Best Beach Chair For Bad Back | Top 10 Picks in 2022

Relaxing on a reclining chair on the beach can easily be crowned as one of the best feelings in the world. Sadly, for people who have bad backs, this feeling isn’t mutual.

For someone with back pain, sitting on a lawn chair or beach chair for a prolonged period can cause a spike in pain.

If you have back pain but want to enjoy a day on the beach like the others as well, you need the best beach chair for bad back.

Thankfully, there are many options available in the market for you. We’ve compiled a few that are worth spending money on.

Best Beach Chair For Bad Back Reviews

You’ll find millions of options when looking for a good-quality beach chair. But which one should you go for if you suffer from back pain. Here are a few options that are worth taking a look at.

1. STRONGBACK Low Gravity Beach Chair

Made with heavy-duty fabric, the strongback beach chair has a great weight capacity. The 600D fabric can withstand regular use without any wear or tear. The 300-pound weight capacity makes this one of the best beach chairs for heavy-weight people.

Although the seating is specious, the unit does not take much space when carrying. After being folded, the chair takes on a compact shape. It can fit into the trunk of most car models, no matter how small.

Folding the unit is also quite easy and fast. After folding, the product weighs only 8.6 pounds.

Designed for people with bad backs, the unit has an amazing lumbar support system. This system ensures that your back and hips are aligned. This also helps to relieve tension in your back. Because you have a lot of space, you can also move around freely.

Two different positions for reclining mean that you get to select your desired sitting arrangement. While some people like to lean back far, others feel comfortable with a slight backward bend.

Pros

• Weighs only 8.6 pounds
• Comes with a 300-pound weight volume
• Nylon comfortable and soft cloth construction
• Easy to fold and carry
• Specious chair; comfortable to move around in

Cons

• Might fly around in the wind because of its lightweight

Bottom Line: It’s one of the finest beach chairs for bad backs and a must-have if you travel a lot. Because it’s so compact and lightweight, you can take it anywhere. Also, the fabric construction is quite strong and has a 300-pound weight capacity!

2. Coleman Camping Chair

The strong steel frame supports up to 325 pounds. So you can rest assured that the frame won’t fall apart any time soon.

This steep frame is stiff but easy to fold in. No need to break a sweat to try and get this into your car trunk.

Polyester seats are not the most comfortable to sit in, but they are very sturdy. Even with years of use, there will be no tears or scratches.

On the armrest, an insulated pouch has been added. The pouch can store up to 4 cans and keep them cool for a long time. On the other side of the armrest, there is a cup holder and a storage pouch. Keep your drinks close to you and store your phones, sunscreen, or loose cash in the storage pouch.

Out of all of the options that we have mentioned on our list, the Coleman Camping chair is one of the best beach chairs for bad backs on a budget. It has the most amount of features for the price.

Pros

• Affordable with great added features
• The cooler insulated pouch can store 4 cans
• Comes with a storage pouch and can holder
• Polyester no-tear, no-scratch seating
• 325lbs weight range with alloy steel frame

Cons

• Sitting on polyester can be uncomfortable for some people

Bottom Line: If you’re on a budget, there is no other beach chair that we would recommend. Getting so many added features, like the cooler pouch and cushioned seats, at such a low price is a deal that you should not miss out on.

3. KingCamp Low Sling Beach Chair

Compared to most of the beach chairs that you get in the market, the KingCamp low chair has a wider seating area. The area measures 23.2 inches, while the other options that you have mostly stop at 22 inches.

Low designs as such allow you to fully stretch your legs instead of them hanging from a height. Giving you the same comfort you get when lying in bed, the unit can be considered as one of the best beach chairs for bad knees.

When folded, the model shifts to a size 30.7 × 7.9 × 5.1 inch packet. A carrying bag is provided with the purchase so you can carry the product easily. The item also weighs just 6.6 pounds.

300-pound weight capacity makes the seat amazing. A heavy-duty steel frame and 600D oxford fabric construction also help boost the feature.

