The 9 Best Outdoor Sectionals That Are Comfortable Yet Tough

Forbes

02-05-2025

The best outdoor sectionals are chic, comfortable and able to withstand the elements. This means, of course, that quality and construction are of the utmost importance. Our favorite on the market is the West Elm Westport 3-Piece L-Shaped Sectional, which is crafted from durable synthetic wicker that resists fading, cracking and sagging. For those with smaller backyards or patios, consider the Burrow Relay 3-Piece Open Sectional, which features modular pieces that are easy to rearrange if your space ever grows.
Since an outdoor sectional is a large purchase, designers agree it's worth prioritizing quality and durability—especially because you'll likely use it for more than just sitting. "It really is worth it to invest in a well-made piece that's built to withstand the elements and look great for years to come," says interior designer Kathy Kuo. A sectional tends to become the focal point of an outdoor space—it's a place to relax with friends, eat casual meals or even stretch out for a nap. To make the smartest choice for your home, consider your available space, preferred materials, overall design and how much maintenance you're willing to do. Ahead, we've rounded up the best outdoor sectionals for every type of backyard and patio.
Size: 107.7 x 107.7 x 34 inches | Materials: Synthetic wicker, metal, foam, polyester fiber | Customizable: No
Pros:
Cons:
West Elm's Westport sectional is as comfortable as indoor furniture, but it's designed to handle sun, rain and plenty of time outside. It's made from synthetic wicker, which designers consistently recommend because it's easy to maintain and doesn't get worn down by the weather. Still, the woven wicker looks convincingly natural with a warm, neutral tone that works nicely with different outdoor styles, whether your space leans modern, coastal or somewhere in between. The sectional is substantial enough to comfortably seat several adults, but its low-slung shape keeps it from feeling overwhelming, even if your space is on the smaller side. (Plus, the wide armrests give you enough room to rest drinks, potentially eliminating the need for a side table.) The cushions themselves are thick, supportive and specifically made to resist moisture, mold and mildew, though West Elm still recommends covering the sectional during rough weather or extended periods when it's not in use.
What our experts say: Kuo recommends picking outdoor sectionals made from materials that last, like the synthetic wicker this West Elm model is made from. "Natural wicker is beautiful, but you can't leave it out exposed to the elements the same way that you can with synthetic wicker pieces and expect to have a long usage life," says Kuo. Synthetic wicker works well in most climates because it's easy to clean and naturally handles moisture, mold and dirt.
Size: Modular | Materials: Metal frame, Olefin cushions | Customizable: Yes
Pros:
Cons:
Sundale's sectional proves you can find attractive and well-made outdoor furniture without overspending. This modular set includes multiple seating pieces, so you can easily arrange or rearrange the configuration depending on your space or event. Whether you have a compact balcony or a roomier outdoor patio, these pieces are designed to work well together in various layouts. It also comes with a coffee table that features wooden slats, so water quickly drains if there's an accidental spill or rainstorm. The cushions are notably thick—6 inches—and made from Olefin fabric, which is a durable material that resists moisture, staining and UV rays. (It's also made without any harmful chemicals.) Each piece has a sturdy metal frame (available in gray, green or white) with a rust-resistant coating, so you don't have to worry about leaving it outside all season.
What the reviews say: An Amazon reviewer calls this set 'super high quality,' "insanely comfortable," and "so easy to assemble." "I can't believe how nice these are for the price,' they wrote. "Perfect for long naps, reading books, entertaining, or set up as seating around a dining table."
Size: 100.5 x 22 x 98.5 inches | Materials: Acacia, steel, foam, polyester fiber | Customizable: Yes
Pros:
Cons:
The Article Lubek Low Corner Sectional has an angular design and noticeably low profile that gives it a distinctly modern feel compared to traditional outdoor sofas. The frame combines solid acacia wood and powder-coated steel, creating a refined, industrial-inspired look. You can select your preferred alignment—left, right or corner—depending on your space and layout. The cushions, which are available in beach sand or slate gray, are simple, comfortable and weather-resistant. Just keep in mind that acacia wood naturally weathers to a softer gray over time, plus it requires more maintenance than synthetic materials or metal.
