Bar stools are a type of tall chair, often with a foot rest to support the feet. The height and narrowness of bar stools makes them suitable for use at bars and high tables in pubs or bars.

There are many different types, construction materials and models. Bar stools are often made of wood or metal. There are bar stools with and without armrests, backs, and padding or upholstery on the seat surface. Bar stools can range from basic wooden designs to more complex ones with adjustable height. Extra tall and extra short are common features, as well as indoor bar stools and outdoor bar stools.

The normal seat height for a bar stool is 30″ with a 26″ stool being used against kitchen counters. Extra tall 36″ stools are increasingly used in contemporary styles with high pub tables to create a visual effect in modern interiors. Counter height bar stools have a seat height of 24″. By comparison a conventional dining chair seat height is 18″. Bar stools can be made from rattan or bamboo and these stools can be used to create a tiki bar effect.