Pros

• Comes with one side cup holder
• 600D oxford fabric seats
• A low seat that helps you extend your legs fully
• 23.2 wide and comfortable seating area
• No installation is required, opens in seconds

Cons

• Not the greatest stitch quality

Bottom Line: As you can extend your legs fully on the unit, it is a must-buy for people with bad backs and bad knees. Mimicking the comfort of lying in a bed, the model can give you comfort and support like no other.

4. Amazon Basics Lounge Chair

To make the product comfortable for people with bad backs, the design has a fully cushioned pillow on the headrest. A beach chair with neck support like this one can be a great investment.

A single layer of cloth might not always be the most delightful thing, so chill on. The rest of the unit is also padded, so you can lay comfortably.

The foldable beach chair can be used straight out of the packet. There is no assembly required. With a slight shake or just one joint opened, the model will open fully in seconds.

It’s very common to get a few stains on a lawn or beach chair. Because the unit comes in a tan color, you might not even notice most of the stains.

But for washing, you can spot clean the sports with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Just one wipe will get most of the stains out in no time.

Zero-gravity-designed products help distribute your weight evenly. Beach chairs with back support will work better with zero-gravity as they help relieve pressure and keep spine, and tailbone aligned.

Pros

• Comes with pillows and a can holder
• Fully padded for soft and snug feel
• Can be spot cleaned with one wipe
• Help reduce pressure in pain points
• Even distribution of weight keeps back aligned

Cons

• The locking mechanism when storing is not tight

Bottom Line: Zero-gravity chairs are all the rage right now. Keeping your hips, back and tailbone aligned can help ease back soreness significantly.

5. Coastrail Outdoor Camping Chair

An added alignment strap allows you to adjust the lumbar support. The folding chair with backpack straps will help you adjust the unit according to your needs.

Foam padding throughout the chair almost makes the product feel like a couch. You will love the paddings if you plan on sitting on this unit for a long time.

There is a cooler for cans, a can holder, and a storage compartment as well. With that, you get storage in the head resting region as well.

You can either use this for storage or stuff the unit with a pillow for neck and head support.

Pillow and can holder are removable for ease of carrying and storage.

Coastrail has a weight capacity of 400lbs. this weight capacity is backed up by very high-quality stitching. Durable stitching as such can means that you do not require any serious maintenance. 

Pros

• High-quality stitching with 400lbs weight limit
• Extra storage added in the headrest
• Foam padding throughout the model
• Lumbar support can be adjusted with straps
• Sturdy and holds position even in the wind

Cons

• The cooler zipper is not high quality

Bottom Line: The high 400lbs weight limit makes this a suitable model for heavy-weight people. Being able to adjust the lumbar support based on your needs is also a feature that many will appreciate.

6. Ostrich Deluxe Padded 3-in-1 Chair

On both sides of the product, you will find extra wide armrests. These armrests have slots in them for cups.

Multiple storage compartments have also been added with Velcro openings.

The footrest can be expanded into three different positions. 

Keeping in mind that the product will come in contact with water quite often, the frame has been made with rust-proof aluminum.

This makes the chair much more lightweight but durable at the same time.

The backrest can be changed into 5 different positions. You can choose a position depending on the kind of back pain you have.

Many people like to sleep at the beach. With the help of 5 different positions and three footrest options, you can lie flat on your back or your stomach on the unit. With cutouts added to the product, you can easily sleep on your stomach with no barriers. 

Pros

• The aluminum frame is lighter and easier to carry
• Can be made flat for better sleep
• Wide foot and armrests with cup holders
• Multiple color options
• 5 back and 3-foot position changes are available to be customized according to back pain

Cons

• A bit expensive

Bottom Line: You might have to spend a lot on this beach chair, but it does come with specious armrests and a position changeable footrest. With some tweaking, you can also use the product when sleeping.

7. Tommy Bahama Beach Chair

Beach chairs with backpack straps as this one are becoming very popular now. The sturdy straps allow you to fold the product and carry it around. That way, your hands are free, and your movement is not restricted.