What the reviews say: One pleased Article customer says this piece 'fits right in with our modern exterior.' They continue: "The cushions are super comfortable and fade resistant (we get crazy afternoon sun). It's big, which is great for our whole family to sit on together.'
Size: 90 x 68 x 28 inches | Materials: Synthetic wicker, powder-coated aluminum, foam, polyester | Customizable: Yes
Pros:
Cons:
If you have a bigger budget and are looking for an option with a built-in chaise, consider Serena & Lily's Pacifica Sectional (which is available in right- or left-facing options). Made from resin wicker with a powder-coated aluminum frame, this sectional is built to last. That durability extends to the cushions, which are stuffed with all-weather foam and polyester fill and covered in performance fabrics that can withstand water, mildew and UV exposure. The seat cushions also have Velcro tabs to attach them to the frame, minimizing the odds you'll slide down as you're seated. This outdoor sofa comes in your choice of three 'quick ship' fabrics or 12 made-to-order upholsteries in colors ranging from classic neutrals to bold stripes.
What the reviews say: One Serena & Lily reviewer says, '[Its] Perennials fabrics are quite luxurious and a premium option for outdoor furniture (better than Sunbrella for sure—just look and feel the texture), but the cushions and frame itself are also comfortable and ergonomic. Only time will tell if the construction is top of the line, but judging by the weight of the pieces, the upholstery is solid.'
Size: 60 x 32 x 33 inches | Materials: Powder-coated steel, mesh, foam, performance fabric | Customizable: Yes
Pros:
Cons:
Burrow's Relay sectional is ideal if your outdoor space is limited or oddly shaped. The set is composed of three modular pieces that easily snap together, no tools needed, allowing you to adjust or reconfigure as your needs or space change. What's more, the galvanized steel frame doesn't rust or corrode easily, even if your furniture lives outside year-round. Cushion covers, available in two neutral colors (salt or shale), use performance fabric designed to repel dirt, stains and moisture. Reviewers frequently highlight how comfortable the Relay feels, while the quick-dry foam cushions reduce water retention after rainy days. You can even disassemble and neatly store the set off-season.
What the reviews say: A verified Burrow customer writes: 'Easy to assemble and great quality of the materials. Super comfy and plenty of space for up to 3 persons. The best is that you spend 10 minutes (at maximum) assembling it and it is super easy to expand if you buy a new module."
Size: 85 x 32 x 85 inches | Materials: Polywood (HDPE lumber), performance fabric cushions | Customizable: Yes
Pros:
Cons:
Polywood's outdoor furniture pieces are popular, and with good reason: They're incredibly easy to care for. Made from high-density polyethylene lumber, this modular sectional won't need repainting, sealing or regular waterproofing. The material itself is designed to handle strong sun, rainstorms and temperature swings without noticeable fading or wear, so you don't have to worry about leaving it outside all year. In addition, the cushions are crafted from outdoor performance fabric that's designed to resist moisture, sun damage, mold and mildew. While it's still a good idea to cover or store them during bad weather or the off-season, they're sturdy enough for regular outdoor use. Plus, the sectional comes in dozens of frame finish and fabric options, so it's easy to find one that works with your outdoor space.
What the reviews say: One Polywood customer writes: 'The fabric is low maintenance and cleans easy. It's soft, not plastic/vinyl/sticky. Very good quality! It's the closest thing to having a couch outdoors. We live in a small house in Ohio so we get all four seasons and we minimal storage space. So everything stays outside.'
Size: 91 x 30.5 x 17.5 inches | Material: Kiln-dried teak, reticulated (low-density) foam, Sunbrella | Customizable: Yes
Pros:
Cons:
If you're looking for the warm, inviting look of a wooden outdoor sectional, furniture experts vouch for teak as an excellent choice. 'Teak is a dense hardwood that has natural oils that protect it from moisture, insects and decay—meaning it will survive for years without much maintenance,' says Milly McEwan, product and design manager at Australian design firm RJ Living. Neighbor's Haven Sectional is a great example, thanks to its beautiful solid teak construction that's kiln-dried for extra durability. The couch is topped with reticulated (read: quick-drying) foam cushions covered in weather-proof Sunbrella fabric. To top it all off, the couch is modular for those who want to arrange it to cater to the particular needs of their space.
