The weekend is here, it is time to unwind and all you need is the best folding rocking chair. Sounds familiar? Outdoors getaways to the beach, campsite or hiking are the perfect excuse to relax. Or maybe you just like to spend a lazy Sunday in your backyard, reading in your rocking chair or taking a nap under the sun. After all, comfortable seating should never take a backseat! Leisure means serious business and that’s exactly where we help.
When it comes to buying a folding rocking chair, there are options galore. As you are looking for an outdoor chair, it is important to be mindful of the quality of the fabric, the construction, budget and most importantly your comfort. Then there are other factors to consider such as portability and weight. You don’t want to move around a bulky chair around the campsite, would you? Maybe all you need is a no-frills chair you can stack into the car trunk. Others prefer little cup-holders to their chair, as they enjoy the game sipping on a beverage. There’s a folding chair meeting all the varied requirements.
The real question is where and how to begin hunting for the best folding rocking chair.
Bearing all this in mind, this is a Buying Guide 101 that covers everything there is to know about folding rocking chairs. We have also curated the top 9 folding rocking chairs in the market to make your buying experience smooth. Each chair is analyzed for its specifications, pros and cons and our final verdict. Any first-time buyer naturally has some questions before the first purchase. We have addressed those and shared some tips to help you to decide which rocking chair best suits your needs.
Top 9 Best Folding Rocking Chair
1) GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker
This reasonably priced camping rocking chair comes with solid support suited for your outdoor adventures. This rocker can be used on any surface and has a sturdy design. Due to its tall seat height, this chair is comfortable for all body types. The Freestyle Rocker sports spring-based shocks and a steel frame supported by polyester fabric can carry weight up to 250 pounds. The key features of GCI outdoor freestyle rocker portable folding rocking chair are
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Key Features
- Patented Spring Rocking technology
- Rocking Chair for any surface
- Equipped with armrests
- Cupholder
- Reasonably priced
Detailed Description This portal folding rocking chair which is the only brand with the patented spring technology has 2 pistons behind the chair. The bars of the chair touches the ground. Such a design prevents the sinking motion of the chair and is lesser than any other brand. Since the chair is foldable, you can fold it sideways to the centre. The armrests being of solid design make for its large dimensions when folded. Capacity wise the Freestyle rocker can support a modest weigh of 250 lb. Compared to ultra-lightweight chairs that are both collapsible and can be carried on a backpack, the Rocker does not have as good capacity. The Rocker weighs 12.1 lbs and occupies a narrow space in your car. The seat distance from the ground is low at 14.8 inches. It sports on its side a carry handle for moving it around. The chair material is made of a combination of a mesh and ripstop polyester. Padded armrests and a cupholder are also present in the Freestyle Rocker. When you fold the chair it assumes a rectangular shape and bulky design. Other than that, it has an easy setup and you need to pull the sides apart to set it on the ground. To fold it again, the seat is pulled so that it collapses on its sides and can be carried to the next spot. The chair comes in Cinnamon and Indigo Blue shades.
Pros:
Prose
Ease of setup
Simple to use
Good for any surface
Stable design
Useful carry handle
Cons:
Cons
Not a good back support
Doesn’t have a locking mechanism
Big size difficult to carry
Not backpack friendly.
Verdict
The GCI has a solid design and is perfect for those who want an easily stored chair. It misses on comfort due to absence of headrest but is good for camping.
2) Best Choice Products Foldable Zero Gravity Recliner
This lightweight and comfortable, the folding rocking chair comes in 5 different shades. The rocking motion by the pair of risers allows for comfortably swaying to and fro action. Built for design and comfort, the Zero Gravity Recliner has padded headrests and elastic cords to let one lean back and relax.
Best Choice Products Foldable Zero Gravity Recliner Key features
- Lightweight and foldable design
- Weather and UV resistant fabric
- Comfortable Headrest
- Replaceable elastic cords
- Easy storage and simple to transport
Detailed Description The Zero gravity recliner is one of the best folding lawn chairs. If you are looking for colors, there are options galore. A weatherproof fabric makes this a favourable choice. The pillow headrest adds for comfort and can be removed while storing or flipped to the front when used. It is called zero gravity because of its design which makes the chair feel weightless. A smooth to and fro swaying action makes it one of the best folding rocking chair around. As a camping chair, the steel frame and lightweight design make it simple to carry around, store and transport. While putting in your car you don’t have to worry about it adding weight to other items. In terms of sturdiness, the product can hold load up to 250 pounds and measures 25” x 36.5” x 42” inches.
Pros
Prose
Simple to fold and store in the patio or recreational vehicle
Economically friendly.
