When you have knee joint pain, it can be tough to get out and enjoy the world. One thing that can make it even more of an inconvenience is not having the right gear, especially when you want to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach.
If knee pain is a challenge for you, you’ll likely find that you need to make adjustments to your lifestyle to accommodate for your limited joint mobility– most importantly when it comes to your beach chair!
Whether you have a knee injury related to sports, knee issues because of genetics, a slip or fall, or any other knee joint-related issues, finding a beach chair that keeps your knees comfortable is vital. It can become difficult to enjoy the salty air while sitting on your beach chair if you aren’t able to relax the right way.
But it shouldn’t be hard to find beach chairs to keep your knees comfortable.
We’ve put together a list of the best beach chairs for individuals who suffer from chronic knee pain or have limited knee mobility so you can find the best beach chair to bring on your coastal trips.
Keep reading for our picks of the best beach chairs for bad knees to discover which one is best for you!
8 Best Beach Chairs for Bad Knees Quick Overview
AmazonBasics Zero Gravity Outdoor Chair – Best Overall
The AmazonBasics Zero Gravity Outdoor Chair is the top beach chair choice if knee pain or discomfort is a concern because of its structure and ease of use. The zero gravity design and height of the chair make it easy to get in and out of without putting too much strain on your knees. Not only does it provide a high platform making it easy sit down without hurting the knees, but it also comes with a removable headrest pillow and cup holder making it easy to customize your comfort level.
Measuring 37.8”D x 5.1”W x 29.5”H and a weight capacity of 300 lbs, it provides ample support and is large enough to remain comfortable for long sitting periods. Available in black, red, beige, and blue, you can find the perfect design to fit your style.
This beach chair is made of durable steel and fitted with Oxford cotton fabric to give it a sleek and sturdy design. It’s because of this design, though, that this chair weighs just over 20 lbs which may prove difficult for senior users to transport to the beach. There are more suitable beach chairs for elderly adults that can be used on vacation.
- Padded zero-gravity patio chair for ultimate comfort when relaxing outdoors
- Removable headrest pillow and handy cup holder; chair folds for compact storage and easy transport
- Safe, sturdy construction; made of durable steel and Oxford cotton fabric; Black color
- Spot clean with a damp cloth; do not iron; do not use strong chemicals for cleaning
- Measures 28.5-34.2 by 38.1-62.5 by 33.1-44 inches; weighs 20.5 pounds; backed by an Amazon Basics 1-year limited warranty
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Goldsun Folding Cushioned Chair – Best for Comfort
Comfort is the name of the game for the Goldsun Folding Cushioned Chair. This beach chair combines maximum comfort and a high frame that make it easy to get in and out making it the most comfortable beach chair!
With seven adjustable recline positions, you can adjust the chair to fit the body posture that makes it easy on the knees. The removable cushion provides breathability not found in chairs with sewn-on cushions.
The dimensions of the Goldsun Folding Cushioned Chair are 71.6”S x 23.6”W x 14.8”H, making it one of the best high seat beach chairs– sitting high enough off the ground to still have easy access while putting minimal pressure on your knees.
- ★Includes: One (1) Lounge Chair and One (1) Lounge Chair Cushion and one (1) Tray
- ★The ergonomic design and waterproof mesh seat provide maximum comfort with 7 adjustable reclining positions
- ★Upgraded with rectangular sturdy aluminum frame and a Utility Tray, Suitable for holding drinks and food during your leisure time
- ★Seat and back with UV-resistant, breathable Textilene fabric for longevity.
- ★Lightweight and Portable, No Assembly Required,youll Be Lounging in the Sun Right Away
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Goplus Folding Zero Gravity Chair – Best for Budget
The Goplus Folding Zero Gravity Chair provides the agility of a zero gravity chair without all the extras, making it a budget-friendly purchase. This beach chair features a removable neck pillow and a side tray with a drink holder, cell phone holder and slot to place your book or tablet in.
Dimensions of the Goplus Zero Gravity Chair are 35.4”L x 25.2”W x 43.3”H with a weight capacity of 300 lbs. The chair is made with durable materials such as the sturdy aluminum frame and a mesh fabric material for easy breathability to keep you cool while sitting on the beach.