Made with a hollow aluminum tube, carrying the unit on your back is easier.

Storage is available on the back of the unit. On the sides, you get another compartment for essentials and a can holder as well.

When folded into a backpack there is another storage available on the top.

Change how low or how high you want to lean on the unit with its 5 position-changing options.

The strong frame of the product holds you in position and helps straighten your back out.

The model can be positioned in a way that allows you to lay flat. Chairs as this one are great for people who want to sunbathe.

Pros

• Straps added for ease of carrying
• Spacious storage is available all around the unit
• Recommended for using for sunbathing
• Can be positioned based on type and severity of back pain  
• The hollow aluminum tube frame is easy to carry as a backpack

Cons

• The cooler has to be bought separately

Bottom Line: Backpack-style beach chairs are amazing because they offer a lot of storage and can be carried around easily. The Tommy Bahama beach chair has a hollow aluminum construction just for better portability.

8. Rio Beach Big Kahuna Extra Large Folding Beach Chair

If you are a tall person, you know how hard it is to find a beach chair with a comfortable backrest.

The backrest on the Rio beach chairs is tall and also wide for back support. Anyone taller than 6 ft. will love this product.   

After the unit has been opened and set up, there is a locking feature that you can press on to keep the unit in position.

Any setting that you choose, from the 5 position changes that the unit offers, can also be locked in place using this mechanism.

Made with hardwood, the wide armrest on the model has been shaped and made to give support to your elbow and arms. The rests are sealed using marine-grade coatings to prevent any splinters.

Polyester fabric seats do not absorb water. So even if you spill your drink on the model, you won’t have much to worry about.

The fabric is strong and does not fray or get scratches either.

Pros

• Provides back support for tall people
• Polyester waterproof fabric seats
• Marine-coating added armrest to prevent splinters
• Positions selected can be locked in place
• Deeper seats for more comfort

Cons

• Low weight limit of the only 280lbs

Bottom Line: Any tall person will love these high backrests. It’s very comfortable to lean against and can be laid out flat as well. The locking mechanism is great for holding the position or settings selected in place.

9. KingCamp Camping Chair with Lumbar Back Support

Alignment straps allow you to adjust the model according to the support you need. These straps ensure that your lumbar stays in place on the unit. The lumbar support that is provided is what prevents you from getting sore backs later on.

Seat covers made with 600x 300D oxford material give you maximum comfort. Unlike polyester, the material is not rough and slippery. The seats feel a lot like your chairs at home.

Metal on metal contact points keeps the unit sturdy. Card slot type and the unique construction help increase the longevity of the model. This is what gives it the 350lbs weight limit.

High beach chairs cannot be too heavy. Otherwise, they will become too difficult to move with.

Thankfully, the model is made with steel tubes. This adds durability but gets rid of the extra weight.

Rust protection has also been added as the product will come in contact with water quite often. 

Pros

• Steel tube lightweight but durable construction
• Metal on metal design increases the longevity of the unit
• Softer covers, more comfortable to sit on
• The alignment strap helps keep the lumbar positioned
• Added mesh storage, cup holder, and cooler

Cons

• Seats are too deep and hard to get out of

Bottom Line: Alignment straps on the model make the model a must-buy if you want to prevent backaches. The metal-on-metal design makes the product durable, so you can use it regularly.

10. Rio Original Steel Backpack

Beach Friendly Design

Both the armrests o the unit have a powder coating on them. The unit is made of hardwood and steel with a rust-resistant coating. This is why even if the chair comes in contact with salt water regularly, not much harm is done.

Straps added to the unit for ease of carrying have been padded. This makes the carrying process a little bit easier. As the straps don’t dig into your shoulders, carrying the unit for a long time is easier.

4 different reclining positions are available for use. There are positions available for lower back pain, shoulder pain, and pain in the tailbone as well.

Because the design is so simple and durable, you can take this thing anywhere. A basic foldable chair like this one can be used in concerts, for games, movies, and beside the pool as well.

