When heading out for a backpacking adventure, every ounce matters. Backpackers often have to make difficult decisions about which gear to bring, balancing comfort and weight. One piece of gear that can significantly enhance your outdoor experience is a backpacking chair. But with so many options, how do you choose the lightest and most portable one for your needs?
In this article, we will explore what makes a backpacking chair light, review some of the best lightweight options available, and discuss important factors to consider when selecting your next backpacking chair.
Why Choose a Backpacking Chair?
Before diving into the lightest options, it’s essential to understand why you might want to bring a chair with you. Backpacking chairs provide comfort after a long day of hiking, offering a place to rest your legs, enjoy a meal, or relax by the campfire. They also offer support for your back, which can be crucial during multi-day trips.
However, backpacking chairs come in many shapes and sizes. Some are ultra-lightweight, while others offer more features at the cost of added weight. Let’s take a look at some of the key considerations for choosing the lightest chair.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Lightweight Backpacking Chair
1. Weight
Weight is the most important factor when choosing a lightweight backpacking chair. The lighter the chair, the easier it will be to carry on your hike. For serious backpackers, the goal is to keep the total weight of their pack as low as possible, so selecting the lightest chair is a top priority.
2. Packability
A lightweight chair should also be easy to pack. It should fold or collapse into a small, compact size that fits comfortably in your backpack without taking up too much room.
3. Comfort
While lightweight chairs are meant to be portable, comfort should not be sacrificed entirely. Look for a chair with proper support for your back and a comfortable seat. After all, you’re out in nature to enjoy yourself!
4. Durability
Even the lightest chair should be durable enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Look for materials like aluminum, which is lightweight yet strong, and fabrics that can endure exposure to the elements.
5. Ease of Setup
Consider how quickly and easily the chair can be set up. Some lightweight chairs require more effort to assemble than others. A quick and simple setup is ideal when you’re tired after a long day on the trail.
Best Lightweight Backpacking Chairs
Now, let’s take a look at some of the lightest backpacking chairs available on the market. These chairs strike the perfect balance between weight, comfort, and packability.
1. Helinox Chair Zero
Weight: 1 lb 1.8 oz (480 g)
Helinox is known for producing high-quality, lightweight gear for backpackers. The Chair Zero is one of the lightest chairs available, weighing in at just over a pound. Despite its small weight, it provides surprisingly good comfort and support.
- Material: Aluminum frame, durable polyester fabric
- Packed Size: 14 x 4 x 4 inches
- Setup: Simple assembly with a single frame and seat
- Best for: Those who want an ultra-lightweight option for sitting by the campfire or taking a break on the trail.
The Chair Zero is perfect for minimalist hikers who prioritize weight above all else. It’s not as cushy as some other chairs, but it provides enough comfort for short rests.
2. REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair
Weight: 1 lb (453 g)
The REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair is another excellent lightweight option. It weighs about the same as the Chair Zero, but it offers slightly more cushioning. This chair is perfect for backpackers looking for a balance between weight and comfort.
- Material: Aluminum frame, ripstop nylon fabric
- Packed Size: 12 x 4 x 4 inches
- Setup: Easy assembly with shock-corded poles
- Best for: Backpackers who want a mix of comfort and weight savings for short to medium backpacking trips.
The Flexlite Air Chair is a great choice if you need a little extra support without sacrificing too much weight.
3. NEMO Moonlite Reclining Chair
Weight: 1 lb 6 oz (620 g)
The NEMO Moonlite Reclining Chair is one of the most comfortable lightweight chairs available. While it is a bit heavier than the Helinox and REI options, its reclining design makes it stand out.
- Material: Aluminum frame, stretch-knit fabric
- Packed Size: 15 x 4 x 5 inches
- Setup: Quick assembly with color-coded poles
- Best for: Backpackers who want added comfort and reclining ability for relaxing during their trips.
Though it’s slightly heavier than other ultra-light options, the reclining feature makes the Moonlite one of the most comfortable lightweight chairs for longer sits.
4. Big Agnes Skyline UL Chair
Weight: 1 lb 3 oz (510 g)
Big Agnes is a well-known brand in the backpacking community, and the Skyline UL Chair offers a great combination of comfort, durability, and portability. This chair features a low-profile design, making it ideal for both rest breaks and lounging at camp.
- Material: Aluminum frame, high-density nylon fabric
- Packed Size: 12 x 4 x 5 inches
- Setup: Simple, quick setup with minimal assembly
- Best for: Backpackers who want a well-rounded chair for their trips.
The Skyline UL Chair strikes a good balance between comfort and weight. It’s a bit more spacious than other chairs, making it an excellent choice for those who want extra room.
5. GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker
Weight: 12 lbs (5.4 kg)
While the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker is significantly heavier than the other chairs listed here, it’s worth mentioning for those who don’t mind carrying a little more weight for a rocking chair experience. This chair is perfect for car camping or basecamp setups, but not for long backpacking trips.
- Material: Steel frame, durable fabric
- Packed Size: Bulky; not suitable for packing in a backpack
- Setup: Ready to use out of the box
- Best for: Campers who prioritize comfort and want a chair to rock in.
The Freestyle Rocker is an excellent choice for those who will be setting up camp at a specific location and need a comfortable, relaxing chair.
Comparison of the Lightest Backpacking Chairs
Here’s a quick comparison table of the chairs mentioned above:
| Chair | Weight | Packed Size | Material | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helinox Chair Zero | 1 lb 1.8 oz | 14 x 4 x 4 inches | Aluminum frame, polyester fabric | Ultra-light backpackers |
| REI Co-op Flexlite Air | 1 lb | 12 x 4 x 4 inches | Aluminum frame, ripstop nylon | Balance of weight and comfort |
| NEMO Moonlite | 1 lb 6 oz | 15 x 4 x 5 inches | Aluminum frame, stretch-knit fabric | Comfortable and reclining design |
| Big Agnes Skyline UL | 1 lb 3 oz | 12 x 4 x 5 inches | Aluminum frame, nylon fabric | Comfortable, well-rounded backpacking chair |
| GCI Outdoor Freestyle | 12 lbs | Bulky, not backpackable | Steel frame, durable fabric | Car camping and basecamp use |
How to Choose the Best Lightweight Backpacking Chair
When choosing the right lightweight backpacking chair, it’s important to consider the type of backpacking you’ll be doing. For long-distance hikes, you’ll likely want the lightest option available, like the Helinox Chair Zero or the REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair. These chairs are easy to pack and provide decent comfort for brief rests.
If you plan on spending more time sitting around camp, the NEMO Moonlite or Big Agnes Skyline UL Chair may offer the extra comfort and support you need. They are still relatively lightweight, but they provide more cushioning and back support.
For car camping or basecamp setups, where weight is less of a concern, the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker might be the perfect choice, providing the comfort of a rocking chair.
Conclusion
Choosing the lightest backpacking chair ultimately depends on your specific needs. The Helinox Chair Zero and REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair are two of the lightest, making them ideal for minimalist backpackers. However, if comfort is more important to you, options like the NEMO Moonlite or Big Agnes Skyline UL could be better suited for your trips. Regardless of your choice, the right lightweight chair can significantly improve your outdoor experience by providing a comfortable place to rest and recharge during your adventures.
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