A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Outdoor Gliders

There’s something undeniably peaceful about relaxing on a gentle glider outside, soaking in your surroundings, and unwinding after a long day. Choosing the right outdoor glider is about much more than picking a comfortable seat; it’s about finding a piece that enhances your lifestyle and turns your patio or deck into a welcoming retreat for years to come. Our comprehensive guide below will explain everything you need to know about buying outdoor gliders, from their materials to top brands and more.

What to Consider Before Buying

Glider Materials

One of the first things to consider before buying a glider is its material. Your glider will experience sun, rain, wind, and varying temperatures, making high-quality, weather-resistant materials essential. Polywood, a fantastic alternative to traditional wood, has become a popular choice for outdoor furniture. Its appeal comes from its wood-like look, remarkable durability, and very low maintenance.

If you prefer a more contemporary aesthetic, aluminum frames offer a great alternative. They are lightweight, resist rust and corrosion, and are often available in various finishes. Many modern aluminum gliders feature powder coatings, which augment their weather resistance and let you effortlessly match the frame to your existing outdoor décor.

For those who love natural finishes, teak remains a timeless classic. This hardwood is naturally water-repellent and decay-resistant, developing a beautiful silvery-gray patina if left untreated.

Comfort and Ergonomics

While the material influences your furniture's longevity, its ergonomics determines how comfortable you’ll be in your new glider. Look for contoured seats and backs that naturally support your posture. Don't forget to consider the armrests; they should allow your shoulders to rest naturally, with wider styles offering convenient space for a drink or a book.

Cushioning can significantly enhance comfort, though it does mean a bit more maintenance. We recommend choosing outdoor-grade fabrics that resist fading, moisture, and mildew. Some gliders even come with quick-dry foam, which helps prevent water buildup after a rain shower.

Glider Style and Aesthetic Fit

Your glider's style is just as important as its practical features. It should complement your patio's ambiance and reflect your personal taste. Traditional gliders often feature straight, clean lines and slatted backs, offering an elegant look that suits many home styles. Adirondack gliders, with their signature wide arms and fan-shaped backs, are perfect for creating a laid-back, cottage feel.

Choosing the right color also plays a big role. Neutrals blend effortlessly with any décor, earth tones bring a sense of warmth, and vibrant hues can make a bold statement or serve as a lively accent piece.

The Glider Size

Another thing to consider when purchasing patio glider furniture is its size and how it fits into your outdoor space. Your glider should fit comfortably in your outdoor space without crowding it. We suggest carefully measuring your area before making a purchase. Single-seat gliders, typically around 24 inches wide, are ideal for small patios or cozy nooks.

Loveseat gliders, usually 48 to 52 inches wide, offer intimate seating for two and strike a good balance for medium-sized spaces. If you have an elevated outdoor area, like a balcony, consider counter-height seating or balcony gliders; they work well with high railings and tables, offering better views.

Top Outdoor Glider Brands

Understanding the top patio glider brands is also important, as they offer the highest-quality construction, the best customer services, and the most extensive warranties. Top brands you’ll find at Pangaea Patio include Berlin Gardens, LuxCraft, Telescope Casual, and Mallin.

Berlin Gardens

Berlin Gardens is a leader in premium polywood outdoor furniture. Customers laud the brand for attention to detail and sturdy, elegant designs. Their gliders use stainless steel hardware that stays hidden for a clean look and resists rust in all climates. Their innovative Comfo-Back Swivel Glider combines smooth gliding with rotation, making it perfect for spaces with shifting views and sunlight.

LuxCraft

Another popular brand of poly gliders is LuxCraft. Offering reliability and great value, the company’s gliders feature recycled plastic material, helping the environment without sacrificing strength or durability. Their Adirondack line offers everything from compact models for tight spaces to roomy, five-foot options suitable for families. Hidden fasteners create smooth surfaces that are safe for kids and reduce the risk of snags.

Telescope Casual

Telescope Casual specializes in sling seating and rustproof aluminum frames that provide a light, modern look and exceptional comfort. Sling fabrics increase airflow, meaning these gliders stay cool and comfy during hot weather. The Belle Isle collection is a standout, contouring to your body to maximize relaxation.

Mallin

At the premium end, Mallin’s gliders feature unique designs and sophisticated refinement. Their collections feature artistic finishing touches, such as decorative castings and hand-applied finishes, that transform the furniture into focal points of your outdoor décor. Mallin pieces use heavy-gauge aluminum for strength and longevity, which makes them more expensive, but also means greater long-term value.

Where to Buy Outdoor Gliders

Once you understand what type of patio glider you want, where can you find it? Buying online offers greater selection and convenience. Specialty patio retailers, such as Pangaea Patio, offer handpicked choices from industry-leading manufacturers. The biggest advantages of retailers like Pangaea Patio are our deep product knowledge, tailored recommendations, and customer support for every step of the buying process.

Shopping in person at specialty patio stores also has its advantages. Showrooms allow you to try different gliders firsthand and see how styles and colors look in real light. Seeing a complete outdoor setup makes it easier to envision how everything will work together in your own space.

Maintenance and Care

To finish our comprehensive guide to buying outdoor gliders, we’ll explain how to take care of your new patio furniture to get the best value possible out of your new investment. For polywood and aluminum frames, a simple cleaning with mild soap, water, and a soft cloth is usually sufficient, but avoid pressure washers. If you have sling fabrics, brush them down, clean with soapy water, then rinse well to remove any residue.

Don't forget to regularly check the gliding mechanism. A dry, silicone-based lubricant will keep the mechanism moving smoothly and silently, but steer clear of oil-based options.

Off-Season Storage for Patio Gliders

Winter storage depends largely on your local climate and your glider’s material. Both polywood and aluminum can be left outdoors year-round in most climates, though you’ll reduce cleaning needs if you use quality, well-fitting covers. If you must store your glider indoors, choose a dry, well-ventilated area, such as a garage or shed, and remove any cushions beforehand.

Store cushions inside and wash and thoroughly dry them to prevent mold and mildew. Protective covers for outdoor furniture allow air to circulate while keeping moisture out.

Create Your Perfect Outdoor Retreat With Pangaea Patio

Choosing the perfect outdoor glider means finding a balance of durability, comfort, style, and the right size for your space. We recommend opting for resilient materials like polywood, aluminum, or teak for lasting enjoyment, and seeking ergonomic features such as contoured seats and supportive backs to ensure maximum relaxation.

Whether your taste leans classic, rustic, or modern, there's a glider to match your aesthetic within Pangaea Patio’s extensive selection. Browse our online inventory today and contact our staff if you have any questions or seek recommendations.