Pros

• 4 easy to customize lounging positions
• Straps are padded for portability
• Powder-coated design for protection against saltwater
• Can be used for watching movies, games, or beside the pool
• Separate space for hanging wet towels

Cons

• Velcro on the storage is not durable

Bottom Line: Padded straps make it easier for you to walk around with the unit. Powder and rust-resistant coatings ensure that there is no harm done to the chair by the harsh salt water.

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Buying Guide

While buying sitting arrangements for a day at the beach, there are several things that you need to keep in mind. Let’s get to know them.

Back Support

Nowadays, you can get units that have alignment straps. You can use these to keep your hips, tailbone, and back aligned.

Also, look for units that have padded straps. These are easier to carry as they have a foam pad on the straps. Therefore the straps do not cause pain on your shoulders, and you can carry the product for a long time.

Back Rest Height

If the height of your backrest is not right, you can get severe backaches. A backrest height too short will hurt your skin and back. Pain is caused as the edge stops abruptly and digs into your skin.

That is why you should always go for taller backrests. It’s a safer option.

Reclining Options

Chairs that have reclining options allow you to adjust the backrest according to your comfort. This way, you can customize the slope of the backrest based on the type of back pain you have.

Comfort

Although polyester is a very durable material and is often used in making beach chairs, the material is not the most comfortable.

Go for oxford material. They are sturdy and feel soft on the skin as well. You can sit on a product made with oxford fabric for a long tie without feeling itchy or uncomfortable.

You could also try and get a beach chair with canopy to protect yourself from sunburns and extreme heat to increase comfort.

Durability

Frames that are constructed of steel or aluminum are more preferable as they increase the durability of the chair. Steel tubes and allow aluminum are lightweight options that add strength and increase weight capacity without making the unit too heavy.

Rust Resistance

Because you will be using the product at the beach, the unit might come in contact with water quite often. If the chair has a steel or aluminum frame, ensure that it has a powder and rust-resistant coating. Powder coatings protect the steel frame against damage from harsh saltwater. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are beach chairs good for your back?

Beach chairs that have alignment straps and various reclining positions help with back pain.

What is the best backpack beach chair?

The Rio Original Steel Backpack is a great option for backpack-style beach chairs. The straps on the model are padded for more comfort.

What is the best chair for back pain?

STRONGBACK Low Gravity Beach Chair is the best chair for back pain. It helps keep your back aligned with your hips and is comfortable to sit on for long hours.

What are good beach chairs?

The Coleman Camping Chair and the KingCamp Low Sling Beach Chair are some examples of good beach chairs. They provide support for your back, are durable, and come with storage space as well.

Are Tommy Bahama beach chairs worth it?

Yes, they are. They have a variety of options to choose from and are usually very lightweight. People love Tommy Bahama chairs because of their vibrant colors and durability.

Are deck chairs good for your back?

This depends on the shape of the deck chair. But usually, these chairs are hard and do not provide much back support, baking them bad for you back.

Are zero gravity chairs good for your back?

Zero-gravity chairs distribute your weight evenly. As a result, pressure is decreased, and back pain is relieved. So yes, they are good for your back.

What is the best lounge chair for a bad back?

The Amazon Basics Lounge Chair is the best one for a bad back. The whole unit is padded, and the model comes with wide armrests.

Is it ok to sleep in a zero-gravity position?

Yes, you could. The uniform weight distribution helps relieve pressure. So sleeping in a zero-gravity position could help reduce your back pain.

What is so special about zero gravity chairs?

The main feature that makes zero-gravity chairs so special is that it is capable of distributing your weight evenly. This reduces the pressure on pain points which eases back pain.

Final Words

Finding the best beach chair for bad back is a must if you want to spend a peaceful day at the beach. Otherwise, you might have to deal with severe backaches and pressure after coming back from your beach trip. Thankfully, we’ve got all the right options lined up for you. Choose any of the chairs that intrigue you, and you too can spend a pain-free day at the beach!