms, this is how much of a person’s weight the frame can support without it beginning to bend, become unstable, and start to list.

The average load capacity we’ve seen from the most popular products on the market rests between 250lbs and 300lbs (or 113kg to 136kg.) In a nutshell, this is really generous – not least because of how your weight will most likely be distributed throughout the beach chair pretty evenly once you’re in a reclining state.

You should be able to relax all on your lonesome, or invite the kids onto your knee to top up on sun cream, without damaging the structural integrity of the chair.

So – in summary, there are five characteristics that you should be looking for in the best beach chair for summers of intensive, enjoyable, and above all, relaxing use.

Storage pouches will go a long way to keeping your stuff safe and secure, the materials should be light but durable, and an umbrella always comes in handy. Plus, a good carry case is a bonus, too.

Chair positions

Now first up, we’re going to talk about chair positions – and give you a solid idea of what some reviewers liked (and others loathed) about this feature when they were starting to use their beach chairs for the first time.

It’s very rare that you’ll find a beach chair which is completely inflexible, meaning you can’t adjust the reclining height to match your mood. For example, whereas you may want to be sunbathing at one point – lying on your back – it’s highly possible that you’ll prefer to sit up and read your book at another point during the vacation.

It’s very rare that you’ll find a beach chair which is completely inflexible, meaning you can’t adjust the reclining height to match your mood.

However, it’s important to make sure that this characteristic in beach chairs is executed well. Some shoppers were left incredibly disgruntled by how the hinges and brackets which enabled you to move the chair’s position weren’t properly covered, meaning you ran the risk of trapping your fingers (or worse, your children’s) as you made the adjustment.

Others were displeased by the shoddy construction of the hinges and brackets to begin with, as in some products, they were vulnerable to snapping off in your hands after just a couple of uses. That’s not bang for your buck, is it?

You should fully expect to be able to bring your chair up and down as many times as you please without noticing any wear and tear – for a couple of seasons at least.

On a positive note, many reviewers have been bowled over when the hinges were nice and smooth, meaning they glided effortlessly between positions.

You don’t want there to be an immense struggle on your hands every time you want to change the beach chair’s position – and ideally, it should take barely any physical exertion at all.

Plus, always check to see whether or not the mechanism you’re going to be using to change the chair’s position is in a sensible place. It should be easy to reach, without being in an area where it can be caught accidentally.

Frame

The frame is also going to be among your top considerations – but do bear in mind that some of the nicest looking, sturdiest and most long-lasting materials are going to prove exceptionally heavy to carry around, meaning that they don’t constitute an ideal candidate for a portable beach chair.

Each has their own advantages or disadvantages. For example, if you do decide to plump for a beach chair with a metal frame – say aluminum or steel – you’ve got to remember that they are going to conduct heat to an extent, meaning they’ll likely be hot to the touch once the product has been out in the sun throughout the afternoon.

You should check whether or not such frames come with added safety features to prevent your skin coming into contact with the hot metal.

You should check whether or not such frames come with added safety features to prevent your skin coming into contact with the hot metal – not least because it shouldn’t be necessary to continually keep a watchful eye on your children, for fear that they might get hurt.

As you’d imagine, wood didn’t rank very highly in many of the reviews we found – as many shoppers were looking for beach chairs which were portable and easy to maintain.

If you want furniture that’s lightweight and hassle-free for trips to the beach, you’re probably going to find that aluminum and steel are the only two materials you’ll be able to consider. Wooden beach chairs will come into their own when you’re looking for furniture that’s going to be permanently based in your garden.

When erring over whether aluminum and steel should be the eventual victor in your quest for a beach chair, look for a product that strikes the happy medium between durability and no maintenance.

Aluminum frames are susceptible to denting, which over time, can affect the sturdiness of the product. However, steel frames do need to be taken care of – otherwise the metal begins to rust, and your beach chair will look unsightly.

One way to create a compromise is by opting for a beach chair which is equipped with a steel frame, yet also provides wooden armrests.

Backpack included

A backpack represents the ultimate in portability for your beach chair – and, as you’d imagine, it frees up your hands for the other bits and bobs that are also coming along for your day out. However, it’s important to do a little bit of research into the quality of the carrying case that’s been provided, as otherwise, it can end up being more of a hindrance than a help.

For example, you should check whether or not the backpack has been integrated into the chair itself, or whether it’s separate. If it’s attached onto the furniture, you’ll normally find that it folds away more efficiently – and then all you need to do is place the straps provided over your shoulder before you’re ready to go.

