Modway Abate Swing Chair Review: The Truth About "All-Weather" Durability

Every outdoor furniture listing screams “All-Weather,” but seasoned homeowners know that nature usually wins eventually. The Modway Abate (EEI-2657) makes bold claims with its synthetic rattan and powder-coated steel frame. But does it hold up after a season of sun, rain, and humidity? We analyzed the spec sheet and long-term user reports to separate the marketing fluff from the gritty reality.

The Armor: Powder-Coated Steel & PE Rattan

The structural skeleton of the Abate is powder-coated steel. This is a non-negotiable feature for outdoor gear. Unlike wet paint, powder coating creates a thermal bond that resists chipping. If the coating remains intact, rust has no foothold.

The “skin” is a synthetic PE (Polyethylene) rattan. This is crucial. Cheaper PVC wickers often crack and peel under UV radiation (sunlight). PE is chemically structured to be more elastic and UV-resistant. This explains why the chair maintains its “Gray/White” aesthetic without turning brittle after a summer.

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The Achilles Heel: The Cushion vs. The Elements

Here lies the gap between “Water Resistant” and “Waterproof.” The Abate comes with a plush, polyester fabric cushion. It feels great—far better than the plasticky pads on cheap swings. However, fabric is fabric.

The Mold Warning: User “Lee” reported a nasty surprise: “Mine developed nasty red mold or fungus” after being left in the rain. * The Physics: While the cover repels water droplets, the foam inside acts like a sponge if saturated. Once moisture gets deep inside and combines with summer heat, it becomes a petri dish. * The Protocol: Treat the cushion like a luxury item, not a permanent fixture. If you expect a week of rain, bring it inside. The “All-Weather” rating applies to the chair frame, not necessarily to the long-term hygiene of the soft goods left in a swampy environment.

H4: Load Bearing Reality

The chair is rated for 265 lbs. This covers most solo users, but it is not a double swing. The single-point suspension concentrates all that stress on one chain and one carabiner. * Stress Test: Listen to the chain. A well-installed Abate should be silent. Squeaking indicates metal-on-metal friction that is wearing down the coating. Apply lithium grease to the contact points (hook and loop) to maintain the “Silent Glider” experience.

The Verdict: Buy it for the Frame, Care for the Cushion

The Modway Abate is a tank disguised as a teardrop. The woven body and steel rim are genuinely tough and can survive winters outdoors (though covering it is always better). The weak link is the cushion’s susceptibility to biological elements (mold/mildew) if neglected.

If you are willing to spend 30 seconds unclipping the cushion before a storm, this chair will last for years. If you want “set it and forget it” furniture that sits in puddles for months, you might need to look for fully plastic molded options—but you’ll sacrifice the “cloud-like” comfort that makes the Abate so popular.

[Field Note: Users love the “machine washable” cover. If you do get mold spots, remove the cover immediately, treat with a mild bleach solution (if white) or color-safe fungicide, and air dry completely before restuffing.]