Wooden rocking chairs are as old as history itself. Dating back to over 300 years ago, these pieces have warmed the hearts of babies, artists, invalids and presidents like the late JFK.
In fact, John Kennedy so loved his Appalachian oak rocker that it was among the must-haves on Air Force One. Also, he is said to have given many chairs to friends and heads of state. As a result, there was a massive increase in the demand for rocking chairs.
The popularity of these iconic pieces has not gone down. The truth is, woodworkers are inventing better quality, super comforting and pretty pieces. In addition, wood is no longer reserved for outdoor rocking chairs.
These days, indoor wooden rocker chairs are readily available. Notice, we’ve included either option in this article. All that’s required of you is to identify a suitable lounge chair, and you’ll be on your way to finding peacefulness and an air of reflection like no other.
This chic rocker is a superb addition to a modern living room. However, you can also get it for your nursery room, balcony or garden. The rocker features a curved high, firm backrest set on a solid wood frame. It also includes a matching ottoman piece for enhanced comfort, convenience and to also spruce up your space. You'll also love the sophistication that comes with the color variety. You've got a bold black, classic light beige or cool teal to choose from.
Best 9 Wooden Rocking Chairs: Side-By-Side Comparison
| Mcneel Rocking Chair Best for a Traditional Theme  +Pretty rocker chair consisting a spindle back design, comfy armrest and roomy back and seat +Comprises beautifully curved base with turned accents for a unique traditional look See Price |
| Crossen Solid Wood Rocking Adirondack Chair (Set of 2) Best for Outdoors  +Rustic super sturdy rocking chair set that withstands elements and is easy to maintain +Features a high back, wide seat and backrest slats plus comfy armrest See Price |
| Manton Rocking Chair Editor’s Pick/Overall Best Wooden Rocking Chair +Uniquely designed modern and super comfy rocker made for outdoor or indoor use. +Includes a firm back, seat plus a pretty padded ottoman set for added comfort See Price |
| Kinbor Wooden Adirondack Rocking Chair Best Heavy-duty  +Sturdy outdoor rocker chair that can hold up to 551 pounds +Its roomy and comprises a high back plus wagon wheel armrests for enhanced comfort and aesthetics See Price |
| Christopher Knight Home Selma Acacia Rocking Chair with Cushion CHECK CURRENT Best Budget  +Outrageously cheap yet sturdy all-season wooden rocker +Includes a soft detachable water-resistant seat cushion for added comfort See Price |
| B&Z KD-21W Child’s Rocking Chair Porch Rocker Best for Kids  +Affordable porch rocker for kids weighing atmost 77 pounds (3- 6 years) +Comprises a curved seat with compact slats, foot bar and long runners for safe and comfortable rocking See Price |
| Outdoor Wooden Rocking Bench Outdoor (2 Seats) Best Wooden Rocking Chair Bench  +Generously sized rocking bench perfect for the garden, poolside, or patio +The curved seat, sturdy solid wood base and a star decorated sturdy back make for a reliable outdoor rocker chair See Price |
| Sumind 2 Pieces 1:12 Christmas Dollhouse Model Wooden Rocking Best Doll House Wooden Rocking Chair  +Pretty miniature rockers with a smooth finish and realistic appearance +Available in a retro red-brown color that can easily blend with other decorations in a dollhouse See Price |
| S001WT White Porch Rocker with Side Table Best Acacia Wooden Rocking Chair  +Simplistic traditional design +Multifunction rocker with side table See Price |
Choosing the Best Wooden Rocking Chairs: Factors & Criteria
So, what attributes will you look at in order to buy a perfect wooden rocking chair? The answer comes next.
Comfort
Unless you’re hunting for decorative pieces for a dollhouse, consider comfort as one of the critical considerations when hunting for an excellent rocker. If you prefer upholstered pieces, go for breathable options. Also, remember to scrutinize the size and positioning of the armrests. Lastly, the best padded wooden rockers are firm but soft.
Chair Dimensions
The dimensions are essential since they affect the comfort delivered by a rocker. That said, go for a roomy chair. You’ll have enough space to relax in the company of a pet, grandchild, baby or a good book.
Ease of Use
So, are you looking for a multifunction piece? If yes, it’s best to consider the weight of the rocker. Remember, wooden rocking chairs are often heavy. Therefore, moving them from place to place can be challenging. However, we’ve got foldable options that are often lightweight. You can opt for those or choose the heavy piece for stationary seating arrangements.
In-Depth Best Wooden Rocking Chairs Reviews
Aside from the additional rockers featured at the end of this article, you’ve got nine options in this section. Since we fetched the best of the best rockers, rest assured you’ll find a piece worth investing in.
Best Traditional Wooden Rocking Chair: Mcneel Rocking Chair
Star rating: 4.6/5
Stand out Features
- Comfy spindle back design
- Cute turned accents on the base
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Available in multiple colors
- Durable
- Generous size
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Not pre-assembled
- Unsuitable for the heavy
Add beauty to your space by getting this affordable wooden rocking chair from Wayfair. The seat features a sturdy base complete with turned accents. Built to last, the entire rocker comprises solid rubberwood. The back spindle design isn’t just beautiful but also features sturdy slats. So, adequate support is assured.
