When the weather warms up and the sun comes out, it’s only natural to want to shed your winter layers and head outside to soak up a little summer. But everyone enjoys being outside in different ways (and often in different degrees!). So to make the most of your outdoor experience, you want to find an outdoor lounger that fits your relaxation style. The good news is, not all loungers are destined for poolside tanning. However you like to spend your time outside, there’s probably a lounge chair for you.
Classic Poolside Lounger
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Chances are, something pretty specific comes to mind when I say “poolside lounger” – and that isn’t necessarily a good thing. Lots of poolside furniture is made more for durability than comfort – after all, it has to stand up not only to sun and rain, but also exposure to lots of chlorinated water. That said, all the important bits are there: a long, lean chaise for lounging, an adjustable back for customizable comfort, and, well, the ability stand up to your pool-wet body. That said, there are ways to improve on tradition. A durable plastic poolside lounger can actually be set up in the shallow end of your pool for an extra luxurious experience; many models add cushions and pillows for added comfort; and if you’re looking for extra style, you can’t beat a polished teak Adirondack-style lounger for a classic summertime look.
Can’t Go Wrong With A Hammock
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Hammocks are almost synonymous with lazy summer afternoons. Whether or not you grew up with one in your back yard, they’re an iconic symbol of summertime – and a perfect option if you want to kick back and nap in a little leaf-dappled sunlight. Solid fabric hammocks are a bit easier to get in and out of than traditional net hammocks, and ones with wood or metal frames make it possible to have a hammock setup even if you don’t have two trees to tie one between.
Stay Porchside With A Classic Rocking Chair
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If you love warm weather and fresh air but aren’t a huge fan of being in direct sunlight, your best bet is probably a little less beach bum and a little more sweet tea and lemonade. Old fashioned wood rocking chairs are a staple of wraparound porches from the Gulf Coast all up the eastern seaboard, and are perfect for enjoying a nice sit outside – from the protection of your covered (or even enclosed) porch, so you won’t get too much sun and can keep your distance from summertime creepy crawlies.
Cozy Porch Swing For Two (Or Just For You!)
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Another great option for those more inclined toward the shade is a classic porch swing. These come in a variety of sizes and styles, from ones you hang from the covered roof of your porch or patio to freestanding models that come with an integrated stand to keep them off the ground. Either way, porch swings are equally good for sitting or lounging, and almost always provide a little bit of shade – either from the roof above them or a built-in canopy that gives you a little extra sun protection.
Fly Solo With A Hanging Chair or Hammock Chair
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Hanging chairs are like the love child of hammocks and porch swings: they’re sized for one and hung from a tree for a relaxing free-swinging feeling, but are designed so you’re sitting upright and usually covered or shaded, making them a perfect spot to read. Especially if you want to get a little closer to nature than a porchside rocking chair allows, hanging chairs are like a portable tree house for one. And don’t worry – if you don’t have any tall trees with sturdy branches, may of these hanging chairs come with optional stands if you need them.
Hit Peak Relaxation With An Outdoor Bed
If you really want to make the most of your summer, though, it’s hard to beat an outdoor bed for comfort and versatility. Outdoor beds are bigger than your average lounger – usually about the size of a rounded-off queen bed – but they’re built 100% for comfort, with padded surfaces and pillows all over, so you can really stretch out and get comfy in the summer sun. Most come with built-in shades so you can nap without worrying about sunburns, and lots of models are modular in design, meaning you can pull them apart and convert them into seating for a crowd, so you aren’t using up all your patio space on your new favorite spot to nap!
