my issue with the Yizi is the weight capacity, Im at the upper end of the Zero at 250lb I blow past the Yizi with a weight capacity of 200lb. the Helinox zero being a lighter chair with a higher weight capacity made it a better chair for me.
I have a budget chair and a Helinox. I use the budget chair all the time as a grilling chair. The Helinox gets saved for camping trips. And, of course, if weight is really big issue the chair stays home. The funny thing is, when you bring a chair on a backpacking trip there is ALWAYS someone sitting in it - you or one of your partners. 😆
Yeah, and I hate that! If you pack it in you get to sit in it. Otherwise get your own chair! I had someone bend a leg on my chair while I was hanging a bear bag. Super annoying.
I went back and forth on which one I wanted (I looked at both). Although I really like the mesh of the Trekology chair, I decided to spend the money on the Helinox for a couple reasons you pointed out: the steeper back is more comfortable for me, the higher back takes strain off my back/neck from keeping my head up (and the steeper angle also helps here), and the bottom support running side to side on the Helinox adds a lot more stability. I have no doubt that I would have been happy with the Trekology one but at the end of the day, I really wanted the steeper and higher back. Another great video, Chris, thanks! ETA: I am 6', 197 lbs and don't have the pinching issues in the Helinox that others have reported. But, I would guess that if I was >200 lbs and/or taller than 6'2", that I would experience that discomfort. The Helinox is narrower.
That's Good you don't have the pinching issue...I did after about 10 minutes...The Helinox is a well built ultra light chair/ a good one too. Just not for everyone...Ultimately people know what they want if they put the time in. Thanks for watching, D.A.H. !
I am 165lbs and the Yizi lasted about 4 nights before it had a blow out, I personally I like the height of the Helinox better, for the weight and price the REI Flexlite air chair is a better option, a tiny bit heavier than the Helinox, and if you wait, once a year REI gives a 20% off one item so you can pick one up for $79.
I have the helinox and I really like it. Last trip I was on it rained start to finish and to have a place to sit off the ground was awesome. Honestly no matter which chair you get, it's a great item to have in camp. Awesome video
I really support the innovation and design of the helinox, but if we are honest the trekology yizi lite is a completely original design that is not a copy of any other model, this leaves a lot to think about, as many famous brands are inflating their prices and excuses saying they invest too much in research and development. greetings and an excellent comparison.
Not a copy, completely original? What? It’s just a different geometry, with different materials for the seat. Helinox put Dyneema material in the Zero seat to make it stronger than their mesh. Chinese brands can ripoff anything, (South Korean)Helinox makes theirs in South Korea and Vietnam. Just calling a rip-off “original” is strange. The first small folding camp chair was made 4500 years ago. That was original! Helinox invented this style with Dac poles in 2012. The rest is history.
I have a backpacking chair similar to the chair zero, it's an "Air Chair" by Sierra Madre. It's about 5 ounces heavier than the chair zero and a little bulkier when packed, but is taller, wider, and will hold more weight. You sit up a little higher off the ground than the chair zero as well. I have sat in both and prefer it to the chair zero. It's also $20 cheaper, but I got a $20 off coupon so I got it for $80. I would not like the ZIZI lite because you sit too low to the ground.
Another great job! They're closing the gap, but you know the deal. UL thru-hikers are all about paying to cut grams, and they're more than willing to shell out $60-$80 more (the Chair Zero actually lists on REI at 16 oz.) to save 10 ounces. Still, for the average hiker, I think low-end brands finally getting below 2 pounds is a pretty big deal. The thing I've found about my Chair Zero is that, yes, you CAN sit somewhat comfortably on all of these UL chairs ... IF you sit on them a certain way. Mine is fine, but I do have to stick my legs out and kind of lean back to increase stability. To be honest, if you want one that just feels bullet proof, I just go with my $20 Ozark Trail chair. It's more than 3#, so I wouldn't strap it onto my pack in most cases, but I feel I can relax a bit more while sitting than in the UL versions.
