Ever walked past a giant chess set in a park or resort and thought, "These look nothing like the ones in my living room"? That’s because outdoor chess pieces are built differently. They need to handle rain, sun, wind, and heavy foot traffic. So, what are chess pieces made of when designed for outdoor use?
In this blog, we’ll explore the different materials used to create giant outdoor chess pieces to help you understand which one is right for your space, your climate, and your budget.
What Are Chess Pieces Made Of for Outdoor Use?
When shopping for giant chess game sets, one of the most common questions people ask is, “What material are chess pieces made of?” Outdoor chess sets come in a range of materials, each chosen for its specific durability, weight, look, and resistance to the elements. Here’s a closer look at the most popular options used for outdoor play.
Plastic
Plastic is by far the most common material used for giant outdoor chess pieces. It’s the most affordable option—durable, weatherproof, and perfect for high-traffic areas like schools, parks, public spaces, and backyards. If you prefer heavier pieces, you can add up to seven pounds of sand to the base. You can also increase the height by adding one or two sets of our 12” extensions, which fit between the base and head of each piece.
A quick summary:
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Available in 8”, 12”, 16”, 25”, 37”, and 49” tall sets
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Very Durable
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25”, 37”, and 49” sets have adjustable height and weight
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Personalize with your logo
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25” tall set is LED compatible
Perfect
A perfect balance of beauty and durability, this set is weatherproof, with clean lines and an ideal weight for daily use in upscale spaces. Made from a unique blend of plastic and resin, the pieces have a satin finish, a heavier feel, and stand out as one of the most durable options available. It's called “Perfect” because it combines elegance with affordability, making it a favorite for residential courtyards, event venues, and luxury resorts.
A quick summary:
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Available in 26”, 38”, and 48” tall sets
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Most durable set
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Proportional height and base diameter
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Personalize your set
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LED compatible
LED-Lit Plastic
For those who want to play at night or make a bold impression, LED-lit plastic chess pieces are a great choice. Made from translucent plastic with internal lighting, they’re ideal for events, cruise ships, or nightclubs. They’re illuminated for impact, making them perfect for nighttime events, indoor entertainment, or adding a wow factor to any setting.
A quick summary:
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Available in 25”, 26”, 38”, and 48” tall sets
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Proportional height to bases
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Wow factor!
Teak Wood
So, what wood are chess pieces made of for elegant outdoor sets? Teak is the top choice. Naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insects, teak is ideal for outdoor use in luxury spaces like resorts and boutique gardens. Its rich grain and handcrafted finish bring warmth, timeless beauty, and excellent performance to open-air environments.
A quick summary:
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Available in 8”, 12”, 16”, 25”, 36”, 48”, and 72” tall sets
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Hand carved
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Proportional height and base diameter
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Timeless design
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Requires annual maintenance
Fiberglass
Sleek, polished, and fully customizable, fiberglass is ideal for customers seeking a modern, high-end look with custom colors. Many choose it for its upscale appearance and the flexibility to add custom colors or branding.
A quick summary:
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Less durable than other sets
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Proportional height and base diameter
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Personalize with logos
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Paintable in any color
How Chess Piece Materials Affect Your Game
Believe it or not, the material of your chess pieces can affect how you play. Heavier pieces are more stable on windy days and reduce accidental movement, while lighter sets are easier to transport and store. Materials like Perfect or teak offer an elevated, immersive playing experience, especially in high-end environments.
Meanwhile, plastic and perfect sets are great for fast-paced, casual games where durability and ease of use matter more than aesthetics. Whether you’re planning a permanent installation or a seasonal setup, choosing the right material helps ensure long-term satisfaction.
Why MegaChess Is the Leader in Giant Outdoor Chess Pieces
MegaChess isn’t just a regular seller of giant chess sets; we specialize in helping people bring their spaces to life through thoughtful design, material options, and size variety. Here’s how we stand out:
Sizes from 7" to 72"
Whether you're setting up a small patio game or hosting a large public tournament, we’ve got the right size for you. Our giant chess pieces start at a compact 7 inches and go all the way up to a towering 72 inches, perfect for creating an eye-catching feature or accessible play space for kids and adults alike.
Built for All Climates
From sunny beach resorts to snowy mountain towns, our pieces are designed to handle it all. We offer weatherproof materials that resist UV rays, rain, and even high humidity, ensuring your giant chess set looks great year after year, no matter where you live.
Durable Design
Every set from MegaChess is built with longevity in mind. We carefully select materials that won’t fade, crack, or warp over time, so your investment continues to shine through every season. Our plastic, perfect, fiberglass, and teak sets are all designed for daily use and outdoor exposure.
Conclusion: What Are Chess Pieces Made Out Of?
In conclusion, giant outdoor chess pieces are made from materials chosen for their durability, weather resistance, and visual appeal. From lightweight plastic and perfect pieces to sleek fiberglass and handcrafted teak, each option offers a unique blend of function, style, and longevity to match different environments and preferences.
If you're looking for giant chess pieces that fit your space, style, and budget, MegaChess has you covered. Explore our full collection of giant chess pieces and find the perfect match for your outdoor setting.