If you love spending time outside, you’ve probably faced the Adirondack chair debate: stick with the traditional wood look or go with modern recycled plastic? Two of the most popular options—Polywood and L.L. Bean’s All-Weather Adirondack—are often compared head-to-head. I’ve spent the past year putting both through their paces on my deck: sun, salt air, freezing temps, and constant use by kids and guests. I’m a DIY nut and a patio junkie, so I care about comfort, durability, style—and yes, how eco-friendly something is.
1. Quick Comparison: Polywood vs. L.L. Bean Adirondack Chairs
| Feature | Polywood | L.L. Bean All-Weather |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Made from 100% recycled HDPE—about 500 milk jugs per chair | UV-protected HDPE resin; no mention of recycled materials |
| Comfort | Curved back, slight recline, comfy contoured arms | More upright, straight-back classic with higher seat (15″) |
| Assembly | Around 20 mins, hardware and Allen wrench included | About 15 mins; 4mm hex key included; easier with a buddy |
| Durability | Won’t crack, fade, or peel; backed by a 20-year limited warranty | Roof-tested for a year; 1-year satisfaction guarantee, then limited coverage |
| Maintenance | Just soap and water; no sanding or painting ever needed | Soap, water, even a bleach mix or power wash is safe |
| Price | $350–$500 per chair | $299–$379 per chair (most are around $329) |
| Warranty | 20-year limited residential warranty | 1-year return window; U.S. support and defect review after that |
| Style Options | Over 24 colors; smooth or textured finishes | 3–5 solid colors; more traditional palette |
| Shipping | Ships from Indiana; free freight over $200; 1–2 week wait | Ships from Maine; usually arrives in 3–5 days |
2. The Details That Matter
Materials
Polywood is all about sustainability. Each chair is made from roughly 500 recycled milk jugs, and the lumber can even be recycled again someday.
L.L. Bean’s chairs use UV-resistant resin for color staying power, but they don’t say anything about using recycled materials—so it’s probably virgin plastic.
Real-World Test
After half a year at the beach, my Polywood chair still looked fresh. The L.L. Bean version? A bit of chalking showed up around the corners.
Pros & Cons
- Polywood: Big win on sustainability; downside—it’s heavier (about 45 lbs).
- L.L. Bean: Easier to move (around 32 lbs), but not as eco-conscious.
Comfort
Polywood hugs your back with its curved design, and the wide arms are great for resting a drink or a book.
L.L. Bean keeps things more upright, and the higher seat makes it easier to get in and out of—which can be a plus for older folks.
My Experience
For long hangouts or reading sessions, Polywood wins—it’s basically a lounger. But if you’re popping in and out, L.L. Bean’s design is more convenient.
Assembly
Polywood arrives with everything you need. One person, 20 minutes.
L.L. Bean’s instructions are a bit easier to follow, but lining things up might require an extra set of hands. Still done in about 15 minutes.
Durability
Polywood’s warranty is solid—20 years against cracking, rotting, or peeling.
L.L. Bean gives you one year to return it for any reason, then they’ll still check for defects after that.
Cold Weather Test
Polywood had no issues in freezing temps. My L.L. Bean chair, though, developed tiny stress cracks on the feet—likely from expanding ice under it.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Both are low effort—just soap and water. Polywood doesn’t need any refinishing, ever. L.L. Bean allows light bleach use and can handle a gentle power wash.
Price & Value
Polywood costs more upfront but should easily last 20+ years. L.L. Bean is cheaper, but you might be replacing it a little sooner.
3. Visual Ideas (For Infographics)
- Radar Chart: Rate comfort, eco-friendliness, price, durability, etc.
- Material Pie Chart: Show % recycled vs virgin plastic
- Timeline: Photos at 0, 6, 12, 24 months outdoors
4. By the Numbers
- Customer Reviews: L.L. Bean: 4.8 stars from 368 reviews. Polywood: Around 4.6 stars on Amazon and Wayfair.
- Lifespan: Polywood says 20+ years. L.L. Bean’s typical lifespan is 10–15 years.
- Where They’re Made: Polywood is from Indiana (uses local recycling). L.L. Bean is based in Maine (chairs tested on their rooftop!).
- Certifications: Polywood is GREENGUARD Gold certified and can help with LEED points.
5. Which Chair Is Best for Your Setup?
- Beach House? Go Polywood—handles salt air like a champ.
- Cold Climate? L.L. Bean does well in snow and is light enough to bring indoors.
- Lounging All Day? Polywood’s ergonomic shape is perfect for relaxing.
6. Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Get?
Go with Polywood if:
- You care about sustainability (500 recycled jugs per chair!)
- You want a chair that’ll last decades
- Comfort is your top priority
Pick L.L. Bean if:
- You want to spend less
- You need something lighter and easier to move
- You like the idea of fast shipping and easy returns
My pick? I’m all in on Polywood. It’s comfortable, tough, and built to last. My deck feels like it’s finally “done.” That said, for a more affordable chair that still looks great—especially if you live somewhere cold—L.L. Bean is a solid choice.
Either way, both are a serious upgrade from your average plastic patio chair. Your backyard will thank you.
