Natural Rattan Beach Chairs: Why Quality Matters
If you've been searching for a rattan beach chair, you've probably noticed that the options range wildly in price — from $30 on Amazon to $175 and beyond. The difference isn't just aesthetics. It comes down to materials, construction, and whether your chair will last one summer or ten.
Here's what to look for and why it matters.
Natural Rattan vs. Synthetic Rattan
The most important thing to understand when shopping for a rattan beach chair is that not all rattan is real rattan. A lot of what is marketed as "rattan" — particularly at lower price points — is actually made from synthetic materials like plastic or resin. It may look similar in photos, but it behaves very differently over time. Synthetic rattan yellows in the sun, becomes brittle, and eventually cracks or unravels. Natural rattan, on the other hand, is a plant-based material indigenous to Indonesia and one of the most durable natural materials used in furniture making. It's resistant to the elements, flexible enough to withstand everyday use, and gets more beautiful with age.
When shopping, always check the product description carefully. If it doesn't explicitly say "natural rattan," assume it's synthetic.
The Weave Makes the Difference
Beyond the material itself, the quality of the weave determines how long your chair will last and how it feels to sit in. Lower cost rattan chairs are typically woven in wide rows — ten or more strands at a time — which creates an uneven pattern with gaps and inconsistencies. Higher quality chairs are handwoven tightly using a traditional method that results in a stronger, more even construction. You can see the difference immediately when you look closely at the backrest and seat.
A tight, even weave also means the chair holds its shape over time. A loose weave will sag, gap, and eventually fall apart.
What to Look for in a Rattan Beach Chair
When evaluating a rattan beach chair, here are the key things to consider:
Material — Is it genuine natural rattan? Where is it sourced from? Indonesia is the world's primary producer of high quality natural rattan.
Construction — Is it handmade or mass produced? Handmade chairs from skilled artisans take significantly more time to produce and it shows in the quality of the finished piece.
Weight and portability — A good rattan beach chair should be lightweight enough to carry comfortably. Look for a carry strap, ideally canvas or leather, and a flat-folding design that won't take up your whole trunk.
Recline positions — The best rattan beach chairs offer multiple recline positions so you can adjust for reading, lounging, or watching the sunset.
Support — Look for an additional support frame under the seat. This is what separates a chair that holds up over time from one that gives out after a season.
Why We Source From Bali
At Resol Beach, our rattan beach chairs are handwoven by skilled artisans in Bali using the highest quality natural rattan. Each chair is tightly handwoven using a traditional method — not mass produced — which means every piece is one of a kind. The result is a chair that is as beautiful as it is durable, and one that you can expect to have for years.
Our chairs fold flat, come with a canvas carry strap, and recline to multiple positions — everything you need for a day at the beach, a picnic, an outdoor concert, or anywhere else you want to sit comfortably.
"This chair is absolutely beautiful. My mother had one like this when I was a child — it's very sentimental to me to have one." — Terry V.
We currently offer two styles: the Resol Rattan Beach Chair, our full-size lounger with headrest and three recline positions, and the Indah Rattan Beach Chair, our lighter, more compact option perfect for on-the-go. Both are handwoven in Bali and built to last.
If you're ready to invest in a rattan beach chair that will actually last, shop our full collection.