The Best Bar Stools for 2021
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Best Bar Stools
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For this post, I have put together a collection of the best bar stools currently available.
UPDATED: July 14, 2021.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the Furmax Bar Stools because they feature a classic design that can be used indoors or outdoors, durable metal construction that is easy to clean, and are stackable for easy storage.
These simple pieces of furniture are not only extremely functional but can also add a beautiful design element to your living space.
Here are some things to look out for when selecting a set of bar stools.
Height
There are several dimensions to keep in mind when picking a stool. Before I get into the actual stool details it is important to make the distinction between “bar height” and “counter height” as the term “bar stool” is commonly used for both applications.
In a standard residence, a bar top found in a kitchen is between 40” and 42” tall when measured to the top surface. A typical kitchen island counter is between 34” and 36” when measured to the top surface.
Depending on your particular setup you may want the stools to slide completely under the overhanging counter or bar. In this case, the important dimension is actually to the underside of the overhang. Use a tape measure to get the “under counter height” or “under bar height” shown in the diagram above.
For example, if you have a kitchen island with a 35” counter height with a 2” thick surface, the tallest viable option would be 33”. However, you will obviously need room for your legs to fit under the counter. Therefore, the standard seat height for a counter stool is approximately 24” and for a bar stool it is 29”. Adjustable height stools can offer the best of both worlds by simply raising or lowering the seat to meet the desired height.
If the stool has a back then this will be included in the overall height, separate from the seat height. The seatback will typically project above the top of the counter.
Indoor vs. Outdoor
Where will you be placing these stools? If you a putting them in a kitchen or basement bar you are free to choose whatever material works with the space. However, if you are placing the stools outside, take into consideration the weather conditions in your area.
Typically the best material to go with for durability is simply painted steel. This offers protection from the elements and can survive for long periods outside. It is best if possible to store them in a protected area if they will not be in use during winter. This will help to prolong the life of the finish and material.
Avoid using stools with fabric or wood outdoors unless specifically designed to be used outside as these will fade and deteriorate over time.
Typical Use
Are these stools used every day at a desk for work or just for brief breakfast snacks at a counter? The longer you spend in the chair the more consideration should be given to the comfort of the seat. Consider a cushioned seat with a backrest if you will be using the stool for extended periods of time.
Materials
The most common materials for the structure of the stool are metal and wood. Finishing materials typically consist of leather, faux leather, and fabric. Since stools are often placed in areas for eating and drinking it is important to consider the stain resistance of these materials. It becomes a balance between interior design and practicality. For example, a fabric-covered seat may fit well with your kitchen aesthetic but not your kid’s eating habits. In that case, an all-metal or faux leather stool that can be simply wiped clean is the best option.
Storage
If you are going to be storing the stools, an important feature to look out for is whether they stack. This can greatly cut down the space needed to store them, making it possible to fit several in a closet.
RELATED: The Best Modern Dining Chairs
So here is my list of The Best Bar Stools for 2021.
Note: I have also included several counter stool options in the list for the reasons discussed above.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: Furmax Bar Stools
The Furmax stools feature all-metal construction that can support up to 330 pounds with a 30” seat height for standard bar tops.
Features a painted surface treatment that is double vanished to resist staining and rust.
Designed to be used indoors or outdoors.
Equipped with rubber feet to prevent scratches on floor surfaces.
Features a sackable design for compact transport and storage.
Offers a lightweight design at just 11 pounds each.
Comes with rounded openings in the seat to easily pick up and move the stools.
Available in a range of colors to suit the interior or exterior design.
No assembly is required.
Best for Counters: Walker Edison Stools
The Walker Edison stools feature a 24.25-inch seat height designed for standard kitchen counters and islands.
Features a synthetic leather seat and back that is easy to clean.
Equipped with a cured seat profile for additional comfort.
Constructed with steel legs that are powder-coated for durability and corrosion resistance.
