Choosing the right ultralight backpacking chair can significantly impact your comfort and enjoyment on the trail. This comprehensive review examines nine popular options, ranging from minimalist seat pads to more substantial chairs with backrests. We'll delve into the pros and cons of each, considering weight, comfort, stability, price, and overall packability. Whether you prioritize featherlight portability or enhanced comfort, this guide will help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.This review covers a diverse range of backpacking chairs, from the ultralight Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Pad to the luxurious Nemo Stargaze Lounge Chair. We compare their weights, price points, comfort levels, stability, and ease of setup. Each chair's strengths and weaknesses are analyzed, offering a clear picture to aid your selection. Ultimately, finding the perfect chair depends on your priorities – minimal weight, maximum comfort, or a balance of both – and this review provides the information needed to make the best choice for your next backpacking adventure.
Pros And Cons
- Super stable
- Comfortable for a stool
- Great weight (1 lb 4 oz with stuff sack)
- Smaller package
- Easy to set up
- No back support
- Most comfortable chair
- Lifetime warranty
- Reclining option
- Doubles as a beach chair
- Lightweight
- Most expensive ($179.95)
- Can be unstable if not set up properly
- Can recline
- Versatile; can be used on slopes
- Low profile
- Lightweight and compact
- Doesn't fold up well
- Bulky; takes up a lot of space in a pack
- Made of recycled foam
- More comfortable than Therm-a-Rest Z Seat
- Has an R-value of 2 (better for winter)
- Cost $20
- Heavier than Therm-a-Rest Z Seat (6 ounces)
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Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Pad: Ultralight Comfort
The Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Pad is my absolute favorite. Weighing in at a mere 2 ounces, its simplicity and functionality are unmatched. It's incredibly easy to deploy and pack, making it perfect for minimalist backpacking.
While not the most comfortable, it effectively elevates you off damp ground. Its low profile also ensures you aren't overly visible on ridges. For its minimal weight and cost ($33.95 plus tax), this is the ideal chair for those valuing ultra-light setups.
Nemo Chipper: Recycled Foam Pad with Backrest
The Nemo Chipper, a slightly heavier option at 6 ounces (though the website lists varying weights), offers a more comfortable experience than the Z Seat Pad. Its recycled foam construction makes it an environmentally friendly choice.
With its three panels, it provides a backrest for enhanced comfort. At a budget-friendly $20, it's a solid choice for those less concerned about weight. It even possesses an R-value of 2, making it suitable for colder conditions.
REI FlexLite Air Chair: Lightweight but Wobbly
The REI FlexLite Air chair, priced at $99.95, is lightweight at 1 pound 1 ounce (with stuff sack). However, its stability is a major concern; it's noticeably wobbly, and I wouldn't recommend it for individuals over 200 pounds.
While easy to set up, the bar structure can be uncomfortable, pressing against your back and buttocks. While it's comparatively cheap compared to other options, the lack of comfort and stability makes it less desirable in my opinion.
Helinox Chair Zero: Premium Comfort and Stability
The Helinox Chair Zero, at $139.95, is a premium option, weighing 1 pound 2 ounces (with stuff sack). It offers superior comfort and stability compared to the REI FlexLite Air chair.
It's extremely easy to set up, and the recline position is exceptionally comfortable. The lack of adjustability in the upright position is a minor drawback, but the overall comfort and stability make it worthwhile for many.
Nemo Stargaze Lounge Chair: Luxurious Comfort and Versatility
The Nemo Stargaze Lounge Chair is my top pick, though it's the priciest at $179.95 and weighs 1 pound 6 ounces (with carrying pad). Its superior comfort and versatile design justify the high cost.
The chair features a unique reclining mechanism and provides excellent back support. It's also a great option for soft surfaces like sand, using the included pad to distribute weight. However, proper setup is crucial to avoid collapse; read the instructions carefully.
Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool: Sturdy and Stable Stool
The Big Agnes Skyline UL stool, at $99.95, offers excellent stability despite lacking a backrest. It's lightweight at 1 pound 4 ounces, and its simple, color-coded assembly makes setup foolproof.
While a stool, it's surprisingly comfortable and sturdy, far surpassing the other stools in terms of stability. For those prioritizing stability and minimal weight, this may be a good alternative if a backrest is unnecessary.
Crazy Creek Hex 2.0: Versatile, but Bulky
The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0, priced around $65, is a classic choice, weighing 1 pound 5 ounces. Its reclining capability and ability to remain stable on slopes are advantages.
However, the bulky form factor and less-than-ideal packability make it less desirable than other options in my opinion. While its versatile design appeals to many hunters, it's not a personal favorite.
Amazon Moon Lens Chair: Budget-Friendly Option
The Moon Lens chair, purchased from Amazon for around $33, is a heavier option at 2 pounds 7 ounces. It's a budget-friendly alternative but lacks the lightweight portability of other options.
Despite its weight, it is sturdy and comfortable, even for larger individuals, making it a reasonable option for budget-conscious consumers. However, its availability varies on Amazon
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Ultralight Backpacking Chair
Ultimately, the best ultralight backpacking chair depends on individual priorities. The Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Pad shines with its minimal weight and cost. Nemo Stargaze Lounge and Helinox Chair Zero offer different levels of comfort, but with increased price.
The Big Agnes Skyline UL stool provides excellent stability but lacks a backrest. The REI FlexLite Air chair is lighter but sacrifices stability. The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 is versatile but bulky. Finally, the Amazon Moon Lens chair provides affordability, but compromises on weight.