Top 10 · Compare
Compare Best Ultralight Backpacking Chairs head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
#8 on this list
FlexLite Air Chair
REI Co-op
The REI Co-op FlexLite Air Chair is REI's answer to the ultralight segment, aiming to provide similar comfort to its heavier sibling while shedding critical ounces. It succeeds admirably, offering a full-frame chair experience at a weight that competes with some of the lighter minimalist options. This chair is designed for the serious backpacker who wants a dedicated seat without feeling like they're sacrificing too much space or weight. It achieves its lighter weight through a combination of thinner-walled aluminum poles and lighter, yet still durable, ripstop nylon fabric. We found it surprisingly stable for its weight, holding up well on various ground conditions. The comfort is good for its class, providing decent lower back support to get you off the ground. Setup is still quick and easy thanks to the shock-corded poles. While it might not be quite as robust as the standard FlexLite, the weight savings are significant for those focused on gram-shaving. Packed, it's roughly the size of a water bottle, making it easy to integrate into a packed backpack. It’s an excellent choice for a wide range of trips, from overnight solo jaunts to multi-day group trips where shared comfort is key. **Highlights** * Impressively lightweight for a full-frame chair. * Good comfort and back support for its weight class. * Utilizes lightweight aluminum poles and durable ripstop nylon. * Very compact packed size, similar to a water bottle. * Quick and intuitive setup. **Watch-outs** * May feel less robust than heavier chairs over long-term aggressive use. * Not as budget-friendly as the standard FlexLite model.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#9 on this list
Sit Pad Z Seat
Therm-a-Rest
When every single gram counts, but you still want some barrier between you and the cold, hard, or wet ground, the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat is the ultimate minimalist solution. This isn't a chair; it's a strategically designed sit pad for those moments when you need a quick, insulated perch. Made from proprietary closed-cell foam with an accordion-style fold, it's virtually weightless and incredibly versatile. We've used it for quick breaks on the trail, as an extra layer of insulation under a sleeping pad, or simply to take the chill off a cold rock while cooking. The dimpled surface traps warmth effectively and provides a surprising amount of cushioning for its thickness. It’s nearly indestructible, shrugging off sharp rocks and rough terrain without complaint. The Z Seat fits anywhere – easily sliding into an external pack pocket or tucked inside. It's the go-to for ultralight purists, day hikers, or anyone who just wants a little something extra without compromising their meticulous pack weight. For minimal investment in weight or cost, it delivers a disproportionate amount of comfort and utility. **Highlights** * Extremely lightweight and virtually no bulk. * Durable closed-cell foam construction for longevity. * Provides excellent insulation from cold, wet, or hard surfaces. * Accordion-style fold for compact packing and quick deployment. * Inexpensive and highly versatile for various uses. **Watch-outs** * Offers no back support; it's strictly a ground pad. * Minimal cushioning compared to inflatable or framed options.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | FlexLite Air Chair | Sit Pad Z Seat |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | REI Co-op | Therm-a-Rest |
| Type | Ultralight Folding Chair | — |
| Packed Size | Comparable to a Nalgene bottle | — |
| Frame Material | Aluminum alloy | — |
| Seat Material | Ripstop nylon | — |
| Weight | — | 2 oz |
| Material | — | Closed-cell foam |
| Packed Dimensions | — | 12 in x 2.5 in x 2.25 in |
| R-Value | — | 2.2 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
FlexLite Air Chair
- Excellent comfort and back support for an ultralight chair
- Impressively light and compact, easy to pack
- Quick and intuitive assembly with shock-corded poles
- Good stability on various terrains for its weight
- Durable ripstop nylon and aluminum construction
- Not as robust as heavier chairs for aggressive, long-term use
- Higher price point compared to less specialized options
- Lower sitting height may be less comfortable for very tall users
Sit Pad Z Seat
- Virtually weightless, barely noticeable in a pack
- Excellent insulation from cold and wet ground
- Incredibly durable, impervious to punctures and tears
- Folds compactly for easy storage and quick deployment
- Highly versatile for various trail and camp uses
- Offers no back support, strictly a ground pad
- Minimal cushioning, not for luxurious comfort
- Can feel a bit thin on very rocky or uneven ground
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.