@@basecampchris I was thinking of gradually replacing my aging captain chairs with them, one by one, as a great space saver for the vehicle. But you do give up a little comfort with the design regardless of the brand or weight, so I think I might eventually keep two as extras to always have along, and just replace older, larger captains chairs with smaller, lighter ones. They're so cheap now.
I have gnarly back problems and was looking at these chairs. One was too pricey and the other a bit too bulky/heavy for my purposes. I instead went with a Uquip size Large folding camping stool, it’s the best of both worlds for me. Weighs 360grams which I’m happy with and forces my back into a comfortable position when sitting. Another alternative 👍
My vote is the Trekology one. I usually end up sat on a log or rock or leaning against a tree. The mesh looks better for staying cool after a sweaty hike.
Well, now I'm feeling like my old Flexlite chair is a tad heavy at 1.75 lbs., but the stuff sack does have some webbing along its length which allows it to be easily attached to the outside of a pack.
Or, if you're happy with a little extra weight (900g- tested), the Aldi $30 camp chair is brilliant. Had two for over a year, used them in numerous locations. If you think having a chair is worthwhile, do you really think paying five times as much is worth it? If you want comfort and low weight, get a sleeping mat chair converter...
After tons of research and reviews, I thinking have to go with the helinox, not only for it's durability but also it's warranty. I find cheap chairs don't have the same warranty or replacement value.
Helinox actually has a chair one that has a higher weight capacity. There’s another youtuber who broke his zero model and bought the one model. Then he mixed the two by using the fabric from the zero on the frame of the one to make a mid weight chair.
Thanks for the great review Chris, was looking for a more lighter chair and a good price on one, almost bought the helinox chair but I think I'll give the YIZI chair a go first for the cheaper option, Stay safe out there my friend.
Great review Chris !! If you want lite , you have to pay the money that’s for sure !!! There you are at the end sitting at one of your favorite spots !! Am I right ?
Great video Chris! I'm not a fan of the Yizi, mostly because of all the mesh (easier fail point), heavier weight and the fact that it looks like you're sitting in a beach chair. The profile is insanely low which means trying to bend your knees in it is a challenge. Trekology has done a great job making knock off versions of better products like their UL pad. Here they've split the difference in weight between the 2+ lb chairs and the 1 lb chairs while still keeping the 2+ lb chair price. So from a budget perspective, for the money this chair is lighter than the 2+ lb chairs so I think it'll do well. But it still can't compete with the REI Flexlite Air Chair and the Helinox Chair Zero. Curious because I know you also have the Flexlite what your take is on that chair vs. the Chair Zero? Possible future video?! Take care!
Thanks for watching...the mesh could be a problem...so far...so good. it is low ...but it was comfortable for me...and not an issue getting out of...but I could see some people having a hard time with that...could be a deal breaker for them. Helinox is a top chair... ! prefer it over the Flex lite Air...feels more stable to me.
The REI flexlite chair is on sale right now for 30% off, so $70. It’s UNDER a pound which is lighter than the helinox. Really thinking about trying it out.
Have you reviewed any hammocks? Would like your thoughts or comparison on Kammok Roo Hammock. Or any other you have found to be worth while. Keep Hiking!
I know this is an older post, I am catching up on your videos, just found you about 2 weeks ago, you may not even see this but my brother loves to backpack but has only one usable hand. His right hand is there but not much good as he can't bend any of his fingers. Would you think he could put this together with mainly one hand? Thanks.
How firm is the weight limit on the Yizi chair? I've floated right around 200 my adult life and am slightly above right now. The weight limit online says 200, am I going to break this chair quickly?
I am “gifted with age” as my Irish priest says and it is hard for me to get out of this kind of chair. I can’t stand up directly from the chair, but have to roll out of the chair to my knees and then stand up, it’s very awkward. I prefer the REI stool which I can stand up directly from. It costs $20, weighs 1 lb, is easy to set up and doesn’t sink into the ground as much, although it doesn’t have a back so is not as comfortable long term.
