Over the years, I’ve trusted Helinox chairs whenever I’m backpacking or car camping with friends and family. Helinox chairs revolutionized outdoor activities with their easy-to-fold, lightweight, and comfortable designs. On top of that, these chairs are known for their durable construction that can tolerate even the roughest weather.
But through the years, I’ve tried different brands that could go toe-to-toe with the Helinox chairs. Here’s a list of Helinox alternatives that can give a different camping experience.
Are Helinox Chairs Worth It?
Helinox is a South Korean company. The frames of Helinox chairs are made in South Korea while the carry-cases were manufactured in Vietnam.
Before we even discuss the Helinox alternatives, a lot of campers want to know whether or not Helinox chairs are worth it? If you’re willing to spend more than $120 on a camp chair then, maybe it’s a good pick. However, not everyone has that budget. Or maybe you rarely go outdoors. Just imagine paying for a $120 chair only to use it once or twice.
Most people who invest in Helinox chairs are avid outdoor enthusiasts. I for one wouldn’t go for a hefty-priced camp chair if I’m not camping once or twice a month with my friends and family. But of course, the Helinox chairs are expensive for good reasons.
Helinox is one of the top brands in its market. Some of their models are not only good for car camping but even for backpacking given the lightweight but durable frames.
Helinox Chair Zero Alternative
Best Value: REI Co-op Flexlite Air
The REI Co-op Flexlite Air is a good alternative to the lightweight and compact Helinox Chair Zero. It weighs just around 17 ounces, making it one of the lightest camp chairs. It stands at 7.5 inches off the ground. It is also easy to fold. But as far as stability is concerned, it’s average, to say the least. It’s not the most stable but it’s not wobbly at the same time when used on hard ground.
Though it is perfect for backpackers and those who don’t like carrying heavy gear while camping, it comes with a few drawbacks. For one, it’s not the most comfortable camping chair. At times, I felt like sliding out of the chair and my lower back somewhat suffered the most after sitting for 30 minutes. I stand at around 5’8” and taller buddies struggled even more than I did when they sat on the REI Co-op Flexlite Air.
You should go for the Flexlite Air if you prefer a lightweight and low-profile camp chair. It may not offer the most comfortable chair, but it’s easy to carry around especially if you are backpacking or don’t want to be bothered by extra weight when going outdoors.
Best Budget: MOON LENCE Outdoor Ultralight
Another good alternative to Helinox Chair Zero is the Moon Lence Outdoor Ultralight chair. I first used the Moon Lence Camp Chair when I was looking for an extra chair for our family trip. It’s cheaper than most camp chairs I checked, but surprisingly, it offered above-average comfort especially for its price.
The setup is similar to other camp chairs that I’ve tried. The only thing that’s a bit confusing is to determine which side of the chair fabric is the back part. It would’ve been better if there’s a label. As far as weight is concerned, it’s lighter than most camp chairs though.
Campers should go for the Moon Lence Outdoor Ultralight chair if they plan on camping during the summer. Aside from being lightweight, the mesh panels allow air to circulate. You also get a hanging pocket where you can place your phone or even your water. The only downside is that it is a bit bulky once folded.
Helinox Sunset Chair Alternative
Best Overall: Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair
Big Agnes Big Six is a great choice for those who loved the Helinox Sunset Chair. The Helinox Sunset Chair is known for its high-back and wide design. When I tried the Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair, my first impression is that it’s a bit heavier than other camp chairs that I’ve personally tried. It is perfect for overnight backpacking trips and if you are heavy. The Big Agnes Big Six Camp chair has a weight capacity of 300 pounds.
It comes with a fully shock-corded architecture and a color-coded frame making it easier to set up when you’re camping. This camp chair is surprisingly light given its weight capacity. It made use of High-tenacity Robic nylon fabric and its patented hubless frame.
This is a favorite among people who live in their vans. Unlike other camp chairs that can hurt your lower back after sitting for an hour, the Big Agnes Big Six camp chair is great for relaxation. The only drawback is that it’s a bit pricey compared to your average camp chair.
Helinox Ground Chair Alternative
Best Overall: Helinox Chair Zero
The Helinox Ground Chair is an easy-to-pack, lightweight, and durable option known for its square base that evens out the weight of the user. A good alternative to the Helinox Ground Chair is the Helinox Chair Zero. The Helinox Chair Zero stands out for its comfortable and supportive design giving the right support on your back. For a small chair, it has a high back design. Plus, it only weighs approximately 18 ounces, including its stuff sack.
However, given the size, it’s not the most comfortable for campers over six feet tall. Those with larger hips will also feel a bit annoyed sitting for a prolonged period on the Helinox Chair Zero. This chair is highly suggested during the summer season. It comes with slits making it breathable.
The Chair Zero is the right choice for campers looking for a lightweight, durable, and comfortable camp chair. It has rip-stop nylon that can support a decent amount of weight. It also comes with reinforced corners for additional support. And for those who never used a camp chair, Helinox Chair Zero simplified the setup. I first noticed the arrows on the fabric making this user friendly.
Helinox Savanna Chair Alternative
Best Value: Nemo Stargaze Luxury
The Helinox Savanna Chair is known for its heavy-duty aluminum alloy frame that can support up to 320 pounds. It’s easy to set up and has a high-back design. If you’re looking for a good alternative to the Helinox Savanna Chair, then you might want to take a closer look at the Nemo Stargaze.
The Stargaze Chair also comes with an aluminum frame. It has a recliner design that allows the chair to rock or to recline depending on what you want. The Nemo Stargaze also includes comfortable padding in the right places, something that is not present in most camp chairs.
As a premium chair, it is very comfortable to use. It also has a mesh body perfect for sunny days. The dimensions are larger than your average camp chair. It is 36 inches wide and 44 inches tall. Unfortunately, the leg design tends to compromise stability a bit. However, this is intentional given the rocking function of the chair. I think that those who love to sit comfortably during in camp should go for the Nemo Stargaze. It’s a great place to read a book or just appreciate the wonders of nature.
Final Thoughts
Helinox chairs are sought after for their stability, comfort, and lightweight designs. But even if it’s a popular brand among serious outdoor enthusiasts, it’s advantageous to have different options to choose from. Whether it’s a different brand or another model from Helinox, these alternatives can help improve your experience whenever you’re camping.
