25 best sun loungers and garden recliners to bring chic holiday vibes to your back garden
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Sun loungers are having a moment — and we’re fully here for it. With summer on the horizon and our outdoor space finally coming back to life, there’s never been a better time to upgrade our garden furniture. Whether you’re looking for a reclining sun lounger with all the extras (hello, built-in headrest and footrest) or something simple and foldable to stash between sunny spells, the right choice can totally change how you spend your time outside.
We’ve cherry picked dozens of designs — rattan sun loungers for that relaxed holiday vibe, sleek metal sun loungers with contemporary lines, and wooden sun loungers in beautiful teak and acacia wood for something more classic. From the best zero gravity recliner chairs to full-blown sunbed sets, this guide covers everything you need to stretch out in style. And it’s not just about the looks (though we're suckers for a sculptural frame) — we’ve considered functionality too. That means adjustable backrests, weather-resistant materials, and outdoor furniture that actually stands up to the unpredictable weather conditions we call summer.
We've included stylish sun lounger sets to pair with garden tables and side tables, and versatile picks that work with everything from hammocks to garden sofas and deck chairs. Think low-maintenance materials like textilene, designs that fold flat for easy storage, and options from top retailers like Heal's, Dunelm, Rowen & Wren and more. Some come with sun shades, others work beautifully under gazebos or pergolas. Either way, the goal’s the same: to create a little slice of outdoor living luxury right at home.
SKIP TO: Our full reviews | Where to buy sun loungers in 2025 | What is the best material for a sun lounger? | Sun lounger and outdoor seating features to look for | What are zero-gravity sun loungers? | How much do I need to spend on a sun lounger? |
Where to buy sun loungers in 2025
For sun loungers in 2025, Dunelm remains a reliable go-to, offering everything from sleek rattan designs like the Rio set to comfy, contemporary options like the Helsinki. Argos continues to deliver affordable style with minimalist metal frames ideal for modern gardens. For a splash of luxury, Soho Home is our pick — think bold silhouettes and stylish upholstery worthy of boutique hotels. Amazon stays practical with budget-friendly choices from brands like Outsunny, perfect if you're after foldable loungers or clever zero gravity recliners. Finally, if it's high-end minimalism you crave, Heal’s' selection — especially the elegant teak Pelagus sunbed — will instantly elevate your outdoor space.
How we choose the best sun loungers
We’re not just here for a pretty frame—though a sculptural silhouette never hurts. When choosing the best sun loungers, we look for comfort first: adjustable reclining, ergonomic shaping, and a supportive backrest are non-negotiables. We also consider materials—rattan, teak, aluminium and weather-resistant fabrics that can handle unpredictable weather without fading or falling apart. Bonus points for clever extras like foldable frames, hidden wheels or built-in headrests.
We tested a selection of sun loungers ourselves, from foldable zero-gravity recliners to high-end statement pieces, judging everything from ease of setup to how they actually feel after an hour in the sun. For the styles we couldn’t get hands-on with, we dived into hundreds of customer reviews—taking in the glowing five-stars, the brutally honest one-stars, and everything in between.
What are the best sun loungers to buy? Scroll for our full pick of the best sun loungers to add to your garden furniture setup immediately.
What is the best material for a sun lounger?
The main materials at your disposal when it comes to sun loungers include rattan (be it natural or PE rattan), powder-coated steel, and wood.
- While rattan can create a lovely Boho feel to your outdoor space, natural rattan isn't perhaps the most weather-resistant. As such, we at GLAMOUR would suggest looking to alternative polyurethane or polypropelene make ups to protect your garden furniture against the UK's inevitable showers.
- Frequently pared with either a mesh bed fabric or, on the more plush side, a sun lounger cushion, the appeal of powder-coated steel is twofold. Firstly, it protects the lounger against fading, even after overexposure to bright sunlight and, secondly, it adds strength to your bed's frame in preparation for inclement weather. Which, we might add, is a certainty here in Britain.
- Whether you opt for teak, acacia or eucalyptus, using sunbeds with a wood frame is about as close as you'll get to recreating that five-star hotel feel. Certain wood types - e.g. acacia - are naturally weather resistant, too, and the natural fading of the wood can be fixed with proper varnishing and maintenance. Alternatively, we happen to quite like the beachy driftwood appearance of faded wood.
Sun lounger and outdoor seating features to look for
When shopping for sun loungers and outdoor seating, we’re all about details that mix style with substance. First off, adjustable reclining positions and ergonomic shapes make a massive difference — think ultimate comfort without compromising on looks. Weather-resistant materials like rattan, teak or sleek metal keep things chic and practical (no dragging furniture inside when clouds appear). Foldable designs are a dream for smaller spaces, and bonus points for built-in side tables or clever headrests for added luxe. Essentially, pick something comfy, low-maintenance, and stylish enough to make your garden look like it belongs on your Pinterest board.
What are zero-gravity sun loungers?
Zero-gravity sun loungers are basically the closest we can get to floating on a cloud — without actually leaving the garden. Inspired by NASA (yes, really), these chairs recline to a position that evenly distributes your weight, lifting your legs slightly above your heart. It’s all about maximum comfort and minimum pressure on your spine. Perfect for those days when your biggest goal is complete relaxation — ideally with sunglasses and something chilled close at hand.
How much do I need to spend on a sun lounger?
The good news is that, when it comes to sun loungers, there’s something chic for every budget. If you’re after a simple foldable style, around £50 can snag you something comfy and practical. Spend between £150-£300 and you’ll step up to premium fabrics, rattan detailing, or sleek wooden frames. Splash out £500 or more, and you're looking at serious luxury — think stylish, designer-worthy pieces crafted from teak or aluminium that'll make your garden feel properly posh.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes, follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess.



























