Nemo Moonlite Elite Reclining Backpacking Chair
Especially as we get older, having a chair at camp is very compelling. But carrying the weight of a comfortable camp chair runs counter to the idea that we need to reduce our pack weight. Of course, we know that a heavier pack means more impact on our joints and increased muscle strain. If we want to extend our years on the trail, reducing our pack weight is essential. So, there’s the challenge. Can we find a camp chair that is super light weight, comfortable, and durable?
I may have found one compelling option: the Moonlite Elite Reclining Backpacking Chair from Nemo.
At just a little over a pound, it immediately gets my attention.
It reclines too! Granted, not like the Lazy Boy, but any camp chair that presents some comfort adjustments is a step up from the one-position option we get from most ultralight chairs.
The frame construction and materials: strong HTP and Dyneema woven cordage and strong forged (smooth-edge) aluminum is about the best on the market for this class of chair.
But camp chairs sink and fall over in the soil. Not this one. It has a multipurpose stability platform that doubles as a carrying case. Problem solved.
The seat is seamless (think: no weak points of failure) made from all recycled polyester and TPU fibers with ball-and-socket connectors that adjust with the body and reduce pressure points.
It compacts down to a size that will fit in the side pocket of my backpack and deploys in seconds.
Nothing’s perfect, but this chair ticks a lot of boxes.
The negatives? A few that I would point out:
- The back of the chair is low – not great for tall people, but the recline adjustments help.
- This is not for large people (19 inch width), as in most camp chairs; it can feel a little confined. But it is rated for 250 pounds.
- There are no arm rests (which I wouldn’t expect for the weight) which makes it a little awkward, but folding your arms together may be just fine for you.
- Most obvious is the steep price – at the time of this article, it retails at $179. The question becomes, what is the price of comfort for you? There are many chairs on the market for far less than this, but you’ll pay a weight and design penalty.
My testing has been mostly positive. It held up strong, never sank in the soil, it was quick and easy to setup. And after a long day on my feet, it was great to sit in a chair – even if it wasn’t like the Lazy Boy. And the weight and packed size is top of class.
I won’t take a chair on a multi-week hike. But for a week-long or less, this would be my number one choice. If you can afford it, give this chair serious consideration.
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