Pool Chairs: The Best Chairs for In the Pool (and By the Pool)
When people search for pool chairs, they usually mean one of two things: chairs in the pool, which float, and chairs by the pool, which sit on the deck. The best backyard setups have both. Here's how to choose chairs for a pool that you'll actually use all summer.
Chairs in the Pool: What to Look For
Pool chairs for in the pool are inflatable seats that hold you upright on the water. A good one feels like an armchair, not a ring you're clinging to. Look for:
- A supportive backrest and arms, so you can relax without balancing.
- A mesh seat, which lets water through to keep you cool.
- A canopy, because chairs inside the pool sit in full sun.
- A cup holder, the single most-used feature on any pool chair.
The Dolly Lounge Chair ($115) was designed around exactly that list. It's a powder-blue inflatable pool chair with a removable sun canopy, cup holder, mesh seat, twin grab handles and a hand pump in the box.
Chairs by the Pool
Chairs for by the pool, such as deck chairs, sun loungers and day beds, are where you dry off, read and keep watch. They don't need to match your floats, but they look best when the colours talk to each other. Our tip: dress them in striped towels and a pillow in the same palette as your floating pool chairs, and the whole pool looks styled.
Add The Poolside Pillow ($50) for head support and The Lido Sand-Free Towel ($45) to drape over the chair. Read more in our guide to styling poolside sun loungers.
Pool Chair or Pool Lounger?
A pool chair keeps you upright for drinks and conversation. A pool lounger lets you lie flat for sunbathing. If you have room for two, get one of each: The Riviera Canopy Lounger ($120) pairs perfectly with the Dolly Lounge Chair. Compare them in our pool lounger guide.
Pool Chair FAQs
Are floating pool chairs comfortable? A well-designed one is, especially with a backrest and mesh seat. See our comparison of floating pool chairs, loungers and hammocks.
Can you put chairs in the pool that aren't inflatable? Some pools use submerged ledge chairs, but for most backyard pools an inflatable pool chair is the simplest and most comfortable way to sit in the water.
Free Delivery, Gift-Boxed
Every Miss Dolly Drift float arrives in our signature gift box with a carry bag. Delivery is free on Australian orders over $99, express is available at checkout and you have 30 days to return anything unused.
Pool floats are for recreation, not swimming aids. Always supervise children around water.