The shoulder straps that have been provided should ideally be adjustable, as this ensures that the beach chair won’t be positioned too far down your back.

Meanwhile, when the bag is completely separate, you may find it frustrating when it’s time to shove the chair back into the case – especially if the furniture is a nightmare to fold already. Always opt for chairs which fold up neatly, into a perfect rectangle, as this also means they can be stacked up on top of one another if you decide to purchase them for several members of your family.

The shoulder straps that have been provided should ideally be adjustable, as this ensures that the beach chair won’t be positioned too far down your back. They also need to be made of strong stuff, as otherwise, they could snap unexpectedly owing to the weight of the product – and you may end up needing a brand-new chair.

Plus, make sure that the beach chair is of a sensible weight. If you are being expected to lug around a really heavy piece of furniture on your back, you could find that you begin to experience joint pain.

Usually, most shoppers and manufacturers recommend that you only use the backpack provided for a beach chair over short distances – unless it’s designed for camping, where you’ll probably be able to cover many miles.

Drinks holder

A drinks holder can be the perfect excuse to become completely lazy during your vacation. There will be no need to sit up and rummage around for your soda can, because it’s already going to be there – sitting pretty in the armrest!

Depending on the model of beach chair you buy, you’ll normally find that the drinks holder is integrated into the armrest somehow. This might be through a hole that has been placed midway along the arm, or at the end.

Ideally, you’ll want to go for a drinks holder which isn’t going to stop you from being able to lay your arm across the whole rest without any obstructions.

Ideally, you’ll want to go for a drinks holder which isn’t going to stop you from being able to lay your arm across the whole rest without any obstructions – otherwise it can be pretty uncomfortable.

Of course, the one disadvantage of a drinks holder (unless you’re planning on drinking soda or beers at the speed of light,) is how the can, bottle or cup can become really lukewarm as it languishes in the sun.

One way to solve this problem is by going for a storage pocket instead. Provided you have a screw-on bottle cap, it means it can be kept cool in a dedicated mesh holder that’s normally found to the side – or underneath – your seat.

Another thing to consider is how large the drinks holder is going to be. If the space provided has a really disappointing diameter, you may find it’s impossible to store a beer can or a larger bottle of water in there – defeating the object of this feature altogether.

Equally, seriously think about whether beach chairs with multiple drinks holders along the armrests are actually going to be of benefit to you. Some can come with two, four or even fix spaces where you can store liquid – and these are normally evenly distributed along each arm.

Although this may be advantageous if you have a large family, and you want everybody to have easy access to their drink – it’ll prove to be nothing more than a gimmick if you’re just heading to the beach with your significant other.

Dimensions

And last, but by no means least, let’s talk about the dimensions of your beach chair – which can often fluctuate wildly.

The main things you’re going to need to account for, in turn, are height, width and length. It’s about striking a balance between purchasing a chair that’s far too big (meaning you’ll become enemy number one on a packed beach,) and one that’s way too small – meaning it’s really uncomfortable to sit in for prolonged periods of time.

Height can refer to how far you’ll be off the ground when the beach chair is in a fully reclined position.

Height can account for two different things. It can refer to how far you’ll be off the ground when the beach chair is in a fully reclined position. Additionally, the manufacturer may be indicating how tall the furniture is going to be when it’s bolt upright.

Length is also something that you’re going to want to consider. It can be particularly annoying when your feet end up dangling off the ends of a beach chair when it’s all the way down and you’re trying to lie flat.

Because you’ll often have to end up in a fetal position – guaranteeing that your feet won’t get constantly knocked around by the kids as they run feverishly past – it can also mean that you wind up with an uneven suntan.

Also, if there is a bit of the frame exposed on the end of the chair, it can also cause bruising on your legs. As such, the motto to consider when looking at beach chair lengths is simple: the longer, the better!

Then, you’ll need to account for the width of the beach chair – especially if it’s equipped with armrests. If the furniture is too narrow, it’ll lack the roominess you expect – and it’s also possible that the chair will remain attached to you when you stand up, which is very rarely a fetching look!

To ensure that you have all the room you need, don’t be afraid to go for a wider chair, or at the very least, a model which allows you to take the armrests all the way down so they don’t cause an obstruction.

