Camp chairs have come a long way from the rough polyester or cross-woven plastic ones that prioritized portability over comfort. REI Co-op’s latest, the Westward Padded Camp Chair, is a prime example of a modern option that meets both criteria.
It’s worth noting off the bat that the chair folds in half at the center, like a classic lawn chair. The majority of other models I’ve tested collapse inward, including the Yeti Trailhead camp chair, which we recommend as the best chair for most people. That means that the Westward is significantly wider when closed, though if you’re using it for things like car camping or park outings, it may not matter.
| Folded Size | 33 x 23 x 7 in. |
| Seat Height | 17 in. |
| Weight | 8 lb 8 oz |
| Weight Limit | 250 lb |
On the back side of the top half, there are two backpack straps for hands-free carry. Once slipped onto my back, at just over eight pounds, the chair felt practically weightless.
Like all camp chairs, a true measure of quality is comfort. While sitting, I immediately noticed the difference the padding made in comparison to similar models I’ve tested that lack it. It isn’t excessive; it’s just a touch more relaxing than a regular camp chair.
The polyester cushion was firm enough to support my body weight without sinking, and I didn’t feel the need to readjust after 20 minutes. Beyond the padding and material, the frame is designed with a slight recline that let me lean back a bit while seated.
Cupholders are a feature that I probably think about way too much. The Westward chair has one hidden underneath the seat that rotates out, which is preferable to the typical cup holder spot on the armrest. It’s nice to be able to stretch out both arms while my drink sits close by. The cupholder is also notably wider than average, large enough to fit my 32-ounce water bottle with room to spare on each side.
The REI Co-op Westward Padded Camp Chair does a lot right. It’s comfortable, considerably lightweight, and has a cupholder that doesn’t get in the way of the armrests. It’s also relatively affordable at $130—that’s 100 bucks less than the Yeti Trailhead Field Chair, Yeti’s cheapest option.
If you’re looking for a camp chair for the backcountry, we suggest the ultralight Helinox Chair One. For a budget option that’s just as lightweight and collapses inward, check out Coleman’s classic camp chair. But if you want a super-comfortable option for car camping, tailgates, or beach trips, I highly recommend the Westward.
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Tom Price is a reviews editor for Popular Mechanics while also contributing to Runner's World, Best Products, and Bicycling. Here at Popular Mechanics, Tom loves testing out home appliances, smart tech, gear for city life and outdoor adventures, small gadgets like watches and multitools, and anything else you can find piled up at his hoarder's nest of a desk.
Prior to working here, Tom attended NYU, graduating with a degree in English and a minor in creative writing. He also wrote for Best Reviews, The Daily Beast, and other publications covering tech, fitness gear, gadgets, and lifestyle products. Furthermore, he covered startup news, pop culture, and even professional wrestling. To follow more of his work, check back here for new stories.
Will Egensteiner has been reviewing products for 10 years, testing and writing about everything from climbing gear to video game consoles to cars. He began his career as an intern at Popular Mechanics, then worked as an editor at Outside, spearheading the magazine's gear coverage and biannual Buyer's Guide. Now that he's back, he leads product reviews for PopMech, as well as Runner's World, Best Products, and Biography. His favorite stuff to review is still outdoors equipment, and he can tell you from memory what ePTFE stands for.
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