Shopping for a new patio chair and stuck deciding between an Adirondack chair and a Muskoka chair? You're not alone. At Woodmill of Muskoka, this is one of the most common questions our team hears, both in-store and online. The good news? We proudly sell both Adirondack chairs and Muskoka chairs. In this blog post, we’ll recap the key differences between these two chairs and provide some helpful tips on choosing the right one for you. Ready to find the perfect chair for your backyard? Let’s get into it.
What’s the Difference Between an Adirondack and Muskoka Chair?
We’ve discussed Adirondack versus Muskoka chairs before, but here’s a recap: While these two patio chairs have the same foundation, they have unique differences when it comes to size, style, and history. Here are the key differences between Adirondack chairs and Muskoka Chairs
Muskoka Chair | Adirondack Chair | |
Seat height | Lower to the ground | 2–3 inches higher |
Armrest width | Narrower | 2–3 inches wider between arms |
Backrest shape | Gentler, rounded or arched top | Larger rounded or arched back |
Regionality | Canadian name, popularized in Muskoka, Ontario’s cottage country | American name, tied to the Adirondack Mountains of New York |
At the end of the day, Muskoka chairs sit a little lower with slimmer armrests, while Adirondack chairs sit a touch higher with wider ones. But honestly, these differences are pretty minor. Whichever one you choose, you'll be kicking back in comfort all summer long.
Already know which style you're leaning toward? Shop Muskoka chairs or shop Adirondack chairs now and skip straight to checkout.
Adirondack Chair vs Muskoka Chair: How to Find the Perfect Patio Chair
Choosing between an Adirondack chair and a Muskoka chair isn't just about picking a style. It's about matching the chair to how you'll actually use it, who's using it, and where it's going. Our team walks customers through this decision every day. Here’s some of our insider advice:
Tip #1: Consider How You’ll Use It
The very first question to ask yourself is what the chair is actually for. Are you settling in around a campfire for a few hours, or looking for something more upright for dinner on the deck? That single question narrows the options considerably, since a deep-recline lounging chair and an upright dining-adjacent chair serve very different purposes.
Tip #2: Think About Who Will Be Sitting In It
No two chairs fit every person the same way, so it's worth thinking about size and height before committing. A larger or taller person will generally be steered toward an Adirondack chair, since Muskoka chairs tend to run smaller and lower to the ground, while shorter or younger family members may find a Muskoka chair's lower seat easier to get in and out of. If you're buying chairs for the whole family, it's worth considering a mix rather than assuming one style fits everyone.
Read more: Are Adirondack Chairs Comfortable?
Tip #3: Choose Your Material
Material also plays a huge part in choosing the right patio chair. Most outdoor furniture retailers sell Adirondack chairs and Muskoka chairs in two options: wood and plastic.
Wood | Plastic | |
Upfront Cost | Lower to moderate | Higher for recycled plastic (HDPE) |
Maintenance | Requires sanding and restaining | Extremely low-maintenance with seasonal wipe downs. |
Look and Feel | Natural grain, classic cottage warmth | Consistent colour, modern, clean finish |
Weather Resistance | Good with proper upkeep | Excellent, will not crack, peel, or blister. UV stabilizers help with fading. |
Each material comes with pros and cons. Not sure which one is a better fit for your home? Our team would be happy to walk you through your options.
Read More: What is the Best Material for Outdoor Furniture in Canada?
Tip #4: Take Some Chairs for a Test Drive
Here’s the truth: When comparing Adirondack vs Muskoka chairs, there’s really one thing that makes the biggest difference–visiting your local outdoor furniture store and sitting in the chairs yourself!
Measurements and photos can only tell you so much, since comfort depends on your body, your height, and how you plan to use the chair. Think of choosing your Adirondack or Muskoka chair like Goldilocks and the Three Bears: one's too big, one's too small, and we promise there’s one that's just right. Visit our store, and we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Shop Our Adirondack Chairs and Muskoka Chairs Online Now
At Woodmill of Muskoka, we stock some of the best brands of Adirondack chairs and Muskoka chairs, including CRP and our very own Woodmill line. Shop online to browse our full collection or visit us at our Gravenhurst location to test out a few chairs yourself!
Have questions about our products? Contact us through our website or give us a call at (705) 687-5959. We can’t wait to help.