Also, the generous seat will allow you to curl up with a blanket and enjoy some warmth by the fireplace. Meanwhile, the runners will deliver an unforgettable whisper-quiet rocking experience. Remember, the chair has a weight capacity of 200 pounds. So, it might not be ideal for high-weight people.
Best Outdoor Wooden Rocking Chair: Crossen Solid Wood Rocking Adirondack Chair (Set of 2)
Star rating: 4.6/5
Stand out Features
- Compact wide slats
- Foldable
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Heavyweight rocker
- Weather-resistant
- Fairly priced
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- Lacks color variety
The Crossen Solid Wood Rocking Adirondack Chair is sold as a set of two. So, they can allow you to create that dream conversation area you saw online. All you need is to carefully arrange them in your garden, patio or backyard.
The color variety here is limited. However, the natural stained or dark grey can blend with different themes and backgrounds. Further, the seat comprises weather-resistant sturdy acacia wood. In fact, these pieces are so reliable that they’ll hold up well under weights of 300 pounds.
Put simply, you already have awesome patio furniture that will last long and won’t need tons of attention. On top of that, a 90 day warranty period is provided in case of a material defect.
Overall Best Wooden Rocking Chair: Manton Rocking Chair (Editor’s Choice)
Star rating: 4.4/5
Stand out Features
- Comfy ottoman included
- Cute tufting detail
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Modern design
- Multifunction rocker
- High back
- Durable
Cons
- Lacks a headrest and armrests
- Expensive
Here’s a chic rocker you can rely on to rock away from the day’s exhaustion. Although it’s not a recliner chair, it’s spacious and can make a good napping piece. It’s also designed to offer maximum comfort through the sturdy smooth rocking wood runners. Further, the seat features a high back, durable fabric upholstery and firm padding.
More convenience and comfort comes with the matching ottoman. The piece consists of firm padding, fabric upholstery, and cute tufting detail like the seat. It’ll offer you a place to kick your feet and enjoy your leisure time to the max. You could also use it for storage if you like. Overall, this set will make a great seating option in a modern living room or nursery.
Best Heavy-duty Wooden Rocking Chair: Kinbor Wooden Adirondack Rocking Chair
Star rating: 5.0/5
Stand out Features
- Unique wagon-wheel armrests
- Extended runners
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Wide seat
- Rustic design
- High back
- Heavy-duty
- Durable
Cons
- Lacks lumbar support cushions
This multifunction lounge chair is pretty unique. It features beautiful wide wagon wheel armrests not for aesthetics only but to also provide a comfy place for your tired arms. Its rustic design also includes wide sturdy slats, a high back and wide seat. In addition, this outdoor rocking chair can hold up to 551 pounds. So, it’s a great option if you’re looking for a reliable super comfy heavy duty outdoor rocking chair.
The entire piece is made of carefully selected weather resistant fir wood. So, it’ll last long. Although the chair requires assembly and the design looks complicated, the package includes necessary hardware and straightforward instructions. So, setting it up will be easy and quick.
Best Budget Wooden Rocking Chair: Christopher Knight Home Selma Acacia Rocking Chair with Cushion
Star rating: 4.5/5
Stand out Features
- Weather resistant seat cushion
- Stops at the back of the runners
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Durable
- Simplistic design
- Stable rocker chair
- Compact backrest slats
Cons
- Available in teak finish only
Rock in the backyard. Rock on the patio. Rock on the deck, make this your porch rocker or relax on it in the garden. In other words, this is an affordable, all season, multifunction rocker chair.
Made from high quality acacia wood, the seat can withstand elements. Further, it comes with a water resistant seat cushion that’s upholstered in durable polyester. The cushion is also soft and removable. So you can choose to replace, have it on or remove it and rock in complete freedom.
This outdoor rocker is also roomy. Pet owners will find it pretty convenient. You can perch with your dog or cat and enjoy genuine company. Lastly, assembly is required but that shouldn’t stress you out. In about 20 minutes, a 60 year-old reviewer had already set it up single-handedly. So, expect to have an easy time too.
Best Kids Wooden Rocking Chair: B&Z KD-21W Child’s Rocking Chair Porch Rocker
Star rating: 4.6/5
Stand out Features
- Lead-free catalyzed varnish finish
- Includes a foot-bar
- Elongated stable runners
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comfy curved seat
- Smooth edges
- Smooth rocking motion
- Features durable and sturdy hardwood
Cons
- Ideal for age 3-6
You rarely go wrong with hardwood. Aside from sturdiness, hardwood is pretty durable. That said, expect this rocker chair to last through several generations. It’s worth mentioning that the seat is made for kids aged 3-6 (load capacity of 77 pounds). Note also, the seat goes through rigorous static load testing. So, it won’t cave in as long as the weight limit recommendations are honored.
