Outdoor Sauna Buying Guide (Canada Edition)
Buying an outdoor sauna is one of the best ways to create a relaxing, year-round retreat at home. But with different sizes, styles, and heating options available, choosing the right sauna can feel overwhelming.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know when buying an outdoor sauna in Canada, so you can confidently choose the right model for your space, lifestyle, and climate.
Why Outdoor Saunas Are Ideal for Canadian Homes
Outdoor saunas are especially popular in Canada for a reason. They allow you to enjoy the full sauna experience while embracing the natural environment, even in colder months.
Northern Leisure outdoor saunas are specifically designed for Canadian conditions, using durable materials and thoughtful construction to perform reliably year-round.
Step 1: Choose the Right Sauna Size
The first step is deciding how many people you want your sauna to accommodate regularly.
Most outdoor saunas fall into these categories:
- 2–3 person: ideal for individuals or couples
- 4–6 person: great for families
- Larger models: best for entertaining or shared use
As with hot tubs, it’s better to choose based on regular use, not maximum capacity. Extra space can improve comfort, but larger models require more room and heating time.
Step 2: Pick the Right Sauna Style
Your sauna’s design affects both its appearance and how it performs.
Barrel Saunas
Barrel saunas are one of the most popular outdoor options.
- Efficient air circulation due to curved design
- Heats quickly
- Classic, compact footprint
Cedar barrel saunas are available in a range of sizes and configurations, including panoramic models that bring in more natural light and outdoor views.
These are a great choice if you’re looking for a traditional design with efficient heating and strong overall performance
Cube Saunas
Cube saunas offer a more modern appearance.
- Clean, contemporary design
- Maximized interior space
- Straight walls for easier layout
These are ideal for homeowners who want a sauna that complements modern outdoor spaces.
Classic Cabin Saunas
Classic cabin saunas provide a traditional, room-like feel with more interior space.
- Spacious layout for comfort
- Ideal for families or shared use
- Traditional sauna design
This style works well if you want a larger sauna that feels more like a dedicated retreat.
Modern Cabin Saunas
Modern cabin saunas combine the size and comfort of a cabin sauna with updated design elements.
- Contemporary exterior styling
- Larger interior space
- Designed to complement modern homes
These are a good fit if you want a full-size sauna with a more refined, modern look.
Panoramic Saunas
Panoramic saunas are designed to enhance the overall experience by incorporating larger windows or glass panels.
- Increased natural light
- Open, spacious feel
- Better outdoor views
If your sauna is placed in a scenic location, this style allows you to enjoy your surroundings while you relax.
Step 3: Infrared vs Traditional Sauna
One of the most important decisions is choosing your heating type.
Traditional Saunas (Electric or Wood)
Traditional saunas heat the air around you, creating high temperatures and steam (if water is added).
- Higher heat levels
- More authentic sauna experience
- Ideal for outdoor use in Canada
Northern Leisure saunas support both electric and wood-burning heater options, giving you flexibility based on your preference.
Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas heat the body directly rather than the air.
- Lower ambient temperatures
- Faster warm-up
- Different type of heat experience
For outdoor Canadian conditions, traditional saunas are typically the preferred choice due to their ability to maintain higher temperatures in cold weather.
Your heating choice plays a big role in performance. Learn more in our comparison of electric vs wood-burning sauna heaters.
Step 4: Choose the Right Materials
Material quality is critical for durability, especially outdoors.
Northern Leisure saunas are built using premium red cedar, which is ideal for Canadian climates because it:
- Naturally resists moisture and decay
- Handles temperature changes well
- Provides a classic sauna look and aroma
High-quality wood ensures your sauna will last for years while maintaining performance and appearance.
Step 5: Consider Features and Convenience
Modern outdoor saunas offer more than just heat. The right features can make your sauna easier to use, more comfortable, and more enjoyable over time.
Our outdoor sauna models include:
- Wi-Fi-enabled controls for convenient on/off
- Ergonomic seating designed for comfort during longer sessions
- Optional panoramic windows to bring in natural light and outdoor views
These features enhance the overall experience and make it easier to use your sauna regularly as part of your daily routine.
Step 6: Think About Installation and Setup
Outdoor saunas should be easy to install and integrate into your space.
Northern Leisure saunas are designed with a straightforward setup process, with many models arriving as complete packages that include essential components and accessories.
When planning installation, consider:
- A level base (concrete pad, deck, or patio)
- Electrical requirements (for electric heaters)
- Clearance and accessibility
Step 7: Budget and Long-Term Value
Sauna pricing can vary based on size, materials, and features.
While it may be tempting to choose the lowest-cost option, long-term value matters more. A well-built sauna will:
- last longer
- perform better in winter
- require less maintenance
Northern Leisure emphasizes a transparent, all-inclusive pricing approach, helping homeowners avoid hidden costs and upgrades.
Why Choose a Northern Leisure Outdoor Sauna
Northern Leisure saunas are designed to deliver a premium experience while remaining practical for Canadian homeowners.
They offer:
- Durable construction built for Canadian weather
- Energy-efficient performance
- Simple, user-friendly operation
- All-inclusive packages with essential features included
From compact barrel saunas to larger cabin and cube models, each unit is built to provide reliable, year-round enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
Buying an outdoor sauna is about more than choosing a model; it’s about creating a space you’ll use regularly and enjoy for years to come.
The right sauna depends on:
- how many people will use it
- the style you prefer
- your available space
- your heating preference
With the right combination of size, materials, and features, an outdoor sauna can become one of the most valuable additions to your home.
Explore Outdoor Saunas
Browse the full Northern Leisure sauna collection and find the right model for your backyard and lifestyle.
If you’re still early in the process, our guide on what to consider when buying a sauna covers the key factors in more detail.