Review: Helinox Chair Zero
A lightweight, reliable travel chair is a welcome piece of motorcycle travel gear after a day on the open road. The Helinox Chair Zero provides ample back support without any precarious leg juggling. The Chair Zero weighs in at a mere 1.13 pounds. The manufacturer boldly claims it’s the lightest available camping chair—and it’d be easy to believe.
The chair delivers a punch of comfort and durability. It features an anodized DAC aluminum alloy frame and proprietary nylon resin hubs for strength and minimal weight.
Its ultra-lightweight design is accentuated by a sleek frame, seat, and bag fabric, contributing to its portability. Standing 25 inches tall when assembled, it offers a comfortable seating position with 20 inches width and 18 inches depth, supporting up to 265 pounds.
Packed, it measures four inches tall and wide and 14 inches long, emphasizing its portability. The Chair Zero fit both into my motorcycle panniers and backpack side pockets.
Made from sturdy ripstop nylon and reinforced corners, the chair’s seating area is built to withstand wear and tear. While it offered stability overall, the lightweight design did lead to slight wobbling when seated, especially on uneven ground. Leaning too far back occasionally triggered a backward tip, but side-to-side stability remained excellent.
The tiny feet sunk into soft surfaces, requiring a flat, stable base for optimal use and relaxation.
While the Chair Zero isn't an oversized tailgating throne, it excelled in its intended purpose—bike-packing (or backpacking) comfort. The butt pocket, that cozy nook for your derriere, is strategically designed and maintained my lower back in a straight, supportive position. In the world of compact chairs, the Chair Zero offered an exceptional seating experience that I liked.
The chair's high back supported my shoulder blades as an average-sized user, but taller or broader individuals may find it narrow and potentially experience discomfort around the armpits or shoulders. It's best suited for people under six feet, with possible pressure points on wider hips during long sitting sessions.
Helinox prioritizes user-friendliness in the Chair Zero's design. Its shock-corded poles locked easily into place, aided by a foolproof arrow indicator for correct setup orientation.
The lower seating position, just seven inches off the ground, could pose challenges for those with knee, hip, or back concerns, requiring a deep squat when sitting and getting up. Packing up was straightforward, with the stuff sack accommodating neatly rolled fabric around the poles.
Though slightly above average, the Chair Zero's price is worth it for weight-conscious adventure riders and backpackers alike. It excels in shedding ounces while maintaining comfort. However, alternative options may be more suitable for outdoor enthusiasts prioritizing comfort and stability over weight.
Helinox Chair Zero
$149.95
Colors: Gray, black, white