Our pick for the best beach chair is: WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair. This choice was made after spending 39 hours researching beach chairs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Without a doubt – just like any other product – the one thing you’re going to be most concerned about is whether or not the beach chair is durable. If it begins to fall apart when you’re days into your holiday, it can prove to be both annoying and expensive, especially when you have to start hiring expensive sun beds from the beach as an alternative.

So: what are the telltale signs that a beach chair isn’t going to let you down?

Ideally, the beach chair should also have a “wipe clean” fabric – allowing you to get rid of any stains without a second thought.

Well, there should be a lot of emphasis on weather resistance. This should be in the form of the fabric, which shouldn’t begin to lose its color – irrespective of how long it has been left out in the sun for.

Ideally, the beach chair should also have a “wipe clean” fabric – allowing you to get rid of any stains without a second thought, and without them becoming a permanent addition to the product’s appearance.

Next, you should ensure that the chair can withstand the odd downpour. The fabric should be able to dry quite quickly – as usually it will offer plenty of ventilation which allows the chair to “breathe.” This is also useful for whenever you’re taking a break after a dip in the sea, as your swimsuit should be dry in no time at all.

Always carefully comb through reviews for any indication that the beach chair isn’t rustproof. It can be highly inconvenient and annoying when the frame begins to discolor, and you have a right to quality workmanship.

Thankfully, beach chairs are really cheap to buy online, available in a plethora of colors, and normally, the pictures that you’ll see alongside the product descriptions do provide a realistic representation of the beach chair. Typically, dimensions are also provided for your reference.

What is the load capacity?

This is arguably the most important specification of your beach chair, and the reason why is simple: if you don’t do your homework, it’s possible that the product will be unable to support your weight, causing the frame to become irreparably damaged.

And, if you failed to check the load capacity of the chair before purchase, it won’t be protected under the manufacturer’s warranty – because it was your error (and duty) to make sure that you bought the correct product for your requirements.

Remember that opting for furniture which can take greater amounts of weight doesn’t necessarily mean that the chair is going to be heavier to carry around, too.

No matter whether how much you weigh, there is going to be a beach chair that’s suitable for your requirements. As a minimum, load capacities with these products tend to rest around the 250lbs mark – but some chairs can handle up to twice as much without breaking a sweat.

In many ways, it all depends on the frame that your beach chair has been made of, and do remember that opting for furniture which can take greater amounts of weight doesn’t necessarily mean that the chair is going to be heavier to carry around, too.

If you have the budget to buy products which have been constructed out of steel or aluminum, you’ll be delighted with the exceptionally portable nature of these chairs – as they can weigh less than 10lbs.

It’s important, however, to make sure that you always use the beach chair as instructed, distributing your weight evenly across the surface that’s been provided.

Some disgruntled shoppers have reported, for instance, that the adjustable armrest snapped off their chair when somebody sat on it. However, if the instruction manual provided with your product specifically warns you against such use, it’s likely that you only have yourself to blame.

Is the beach chair foldable?

Folding beach chairs are all the craze these days, and that’s because they’re immensely convenient for ferrying to and from your favorite sunspot. It means that products with rather hefty dimensions – in terms of width, length and height – can be compressed down into a size that’s small enough to constitute a backpack.

An added feature that you’ll normally enjoy with folding beach chairs is the opportunity to pick and choose from an assortment of sitting positions. Whereas some products will offer three preset modes, others may offer five or more.

There are even items out there which offer the ultimate in personalization – allowing you to gradually adjust the seat until you find the perfect angle for you.

There are even items out there which offer the ultimate in personalization – allowing you to gradually adjust the seat until you find the perfect angle for you. This could be especially advantageous if you’ve struggled with neck or back problems in the past.

The one thing to check with this specification is whether or not the hinges are going to prove highly resistant against wear and tear. Unfortunately, this can prove to be a major downside to foldable beach chairs, because the fixtures can’t handle continual movement and abrasion. As a result, it could mean that the folding mechanism stops working altogether – throwing any prospect of portability out of the window with it.

As these fixtures can be impossible to replace by purchasing replacements on the web (unless you’re a highly skilled mechanic,) consider choosing a manufacturer which has a devoted section in its warranty to these fixtures.

That way, you can rest assured that your investment is covered if the hinges deteriorate through no fault of your own.

Finally, make sure that the chair folds into a flat, stackable shape – as this’ll be ideal if you need to store more than one in your loft.

Will a pillow be included?

