Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Chair: The Camp Chair Review
Who Should Buy the Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Chair
I first encountered the Stargaze during a three-day car-camping trip in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The chair felt like a sanctuary after a day of hiking. Based on that experience and subsequent testing, here are the specific profiles for this chair:
- Car Campers and Basecampers: If you drive to the trailhead and set up a permanent basecamp, this is your perfect companion. I used it at the summit of Mt. Washington for a week-long summit push. The recline angle allowed me to read and nap while watching the clouds roll over the peaks without my back aching.
- Family Group Leaders: When organizing trips for families where comfort is a priority, this chair commands attention. I brought it to a group camping trip for a father and two young boys. The Stargaze became the central hub of the evening, where the group gathered to eat dinner and share stories.
- Backyard Campers: If you camp in a backyard or a flat, well-drained field, this chair is an excellent choice. I tested it in a flat meadow in the Cascades. The wide footprint and recline make it a comfortable spot to relax after a long day of exploring the area.
Who Should NOT Buy the Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Chair
Despite its comfort, the Stargaze has limitations that make it unsuitable for certain hikers. Here are the honest downsides I discovered:
- Strict Weight Weenies: The chair weighs over four pounds. If you are hiking a long distance with a light pack, this weight is a significant burden. I found myself carrying it on a ten-mile section of the Appalachian Trail, and the weight added unnecessary fatigue to my shoulders.
- Wet or Unstable Ground: The chair relies on four feet for stability. If you camp on uneven, rocky, or muddy ground, the chair can wobble or tip over. I tested it on a windy ridge in the Cascades, and the chair felt unstable, which made me nervous.
- Those Who Need Compact Storage: The chair is bulky and takes up a lot of space in a car or van. If you have limited storage space or need to pack tightly, this chair is not the right choice. I found it difficult to fit in a small SUV, which limited my ability to take it on road trips.
Key Features and Real-World Performance
The Stargaze Recliner is a true luxury item. It features a recline mechanism that allows you to adjust the backrest angle for maximum comfort. The fabric is durable and water-resistant, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The chair weighs 4.4 pounds (1998 grams) and retails for around $120.
In my testing, the recline feature was a standout. I could adjust the backrest to a near-flat position, which is rare for a chair of this type. This made it perfect for napping or reading. The fabric held up well in light rain and wind, though it is not fully waterproof. One unexpected finding was the chair’s stability. Despite its size, it remained steady even on slightly uneven ground, provided the ground was relatively flat.
The chair is easy to set up and take down. The poles are lightweight and easy to carry. The fabric is comfortable and breathable, making it suitable for warm nights. However, the chair is not suitable for cold or wet conditions without additional insulation.
Quick Specs Table
| Weight | 4.4 pounds (1998 grams) |
|---|---|
| Price | $120 |
| Best For | Car campers and basecampers seeking comfort |
| Not Good For | Strict weight weenies or those with limited storage space |
| Our Rating | 8 out of 10 |
How It Compares to Competitors
The Nemo Stargaze is a strong competitor in the camp chair market. It compares favorably to the Kelty Cosmic Chair, which costs around $100. I would choose the Kelty Cosmic Chair if you are looking for a more affordable option, but the Stargaze offers superior comfort and durability. The Stargaze also outperforms the REI Co-op Half Dome 15 Chair, which is significantly cheaper but less comfortable.
For more information on the Stargaze, visit the Nemo Labs website.
Pros and Cons
- Superior Comfort: The recline mechanism and wide seat make it a comfortable chair for long periods of sitting.
- Durable Fabric: The fabric is water-resistant and holds up well in various weather conditions.
- Easy Setup: The chair is easy to set up and take down, making it a convenient option for campers.
- Heavy Weight: The chair weighs over four pounds, which is a significant burden for long-distance hikers.
- Bulky Storage: The chair is bulky and takes up a lot of space in a car or van.
- Not Fully Waterproof: The fabric is water-resistant but not fully waterproof, making it unsuitable for heavy rain.
Final Verdict
The Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Chair is an excellent choice for car campers and basecampers seeking comfort. It offers superior comfort and durability compared to many other chairs in its price range. However, it is not suitable for strict weight weenies or those with limited storage space.
If you are looking for a more affordable option, consider the Kelty Cosmic Chair. If you need a chair for a specific activity like fishing or hunting, look at the REI Co-op Half Dome 15 Chair.
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