The GoPlus is a folding beach chair that can collapse down to ⅓ of its original size, making it easy to carry from your vehicle or garage down to the beach. The height of the seat makes it easy to get in and out, ultimately putting less strain on your knees. Since folding chairs are known to store well, it shouldn’t be difficult to tuck the Goplus away when not in use.
The best part of the Goplus Folding Zero Gravity Chair is the price tag. Zero gravity beach chairs often come with an expensive cost. However, this specific chair provides users with the benefits of a zero gravity chair without boasting the hefty price tag making it more affordable for your wallet.
- 【Folding Design】For easy stacking and storage, this gravity chair can be folded into one third. And it is lightweight, which can be easily moved from room to room.
- 【Multi Purposes】It is ideal for enjoying both your indoor and outdoor time. It can be applied at anywhere you want, such as bedroom, balcony, garden and courtyard. It would provide you a better lounge time.
- 【Cup Holder Tray and Headrest】A cup holder tray to place beverage, magazine, phone or other small items for convenient accessibility. A detachable headrest for better relaxing experience.
- 【Durable Frame】Features from sturdy aluminum seat posts and steel leg posts, this recliner is sturdy enough to hold people up to 300Lbs. And the material fabric is also durable, it is ventilated in summer and you can place cushions on it for winter using.
- 【Size Info】Weight Capacity: 300 lbs. Open size: 35.4x 25.2 x 43.3(LXWXH). Folding size: 36.2x 25.0 x 5.1(LXWXH).
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
KingCamp Oversize Padded Folding Chaise Lounge Chair – Best for Larger Users
“Oversize” says it all as the KingCamp Oversize Padded Folding Chaise Lounge Chair boasts maximum comfort with a wide base for larger beachgoers. This lounge chair has a triangle locking system that allows you to choose between multiple reclining positions for personalization you can’t find elsewhere.
As with other beach chairs that prove beneficial for knees with joint discomfort, the height from the base of the lounge chair to the ground is high enough that it doesn’t cause excess strain on your knees. In fact, one five star reviewer raves about how easy it was to get in and out of this chair even with her knee issues. Actual dimensions of the KingCamp Chaise Lounge Chair is 78.7”D x 26.8”W x 15”H and has a four-fold system for easy storage and portability.
The heavy duty frame and durable design of this lounge chair is complete with steel leg posts and a max capacity of 330 lbs. A powder-coated surface means it’s waterproof and prevents rust buildup, while the footrest cover and footpads create a slip-resistant design.
The chair is entirely cushioned, has a padded seat and comes with a large adjustable pillow that can also be used for lumbar support, offering fantastic lower back support. The KingCamp chair has a storage pouch on one side with one mesh pocket and two other pockets to hold books, your cell phone, car keys or more.
Be careful– you may find it easy to fall asleep when soaking up the sun in this KingCamp Lounge Chair, as it is often used as a camping cot.
- 【4-Fold Lounge Chair】The chaise lounge chairs with triangle locking system, which allow you to choose from different levels for personalized comfort. You can as bed / camping cot, backrest bed or chair. Applied at beach, patio, pool, lawn, garden, deck, office Nap, bedroom, balcony, or as a temporary bed for your guest. Whatever children, adults or elders all could have a leisure time on it.
- 【Sturdy and Comfortable】Wider and larger than most folding lounge. Size: 78.7x26.7in (L*W), wider 9CM and longer 10CM than common lounge chair, more space,more comfort. Double bungee design on the connecting part of the seat part and pipe structure part, provide all-round support. 600D oxford fabric plus 1.5cm thickness PU with the advantage of aging resistant, uvioresistant, smooth, waterproof, oil-proof. More breathable and ventilated compared to other material.
- 【Heavy-duty Lounge Chair Outdoor】Features from sturdy aluminum seat posts and 22X1.0mm steel leg posts, the folding lounger is sturdy enough to hold people up to 330lbs. With powder coating finish, waterproof and antirust. Footrest cover and foot pads make it slip resistant on hard ground surfaces.