Has a variety of colors to choose from
Cons
Cons
The pillow doesn’t stay put much.
Padding missing throughout the chair.
Verdict
Zero gravity Rocker’s no effort reclining feature is one of the best features compared to similar products. Perfect for your RV and patio, it needs more than just pillow support for comfort but does a decent job otherwise.
3) Timber Ridge Camping Rocking Chair
This heavy-duty folding rocking chair by Timbre Ridge is a lightweight rocker perfect for your camping experiences.
Timber Ridge Camping Rocking Chair Key features
- Doesn’t require assembly
- Ease of setting up
- Has a steel frame with 600D polyester fabric
- 29 inches backrest made of plastic
- Simple to store, fold and lock
- Has cup holder storage
Detailed Description The Timbre Ridge rocker has an ergonomic design guaranteed for comfort. A locking system at the bottom prevents any movement and ensures durability. The chair can hold weight up to 300 lbs and has a steel frame composition along with polyester fabric. One of the best folding rocking chairs, this rocker does not require to be assembled. The locking systems adds to the safety feature of the Timbre Ridge Ricking Chair. Unless you apply good force, the chair does not collapse. Another highlight is the padding system and the storage bag that this chair comes in. The chair dimensions measure 40.5×19.5×18 inches when folded. A cup holder and a side storage pouch to the chair make this friendly to use. The Timbre Ridge Rocker also comes with a 1-year warranty.
Pros
Prose
No assembly required and easy to use
Comfort due to high back support
Durable fabric material
Side storage space for cup and other things
Cons
Cons
Costly
Occupies a lot of space
Will not fold completely, more curved shape.
Verdict
So long as you have space in your car, the Timbre Ridge makes for one of the best folding bag chairs. Though a little pricey and space that it occupies, it is durable.
4) ALPS Mountaineering Rocking Chair
The Alps Mountaineering Chair is a Pro-Tech with a single color variant in brown and good for camping or outdoor activity.
ALPS Mountaineering Rocking Chair Key features
- Pro-tech design
- Has a powder-coated steel frame
- Made of 600D Polyester fabric
- Easy to fold and store
- Stable
Detailed Description Among the best choice folding rocking chair, the Alps Mountaineering Rocker measures 17.5 lbs and can carry a maximum weight of 300 lbs. It is convenient and can easily be folded. The powder-coated steel frame combines durability and corrosion resistance features in a lightweight rocker design. A locking feature and compact design make sure that rocking chair is stable and does not fold up while in use. The chair measures 24″ W x 17. 5″ D x 41″ H and its polyester fabric makes cleaning the chair very easy.
Pros
Prose
Convenient and easy to fold
Durable and sturdy design
Safety feature owing to locking
Can be stored and transported easily
Cons
Cons
Heavy
Comes in a single color
Not backpack friendly.
Verdict
If you okay with carrying your chair around, albeit lightweight and of a single color, the Alps Mountaineer Rocking chair is a good option for your hiking and outdoor fun.
5) Kamp-Rite Folding Rocking Chair
When you want to sit back, relax and rock your chair for the next family outing or sporting event, The Kamp-Rite Folding Rocker is just for you.
Kamp-Rite Folding Rocking Chair Key features
- Made of 600D polyester fabric
- Breathable Mesh panel design
- Has a padded seat for comfort
- Back and armrests support
- Simple to fold
Detailed Description Weighing at 13lbs and measuring 25 x 31 x 39, this is a chair built for sheer comfort. The backrest and armrests allow you to recline in your rocking chair after a long day of work and relax. For those in a warmer or humid climate, the breathable mesh panels of the chair is a good feature and add more comfort. The Kamp-Rite Folding Rocker can carry a weight of 300 pounds. It is portable as well as padded.
Pros
Prose
Lightweight
Compact Design
Padding ensures comfort
Breathable Mesh makes for a comfortable seating experience
Cons
Cons
A single shade of Blue and Tan
No cup holder
Missing headrest
Verdict
If you are looking for a no-frills and light rocking chair, the Kamp-Rite Folding Rocking chair is a good choice.