What the reviews say: 'Can't say enough positive things about our Neighbor sectional,' shares one reviewer. They add, 'The quality of the materials is outstanding. Installation was very simple, and the modular design adds flexibility to getting the perfect utilization of space on our new deck. I also found that the cushions don't get soggy when it rains and they dry fast—a great feature.'
Size: 127.2 x 63.6 x 34.6 inches | Materials: Powder-coated aluminum alloy, performance Olefin fabric, memory foam, high-resiliency foam, polypropylene fiber | Customizable: Yes
Pros:
Cons:
Looking for the ultimate cozy setting for a large number of family members and guests to mingle? Invest in a U-shaped sectional, like this attractive pick by Outer. This modular option is roomy enough to allow people to stretch out while still being endlessly customizable: It comes with one armless loveseat, two sectional chairs and two armless chairs. The frame is made from rust- and decay-resistant powder-coated aluminum for easy maintenance, while the multi-layer foam cushions have a removable performance fabric that's machine washable. A standout feature is the built-in OuterShell cushion that easily rolls over each seat; it's easily Velcroed in place and has a handle for portability.
What the reviews say: One Outer customer says that their family 'hasn't left' the Outer U Sectional all summer. 'Everyone who has come over to our house has complimented the look, the style, the softness, the comfort and the durability of the covers. We have slept outside on our sofa we love it so much. … I know it seems like a major investment—but this furniture is well worth the price for the quality and the incredible Outer 'stand by their product' warranty and attitude.'
Size: 148 x 145 x 29.8 inches | Materials: Aluminum, synthetic wicker, Sunbrella fabric, dual-density foam | Customizable: Yes
Pros:
Cons:
The maker of our home team's favorite outdoor dining set, Yardbird, also offers an equally sturdy and attractive sectional fire pit set. Its frame is exceptionally sturdy, made from hardy aluminum and wrapped in sustainable synthetic wicker—two materials that furniture experts say are among the most weather-resistant and long-lasting. Its durable build doesn't take away from the set's comfort and style, however. The wicker frame is a dark espresso brown that's cozy but modern, and the laid-back minimalist cushions are made with 6 inches of dual-density foam for ample support. (Plus, they're covered with Sunbrella fabric for easy cleaning.)
We'd be remiss not to mention the four side tables included, which offer storage and a surface for drinks (each comes with a powder-coated aluminum tray). Finally, the round fire table opens on the side, so you can slide out a propane carriage to hold a propane tank.
What the reviews say: 'It is gorgeous, comfortable and sturdy,' says one reviewer. Another raves, 'It has maintained very well. Great for families; cushions clean up nicely, too; I was worried with kids, but they clean up well. Great set for a larger outdoor space. Fire pit is a game changer—it's our first gas one, and it's nice to not have smoke in your eyes.'
The Forbes Vetted home and kitchen editors have extensive experience testing, researching and reviewing the best home products on the market. We've published scores of expert-backed roundups on outdoor furniture and gear, including the best outdoor sofas, the best outdoor rugs, our favorite patio umbrellas and more.
To find the best outdoor sectionals, we compared features from various best-selling models and asked four industry experts for product recommendations and insights on what to look for.
If you're thinking of upgrading your outdoor space with a new sectional, here's what to keep in mind as you shop.
It's crucial to purchase an outdoor sectional that's made of durable and weather-appropriate materials—even if you plan on keeping your patio furniture under a roof or covered. 'When you are deciding on the material you want, make sure that you are considering the weather where you live, and how you want the space to look in five years, because some materials will not take as kindly to the aging process,' says McEwan.
Steel and aluminum are some of the most durable materials, according to experts: 'Marine-grade stainless steel and powder-coated aluminum are workhorses in brutal climates,' says Odesanya. For fans of a woven wicker look, seek outdoor sectionals made of synthetic wicker or rattan, which consists of recycled plastics. This is the material Kuo recommends the most: 'In my opinion, outdoor furniture made from all-weather synthetic polyethylene wicker is what is going to stand up best to the elements and look the best while doing so.'
