Sling vs. Mesh-Padded vs. Acrylic-Padded: Telescope Seating Explained
Sling is the backbone of Telescope Casual: a taut, breathable fabric stretched across a rust-free aluminum frame. It is cool, quick-drying and needs no cushions. What many shoppers do not realize is that most Telescope sling pieces can be ordered three ways. Here is how to choose.
1. Classic sling
A single layer of sling fabric. Air moves right through it, so you do not stick to the seat on a hot day, and it dries within minutes after a swim or a rain shower. It holds its shape without sagging and can be replaced down the road for a fresh look. On Gardenella, for example, you choose from 79 sling patterns and solids in two price grades.
- Best for: pool decks, hot climates, commercial use, anyone who never wants to store cushions.
2. Mesh-padded sling
A sewn-in layer of padding inside the sling, in the same sling pattern you choose. You keep the clean sling look and the easy care, with noticeably more give when you sit back.
- Best for: longer lounging and dining where you want a softer seat, without changing the look.
3. Acrylic-padded sling
Also padded, but the front of the seat and back is faced in a soft acrylic cushion fabric, with a coordinating sling fabric on the back. It feels closest to upholstery and opens up a much bigger fabric library: 125 acrylic fabrics in grades A to D.
- Best for: patios and covered areas where comfort and a cushion-like look matter most.
What the padded upgrade costs
Choose the seat style right on the product page. The padded upgrade, mesh or acrylic, adds the same amount for each type of piece:
| Piece | Padded sling upgrade |
|---|---|
| Chairs and rockers | +$196.00 |
| Chaise lounges | +$275.20 |
| Loveseats and two-seat gliders | +$392.00 |
| Sofas | +$588.00 |
Acrylic-padded fabrics in higher grades add a little more, shown beside each fabric when you pick it.
Quick comparison
| Sling | Mesh-padded | Acrylic-padded | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feel | Firm, breezy | Softer, same look | Softest, cushion-like |
| Dries | Fastest | Fast | A little slower |
| Fabric choice | Sling patterns | Sling patterns | 125 acrylic fabrics |
| Cost | Included | Upgrade | Upgrade |
Whichever you choose, the frame is the same powder-coated aluminum with stainless steel hardware, and the sling can be replaced later. Want something else entirely? Many Telescope collections also come with deep-seat cushions or in solid Marine Grade Polymer.
Popular sling pieces
Frequently asked questions
What is padded sling?
Padded sling adds a sewn-in layer of padding to a sling seat for extra comfort. Telescope offers it two ways: mesh-padded, in your sling pattern, and acrylic-padded, faced in a soft cushion fabric.
Is padded sling hot to sit on?
It is a little warmer than single-layer sling, since air passes through less freely, but still much cooler than a thick cushion.
Does padded sling dry quickly?
Mesh-padded sling dries quickly; acrylic-padded takes a little longer than classic sling. All of them are made for outdoor use.
How much does padded sling cost?
On Telescope Casual pieces the padded upgrade is $196 on chairs and rockers, $275.20 on chaises, $392 on loveseats and two-seat gliders, and $588 on sofas.
Can Telescope slings be replaced?
Yes. Telescope slings are replaceable, so you can refresh the color years later without replacing the frame.