NEMO MOONLITE RECLINING CHAIR

SCORE: 48/60

THE Nemo Moonlite Reclining Chair was the odd one of the test, but unexpectedly scored highest of all chairs.

The Moonlite is a super-light, supercompact low-back chair. Weighing in at a feather-light 950 grams, it packs down to a 35cm H x 10cm W x 10cm D size. It was the only sub-1kg chair on test, and sits in a category alongside others like the 510-gram Helinox Chair Zero (RRP $179) or the 860-gram Mountain Designs Lightweight Chair (RRP $69). Realistically, these are more hiking chairs rather than car camping chairs, but if you prefer a Suzuki Jimny to a 300 Series, then maybe the Moonlite is for you.

What blew our mind was the comfort. As a low-back, compact chair we expected a severe compromise on comfort, but it rivalled some of the highback chairs, and even exceeded some with a reclining feature that does work.

The frame set-up is a similar pole design to many others, but the 65cm H x 51cm W x 52cm D mesh-seat locks to the frame via ball and socket joints rather than fabric sleeves. Recycled materials are used for the webbing, and triple stitching attains strength for a 136kg maximum capacity.

As a super-compact chair, there are no pockets or drink holders, and the seatheight sits at 27cm off the ground, much lower than the high-backs on test. As such, the Moonlite has minimal use as a dining chair at a table but will work fine by the fireplace or sitting in the sun. It scores best for packability, design and quality, but achieves its light weight by compromising on features and is not a chair for those on a tight budget. RRP $189