One of the most common questions I receive about our pool is, "Which Ledge Loungers do you have?" Closely followed by, "How do I know which ones will work in my pool?" Today, I'm sharing just how to choose the right Ledge Lounger for your sun shelf depth! Keep reading for all the details.
If you're considering investing in Ledge Loungers for your sun shelf, choosing the correct model for your water depth is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Ordering the wrong chairs can lead to disappointment, unnecessary returns, and furniture that simply doesn't function the way it was designed to.
After researching extensively before building our pool and now owning our Ledge Loungers for more than three years in the Arizona heat, I've learned that finding the right fit comes down to understanding your sun shelf measurements.
Today, I'm breaking down exactly how to choose the right Ledge Lounger for your sun shelf depth.
Before you start shopping, you'll need to know the exact depth of your baja shelf. A sun shelf, also called a tanning ledge or baja shelf, is the shallow area typically located near the entrance of the pool. These shelves vary greatly in depth from one pool design to another. Some are only a few inches deep, while others can measure 12 inches or more.
The easiest way to determine your shelf depth is to use a tape measure from the pool floor to the waterline. If your pool is still under construction, your pool builder should be able to provide the exact dimensions.
This measurement is the key to selecting the right Ledge Lounger model.
The Signature Chaise is the exact model we purchased for our own pool.
This style offers the classic resort-inspired look that many homeowners envision when designing their outdoor spaces. The chairs recline comfortably, allowing you to relax while partially submerged in the water.
These loungers are designed for water depths of up to approximately 9 inches. Because our sun shelf falls within this range, they were the perfect choice for us. We've now owned them for three years, and despite living in Arizona where summer temperatures regularly exceed 110 degrees, they still look almost brand new. Make sure to read our full review on owning our Ledge Loungers and how they've held up here.
If your shelf depth is under 9 inches, the Signature Chaise is an excellent option to consider.
Many newer pools feature deeper sun shelves designed to accommodate a wider variety of seating options.
If your shelf exceeds the recommended depth for the Signature Chaise, don't panic. Ledge Lounger offers several products specifically designed for deeper water.
The important thing is not to assume that all in-pool furniture works the same way.
Choosing furniture intended for shallower water and placing it in deeper conditions may affect both comfort and performance.
Always verify the recommended depth specifications before purchasing.
One feature I absolutely love about Ledge Lounger is that if your sun shelf depth falls outside the standard recommendations, you don't necessarily have to give up on the style you want.
Ledge Lounger offers a variety of riser systems that allow you to customize many of their chairs and chaises to work with deeper water depths. For example, the Signature Chaise Riser can extend compatibility beyond the standard 0–9 inch depth range, with options designed for shelves measuring up to 15.5 inches deep. They even offer deep risers for certain models that accommodate water depths of up to 20 inches. This is such a game changer for homeowners because it means you're not limited by the original design of your sun shelf.
If you've fallen in love with a specific Ledge Lounger style but your pool depth doesn't quite match, there's a good chance a riser attachment can make it work. I always recommend measuring your shelf carefully and checking Ledge Lounger's depth guidelines before ordering, but it's reassuring to know there are flexible options available that can help you achieve the exact resort-style look you're after.
Here's a quick guide for riser options:
| Ledge Lounger Option | Recommended Water Depth |
|---|---|
| Signature Chaise | Up to 9" |
| Signature Chaise + Riser | Up to 15.5" |
| Signature Chaise Deep + Deep Riser | Up to 20" |
Beyond water depth, it's also important to think about how you plan to use your sun shelf.
Do you envision long afternoons lounging with a good book? Are you looking for a place to supervise children while they swim? Will your shelf become a gathering spot when entertaining friends and family? For us, our sun shelf serves multiple purposes.
It's where I relax with my morning coffee. It's where the kids play. Even our dog enjoy hanging out there while we're outside. Because we wanted a space that prioritized relaxation, the chaise style made the most sense.
Think about your lifestyle and choose furniture that complements the way your family uses the pool.
Depth isn't the only measurement that matters. The width of your sun shelf will determine how many pieces you can comfortably fit without overcrowding the space. Although our shelf is large enough to accommodate four loungers, we intentionally chose only two.
I wanted to maintain open space for the kids to play and for the dog to move around freely. You don't necessarily need to maximize every inch of available space. Sometimes, less truly is more.
One of my favorite additions to our setup is the matching in-pool side table. It may seem like a small detail, but having a convenient place to set drinks, sunscreen, phones, or sunglasses has proven incredibly useful. I use our table every time I'm laying out in our chaise loungers.
Ledge Lounger offers tables with and without umbrella holes. Because we incorporated dedicated umbrella sleeves directly into our sun shelf design, we opted for the version without the umbrella opening. Think through your overall pool layout before selecting accessories.
One reason we ultimately chose Ledge Lounger was the quality of the materials. Standard outdoor furniture isn't designed to sit submerged in chemically treated water while simultaneously enduring intense UV exposure. Ledge Loungers are constructed using high-quality resin specifically engineered for these environments.
After three years of year-round use in Arizona, we've experienced no fading, cracking, or warping. In my opinion, durability is one area where investing in a trusted brand truly pays off.
This question deserves its own section because I know the price point can initially feel intimidating. The honest answer? For us, absolutely. Would I purchase them again? Without hesitation.
Our loungers are one of the most frequently used features of our entire backyard. They elevate the appearance of the pool, create a relaxing retreat, and have held up beautifully over time.
When you consider the longevity and daily enjoyment they provide, the cost becomes much easier to justify. Make sure to check out my favorite Ledge Lounger options plus a few more budget friendly in-pool chairs here.
Click any image below to shop our favorite Ledge Loungers!
Choosing the right Ledge Lounger ultimately comes down to understanding your pool's dimensions and your family's lifestyle. Start by measuring your sun shelf depth. Consider how you want to use the space. Think through the accessories that will enhance your experience.
Most importantly, select pieces specifically designed for your unique setup. The right furniture can transform your sun shelf into one of the most enjoyable spaces in your backyard. Three years after purchasing our own Ledge Loungers, I can confidently say they've exceeded our expectations. Make sure to check out this post for all the details on the pool finishes we chose.
If you're currently planning a pool build or upgrading your existing sun shelf, I hope this guide helps you choose the perfect fit for your space.
And if you have questions about our specific setup, feel free to leave a comment below or send me a message on Instagram. I'm always happy to help fellow pool owners create a backyard they'll love for years to come.
