Comfortable Chairs For Bad Back With Lumbar Support
If you’re prone to back pain, you know how difficult it can be to make yourself comfortable, even while sitting down. If you’re also an outdoor enthusiast like myself, the task becomes even more daunting.
That’s what inspired us to compile this Best Camping Chair for Bad Back review. Read on to begin your journey toward a more relaxing, pain-free camping experience.
Quick Look At Our Top Chairs For Those Suffering From Back Pain
- PORTAL Oversized Mesh Back Zero Gravity Chair-XL Padded Seat
- KingCamp Oversized XL Folding Patio Lounge
- MARCHWAY Lightweight Folding Camping Chair With Headrest
- VINGLI folding Camping Chair With Lumbar
- Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Camping Chair (Birch Leaf Smoke)
In A Hurry?
Our Top Pick – KingCamp Oversized XL Folding Patio Lounge
Buying A Chair For A Bad Back: What You Need To Know
It might have been a while since you’ve shopped for a camping chair. Since it’s even more important to choose the right one this time around, here’s some information you might find useful as you begin your search.
How To Choose The Best Camping Chair For Your Back Pain
First and foremost, you’ll want a camping chair that provides decent lumbar support. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this term, it means that the chair will feature some sort of extra padding along the lumbar region or lower spine which can help with back pain.
This helps to support the natural curvature of the spine, thereby reducing undue stress to the region.
A chair that promotes better back health will also have a strong, supportive frame. If you’re like me, you’ve probably noticed that your back feels more tender when you’ve been slouching or sitting in a slumped position.
In fact, poor posture can lead to the type of painful back spasms that could ruin your whole camping trip if you’re not careful. A chair that sits firmly on the ground, with no instability or wobbling, is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself.
Lastly, think about what you’ll be using the chair for. You might think that sitting down is all that you do in a chair, but the truth is, there are as many different ways of sitting as there are camping chairs in general.
Will you be participating in campfire sing-alongs? Roasting hot dogs or marshmallows?
Simply relaxing with a good book or do you want something lighter for backpacking? Think about the way your body rests when you’re engaging in these activities. Your answers should help to determine the type of chair you need.
Take a look at some stretching techniques that can help alleviate back pain.
Distinctive Features To Look For
So, what features, in particular, should you be on the lookout for? In addition to lumber support and a strong frame, here are a few of the most important ones.
- Padded headrest and armrests– These will increase the overall comfort of the chair and make it easier for you to keep your muscles relaxed.
- Easy folding technique– The last thing you want is a chair that you have to struggle with when you’re trying to either set it up or put it away.
- Lightweight and portable- This is especially important if you’ll be taking the chair on remote camping trips, or if you plan on backpacking with it.
- High weight capacity– If you’re a person of size, make sure that the chair will be able to easily support your weight. For anyone else, it’s still a good feature to look for, since it virtually guarantees a sturdy frame.
- Ergonomic design– While the current definition skews toward workplace furniture, ergonomics simply means that the design is geared toward remaining in sync with the body’s natural shape and tendencies.
What NOT To Buy
What qualities should immediately disqualify a camping chair for someone with a bad back?
As I mentioned earlier, chairs that encourage slouching are to be avoided. Many low-quality camping chairs fall into this category, which is why you should probably plan on shelling out a decent amount of cash for a good one. The chairs you’ll find on display outside your local big-box hardware store, for example, are not your best bet.
Stool-type chairs, or any kind of simple camp chairs that lack back support, fall into the no column as well. You’ll be struggling to balance yourself the entire time, which will put undue pressure on your pelvis and legs as well as your spine.
Finally, give a pass to any camp chair with rigid construction. Not only will these be more difficult to pack and to carry, but they’ll also restrict your body’s natural movement, causing stiffness that’s sure to lead to soreness later on.
Getting The Most Out Of Your Purchase
If you’ve followed the advice listed above and chosen the perfect camping chair, don’t just save it for the woods. Set it up on your porch or lawn when the weather is nice, and feel the difference that a comfortable outdoor chair can make in your everyday life.
The more you allow your body to adapt to your new piece of equipment, the more adjusted you’ll be when it comes time to put it to the test.
Best Camping Chair For Bad Back: In Review
Now that you know what to be on the lookout for, here are our mini-reviews of five camping chairs that should be easiest on your back.
1. PORTAL Oversized Mesh Back Zero Gravity Chair Recliner-XL Padded Seat
With its ergonomic, zero-gravity design; built-in head and lumbar support; and fully adjustable frame, the PORTAL delivers in just about every category. There’s no assembly required; just unfold, adjust, and you’re good to go.
A built-in side table is included in the design, making this a multi-functional travel unit. The main drawback is the natural wooden armrests, which aren’t designed for long-term outdoor use.
2. KingCamp Oversized XL Folding Patio Lounge
At just nine pounds, this extra-large chair offers quality and convenience in one lightweight package. It’s portable, easy to open and close, and ergonomically designed to flow with the natural curvature of your spine.
The material is tough and built to last, which is good news since you’re bound to be spending a great deal of time in this comfortable camp chair.
3. MARCHWAY Lightweight Folding High Back Camping Chair With Headrest
Weighing in at a feather-light 3.7 pounds, this is far and away from the lightest option on our list. Don’t let that deter you, however–the chair is still capable of supporting up to 250 pounds, and the stable aluminum poles keep it from seeming too flimsy.
The design features sponge sleeves for head and lumbar support, and setup is a snap. A carry pouch is included, making the MARCHWAY a great choice for backpacking or cycling excursions.
4. VINGLI Professional Fishing Chair Foldable,180° Adjustable Reclining
The corrosion-resistant steel construct and swivel feet for added stability are what set this camping chair apart. It features comfortable back and seat padding and can be adjusted to six different positions.
As the name suggests, the chair was originally designed for fishing excursions, but it’s perfect for lounging and reading as well.
5. Nemo Stargaze Recliner Luxury Camping Chair (Birch Leaf Smoke)
The Nemo is indeed a chair built for stargazing, with a slouchy, hammock-like design. Despite its flimsy appearance, it can hold up to 300 pounds. While it’s a good option for backpacking due to its lightweight, portable construction, it doesn’t provide nearly as much support as some of the other products listed here.
The Verdict
Now that I’ve tested all the models listed above, which one wins the trophy? If we had to choose, we would go with KingCamp’s oversized Chair. It’s more affordable than a similar offering from PORTAL, with an ergonomic design and lightweight construction.
Since it’s adjustable, it can be used for a variety of camping activities and is bound to keep you comfortable throughout all of them.
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading this roundup of the best camping chairs for bad backs, and that your selection will bring you many days of happiness in the great outdoors.
Best of luck, and happy camping!