- 【Quick Open & Fold】No tools needed! Just fold everything out, and youre done. Only spend your few seconds. **Please check that the back bracket snaps into the slot when adjust the position.
- 【Padded Pillow & Side Pocket】Include a large organizer pocket for storing your cell Phone, keys, water bottle, toys, earplugs & More. The pillow is adjustable and completely removable, serve as a headrest, lumbar support or for other support purposes. Easy for washing and providing a more comfortable experience.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Coastrail Outdoor Zero Gravity Chair with Sun Shade – Best for Sun-Sensitive Users
If you want to enjoy some time on the beach but don’t want full sun exposure, check out the Coastrail Outdoor Zero Gravity Chair with Sun Shade. The added sun protection is beneficial to help keep skin protected from the sun’s rays, especially for those with certain skin types.
Having a sun canopy over your head also means you are more protected by the elements overall. The Coastrail Zero Gravity Chair is crafted with an aluminum alloy frame, removable pillow and pillow case, along with a steel mesh material to provide support. The mesh seat fabric also promotes breathability for an overall more comfortable– and less sweaty– time on the beach.
This chair measures 29.1”D x 19.6”W x 44.9”H with a weight capacity of 400 lbs. The smooth reclining action can be locked in place to ensure maximum comfort. This great beach chair also comes with a detachable table and drink holder.
When you’re ready to pack it in for the day, you’ll find that the Coastrail Zero Gravity chair is a moderately lightweight chair coming in at 21.6 lbs for manageable transport and making it somewhat easy to carry.
Once again, the zero gravity design makes it easy to get in and out of the chair no matter what outdoor activities you’re enjoying, so you aren’t placing extensive pressure on your knees.
- ADJUSTABLE SHADE COVER: Stay cool and protected under the attached awning and breathable mesh back panel as you recline and relax in all-day comfort. Perfect for the Beach, Camping or the Backyard Patio
- FULL RECLINE ANTI GRAVITY CHAIR: Smooth reclining action is stable and can be locked in place. Designed to fit both Large and Tall People with a high-back design and adjustable pillow to get the perfect comfort and position
- CONVENIENT SIDE TABLE AND DRINK HOLDER: Integrated cup holder & side table keeps your drink and other essentials at your finger tips. You may never have to leave your seat
- DURABLE MATERIALS: Supports up to 400 lbs. with 100% Polyester fabrics that are strong and stain resistant. The Heavy Duty Steel tube frame and double bungee system provides long lasting comfort and durability
- FOLDING & PORTABLE DESIGN: Zero Gravity camping chair folds easily and is light weight (21.6 lbs) to carry anywhere you want
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
HEANI Removable Cushion Outdoor Chair – Best for Airflow
The HEANI Removable Cushion Outdoor Chair promotes airflow as the removable cushion allows you to maintain your desired level of comfort while remaining cool. This comfortable chair supports over 440 lbs with dimensions measuring 30”D x 26”W x 31”H making it an oversized beach chair perfect for relaxation. It’s soft, spacious and very lightweight while being extremely sturdy– sturdier than your standard beach chair.
The adjustable headrest lets you move it how you desire, and the double-layered fabric with a mesh center gives an overall good feel. It is designed to be used as a lounge chair or a cot for those who want variations in their beach trip experience. The breathable mesh back keeps you cool while the air circulation adapts naturally to your body heat.
This HEANI Mesh Lounge Chair provides all of those bonus features that will keep you comfortable from sunrise to sunset on the sand. This chair features cup holders on both arms so your favorite cold drink is within easy reach when reclining back into your preferred position.
The thick and soft padding paired with the removable headrest pillow makes it the type of chair you may find yourself dozing off in– think “poolside lounge chair” cushioning. This chair has a zero-gravity design making it easily accessible for all users. This is likely the best beach chair for cushioning, weight capacity and airflow to keep you cool.
A foldable design makes it easy to store and transport the lightweight chair as the intuitive design ensures your comfort whether you use the padded cushion or prefer the chair without.
- Comfortable and relaxing: Take a well-deserved break and get comfortable in our lounge chair! Our recliner chair comes with a thick and soft padding and an ergonomic design that can help you relax and relieve the tension accumulated throughout the day.
