The best outdoor rocking chairs to enjoy al fresco in summer

(Image credit: SATARA Australia)

Jump to category:

Best wooden outdoor rocking chair
Best woven style outdoor rocking chairs
Best modern outdoor rocking chairs

published 16 May 2023

Quick Menu

Shop our selections by category:
1. Best wooden outdoor rocking chairs
2. Best woven style outdoor rocking chairs
3. Best modern outdoor rocking chairs

The rocking chair is a firm furniture favorite. Often used on porches, they look out across the neighborhood and provide a quiet moment for relaxation. They have a touch of the traditional about them, but this summer, we're seeing these classic staples of outdoor furniture given a modern revamp, working as both an accent chair and helping you embrace your backyard as a space for relaxation. We've earmarked 9 outdoor rocking chairs we feel are some of the best outdoor furniture pieces on the market right now.

Best wooden outdoor rocking chair

1. Outusnny wooden rocking chair

A classic wooden design made especially for sheltered outdoor use, this is your perfect porch accessory. It's a simple design, but with a slightly modern twist.

2. Outdoor rocking solid wood chair

Bring style to your porch or patio with this solid eucalyptus wood chair with a simple frame and curved rocker base. I like the foam-filled dark green cushions, easily attachable with ties.

3. Hampton porch rocker

Unwind in style and comfort on the Hampton porch rocker. This hardwood rocker features a high back and ergonomic seat, great for outdoor relaxation. It's polyurethane paint and kiln-dired wood offers outdoor protection.

Best woven style outdoor rocking chairs

1. Isola teak rocking chair

With a breathable open weave, this rocking chair is the perfect for your backyard. The bands of all-weather wicker are widely handwoven for visual lightness. The curved and rounded seat provides a comfortable cradling feel.

2. Medan Sienna red rocking chair

I like the red colorway of this rocking chair, with curvaceous arms making it a statement piece that will sit neatly on a patio. Add a couple of cozy cushions to soften the seating.

3. Lynea rocking chair

Made of solid eucalyptus complemented by a woven polypropylene seat, this simple silhouette has a Scandi look. The walnut-colored arms are a nice touch and match with the freckle grey weave.

Best modern outdoor rocking chairs

1. Voido rocker

This contemporary take on a rocking chair has a sculptural element to it. It's also available in light grey but white has a more elegant feel to it.

2. Wexler wicker rocking chair

This wicker rocking chair is rust and weather resistant meaning it's perfect for your outdoor space. Its elegant and shapely curved edge gives it a modern feel.

3. Rattan rocking chair

Designed in an organic shape, this rattan material mimics the natural look and has a relaxing recline to it, suiting a minimalist backyard.

Can rocking chairs stay outside?

Your rocking chair can stay outside depending on the material it's made from. If it is outdoor appropriate, you will be able to leave it outside throughout the year, provided you take your soft furnishings off. If you've gone for a wooden option, unless it has been treated with varnish, you will want to make sure it is sheltered from the elements. Teak is a great material for porch or patio furniture. It is durable, strong and has a great tone to it.

If you want a rattan/woven look for your rocking chair, go for resin wicker. It has the look of natural wicker but is specifically designed for outdoor patio furniture. It can be quite uncomfortable so you want to make sure you have a cushion for your rocking chair. Polypropylene, vinyl and polyester are good options that are water-resistant.

'In terms of materials, always opt for designs made from high-quality rust-proof aluminum and sustainably sourced teak or a hardwearing Neolith top,' advises Reilly Gray, co-founder of an outdoor furniture brand, Suns Lifestyle. 'Furniture that is designed for life outside won't need to be brought indoors, and if you have a pergola or covered structure (or the space and budget to add one), then this combination will set you up perfectly for year-round use.

How can I keep my rocking chair from blowing away?

If you have a particularly light rocking chair, it's susceptible to heavier winds knocking it over because of its movement. You might want to tie your furniture down with outdoor furniture weights. Alternatively, rubber stoppers can sit on either side of the chair to keep it in place and stabilize it, It will create sufficient friction that will stop it from rocking.

You can also get a windbreak and place it where the wind will come from. Thick plants can act like a small fence, or a privacy screen can do much to stop harsh winds. Some of the air will inevitably get through, but a lot will get lost in the process.

The final method is to invest in heavy furniture in the first place that won't allow your rocking chair to blow away in the first place.

Oonagh is a content editor at Livingetc.com. Previously, she worked on a London property title, producing long-read interiors features, style pages and conducting interviews with a range of famous faces from the UK interiors scene, from Kit Kemp to Robert Kime. In doing so, she has developed a keen interest in London's historical architecture and the city's distinct tastemakers paving the way in the world of interiors.