Finding the perfect spot to relax outdoors is about more than just finding shade; it’s about having the right chair. Zero gravity chairs are designed to distribute your weight evenly, creating a sensation of weightlessness that minimizes stress on your back and joints. This innovative design can transform your patio, backyard, or campsite into a personal oasis of comfort.
With so many models available, selecting the ideal zero gravity chair for your needs can be a challenge. This guide provides detailed reviews of ten top-rated options, from basic portable loungers to feature-rich oversized models. We’ve compiled this list to help you find the perfect chair for maximum relaxation, whether you’re reading a book, stargazing, or simply enjoying the fresh air.
Our Top Picks for Zero Gravity Chairs
- RST Brands Original Orbital Zero Gravity Patio Lounger
- Timber Ridge Oversized Recliner Padded Folding Patio Lounge
- OOTORI N500 Pro Massage Chair, Full Body Zero Gravity Recliner
- Caravan Sports Zero Gravity Outdoor Portable Folding Chair (Pair)
- TIMBER RIDGE Zero Gravity Chair Oversized Recliner 350lbs Capacity
- Sweetcrispy Zero Gravity Chairs, Set of 2 Portable Recliner
- ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Low Camping Chairs with Arms
- Best Choice Products Oversized Padded Zero Gravity Chair
- Zero Gravity Chair Set of 2 Replacement Pillow Headrest
- Best Choice Products Adjustable Zero Gravity Chair
RST Brands Original Orbital Zero Gravity Patio Lounger
The RST Brands Original Orbital lounger offers a classic zero gravity experience with a focus on durability and easy storage. Its fade-resistant, woven PVC sling material is built to withstand the elements, making it a reliable choice for permanent patio placement. The design effectively elevates your legs above your heart to promote circulation and minimize pressure points for true weightless relaxation.
When the season ends or you need to clear space, this chair shines with its compact foldability. It collapses down to a slim eight-inch width, allowing for easy transport and convenient storage in a garage or shed. This combination of resilient materials and a space-saving design makes it a practical and comfortable long-term investment for any homeowner.
Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Chair Oversized Recliner
For those seeking ample space and superior strength, the Timber Ridge Oversized Recliner is a top contender. This heavy-duty chair supports up to 350 pounds, thanks to its sturdy steel tube frame and durable polyester fabric. The generous dimensions provide plenty of room to stretch out, making it an excellent option for taller individuals or anyone who values extra space.
The patented locking mechanism is a standout feature, allowing you to easily adjust and secure the chair in any position from upright to fully reclined. This user-friendly system ensures you can find your perfect angle for reading, napping, or sunbathing without any hassle. Its robust construction is designed for everyday use in the backyard, on the patio, or at a campsite.
OOTORI N500 Pro Massage Chair
Take relaxation to the next level with the OOTORI N500 Pro, a full-body zero gravity massage chair. This model incorporates three zero gravity angles to optimally position your body, reducing heart pressure and promoting circulation. The integrated lower back heating pads provide soothing warmth to help ease muscle tension and improve blood flow in the lumbar area.
This chair offers a comprehensive massage experience with 8 massage rollers targeting your back and 32 airbags compressed around your shoulders, arms, seat, and legs. Combined with foot rollers, it delivers a full-body treatment from head to toe. It’s an ideal solution for bringing the benefits of a professional massage into the comfort of your home.
Caravan Sports Zero Gravity Outdoor Portable Folding Chair
The Caravan Sports set offers fantastic value, providing two chairs for shared relaxation with family or friends. These chairs are designed for versatility, perfect for camping trips, backyard fire pits, or poolside lounging. The smooth recline function and dual fingertip locking system make it simple to find and hold a comfortable position.
An added benefit is the adjustable headrest cushion, which can be moved to support your head or your lower back as needed. This flexibility allows you to customize your comfort for various activities, from reading to napping. Sold as a pair, these chairs are a practical and economical choice for anyone needing multiple seating options.
TIMBER RIDGE Zero Gravity Chair Oversized Recliner
This Timber Ridge model combines a safe locking system with a heavy-duty build. The chair can be adjusted to any position within a 0-170 degree range, giving you complete control over your reclining experience. Its robust construction, featuring a bungee suspension system and a heavy-duty aluminum frame, ensures stability and support for up to 350 pounds.
Comfort is enhanced with fully padded seating and an adjustable padded pillow that can be used for both head and lumbar support. The inclusion of a cup tray adds convenience, keeping your drinks and personal items within easy reach. It’s a well-rounded, sturdy lounger built for extended periods of outdoor use.
Sweetcrispy Zero Gravity Chairs, Set of 2
Sweetcrispy’s set of two chairs emphasizes portability and user-friendly design. Weighing just over 15 pounds each, they are lightweight and fold down for simple transport and storage. This makes them an excellent choice for mobile activities like beach trips, camping, or tailgating, where easy carrying is a priority.
The chair’s frame is both durable and strong, supporting up to 330 pounds. The fabric is designed to be abrasion-resistant and highly breathable, ensuring comfort during warm weather and making cleanup quick and easy. For those who need a practical and portable seating solution for on-the-go relaxation, this set delivers great functionality.
ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Low Camping Chair
The ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous chair offers a different approach to low-to-the-ground relaxation. Its unique design sits you closer to the ground, which is perfect for stretching your legs out, making it ideal as a fishing chair or for use around a campfire. The comfortable padded arms add an extra layer of comfort during long periods of sitting.
A key feature is the breathable TechMesh airflow mesh center, which provides excellent ventilation on hot days. Built with rugged ripstop fabric and a powder-coated steel frame, this chair is constructed to handle various outdoor conditions. It’s a versatile and durable option for camping, poolside lounging, or outdoor concerts.