- Adjustable design: Our zero-gravity chair has an ergonomic design that can be adjusted from 90 to 170-degree angle. This amazing feature helps you select the optimal angle that brings you to a comfortable, relaxed position.
- Made to last: This professional reclining chair is built with premium quality materials, that provide increased durability and resistance. It has a solid metal construction which ensures great stability and can support over 440lbs.
- Practical and versatile: With an intuitive design, this outdoor Zero Gravity chair can be used by anybody. You can remove the soft cushion to promote better airflow during hot summer days. Also, it is very easy to install and can be easily folded, for easier storage and handling.
- Multipurpose use: Whether you want to relax by reading a book or get a quick break, this comfortable chair is the ideal solution. It can be used indoors, for outdoor activities, such as family gatherings, BBQs or beach day, or at the office.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Folding Chair with SunShade – Best No Recline Beach Chair
If a lounge chair isn’t your forté, consider the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair with SunShade. This rocking beach chair combines outdoor living with the comfort of your own home. It touts a spring action technology, sun shade, storage pockets and attached cup holder and a carry bag all in a low gravity beach chair.
This is an easy-to-carry compact chair that has all the bells and whistles without all the usual fuss of a larger beach chair. It’s even small enough when folded that you can toss it in the car for your next camping trip. The cup holders are removable so you can choose whether or not to include them depending on your preference. The rocking motion ensures you aren’t seated in one position all day, giving you a little variety with your relaxation time. Plus, the steel powder-coated frame means it stays strong against rusting even if left out in inclement weather.
The sling-style seat makes it easy to sit down and stand up out of the chair as the base of the chair adjusts from stationary to rocker mode depending on body weight distribution. The frame is designed to support up to 250 lbs.
As most folding beach chairs, it’s easy to store when not in use and to transport when necessary. One of the more sought-after features of this chair is the retractable sunshade. This sunshade provides the protection you need from the sun while still allowing you to enjoy the salty air.
- Full-size rocker
- Outdoor Rocking Chair: Featuring a structured sling-style seat and SunShade canopy, this portable folding chair quickly and easily folds up for storage and transportation
- Foldable, compact design
- Quality Construction: Constructed from sturdy powder-coated steel, this foldable chair frame supports up to 250 pounds and includes a side phone pocket and beverage holder
- Spring Action Rocking Technology for relaxation and smooth rocking on any surface
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Realead Adjustable Oversized Folding Chair – Best for Back Support
Oversized comfort and support where you need it most are what make the Realead Adjustable Oversized Folding Chair the perfect beach chair option for knees that could use a little extra care. The seat of the chair to the base of the frame measures 16.5”, making it an attractive choice for relieving joint pain. If actual chair weight is important, you may find that this is the best lightweight beach chair as well.
The Realead Adjustable Oversized Folding Chair is designed to support up to 440 lbs, making it a great choice for when you go on beach trips but need to be able to relieve knee and back pain. The chair features padded chair arms to make you feel extra comfy without stickiness most beach chairs give you during the hot summer months.
In addition, this foldable design makes storage easy as you can stow it away in small spaces when not being used at the beach, poolside or even on your deck at home. When not in use, it comes with a convenient carrying bag with shoulder straps so that you can move it effortlessly from place to place throughout your day. A total weight of 12.5 lbs plus the soft padding and reclining options makes this the best lightweight beach chair you can find.
The Realead beach chair has a movable backrest designed for back support. Sitting in this chair for extended periods won’t cause discomfort as the backrest can be moved to provide lumbar support so you can enjoy all the relaxation you want.
Dimensions of this chair measure 23.6”D x 23.6”W x 42.5”H making it a high back beach chair and it folds for easy storage and transportation. The frame is coated to prevent corrosion and fading, while the alloy steel frame ensures longevity.
This lightweight beach chair comes complete with a durable mesh cup holder and two storage pockets and is the perfect option for those that suffer from knee or back pain.