@@basecampchris oh, im on a fixed income so im getting three of the trekology ones and the table version thats also available so we can hike as a two or three group in our quashita mountain forrest here in oklahoma
Price and pocket for your phone. Meh. If I'm hiking enough miles to be tired enough for a chair, I want it to be light enough to keep my pack weight down. I don't carry a chair so that I need a chair. :) Nice review, though.
Yeah, I'll stick with my lighter, sit-higher, more weight capacity, and packs down smaller Helinox. I also have an early model REI Flexlite that is only 786 grams and a lot better chair than the Trekology. I just don't like how low the Trekology chair sits. You will understand that more the older you get!
I agree with your remark about getting older. Whenever I'm seated with my bum lower than my knees it's very difficult to get up out of the chair. I bought the REI Flexlite Air three weeks ago on sale for $49.95 and took it on my day hikes in the Sierra. I learned that it's best for me to either find a big rock to sit next to or a tree with a low branch to grab hold of to get up off the chair, it works well. Otherwise I must roll off the chair onto my knees first, then I can stand up. But I love having a 1 lb chair to take with me to sit and enjoy my surroundings.
my issue with the Yizi is the weight capacity, Im at the upper end of the Zero at 250lb I blow past the Yizi with a weight capacity of 200lb. the Helinox zero being a lighter chair with a higher weight capacity made it a better chair for me.
I have a budget chair and a Helinox. I use the budget chair all the time as a grilling chair. The Helinox gets saved for camping trips. And, of course, if weight is really big issue the chair stays home.
The funny thing is, when you bring a chair on a backpacking trip there is ALWAYS someone sitting in it - you or one of your partners. 😆
Yeah, and I hate that! If you pack it in you get to sit in it. Otherwise get your own chair! I had someone bend a leg on my chair while I was hanging a bear bag. Super annoying.
I have an REI flexlite air, 16 oz. Got a lot of crap for bringing it on trail, till we got to camp of course. Now everyone wants one.
That's funny..."what do you need a chair for (later at camp ) Can I try your comfy chair?"
why are backpackers so annoying lmao, who cares what people bring
I like the less expensive one, for people going on a day hike with not much gear this could be a plus and make a day more enjoyable keep hiking Chris.
Thanks PTW! A $40 chair is less of a commitment...$80 bucks is a nice savings!
I went back and forth on which one I wanted (I looked at both). Although I really like the mesh of the Trekology chair, I decided to spend the money on the Helinox for a couple reasons you pointed out: the steeper back is more comfortable for me, the higher back takes strain off my back/neck from keeping my head up (and the steeper angle also helps here), and the bottom support running side to side on the Helinox adds a lot more stability. I have no doubt that I would have been happy with the Trekology one but at the end of the day, I really wanted the steeper and higher back. Another great video, Chris, thanks!
ETA: I am 6', 197 lbs and don't have the pinching issues in the Helinox that others have reported. But, I would guess that if I was >200 lbs and/or taller than 6'2", that I would experience that discomfort. The Helinox is narrower.
That's Good you don't have the pinching issue...I did after about 10 minutes...The Helinox is a well built ultra light chair/ a good one too. Just not for everyone...Ultimately people know what they want if they put the time in. Thanks for watching, D.A.H. !
I am 165lbs and the Yizi lasted about 4 nights before it had a blow out, I personally I like the height of the Helinox better, for the weight and price the REI Flexlite air chair is a better option, a tiny bit heavier than the Helinox, and if you wait, once a year REI gives a 20% off one item so you can pick one up for $79.
I have the helinox and I really like it. Last trip I was on it rained start to finish and to have a place to sit off the ground was awesome. Honestly no matter which chair you get, it's a great item to have in camp. Awesome video
Thanks BG...The Helinox is a good one! Right on with the rain ...once that happens any dry nature chairs are gone.