Best Choice Products Oversized Padded Zero Gravity Chair
This Best Choice Products chair is designed for those who prioritize plush comfort. The extra-wide 24-inch seat is padded with weather-resistant polyester fabric that conforms to your body, and it can support up to 300 pounds. The adjustable headrest provides additional neck support, making it easy to settle in for hours of uninterrupted lounging.
Despite its generous proportions, the chair maintains a lightweight and folding design for good portability. You can easily take it to the beach, a park, or a tailgate party. With a convenient side tray and cup holder, this chair successfully blends maximum comfort with practical features for a variety of outdoor settings.
Zero Gravity Chair Replacement Pillow Headrest
This product is an accessory designed to enhance the comfort of your existing zero gravity chair. The set includes two removable headrest pillows made from high-quality Textilene fabric that resists fading in direct sunlight. The high-density sponge filling offers firm, supportive comfort for your neck and head, and can also be used for lumbar support.
Each pillow features an adjustable elastic band that can stretch to fit most zero gravity chair frames, allowing you to secure it at your preferred height. This is a simple and effective upgrade to improve your lounging experience, especially if your current chair lacks adequate head or back support.
Best Choice Products Adjustable Zero Gravity Chair
Best Choice Products offers a reliable and straightforward zero gravity chair that focuses on the core benefits of the design. It allows you to adjust your position easily to achieve the weightless feeling that helps reduce stress on the spine and improve circulation. This model is built for essential comfort without overly complex features.
Its folding frame makes it a versatile piece of furniture for any outdoor space, from a small balcony to a large backyard. As a trusted brand in outdoor goods, this chair represents a solid basic option for anyone looking to experience the benefits of zero gravity seating in a simple, effective, and portable design.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Zero Gravity Chair
I know shopping for a zero gravity chair can feel overwhelming with all the options out there. Having tested my fair share, I can tell you that focusing on a few key features makes the decision much easier. Let’s break down what you should really be looking for.
First, consider the frame material. This is the skeleton of your chair and dictates its durability and weight. Steel frames are the most common and offer excellent strength, but they can be heavy. Aluminum frames are a fantastic lightweight alternative, making them easier to move around, but they often come with a higher price tag. Look for powder-coated finishes on steel to help resist rust and fading from the sun.
Next, pay close attention to the fabric. You want something that can handle the elements, especially if you plan on leaving your chair outside. Textilene is a superstar in this category. It’s a synthetic, PVC-coated polyester that is incredibly durable, breathable, and quick-drying. It resists mildew and UV rays, so it won’t get brittle or fade quickly. Other good options include mesh panels for extra airflow or thick, padded fabrics for maximum comfort.
The locking mechanism is your best friend for finding that perfect recline. Most chairs have a simple lever on each armrest. Test how smoothly these levers work; you don’t want them to be stiff or require a Herculean effort to adjust. A good system will allow you to lock the backrest in multiple positions, not just fully upright or fully reclined. This lets you find the exact angle that relieves pressure on your back and legs.
Don’t forget about the extras that turn a good chair into a great one. Padded headrests are a game-changer for neck support. Side tables with cup holders and storage pockets are incredibly convenient for keeping your phone, book, and drink within easy reach. If you’re taller, look for chairs with an extended frame or a taller backrest. For portability, check the folded dimensions and weight. Some models even come with their own carrying straps, which I find super helpful.
Ultimately, your choice depends on how you plan to use it. For permanent patio furniture, a heavier, feature-rich model is perfect. For camping or beach trips, a lightweight, easy-to-fold chair is the way to go. By thinking about frame, fabric, locks, and features, you can confidently find one of the best zero gravity chairs for your needs.
FAQ
What does “zero gravity” actually mean in a chair?
It’s named after the position astronauts use during liftoff to distribute the intense force of G-forces. In a zero gravity chair, your body is positioned with your knees at or above heart level. This posture helps to evenly distribute your weight across the chair, minimizing pressure points along your spine and reducing strain on your back. It’s not about defying gravity, but about using it to create a feeling of weightlessness and deep relaxation.
Are zero gravity chairs good for your back?
In my experience, yes, they can be excellent for back relief. By elevating your legs and reclining your torso, the chair helps to decompress your spine. This can alleviate pressure on the vertebrae and discs, which is especially helpful if you suffer from lower back pain. The position also improves circulation. However, if you have a specific medical condition, it’s always a good idea to chat with your doctor first.
Can I leave my zero gravity chair outside all year?
While many modern chairs are built with weather-resistant materials like powder-coated steel and Textilene fabric, I don’t recommend leaving any chair outside through harsh winters or constant downpours. Prolonged exposure to extreme moisture and sun can shorten its lifespan. If you can, store it in a garage or shed during the off-season. If you must leave it outside, a high-quality waterproof cover is a must-have investment.
How much should I expect to spend on a good zero gravity chair?
You can find a basic, no-frills model for under $100, but for a durable chair with better materials and features like padded headrests and cup holders, plan on spending between $150 and $300. High-end models with premium fabrics, all-weather durability, and extra-thick padding can cost $400 or more. It’s one of those products where you often get what you pay for in terms of comfort and longevity.
What is the weight capacity for most chairs?
The standard weight capacity for a typical residential zero gravity chair is around 300 pounds. However, many models are specifically designed as “oversized” or “heavy-duty” and can support 350, 400, or even 500 pounds. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications before you buy to ensure the chair is a safe and comfortable fit. This is a crucial step in our guide to the 10 best zero gravity chairs.
Are they difficult to assemble?
Not at all! Most chairs I’ve put together come 90% pre-assembled. You typically just have to attach the armrests using a few bolts and maybe connect the side table. It usually takes less than 10 minutes with the included tools. It’s one of the easiest pieces of outdoor furniture you’ll ever set up.