Both aluminum and synthetic wicker/rattan (also called HDPE or poly lumber) tend to be easier to clean, too—important for furniture that will be living mostly outdoors. '[Aluminum] is essentially rust-resistant and can easily look brand new with a quick wipe-down,' says McEwan. 'Now, resin wicker, because it's a synthetic material, will resist moisture and dirt, making it easy to quickly hose off or wipe down with a mild soap and water mix.'
And if you're a fans of wood furniture, need not fret. While it's true that wood is the most high-maintenance furniture material due to its porous nature, sectionals made with teak are particularly rot-resistant—though it helps to add a wood sealer to further protect it. McEwan explains, 'Teak is a dense hardwood that has natural oils that protect it from moisture, insects and decay—meaning it will survive for years without much maintenance.' Do note that as teak weathers, it turns into an attractive silver-gray and develops a velvet-like texture.
Evaluate the cushions' fabric covering and insert; Odesanya recommends looking for 'a quick-dry cushion construction with moisture barriers between the foam and fabric.' Above all, prioritize cushions with coverings that are described as water-resistant, weather-proof and high-performance. These materials include Sunbrella, Olefin and other performance polyester and acrylic fabrics. Cushion fill is also important, particularly when it comes to your preferred level of firmness, as well as how much effort you want to spend on maintenance. High-density foam, for instance, tends to be firmer and more supportive, and its closed cells will tend to repel, not absorb, moisture. Reticulated (open cell) foam, on the other hand, lets both air and water flow easily through it, meaning it dries more quickly (and tends to be cushier).
Size matters when it comes to an outdoor sectional, both in terms of how many people you're planning to entertain, as well as the layout of your space. To figure out the right capacity for you, it's important to carefully measure your outdoor space to see what size can comfortably fit. If you have a growing family, you may want to get a customizable or modular design that allows you to add or remove sections as needed. Outdoor furniture should also be proportional to your space; choosing a sectional that's too big can make it feel crowded. On the other hand, a sofa that's too small can leave your patio looking empty. It's important to find a balance that's visually appealing, but still allows for real-life use; remember to leave ample clearance for walking around your sectional and other furniture.
There are a few general guidelines to keep in mind to help extend the life of your furniture: First, it's a good idea to store your cushions in a dry, dark location when they're not in use. You also want to give your furniture a good wipe-down about once a month with a damp cloth and some mild soap to eliminate any dust, dirt, pollen or stains. (Learning how to properly clean your patio can help extend the life of all your pieces.) Every outdoor sectional is slightly different, so it's important to read the manufacturer's instructions as well as consider how much maintenance different types of furniture material require. Wood outdoor sectionals, for example, will weather more slowly when a wood sealer is applied.
Regardless of the materials of your sectional, companies typically recommend using a cover to protect your furniture when it's not in use for extended periods and during storms.
The most weather-resistant outdoor sectionals are ones made with hardy materials like aluminum, synthetic wicker and teak. Aluminum is the strongest of these, but lighter-weight and more resistant to rust than similarly durable metals, like iron; aluminum furniture is also typically powder-coated to boost durability. While synthetic wicker is woven like natural wicker, it's actually made from sustainable materials like recycled plastics, which makes it lower-maintenance and longer-lasting than its natural counterpart. Lastly, teak, unlike more porous hardwood, has naturally occurring rot- and moisture-resistant oils that help it survive a lot longer, particularly when coated with wood sealant.
The best fabrics for outdoor sectionals are performance fabrics treated for UV, moisture and stain resistance. These include polyester, acrylic, Sunbrella and Olefin. These fabrics are also typically fade-proof and friendly for kids and pets.
The lowest-maintenance outdoor sectionals are ones made with the most weather-resistant frames, fabrics and cushions. Those made with aluminum or synthetic frames and that come with performance fabric covers and quick-drying cushions will require the least upkeep, since they're the most impervious to inclement weather, fading, UV rays and stains from pets or heavy usage.