I really support the innovation and design of the helinox, but if we are honest the trekology yizi lite is a completely original design that is not a copy of any other model, this leaves a lot to think about, as many famous brands are inflating their prices and excuses saying they invest too much in research and development. greetings and an excellent comparison.
Thank you...Keep Hiking!
Not a copy, completely original? What? It’s just a different geometry, with different materials for the seat. Helinox put Dyneema material in the Zero seat to make it stronger than their mesh. Chinese brands can ripoff anything, (South Korean)Helinox makes theirs in South Korea and Vietnam. Just calling a rip-off “original” is strange. The first small folding camp chair was made 4500 years ago. That was original! Helinox invented this style with Dac poles in 2012. The rest is history.
Your right,that trekology chair is a go to after the hike to a camp site
I LOVE my helinox chair, I've bought one for my wife and one for my daughter, they're great.
Good chairs/ very light!
KILOS GEAR is much better.
The old knees would prefer something a shade taller, great review as always Stay safe out there, have fun and cheers.
Thanks 👍 Ben - KP HKNG
So glad to see u back in the wild!
Thanks ...more to come!
I have a backpacking chair similar to the chair zero, it's an "Air Chair" by Sierra Madre. It's about 5 ounces heavier than the chair zero and a little bulkier when packed, but is taller, wider, and will hold more weight. You sit up a little higher off the ground than the chair zero as well. I have sat in both and prefer it to the chair zero. It's also $20 cheaper, but I got a $20 off coupon so I got it for $80. I would not like the ZIZI lite because you sit too low to the ground.
It does sit low to the ground...so far though...it works for me.
This is what I wanted to hear. Going with the air chair.
Another great job!
They're closing the gap, but you know the deal. UL thru-hikers are all about paying to cut grams, and they're more than willing to shell out $60-$80 more (the Chair Zero actually lists on REI at 16 oz.) to save 10 ounces.
Still, for the average hiker, I think low-end brands finally getting below 2 pounds is a pretty big deal.
The thing I've found about my Chair Zero is that, yes, you CAN sit somewhat comfortably on all of these UL chairs ... IF you sit on them a certain way. Mine is fine, but I do have to stick my legs out and kind of lean back to increase stability.
To be honest, if you want one that just feels bullet proof, I just go with my $20 Ozark Trail chair. It's more than 3#, so I wouldn't strap it onto my pack in most cases, but I feel I can relax a bit more while sitting than in the UL versions.
$20 Ozark Trail chair...is the budget King. would be good for the campground buy a few of them for your crew.
@@basecampchris I was thinking of gradually replacing my aging captain chairs with them, one by one, as a great space saver for the vehicle. But you do give up a little comfort with the design regardless of the brand or weight, so I think I might eventually keep two as extras to always have along, and just replace older, larger captains chairs with smaller, lighter ones. They're so cheap now.
I have gnarly back problems and was looking at these chairs. One was too pricey and the other a bit too bulky/heavy for my purposes. I instead went with a Uquip size Large folding camping stool, it’s the best of both worlds for me. Weighs 360grams which I’m happy with and forces my back into a comfortable position when sitting. Another alternative 👍
My vote is the Trekology one. I usually end up sat on a log or rock or leaning against a tree. The mesh looks better for staying cool after a sweaty hike.
Both are good chairs...but I like the savings and you still get a good chair ( not a stool or something )
Well, now I'm feeling like my old Flexlite chair is a tad heavy at 1.75 lbs., but the stuff sack does have some webbing along its length which allows it to be easily attached to the outside of a pack.
I have the YiZi lite and I like that it packs down small.
Thanks for the update.
Great review, me and my back still love my Helinox though.
That is a great chair...Thanks for watching.
I was really debating n which one to buy. I ended up getting the Yizi 750 sits a little low but for the price you can’t beat it.
totally agree..so far a solid chair.
