Choosing the perfect camping chair can make or break your outdoor experience. This review compares three popular options: the REI Co-op Flexlite Air, the Rock Cloud chair, and the Ozark Trail chair, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you find the ideal match for your camping style. We'll delve into weight, stability, comfort features, and overall value, providing a comprehensive comparison to guide your decision-making process. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker prioritizing ultralight gear or a car camper seeking ultimate comfort, this showdown will help you determine which chair best suits your needs.This head-to-head comparison explores the trade-offs between weight, portability, and stability. We examine the lightweight portability of the REI Flexlite Air, the balanced design of the Rock Cloud, and the robust comfort of the Ozark Trail. We also discuss practical accessories, such as the Helinox anchor, to enhance stability in challenging conditions. Ultimately, the "best" chair is subjective, depending on individual priorities. This review aims to provide the information you need to make an informed choice based on your specific camping adventures.
Pros And Cons
- Sturdier construction than REI chair
- Two pockets
- More stable than REI chair
- Includes feet that increase stability on unstable ground
- More unstable front to back than REI chair
- Rock solid
- Pockets
- Very comfortable
- Well-insulated
- Scratch resistant
- Durable
- High back
- Ultra comfortable for extended use
- Heavy (15-20 pounds)
- Bulky, requires more storage space
- Ultralight (17 ounces)
- Packs down small
- Good lightweight option
- Wobbly construction
- Low profile
- No pockets
- Thin material (requires sit pad for insulation)
Read more: Top 5 Camping Chairs for Ultimate Comfort
REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair: Ultralight Backpacking Companion
The REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair is a lightweight champion, weighing in at a mere 17 ounces. Its nylon webbing and aluminum poles provide a basic, yet functional design. Perfect for backpacking, its compact packability is a huge advantage, making it easy to carry on long trails.
However, its lightweight construction does come at a cost. Stability is somewhat compromised, especially when shifting your weight. The design makes it a bit wobbly, less ideal for those who like to rock or shift their posture frequently while seated.
Rock Cloud Camping Chair: A Sturdy Mid-Range Option
The Rock Cloud chair offers a happy medium between lightweight and robust. Priced around $30-$40, it's surprisingly durable with a sturdier aluminum frame than the REI Flexlite Air. The left-to-right pole structure provides excellent stability, reducing the wobble experienced in the REI chair.
It features two handy side pockets, perfect for small essentials. While not as lightweight as the REI chair, the added stability and storage make it a worthwhile upgrade for those who prioritize comfort and convenience over extreme weight reduction.
Ozark Trail Camping Chair: The Heavy-Duty Car Camping King
The Ozark Trail chair from Walmart is the heavyweight contender – expect substantial weight and impressive stability. This is your go-to chair for car camping or tailgating, offering maximum comfort and support. Its robust construction can handle various terrains and even withstand windy conditions.
It boasts multiple pockets, a high backrest, and even a built-in pillow for ultimate relaxation. The trade-off is its considerable weight, making it unsuitable for backpacking. But for sheer comfort and durability, it’s unbeatable.
Helinox Anchor: A Windy Day Essential
For added stability in windy conditions, the reviewer suggests using a Helinox anchor. This lightweight (1 ounce) accessory adds significant stability, particularly beneficial for the lighter-weight chairs.
The Helinox anchor provides extra security in challenging environments, preventing chair blow-overs. At around $15, it is a reasonable investment for anyone who frequently camps in windy areas or on unstable surfaces.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Camping Chair
The best camping chair depends entirely on your needs and priorities. The REI Flexlite Air is ideal for ultralight backpacking, prioritizing weight savings over comfort and stability. The Rock Cloud offers a solid balance of comfort, durability, and packability, suitable for various camping scenarios.
The Ozark Trail chair reigns supreme in comfort and stability, but its weight makes it a car-camping-only option. Consider your typical camping style, the terrain, and the balance you seek between weight and comfort when making your choice. All three chairs offer distinct advantages, catering to different preferences and needs.