Why Are Pool Chairs So Expensive? 3 Surprising Factors
Last Updated on August 19, 2024 by Beth Martin
Picture this: You’re ready to upgrade your poolside oasis, only to find that a single lounge chair costs as much as a small vacation!
But why?
Poolside and in-pool furniture can look so simple, making the prices seem all that more shocking. But sometimes, the answer is hiding in the details.
Today, we’re diving into the deep end to uncover the hidden factors driving up the costs of these summer must-haves. Get ready to be surprised – some of these reasons might just make you see your poolside seating in a whole new light!
Why Are Pool Chairs So Expensive? 3 Main Reasons:
1. The Materials Matter: Quality Comes at a Price
Let me tell you, when it comes to pool furniture, the materials you choose can make or break your whole setup.
Pool chairs are exposed to the harshest elements—brutal sun, tons of rain, and sometimes even snow. In-pool chairs, the kind that sits on a sun shelf, also have the extra burden of your pool’s water and chemicals.
Buying furniture specifically designed to withstand these elements is extremely important so it won’t just deteriorate in a few months. Marine-grade plastic is one of the best outdoor chair materials because it’s so darn tough.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE), marine-grade polymer, or commercial-grade resin, like the material used by Ledge Loungers, is often made from recycled plastics and can handle almost anything. These bad boys can withstand chlorine, sun, and the occasional cannonball without breaking a sweat.
Now, I won’t lie – your wallet might do a little gulp when you see the prices for quality pool furniture, especially the in-pool variety. But trust me, it’s worth every penny.
Marine-grade polymer is practically worth its weight in gold, and even after years of use, it will still look as good as new. No fading, no cracking, no nothing.
And here’s a pro tip: always look for furniture with built-in UV inhibitors. The sun can be just as destructive to pool furniture as the chemicals in the water.
UV inhibitors are organic compounds added to the polymer during processing that can protect the material from the sun’s harsh rays. Think of this as built-in sunscreen for your furniture.
UV protection will keep your loungers from turning into a faded, chalky mess after a season or two.
But here’s the kicker: durable materials aren’t cheap. That’s a big reason why quality pool chairs can make your wallet weep. However, when you break it down over time, it’s actually a wise investment. A well-made chair might last you 10-15 years, while you’ll be replacing the cheapos every season or two.
Do the math, and suddenly, those pricey chairs don’t seem so bad, huh? In fact, over a 10-year period, you might spend more on replacing cheap chairs than on a single high-quality chair.
2. Design and Aesthetics: Paying for Style
Now, we’ve discussed how quality materials cost a pretty penny, but that’s just one factor in the design story.
Then there’s the whole manufacturing process. These chairs don’t just magically appear in the store. They have to be designed, prototyped, tested, and mass-produced.
All of that takes time, effort, and, yep, you guessed it, money.
These pricey poolside chairs are all about aesthetics. Designers pour hours into creating pieces that’ll make your outdoor space look like it belongs in a swanky resort. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want their backyard to feel like a five-star getaway?
Now, I’m not saying you need to drop a small fortune on pool furniture. But I’ve come to appreciate why some folks choose to invest in these luxe loungers. It’s about creating an experience, ya know?
When you sink into a well-designed chair, it’s not just about resting your tush. It’s about feeling like you’re truly on vacation, even if you’re just steps from your back door.
Even if you only have a small plunge pool (or maybe especially), complementing the aesthetic of your backyard and pool is extremely important.
One thing I’ve learned is that you don’t always have to go for the most expensive option to get something stylish and durable. There’s a sweet spot where quality meets affordability.
It might take some hunting, but trust me, it’s worth the effort. I’ve found some great deals by shopping end-of-season sales or checking out outlet stores.
At the end of the day, whether you decide to splurge on those designer pool chairs or stick with something more budget-friendly, the most important thing is that you’re comfortable and happy with your choice.
After all, the whole point is to relax and enjoy your outdoor space, right?
3. Marketing: The Final Price Tag Puzzle
Ah, marketing. I’ve been in this world for over 14 years, and boy, have I learned a thing or two about how much marketing can add to a company’s bottom line.
Especially when it comes to those seemingly overpriced pool chairs we all drool over every summer.
So many factors go into designing, manufacturing, and shipping a single product, but you need buyers, too, right? Companies must invest significant money into getting noticed and finding their ideal buyer.
The larger the company, the more money is often invested in marketing, and these costs trickle down to the consumer—well, you.
I absolutely love Ledge Loungers, and they make the most well-known in-pool chairs. This is true partially because their products are awesome and partly because they spend a lot of money on ads.
Some smaller brands make a great alternative to the Ledge Lounger but don’t have the same name recognition. And that’s fine! If your tanning ledge chairs look great and hold up season after season, the name brand doesn’t matter.
Before you make your final chair decision, compare brands by looking at the nitty-gritty details of the materials. What’s the UV rating? Does the design work with your pool aesthetic? Do they offer a warranty?
Don’t get distracted by a name brand. Instead, be hyper-focused on what you will get for your hard-earned money.
And let’s not forget about seasonality.
Pool chairs are typically a summer item, which means outdoor furniture brands have a limited window to sell them. To maximize profits, they often charge higher prices early in the season, knowing they’ll likely have to offer discounts later.
But here’s a pro tip I’ve picked up over the years: if you’re patient and willing to take a gamble, wait for the end-of-summer sales. You might not have the widest selection, but you could snag a deal that’ll make you feel like you’ve outsmarted the whole system.
Now, I’m not saying all markups are fair or justified. I’ve seen some pretty ridiculous price tags in my day. However, understanding the factors that go into pricing can help you make more informed decisions as a consumer. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between quality and affordability.
At the end of the day, marketing contributes to a complex dance of costs, competition, and consumer psychology. It’s not always pretty, and it’s definitely not perfect. But hey, that’s the name of the game in retail.
And next time you’re lounging by the pool on your comfy (albeit pricey) chair, you’ll have a better appreciation for the journey it took to get there.
That’s a Wrap
Well, there you have it, folks—the eye-opening reasons behind those jaw-dropping price tags on pool chairs! From high-tech materials to the inevitable costs of marketing, it’s clear so much goes into creating the perfect poolside seat.
Now, I’m not saying you need to mortgage your house for a designer chair. But understanding why these things cost what they do can help you make a smarter choice.
And let’s be real, nobody wants to be the host with the wobbly chairs at their pool party.
While the price of pool chairs might make us think twice, remember that investing in higher quality can lead to years of comfort and enjoyment. After all, can you really put a price on those perfect summer days by the pool?
Next time you’re lounging in luxury, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for. So, are you ready to take the plunge and invest in your outdoor oasis?
The choice is yours, but one thing’s for sure – your backside will thank you!
Cheers!
