When temperatures start to rise, people start actively looking for a reason to leave the house, even if it’s just to read a good book on the porch. While any chair can get the job done, not all are created equally.
Anyone who’s had a cheap lawn chair collapse on them knows that fact first hand, and there are plenty of sunburned people who wish their chairs provided some sort of shade. This is where the canopy chair comes in. This type of chair allows its user to keep a canopy over his or her head to ensure that there is shade available whenever it is needed. While people certainly enjoy sitting outside without getting dehydrated and sunburned, the canopy chair also allows families with babies to enjoy the outdoors with an alternative to a big, clunky stroller. It’s a great way to get out of the sun without having to go back inside.
The canopy chair has grown beyond the simple folding chair with a top and we’ve found the standouts in the market.
Best Overall
Goplus Outdoor Canopy Chair
Best Value
Quik Shade Full Size Shade Folding Chair
Honorable Mention
ALPHA CAMP Heavy-Duty Canopy Chair
Benefits of Canopy Chairs
- Offers sun protection. Since these chairs feature a cover to offer shade, you spend less time exposed to the sun, keeping you protected from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
- Lets you sit comfortably. Regardless of whether you’re in the backyard, camping, or at the beach, these chairs make seating easy. The forgiving base lets you relax while the open design enables air to move freely.
- Keeps your items close. Canopy chairs typically incorporate cup holders. Often, they also include pockets for your valuables.
- Good to travel with. Relatively lightweight, many canopy chairs fold down compactly. Usually, they include a carrying bag so you can tow them more easily. Small enough for trunk storage, these chairs are a great option for busy lifestyles.
- Easy to store in the home. Even if you don’t have a garage, these chairs fold down small. This lets you pop them into a closet or under a bed for the next time you need quick seating.
Types of Canopy Chairs
Camping Chairs
Heavier-duty than typical lawn chairs, camping chairs usually have a lot of comfort-focused features. These often include dual cup holders, a more comfortable base, and steadier legs. Meant to be in the great outdoors, they’re made out of durable materials, often including benefits like waterproof abilities and a balance between weight and portability.
Beach Chairs
Usually, these chairs incorporate larger canopies. Since the sun shifts position throughout the day, it is generally expected that a beach chair’s canopy moves as well. The chairs are also lightweight since they need to travel to and from the beach. Another common feature is ventilation. By promoting airflow, it provides added cooling effects on warm days.
Patio Chairs
Generally featuring cushioning at the base, this type is designed for backyard use. These chairs have stable bases, though are designed to be placed on flat surfaces. Usually, the feet are more resistant to leaving behind scratches in the wood. Weather-resistant and typically heavier, this is a popular kind of canopy chair.
Top Brands
Kelsyus
Since 1973, Kelsyus has been a leading provider of outdoor products with a focus on sun protection and easy seating. With multiple options like backpack chairs and flotation devices, this business is reputable and popular. A top selection is the Kelsyus Premium Canopy Chair.
Shelter Logic
Founded in 1991 in the United States, Shelter Logic has a wide range of products, all focused on shelter. With canopies, tents, and more, there is no shortage of sun-safety options. Major brands include Quik Shade and one of its fan-favorite products is the Quik Shade Heavy-Duty Max Wide Folding Chair.
Alpha Camp
Since opening its doors in 2014, this Taiwan-based company offers a wide range of camping gear. It has a versatile selection of chairs and tents, designed to offer protection from the elements. Among its most popular selections is the ALPHA CAMP Heavy-Duty Canopy Chair.
Canopy Chair Pricing
- Under $50: Chairs in this price range tend to be smaller in size. Usually, they have a lower weight threshold and limited features.
- Between $50 and $100: There’s a wide variety of chairs in this range. Typically, the chairs are sturdy, incorporate a quality canopy, and are fairly durable.
- $100 and up: Chairs priced in this range are usually high-end models. Generally, these chairs are the longest lasting and most comfortable.
Key Features
Broad Canopy
An important component of a folding chair is the quality of the canopy. You want something which you can adjust. Ideally, the canopy can either be removed or flipped to behind the chair. It should offer a high level of ultraviolet radiation protection. The canopy ought to extend far enough to create a lot of shade. Additionally, it should promote airflow and not create resistance to strain the chair.
