Style, functionality, and durability are the three primary criteria for choosing the best outdoor folding chair. The materials used to build the outdoor folding chair should not only be strong and attractive; they should also be durable enough to withstand regular exposure to the elements, such as rain and snow. If you plan on storing the outdoor folding chair during the winter, consider purchasing a model that is easy to fold up, and one that folds up thin and compact for easy storage in tight spaces. Most importantly, choose a chair that is comfortable; otherwise, you and your guests will have no desire to use the chair at all.
An outdoor folding chair can be made from a variety of materials: wood, metal, and vinyl are perhaps the three most common material choices, and any of these three materials may be used on their own or in conjunction with padding materials. If the chair features padding materials, be sure they are waterproof, or at the least water resistant, and easy to clean. Leaving the chairs outside on a patio will expose them to sunlight as well, so be sure the materials will not fade after such exposure. Dirt, mold, and grime are likely to build up on cushions, so be sure they can either be removed for cleaning or can be cleaned easily while attached to the chair itself.
If you are considering a wood outdoor folding chair, be sure to choose woods that are resistant to water damage such as rot, warping, splitting, mold and mildew build-up, and fading. Cedar and teak are perhaps the best choices for wood outdoor folding chair construction, though these woods will tend to cost much more than other types of wood. They are naturally beautiful woods, however, and little maintenance will be required to keep them in the best shape. They are also both resistant to bug infestations. Less expensive woods will go easier on your wallet in the short term, but they are more likely to break down quickly and succumb to water damage.
Some outdoor folding chair models are made from fabrics such as nylon or canvas. These models pack up quickly and very compact, and they are easy to transport. Some even store in their own carrying cases. The drawback to such chairs is the construction and durability: the lightweight materials and frame tend to break down quickly after repeated use, especially if heavy users frequently sit in them. Be careful when purchasing such a chair; check the construction carefully to make sure it will be durable enough for your purposes.