Built with your little one’s safety in mind, the runners are long towards the back of the rocker. As a result, it won’t rock way too much or tip over. Meanwhile the catalyzed varnish is lead free and the rocker chair features a foot bar. Therefore, your baby will easily perch and warm up to a smooth rocking motion anytime they feel like.
Best Wooden Rocking Chair Bench: Outdoor Wooden Rocking Bench Outdoor (2 Seats)
Star rating: 4.5/5
Stand out Features
- Arched seat
- Unique star decorated backrest
- Convenient side storage bags
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Roomy
- Sturdy
- Weather resistant rocker chair
- Available as a set of two
Cons
- Assembly required
- Limited color options
Just like loveseat, here’s a chance to have intimate conversations but in the outdoors. The wide seat will provide enough rocking space. Also, the arch in the seat area will cradle your body in the most comfortable way. Further, the backrest features wide slats with star decorations for enhanced comfort and aesthetics.
The rocker also comes with convenient storage pockets. So, you’ll have a safe place to keep a few essentials. Moreover, the natural wood colors available will combine well with other patio furniture and décor. Remember, set-up is required. Luckily, assembly instructions are included making it super easy to put it up.
Best Doll House Wooden Rocking Chair: Sumind 2 Pieces 1:12 Christmas Dollhouse Model Wooden Rocking
Star rating: 4.3/5
Stand out Features
- Anti-fade attributes
- Features jute strings cushions
- Beautiful spindle back design
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Simplistic retro red-brown color
- Portable
- Durable
- Realistic design
- Excellent gift idea
Cons
- Lacks color variety
These tiny pieces look like real rocker chairs, complete with spindle back design and foot rests. The seat cushion comprises jute strings and blends perfectly with the retro red-brown color. Designed on a scale of 1:12, these rocker chairs are lightweight and super portable. Therefore, they’ll go into most dollhouses with minimal hustle.
Also, this miniature rocking chair set comprises solid birch wood. Therefore, the pieces will last long. In addition, they have a smooth texture reducing the chances of injury. Apart from being suitable for your DIY projects, they can make perfect cake toppers. Also, you can include them with dollhouse Christmas trees to make a perfect gift.
Best Acacia Wooden Rocking Chair: S001WT White Porch Rocker with Side Table
Star rating: 4.5/5
Stand out Features
- 100% solid wood construction
- Foldable side table included
- Polyurethane finish
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Roomy curved seat
- Sturdy base
- Simplistic traditional design
- Multifunction rocker
Cons
- Lacks color variety
Sadly, the S001WT White Porch Rocker with Side Table is available in white or black. However, the color options are versatile and will blend with different backgrounds. More versatility comes with a matching foldable solid wood side table. So, you’ve got a wonderful place for your piping hot cup of Joe. Coupled with the roomy curved seat, and sturdy comfy backrest slats, cold evenings will be a thing of the past.
Moreover, this is a multifunction piece. You can get it for different shady outdoor spaces like the patio, or porch. It won’t disappoint if used indoors too. In addition, the rocker features a polyethylene finish. Therefore, it can withstand elements and normal wear resulting from frequent use.
The Wooden Rocking Chairs Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Wooden Rocking Chair for You
When you decide to look for a wooden rocker chair, you’ll want one that’ll suit your needs. Here’s how to accomplish the mission.
Consider the Overall Design
You could be into classic designs, or antics, or even traditional styles. Whichever, your preference, its essential to consider your décor and confirm that your choice rocker will be a beautiful addition.
Space considerations
A rocker chair requires adequate space to allow you to enjoy its soothing attributes. Else, you might end up hitting objects in front and behind you (not the best experience). Before buying, make sure to consider the amount of space available in relation to the size of the seat.
Pricing
You’ll also want to set a budget for your ideal rocker chair. That way, you’ll easily find a suitable chair within a short time. However, ensure you’re not getting inferior quality in the name of affordability.
Wooden Rocking Chairs Other Suggestions
The options available in the wooden rocking chairs market are inexhaustible. That said, feel free to jump to the next sections for some additional suggestions.
Bseack Rocking Chair Multifunctional Nap Chair
Here’s a wonderful rocker like no other. Since it’s made from old alpine bamboo trees (5 years and above), expect it to last long. It’s also a lightweight foldable rocking chair. So, you can take it to the kitchen, move it to the patio, or rock on the same chair in the garden or the office. Further, it features a footrest for enhanced comfort. In addition, the rocker doubles up as a recliner chair and includes zero gravity attributes. So, you already have a perfect place to enjoy your afternoon nap.
Outdoor Rocking Solid Wood Chair with Cushions
Here’s another great find from Wayfair. The combination here makes for a perfect outdoor rocking chair. First, the rocker features solid eucalyptus wood that can withstand elements. Second, anti-rust steel hardware helps to hold the piece together. As a result, durability is assured. Although the cushions aren’t machine washable, they comprise polyester fabric and soft foam filling. Plus, they feature ropes to help you attach and detach them from the rocker.