Or, if you're happy with a little extra weight (900g- tested), the Aldi $30 camp chair is brilliant. Had two for over a year, used them in numerous locations. If you think having a chair is worthwhile, do you really think paying five times as much is worth it? If you want comfort and low weight, get a sleeping mat chair converter...
Thanjs fir equipment review. I'd go with the $39 chair no doubt.
Thanks for watching Jim!
Hey Chris love the review been using the Trekology 750 for a couple months now for the price. Stay safe my friend
Glad it's working out for you. KP HKNG!
After tons of research and reviews, I thinking have to go with the helinox, not only for it's durability but also it's warranty. I find cheap chairs don't have the same warranty or replacement value.
Helinox actually has a chair one that has a higher weight capacity. There’s another youtuber who broke his zero model and bought the one model. Then he mixed the two by using the fabric from the zero on the frame of the one to make a mid weight chair.
This is just was I was looking for! Thanks a lot!
Thanks for the great review Chris, was looking for a more lighter chair and a good price on one, almost bought the helinox chair but I think I'll give the YIZI chair a go first for the cheaper option, Stay safe out there my friend.
Welcome Jerry, should be a good chair for ya. Thanks and Keep Hiking!
Chris you have the greatest personality love your videos 🇺🇸
Thank you Cherl!
Great review Chris !! If you want lite , you have to pay the money that’s for sure !!! There you are at the end sitting at one of your favorite spots !! Am I right ?
Thank you... IH, Definitely right...over looking the Feather River.
I thought so 👍
Thanks for this awesome review! It was super helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
Great video Chris! I'm not a fan of the Yizi, mostly because of all the mesh (easier fail point), heavier weight and the fact that it looks like you're sitting in a beach chair. The profile is insanely low which means trying to bend your knees in it is a challenge. Trekology has done a great job making knock off versions of better products like their UL pad. Here they've split the difference in weight between the 2+ lb chairs and the 1 lb chairs while still keeping the 2+ lb chair price. So from a budget perspective, for the money this chair is lighter than the 2+ lb chairs so I think it'll do well. But it still can't compete with the REI Flexlite Air Chair and the Helinox Chair Zero. Curious because I know you also have the Flexlite what your take is on that chair vs. the Chair Zero? Possible future video?! Take care!
Thanks for watching...the mesh could be a problem...so far...so good. it is low ...but it was comfortable for me...and not an issue getting out of...but I could see some people having a hard time with that...could be a deal breaker for them. Helinox is a top chair... ! prefer it over the Flex lite Air...feels more stable to me.
The REI flexlite chair is on sale right now for 30% off, so $70. It’s UNDER a pound which is lighter than the helinox. Really thinking about trying it out.
After buying the chair zero, I'll never go backpacking without a chair again!
It does make a difference to an enjoyable trip.
Have you reviewed any hammocks? Would like your thoughts or comparison on Kammok Roo Hammock. Or any other you have found to be worth while. Keep Hiking!
Not yet! But I need to look at a hammock or two! Thanks!
Love the weight conversions….750g is 1.blah lbs or 26.blah ounces. The sheer insanity of imperial measures blows my mind.
Hows that Trekology chair holding up for you now you had it a while? I'm leaning towards it...
Sitting down in comfort after hiking all day, that's crazy!!
No resting!!!
Helinox uses Dong A aluminium (DAC South Korea). DAC is very popular brand for aluminium tent poles for highend tent.
Why they don't make the foot extender to put on the 4 feets so can make it higher to sit on?
It's a no brainer to me. The Trekology wins it easy.
$40 Bucks...Yes it does!
Love your videos 😁
Thank you!
Schöner Test. Vielen Dank!
Thanks chris keep hikin
Thanks Calvin.
I know this is an older post, I am catching up on your videos, just found you about 2 weeks ago, you may not even see this but my brother loves to backpack but has only one usable hand. His right hand is there but not much good as he can't bend any of his fingers. Would you think he could put this together with mainly one hand? Thanks.
