Honestly, if you’ve ever sat on a metal bench in July, you already know the answer isn’t steel or wrought iron — those turn into frying pans. The real winner is high-density polyethylene (HDPE) lumber, often sold as polywood or recycled plastic lumber. It doesn’t conduct heat the way metal does, and it doesn’t absorb and hold heat the way dense dark wood can. Even in direct 95°F sun, an HDPE bench stays comfortably touchable. Plus it resists fading, won’t splinter, and needs zero sealing or staining.
A close second is thermally modified wood or natural cedar and teak. These woods are lighter in color and less dense than something like ipe, so they don’t soak up as much solar energy. Teak especially has natural oils that help it shed heat quickly. Light-stained or whitewashed cedar stays even cooler. The trade-off? You’ll need to oil or seal them every year or two to keep that light color and prevent cracking.
Composite wood-plastic blends are also solid. Brands like Trex or TimberTech use a mix of wood fibers and recycled plastic. They stay cooler than pure plastic in direct sun, though dark composite colors can still get warm. Go with a light gray or tan composite for the best heat resistance.
Avoid solid metal benches of any type — aluminum, steel, iron — unless they have a thick powder-coated finish in a light color and perforated or slatted seats that allow airflow. Even then, metal will always feel hotter than wood or plastic because it transfers heat to your skin instantly.
My practical pick for a scorching patio: a slatted HDPE bench in a light driftwood or white color. You get the look of painted wood, no maintenance, and a seat that won’t brand your thighs in August. If you prefer real wood, choose cedar or teak and keep it light-stained. Skip the black metal bench unless you enjoy standing up at backyard parties.