Offers support for up to 300 pounds.
Features an overall height of 34.5 inches to the top of the seatback.
Comes as a set of two.
Requires some assembly.
Best Value: Amazon Basics Bar Stools
The Amazon Basics stools are available in either 24-inch or 29-inch versions for counter or bar applications.
Constructed from solid wood for a sturdy design that works with most interiors.
Equipped with footrest on both sides of the stool for convenience.
Features a classic A-frame design with a saddle seat that has a contour for comfort.
Supports up to 220 pounds.
Available in three color options: black, walnut, and white.
Requires some assembly.
Best Comfort: Angel Line Cambridge Bar Stools
The Angel Line Cambridge stools are available in either 24-inch or 29-inch versions for counter or bar applications.
Features a base constructed from wood.
Available in a range of base and seat colors to fit with the interior design.
Features a cushioned seat for comfort along with a decorative nailhead trim.
Features a PVC cushion fabric that is easy to clean and stain resistant.
Includes a set of two stools.
Requires some assembly.
Best Adjustable: Modern Square Counter and Bar Stools
The Modern Square stools feature an adjustable air system that moves the seat height from 24 inches up to 31.5 inches for either counter or bar use.
Features a synthetic leather seat cushion that is easy to clean and comfortable.
Equipped with a 360-degree swiveling seat that makes it easy to get on and off.
Features a chrome base for long-lasting durability.
Includes a seat back and footrest for comfort and convenience.
Includes a set of two stools.
Requires some assembly.
Best Modern Design: Puluomis Bar Stools
The Puluomis stools feature an adjustable gas system that moves the height from 25 inches up to 33 inches when measured to the high point of the curved back.
Works as either a counter or bar stool with 8 inches of adjustable height.
Equipped with a 360-degree swiveling seat that makes it easy to get on and off.
Features a padded fabric seat for comfort.
Equipped with a durable chrome base that includes a footrest.
Supports up to 230 pounds each.
Available seat colors: black, grey, white to suit a particular interior design.
Best Farmhouse Design: Valebeck Bar Stool
The Signature Design by Ashley Valebeck stool features a farmhouse-style design.
Available as either Pub Height (Bar Height) or Counter Height.
Features a 360-degree swiveling seat that makes it easy to get on and off.
Equipped with a padded polyester seat with nailhead trim.
Constructed from a combination of wood and engineered wood.
Available in several color combinations to suit a particular decor.
Best Retro Design: Superjare Bar Stool
The Superjare stools feature an adjustable air system that moves the seat height from 23.6 inches up to 32.2 inches for either counter or bar use.
Includes a footrest for comfort and convenience while sitting.
Equipped with a 360-degree swiveling seat that makes it easy to get on and off.
Features a large 16.3” base for stability,
Note that this base may not fully recess into more shallow counter overhangs. This is not an issue beyond aesthetics but something to be aware of, so measure to confirm.
Supports up to 265 pounds.
Includes a set of two stools.
Available colors for the seat include grey, light brown, and retro brown.
Best Industrial Design: Haobo Home Bar Stools
The Haobo Home stools are available in 24", 26”, and 30” seat height for either counter or bar use.
Features a coated steel construction for durability and corrosion resistance.
Includes a cross brace under the seat for additional rigidity and stability.
Features a stackable design with scratch-resistant caps for easy storage and transport.
Equipped with rubber feet prevent floor surface scratches.
Supports up to 250 pounds each.
No assembly is required.
Includes a set of four stools.
Best Rustic Design: Glosco Bar Stools
The Signature Design by Ashley Glosco stools feature a rustic all-wood design.
Available as either bar height or counter height.
Features a scooped saddle seat design for comfort.
Includes a saw kerf texture on the seat surface to reduce sliding and enhance the rustic appearance.
Available in a range of wood color combinations to match the home decor.
Comes as a set of two.
Some assembly is required.
I hope this list of the best bar stools was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