Sturdy Frame
It’s necessary to have a chair that touts a strong frame. Most canopy chairs are either made out of steel or aluminum, while some include both metals. Generally, steel is heavier to tow though is tougher against damage. Conversely, aluminum is a lightweight metal that won’t take on heat in the sunlight. The design factors in too, so take a look at how the legs are structured to ensure balance.
Durable Canvas
These chairs are usually made out of synthetic material. It’s important that the fabric is resistant to damage. You want something that’s well-ventilated, though it doesn’t rip or tear easily. Polyester is a popular selection since it is also resistant to water and staining. By choosing a chair that has proper stitching, you can avoid damage at the seams.
Easy-Folding Design
Usually, canopy chairs are meant to be taken from place to place. Because of this, it’s important to find a chair that folds up tightly. Opt for something that comes with a bag for easier carrying. Choose a chair that won’t pinch you when you fold it. When you pick a chair that is small when not used, you maximize your storage options.
Other Considerations
- Color and Style. You want to get the most use possible out of your chair. It’s important to select an option that works best for you personally. If you plan to use it at the beach, prioritize shade and ventilation. Camping may require a heavier-duty structure. Additionally, darker colors absorb heat more readily, so to stay cool, pick a lighter hue.
- Purpose. If you plan to take the chair from place to place, easy towing is important. Opt for something with a carrying container.
- Weight. Especially if you plan to move around with the chair, finding something that won’t add strain is essential. This is particularly important if you’re using it as seating for camping and hiking.
- Additional Features. Consider whether having pockets and cup holders is important to you. Some chairs have multiple storage options built into the structure.
- Strength. Another important criteria for a quality chair is how much weight you may end up placing on the seat. Factor in a few extra pounds for safety and be certain that the chair meets the necessary threshold.
Best Canopy Chairs Reviews & Recommendations 2021
Best Overall
Goplus Outdoor Canopy Chair
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Best Value
Quik Shade Full Size Shade Folding Camp Chair
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Premium Pick
ALPHA CAMP Chair with Folding Canopy
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Best for the Patio
Best Choice Products Hanging Curved Canopy Chair Swing
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Best for Babies
Baby Delight Go with Me Canopy Chair
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Best Reclining
GCI Outdoor Waterside Portable Chair with Sunshade
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Honorable Mention
QUIK SHADE Max Shade Chair
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Honorable Mention
ALPHA CAMP Heavy-Duty Canopy Chair
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Honorable Mention
QUIK SHADE Adjustable Canopy Chair
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Tips
- Save trunk space. Keep the folded chair in the backseat. Most models fit right next to your car seat. The size of typical canopy chairs is well-suited to this spot in the vehicle.
- Store it indoors. Though these chairs are meant to be enjoyed outdoors, don’t leave them outside. From fallen leaves to rust, spiderwebs to crawling insects, it’s better to protect the chair.
- Ensure that you check the weight threshold. Often, you may find yourself resting things on the chair. Make sure it can handle the added strain.
- Be careful of your fingers. Anytime you have a folding piece of metal, there’s the potential for pinching. Exercise caution when opening and closing the chair.
- Adjust the canopy throughout the day. The sun moves in the sky; so, if possible, shift the shade to give yourself maximum UPF benefits.
FAQs
Q: What is the best type of canopy chair?
There are a lot of great canopy chairs. The best ones are comfortable, durable, and offer a lot of shade. One of the leading selections on the market is the SwimWays Kelsyus Original Canopy Chair. This is thanks to the sturdy design and cozy seating it offers.
Q: What kind of maintenance & care is required for a canopy chair?
These chairs require limited upkeep. There are tons of items that require more in-depth maintenance. Provided you fold it up and store it properly, you can avoid issues related to rust. In the event of a spill, simply wipe it down like you would a car seat cover. While the chairs won’t get damaged by water right away, it’s best to store them indoors over the long term.
Q: Where can I use the canopy chair?
Canopy chairs are designed for use outdoors. While these chairs would work indoors, the base might scuff the ground. You can use them anywhere from sporting events to beaches, campgrounds to backyards.
Q: Where can I buy the best canopy chairs?
There’s plenty of choice for purchasing. You can go to your local sports-gear store or a big-box retailer. A popular approach is to look online and do thorough research beforehand. So long as you opt for a well-known, reputable merchant, you can get a great canopy chair.
Final Thoughts
Ready to embrace relaxation and sun protection in the comfy, cooling shade? Now that you know the ins and outs of canopy chairs, you can pick the perfect one. Happy relaxing!