The Yizi looks like a smaller chair. Any idea where the extra weight is located? What kind of mods are possible to lighten it more?
How firm is the weight limit on the Yizi chair? I've floated right around 200 my adult life and am slightly above right now. The weight limit online says 200, am I going to break this chair quickly?
the trekology chair is an exact copy of the rei flex lite low which they stopped making. exactly the same except a different logo and better price.
Interesting...funny how the pull that off. price works.
Which one did you find more comfortable?
The higher the chair the better so you can do things without restraint like cooking
How hard is it gettin in and out of the chair for us older peeps
I am “gifted with age” as my Irish priest says and it is hard for me to get out of this kind of chair. I can’t stand up directly from the chair, but have to roll out of the chair to my knees and then stand up, it’s very awkward. I prefer the REI stool which I can stand up directly from. It costs $20, weighs 1 lb, is easy to set up and doesn’t sink into the ground as much, although it doesn’t have a back so is not as comfortable long term.
I did fine....probably not for everyone.
@@basecampchris your probably a wee bit more limber than the average joe
Good review.
Thanks!
Thanks chris, now i know i meed one
LOL...If ya get one or the other - enjoy.
@@basecampchris oh, im on a fixed income so im getting three of the trekology ones and the table version thats also available so we can hike as a two or three group in our quashita mountain forrest here in oklahoma
Price and pocket for your phone. Meh. If I'm hiking enough miles to be tired enough for a chair, I want it to be light enough to keep my pack weight down. I don't carry a chair so that I need a chair. :) Nice review, though.
Yeah, I'll stick with my lighter, sit-higher, more weight capacity, and packs down smaller Helinox. I also have an early model REI Flexlite that is only 786 grams and a lot better chair than the Trekology. I just don't like how low the Trekology chair sits. You will understand that more the older you get!
It does sit super low....I am older than you think.
I agree with your remark about getting older. Whenever I'm seated with my bum lower than my knees it's very difficult to get up out of the chair. I bought the REI Flexlite Air three weeks ago on sale for $49.95 and took it on my day hikes in the Sierra. I learned that it's best for me to either find a big rock to sit next to or a tree with a low branch to grab hold of to get up off the chair, it works well. Otherwise I must roll off the chair onto my knees first, then I can stand up. But I love having a 1 lb chair to take with me to sit and enjoy my surroundings.
The Mulibex Capra is lighter, stronger, made entirely in the USA by veterans and the chair feet don’t sink. It was so worth the money.
Lighter, at over 2 lb?
Love the idea, but weight is critical.
Hiya Chris 👋
Hey Louise. Kp Hkng
Watched all of it
Front to back feet sit more comfy than side to side feet. Rei lite has front to back feet
well the Yize lite is now $52.......
Wonder how much lighter the Helinox goes if you remove the shock cord.
I would pay up and go lighter. Weight is a big issue for me. It makes no sense to carry more weight.
I hate it when chairs sink into the ground…looks like the yizi might be better
Lots of paid fake comments here nowadays. The yizi chair exist in a 960g Version. Exactly upright like the helinox. 35€
This guy looks like Fred Armisen from SNL.
WhereIs the Trailer
I jumped right into the review....I kinda missed it too. adding in the future....
I could not sit that low to the ground, too uncomfortable for me im 58...🙄🙋♀️🖖
None really fits my need. I think it would be quite uncomfortable to eat sitting in the position I see you in.
120.00 bucks ,and its got "this side up"plastered on the back of it lol.
Yep...lol. Keep Hiking!
That first chair will have you looking up in the sky… I hate that design
This chair by Trekology is junk. It broke on my second weekend backpacking trip.
Do not buy.
Rubbish review. Sitting low ? is a big no no
Too low to the ground. When you get a little older you need to ROLL OUT of a chair like this
Hey Chris 👋