6) Helinox Chair Two Rocker
The unique feature of this chair is its removable rocker legs. The key features of the Helionox Chair Two Rocker are:
Helinox Chair Two Rocker Key features
- Removable rocker legs
- Lightweight Aluminium frame construct
- Has a zipper case
- Load capacity of 320 lbs
- Has a removable seat
- 600D polyester fabric, UV-resistant
- Washing Machine friendly
Detailed Description As mentioned earlier the removable rocker legs ensure that if the terrain is not stable, they can be plugged off the chair. The chair measures 21.7 x 34.3 x 25.6 inches and when folded measures 6.5 x 24.5. The Helionox Rocker has a zipper case into which it can fit when folded. Since it is made of Aluminium it weighs at only 4.1 pounds making it one of the best folding rocking chair. A washing machine friendly UV-resistant zipper case and a removable seat is also present in the Helionox Rocker. Since it can carry the weight of 320 pounds, making it the best folding chair for heavy person. An internal bungee cord is used for assembling the poles and makes for easy and fast setup. A stuffed sack with the chair also works as a pillow headrest. The headrest measures 14.5 inches, seat width is 21.5 inches and an overall height of 34.5 inches. The Chair comes with a 5-year warranty.
Pros
Prose
Lightweight because of aluminium frame
Easily detachable and stored in a bag
Removable legs make for a wider scope of use
Dual-purpose zipper bag provides a comfortable headrest
A Wider and higher back portion adds more surface to recline ensuring comfort.
Cons
Cons
Costly
Rocking Motion could be improved as it is not smooth
Verdict
The Helionix Chair Two Rocker is good for backpackers who want to relax while camping. It is a handy asset working both as a regular chair and rocking chair and can be easily slid in a backpack. Although slightly pricier, it makes for the best folding rocking chair for outdoors.
7) Ozark Trail Rocking Chair
The Ozark Trail Rocking chair is suitable for outdoor camping as well as games and sporting events. Some of its key features are:
Ozark Trail Rocking Chair Key features
- X-shaped frame.
- Simple to transport
- Can be easily stored
- Safety latch for rocking
- Polyester fabric with high density
- Mesh for better ventilation between panels
- Armrests for comfort
- Comfortable headrest
Detailed Description Ozark Trail Rocker can support a weight of up to 300 lbs. It has a padded headrest which provides comfort when reclining. A cup holder is also present with the chair. The chair does not come assembled however setting it up is easy and quick. This rocking chair has dimensions of 24.5″L x 24″W x 34″H inches. It glides easily on grass and for those who like to rock back and forth intensively, should pay careful attention while doing so. For the same reason, it is very easy to relocate this chair.
Pros
Prose
Good price to quality ratio
Comfortable because of wide dimensions
Easy to setup
Can be moved easily
Cons
Cons
Requires setting up as not assembled
Verdict
The Ozark Trail Rocker is a comfortable chair to carry to the next game or camping weekend. It carries a cupholder and a headrest which makes for comfortable rocking.
8) PORTAL Oversized Quad Folding Camping Rocking Chair High Back Hard
The best folding lounge chair, the Portal Oversized Rocker has an X-shaped frame which can be set in your campsite or outdoor. Its key features include:
Key features
- X-shaped frame
- Easy to store and transport
- Safety latch for rocking
- Mesh for cooling air
- Armrest and Headrest for support
- Made of high-density polyester
Detailed Description This space-saving, X-framed chair measures 7″(L) x 7″(W) x 40″(H) when folded. For safer rocking motion it sports a safety locker which when in an open position allows for smooth rocking motion. Made of premium material, a high-density polyester and steel frame with powder coating ensures the durability of the chair. A mesh at the chair back allows for ventilation and is suitable for hotter climates. Space for phone storage is under the seat and hard armrests are present for firm support. An integrated headrest provides comfort while sitting. The manufacturer also gives a one-year warranty with the chair. The chair weighs 16.5 lbs, supports 300 lbs weight and comes in three color variants.
Pros
Prose
Smaller folding size due to frame shape
Convenient for storage and transport
Compact folding size instead of flat
Safety features while getting in and out of the chair
Cons
Cons
Slightly on the heavier end because of weight
Verdict
The PORTAL Oversized Quad Folding Camping Rocking Chair is the best folding rocking chair for its ease of assembling and setup features. The sturdy design, headrest and armrests provide for a comfortable sitting experience.
9) GCI Outdoor FirePit Rocker
Before you Google “folding rocking chair wood” or “folding rocking chair Costco”, the GCI Outdoor FirePit Rocker should be considered for your next outdoor plans. Its key features are:
GCI Outdoor FirePit Rocker Key features
- Portable and easy to fold
- Patented EAZY-FOLD Technology
- Has a cupholder
- Sports padded armrests
- Smoother rocking due to patented Spring-Action Rocking technology
Detailed Description The FirePit Rocker made of an alloy-steel frame has flat storage and a mesh backrest for cooler air to circulate. The powder-coated steel core can hold weight up to 250 pounds and also has padded armrests for comfort and support. The Patented Spring-Action Rocking technology makes for smoother rocking motion outdoors. It also has safety features and allows for safely closing and opening the rocker due to the patented EAZY-FOLD technology. A carry handle and beverage holding space are also present. The Firepit Rocker measures 25.6 x 5.5 x 33.1 inches when folded. and it weighs 12.1 pounds making it lightweight. The manufacturer offers a limited lifetime warranty. The seat height measures 14.1 inches and comes in a single color.
