Most of the traditional models, like the ALPS King Kong, GCI Comfort Pro, and REI Camp X, only require pulling apart two opposing vertical frame pieces to be set up. The REI Outward Low Padded simply unfolds like an old-school folding chair. The GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker is also impressively easy — just pull the two sides away from each other with a large labeled handle, and you’re good to go. While the Yeti Trailhead is somewhat more involved than simply pulling opposing corners, the instructions make it easy to follow along. There are several chairs that we think are exceptionally comfortable. The King Kong is roomy, slightly padded, has large armrests, and is cozy in that slouchy kind of way while offering pretty good support in a tall, spacious seat.
We weighed and measured them, carried them all over, and jumped into them to see what they could handle. What follows is a comprehensive discussion of our in-depth findings from months of lounging. Because people use outdoor chairs for an array of purposes and have different preferences when it comes to comfort, it was almost impossible to choose just one best chair.
ozark trail hammock chairWhile the feet of our shorter testers rested comfortably on the ground, Kelty also makes a version that’s several inches taller. Made of durable materials, this chair can stand up to the trials of seating multiple people and even dogs for extended periods. After three straight years of regular use and some severe sun exposure, it’s fading a bit but is still as comfortable as the first day we got it. This chair has grown on our lead tester the longer she has owned it, a credit to its impressive longevity and comfort.
It’s great for adding extra chairs, rugs, luggage, and other items, particularly if you’re glamping. The way you set up your campsite could make or break the whole trip. With the right Walmart camping gear, the site can be safe and comfortable enough to let you focus on relaxing and having fun. The Ozark Trail Oversized Mesh Chair from Walmart, although similar to our pick in size, was far less comfortable, with rough-feeling material that was obviously of lower quality.
We’ve bought and tested 34 unique camping chairs in the last 10 years to bring you the best 15 models available today in this review. Our team of lounging experts and relaxation enthusiasts spent months rigorously testing each model side-by-side. Comfort scores weighed the heaviest in our assessments, but we also considered other factors like packability and ease of use. We took these chairs camping in the desert, packed them into cars, carried them to family reunions, and napped in them on the beach. Whether you’re on the hunt for a reading chair or a sideline seat, we’ve found the right model for your needs and wallet. We were impressed with the usability of Renetto’s signature design.
Made from an easy-to-clean polyester fabric and metal frame. Unsurprisingly, the chairs rated to hold 500 pounds or more scored well here. After several months of testing, the steel frames and 600-denier nylon fabric construction of the King Kong (rated to 800 pounds!) and the Kelty Loveseat didn’t show any wear or tear. And while their high denier fabric is not as breathable as the mesh that some of the other chairs have, it is more durable than most. Since both of these chairs were very popular with our testers, they sustained several ember burns from being around so many campfires.
We later found, after six months of frequent use, that the stitching along one arm had come unravelled and that the small straps holding up the back of the armrests had both ripped in half. The Renetto chair usually comes in between 8 and 10 colors and is rated to hold up to 350 pounds. Overwhelmingly, the Coleman came out on top, with campers praising its comfort and stability. The Renetto’s big, heavy canopy provides ample sun protection at a campsite or cookout and doubles as a backpack-strap-equipped carrying case. Reading the reviews people love that it is so roomy and that it’s so comfortable.
Though small and lightweight, the fan can generate winds up to 13 miles per hour on its highest mode, which lasts for about five hours. The cupholders on the L.L.Bean Kids’ Base Camp Chair aren’t as roomy as those on our picks, and they are not as adept at holding stubby water bottles or mugs of hot chocolate. Portable outdoor chairs are also helpful for anyone who doesn’t have the room or budget for permanent backyard furniture.