An Adirondack rocking chair is a variation on the more traditional Adirondack chair; this version is built similarly to an Adirondack chair, but instead of featuring fixed legs, the Adirondack rocking chair has two rockers that allow the chair to pivot back and forth. When choosing an Adirondack rocking chair, you should look for a design that follows the traditional design, and you should look for a chair that is solidly constructed from high quality materials. Some Adirondack chairs are now made from plastic or composite materials, which are good for some purposes but not ideal for others. Be sure to figure out for what purpose you will be using your chair before purchasing.
A traditional Adirondack chair is made from 11 pieces of wood and features a straight back that was positioned at a slant. This slant allows an ergonomic sitting position, as well as a more comfortable sitting position when sitting on inclines. When looking for an Adirondack rocking chair, look for a chair that follows this design, and look for a chair with rocker legs that do not pivot the chair so far back that the chair back makes sitting uncomfortable or awkward.
Adirondack chairs are traditionally made from wood, but many modern versions are made from lighter synthetic or composite materials. If you purchase a wood Adirondack rocking chair, make sure it is treated with a waterproofing stain or paint to help prevent rot and other water damage. If you choose a synthetic or composite material, make sure the material is durable enough to withstand regular use as well as exposure to the elements. Most synthetics and composites are waterproof or water-resistant, so they are a good choice for outdoor use, but they may not have the same traditional look and feel as wood Adirondack rocking chair models.
Above all, make sure the chair is well-constructed. Inspect joints where pieces of the chair come together. Note whether those joints are glued, screwed, nailed, or secured in another fashion, and make sure the joints are clean, solid, and otherwise well-constructed. The rockers will bear a fair amount of stress during normal use, so be sure they are secured properly and angled correctly. Test the chair out and listen for squeaks, feel for loose joints, and note how comfortable the chair is. If you are considering a two-person Adirondack rocking chair, be sure to test out the rocker with a friend and note how solid the construction feels, and check for comfort while sitting in the chair together.