Pros
Prose
Safety ensured due to EAZY-FOLD technology
Quick and easy folding
Simple storage due to flat-folding
Smoother rocking due to Spring technology
Cons
Cons
Missing headrest
Upright seating unlike other reclining chairs
Verdict
The FirePit Rocker is perfect for rocky surface and built for lightweight carrying around for camping. Built for durability and portability, it makes for one of the good rocking chairs for backpackers and can be carried to the next game.
Buying Guide for Folding Rocking Chairs
Whether you are looking for the “best folding Adirondack chair”, “best folding lounge chair” or “best folding directors chair”, it is best to know the basics before buying any type of chair. For the best folding rocking chairs you should look our for certain
parameters:
Material
The material is chair composition. Usually, it is a steel core or aluminium frame, both of which are durable materials. For optimum weight-to-strength ratio, an aluminium frame should be preferred because of its lightweight. That being said, this doesn’t impact the load the chair can carry. Folding rocking chair fabrics are usually made of polyester because it is easy to clean and useful for outdoor carrying purpose. It can be washed in the washing machine. Such fabrics are also durable. Another modification to the fabric is UV-resistant based polyester. If opting for any other fabric ensure it is weather-resistant.
Design
Before you opt for a cupholder or some extra feature in your rocking chair, it is best to start first with a sturdy design. This is a necessary feature. A folding rocking chair must have a long back so that your back and neck can have support.
Chair Weight
Usually, aluminium frame chairs are lightweight and weight as low as 4lbs. These are convenient to carry along while camping. Some chairs are backpack-friendly too. Others come with carrying handles to move like a suitcase.
Load Capacity
While buying always look for the maximum weight that can be borne by the folding rocking chair. If liquid or alcohol is a part of your outdoor experience, its advisable to opt for a chair whose rocking glides can be taken off so that injuries are prevented.
Quality
Before buying a folding rocking chair, some questions like the frequency of outdoor vacations, the number of exposures to weather conditions, the purpose of using a folding rocking chair and whether the fabric will get weakened after frequent washes should help you decide. For not so frequent outings or one you would use at your backyard, then you can opt for decent quality and perhaps cheaper one. It is also advisable to sample rockers for comfort.
FAQ
Where are rocking chairs used?
Rocking chairs are known for their swirling motion. This soothing motion is supposed to help people relax. It was created as outdoor furniture. Rocking chairs were used to put infants to sleep.
How do rocking chairs work?
The rocking chair is so designed that it touches the ground at two points. To achieve this, two parallel wooden boards or metal rounds are used. To start rocking, push your feet to start the to and fro rocking motion. In the case of camping, this mechanism can be slightly different. For outdoor rocking chairs, like those used in camping, the rocking gliders are smaller for a shorter rocking movement.
What is the weight a rocking chair can hold?
Different rocking chairs have different capacities. This is usually mentioned with the folding rocking chair product description. Care should be taken to not exceed this weight else the frame might be deformed or mesh could tear and thereby cause injury. Most of the folding rocking chairs can bear a weight of 300 lbs.
Why do you need a folding rocking chair?
While camping or going backpacking, a folding rocking chair helps you destress and relax. You can recline in the rocking chair while camping and read a book or take a quick nap. This can also be used in patios or house backyards.
Where are folding rocking chairs used?
There are different settings where these chairs come in handy. If you indulge in any of the below activities you can consider buying a folding rocking chair: • Backpacking or camping • Car camping • Backyards or Patios • Recreation Vehicle trips
Is rocking motion good for you?
A rhythmic to and fro motion is known to calm the body and mind. It is also good for those with back pain issues. The rocking motion is a good alternative for physical activity in helping with blood circulation. If someone has difficulty moving, then using a folding rocking chair is helpful. In addition to this, it also helps in sleeping faster.
How to buy a folding rocking chair?
When buying look for the following attributes in a folding rocking chair:
- Material
- Design
- Chair Weight
- Load Capacity
- Quality
In this feature everything from how to buying a folding rocking chair, the 9 best chairs for outdoors and some frequently asked questions were covered. It is important to have a budget and specific requirements such as how frequent are your camping trips or perhaps you are looking for a chair for your backyard or even the best folding high chair. That way you can review folding rock chairs basis comfort, performance and quality. This review should help you in arriving at the perfect folding chair for yourself