- 【Movable Backrest】Realead deluxe camping chair designed with Movable Backrest.You can sit in it for long periods without any discomfort at all.Not only comfy for sitting and relaxing, they can go to lean back and use that as a lumbar support and supported your lower back.Comfortably that you can watch the sky without laying on the ground.It can relieve your fatigue immediately and effectively! – Feel better in minutes!You’ll wish you found this years ago!
- 【Supreme Comfort with Fully Padded】Oversized Camping Folding Chair designed with fully padded back and padded seat armrest ensure comfort of this chair.Whether you’re in your garden, at home,at the beach,camping or hiking.This reclining camp chair can help you enjoy the kind of comfort and relaxation you crave.
- 【High Quality Material】Foldable Hard Alloy steel frame with coating prevent corrosion and fading.Durable oxford fabric make the chair extra sturdy for sitting.Sturdy steel frame construction make it can support up to 400 lbs.Whether you are tall or heavy people,this heavy duty folding chair can let you enjoy the ultimate comfort.You will get a long lasting chair to enjoy outdoors all year.
- 【Extra Storage Space】This outdoor lawn chairs comes with two accessory bags and one cup holder.Durable mesh cup holder and armrests are at the ideal height, allowing you to relax. The side storage pocket can hold mobile phones, laptops and maps, and the back storage pocket provides more storage space. A solid comfortable folding camp chairs with all the bells and whistles,meet your various needs.
- 【Portable and Easy to Storage】No worry about assembly and carrying, this folding camping chairs is easy to fold and open up in seconds.We will provide a closing strap and a beautifully made bag with carrying strap,It collapses down to just 8.58″ x 43.3″ and Weights only 12.5lbs.You can put it on the car to outside,portable outdoor chairs will provide you with a relaxing and pleasant outdoor experience.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide for Choosing the Best Beach Chair for Bad Knees
Here are the most important features to take into consideration when choosing a beach chair if you have knees in need of extra care.
Zero Gravity
The zero-gravity design prevents beachgoers from bending their knees too far before sitting. It also has easy recline options so you can stay in the seat and recline it to the desired height. The best beach chairs for joint pain are typically a low gravity beach chair which allows for relief from any pressure on the joints or spine.
Breathability
If you use an outdoor chair on the beach that does not breathe well, it can become hot and uncomfortable. This may cause you to get in and out of your chair more frequently, resulting in more stress on your knees. You want to look for a beach chair that is made with a breathable fabric or mesh to allow for good air flow especially during the heat of the summer months. If you do find a great beach chair with poor breathability, you do always have the option to lay your beach towel down first.
Measurements & Portability
Although this feature may seem obvious, it is not only about the size of the seat itself. High beach chairs make it easy to get in and out of when you’re older and you need to be careful with your knees.
Make sure you look for a chair that you will be able to fit in its storage location, put it inside your car or truck or if you’ll need to buy a rack to transport it. Best beach chairs are the ones you can tuck away when you’re not trekking to the shore for a beach day getaway.
A good folding beach chair is a chair designed to have latches or locks to keep the chair secured when it has been collapsed. Don’t forget to look for a way to easily carry your beach chair. Some chairs come with backpack straps– typically called a “backpack beach chair— or a carrying bag / storage bag with shoulder straps. No matter how much you like your beach chair, you want to make sure you can carry it, especially if knee pain is something you need to be mindful of.
Wrap Up
After evaluating each beach chair and weighing the varying benefits and drawbacks, my choice of best beach chairs for painful knees is the AmazonBasics Zero Gravity Outdoor Chair. Not only does the zero gravity design make it easy to get in and out, but the added longevity of the Oxford cotton material also makes it a favorable option.
Most important of all, this chair was designed with great lumbar support which helps reduce back pain in most individuals when sitting down.
All in all, this beach chair is the best choice I can recommend when it comes to quality, comfort and price. Once you try it out for yourself, you will understand why it is my top pick!
But, if the zero-gravity style is not what you’re looking for, there are plenty of other beach chair options available that will keep you free from knee pain. The beach chair brand doesn’t matter– but the chairs we know will rate high include the KingCamp Oversize Padded Folding Chaise Lounge Chair and the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Folding Chair with SunShade.