Unfortunately, lying on a beach chair isn’t always the comfortable experience you may think. That’s because there may be instances where the fabric that’s been placed on top of the frame – typically polyester or Sunbrella, both man-made textiles – haven’t been padded.

This is normally remedied by throwing a beach towel over the beach chair, which gives you a soft place to recline, and also stops the chair from getting wet and covered in sand throughout the day.

Because you may be lying flat – or at a heavily reclined angle – it can be impossible to get comfortable when your head hasn’t got a little bit of elevation.

However, a towel won’t solve the frustration you can often experience from the lack of a pillow. Because you may be lying flat – or at a heavily reclined angle – it can be impossible to get comfortable when your head hasn’t got a little bit of elevation.

This is why many beach chair manufacturers include a pillow for free along with their product. It may be sewn into the fabric, or secured into place with Velcro or a similar type of fastening.

You should check to see whether or not it is removable, and more importantly, machine washable – as you don’t want your loved ones or your children to be lying on a dirty pillow which cannot be removed from a beach chair that’s been in the family for several years.

From an aesthetics point of view, it’s also worthwhile to see whether or not you can find a beach chair where the pillow has a matching pattern to the rest of the fabric. It certainly presents a nice finishing touch – especially if the color of the chair is quite distinctive to begin with.

There’s no need to pay extra just so you have the privilege of a beach chair with a pillow, as this can also be bought as an inexpensive accessory.

Does it provide sun protection?

Another important consideration to make when you’re purchasing a beach chair is whether or not it comes with additional accessories to ensure that you can be given some welcome respite from the sun on a hot day.

Usually, you’ll be able to choose from an awning of some kind, or an umbrella. If you’re really innovative, it might even be possible to drape some sun resistant fabric over the chair – but this can be quite a tricky thing to achieve, especially if it’s windy in the coastal region where you’re enjoying a vacation.

More often than not, you’ll find that the simplest solution out there is to invest in a beach chair which comes with an umbrella that can be adjusted until it’s directly over your head and upper body.

More often than not, you’ll find that the simplest solution out there is to invest in a beach chair which comes with an umbrella that can be adjusted until it’s directly over your head and upper body.

However, do bear in mind that not any old fabric is going to be up to the task. Instead, it’s crucial for you to ensure that the canopy has been pre-treated with a coating that gives it UV resistance to an SPF 50+ standard – or, alternatively, a metallic undercoating that works to a similar effect.

UVB rays – widely perceived to be among the most damaging by skin cancer experts – can still permeate through fabrics without a strong SPF rating. As a result, it’s highly plausible that you could still get sunburn while underneath an inadequate umbrella.

In many ways, it’s akin to being out in the midday sun when you’re just wearing a T-shirt. Although your skin may be covered, in a way, it’s still going to become reddened and sore with prolonged exposure.

As such, the advice is always to wear sunscreen when you’re at the beach – even if you have a snazzy chair with a SPF-coated umbrella.

Is the chair going to be sturdy enough?

This is kind of related to load capacity, which we were discussing in detail a little earlier in this buying guide. When you are out purchasing a beach chair, you should be able to expect a product which feels solid – so you can recline and relax without fear that it’s going to collapse under your weight at any moment.

If your beach chair lacks the sturdiness you deserve, it’s possible that it may list to one side – meaning that you end up sitting or lying at an angle.

Given how you might be using a beach chair in the sand, it’s important that the legs can handle slightly uneven surfaces.

Worse still, it won’t hold firm whenever you make even the slightest of moves – making you feel seasick even though you’re meant to be on dry land.

Given how you might be using a beach chair in the sand, it’s important that the legs can handle slightly uneven surfaces. The legs on the frame should also be nice and long, enabling it to have more contact with the ground.

You might want to consider checking how tall the beach chair will be off the ground when it’s in a fully reclining state – as this can also be a strong indicator of how strong and sturdy the product is going to be. After all, the lower it is off the ground, the less grief you’re going to have with occasional gusts of wind.

So, in summary, let’s go over the five specifications you should expect from your brand-new beach chair once again.

First, always check the load capacity to verify whether it’s compatible with your weight. Next, consider whether you can fold the beach chair to make transportation easier. A complimentary pillow always goes a long way, as does sun protection features to keep your family safe. And finally, a sturdy chair never offends!

Our pick for the best beach chair is: WearEver Hi-Back Deluxe Steel Backpack Beach Chair. This choice was made after spending 39 hours researching beach chairs.

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