The Best Beach Chairs

Beach Prep

Summer rental? Check. Bikini? Check. But have you thought about what you’ll be reclining on this season? Beach chairs tested, from macho leather to modern minimalist.

By Aja Mangum
Published May 21, 2005

Henry Beguelin, $1,350
Chic embossed leather suits those who own a beach—or Hemingway fans. Only made for the deck, though: It weighs twenty pounds, and it’s bound to heat up (18 Ninth Ave., nr. 13th St.; 212-647-8415).

Armani Casa, $435
Fabric backrest gives ample support, but the wood seat is rather unforgiving. Compact enough for easy storage in a car or apartment, and, at nine pounds, just light enough to carry (97 Greene St., nr. Prince St.; 212-334-1271).

Hammacher Schlemmer, $199.95
The La-Z-Boy of the beach is so cozy, it’s bound to put you to sleep; make sure the SPF 45 is handy. And don’t walk too far; it weighs eighteen pounds (147 E. 57th St., nr. Lexington Ave.; 212-421-9000).

Cape Cod Beach Chair Company, $130
This limited-edition Regatta Plaid Beachcomber has a high back for neck support, three recliner positions, and a carry handle for easy transport. You can also have it monogrammed (800-809-1750 or capecodbeachchair.com).

The Conran Shop, $99
Dandy stripes and canvas fabric make it ideal for beach-chair classicists, and the four reclining settings should keep modern layabouts happy (407 E. 59th St., nr. First Ave.; 212-755-9079).

Pier 1 Imports, $75
Extra pillow required: Lean back too enthusiastically and your head hits hard wood. Prepare to struggle with the tricky arm adjustments and the weight—it’s eighteen pounds (71 Fifth Ave., at 15th St.; 212-206-1911).

Eastern Mountain Sports, $30
At six pounds, this mini-chair is light enough for the beach and rugged enough for camping. However, no arms means it’s hard to get up from (20 W. 61st St., nr. Broadway; 212-397-4860).

Crate & Barrel, $29.95
Cheery color is perfect for Barbados—or Coney Island. The height is easy to maneuver, and the magazine pocket in the back is an added bonus (650 Madison Ave., at 59th St.; 212-308-0011).

(Photo: Davies + Starr)

Bed Bath & Beyond, $7.99
Lightweight steel frame weighs only 7.5 pounds and holds up to 250. Not much in the way of design, but it is equipped with the crucial cup holder (620 Sixth Ave., nr. 18th St.; 212-255-3550).