As an ultralight backpacker, I want gear that’s light and dependable. The Big Agnes Skyline UL Chair (1 lb 11 oz trail weight) hits that balance. It packs down to about 17 inches long and slides into my pack without much fuss. At camp, setup is quick: the shock-corded, color-coded aluminum poles click into place fast. No plastic connectors here. Just metal joints that feel solid.
Design Highlights
- Shock-corded, color-coded frame: Each pole is pre-attached and matched, so setup is fast and even by touch.
- All-metal joints: No plastic hubs means fewer failure points and better durability.
- Self-leveling center pole: Keeps the chair stable on rocky or uneven ground.
- Tough materials: Robic nylon ripstop with UTS waterproof coating. It holds up in wet grass and rain.
- Pack size & weight: About 3.5″×3.5″×17″, weighing just under 2 lbs. Not the lightest out there, but still in the ultralight range.
It sells for $150 and feels worth it. You get solid aluminum construction and quality fabric. It’s not a flimsy camp chair.
Comfort in the Backcountry
The Skyline UL is one of the most comfortable ultralight chairs I’ve tried. At 15 inches off the ground, it’s tied for tallest in its class. That height makes a difference: less strain on knees and easier to get in and out.
The scoop-shaped seat cradles you without slouching. I can shift and stretch without feeling cramped. It stays stable thanks to its wide, splayed-leg base. Even when leaning forward or sitting on uneven ground, it doesn’t wobble. The back legs are slightly stepped out, adding to that locked-in feel.
It supports up to 275 pounds. I’m around 170, and it feels solid. There are no creaks, no sinking. It’s a real chair, not a sling or stool.
Durability in the Wild
This chair can take a beating. I’ve scraped it against rocks, set it on wet dirt, and brushed it off after spills. No damage so far. The waterproof fabric dries quickly, and the metal frame feels tough.
CleverHiker calls it a “durable, well-built choice” and I have to agree. I’ve used it on muddy campsites and rocky trails in Western NC, and it still looks new. No PFAS added to the coating, which is good news. For more on how water and weather affect trail gear, see our piece on Skinny Dip Falls.
Real-World Use
I tested the Skyline on solo trips in Pisgah National Forest and along the Art Loeb Trail. One July evening, I picked wild blueberries and sat under pine trees watching blue ghost fireflies. That 15-inch seat height made it easy to sit upright and see my stove. The deep seat let me lean back and enjoy the show without perching on cold ground.
After long hikes, setting it up felt like a reward. It’s not instant but stretching the seat over the legs took effort the first few times. The stuff sack is snug, so folding it neatly is key. But it’s still faster than blowing up a pad.
Compared to the Helinox Chair Zero, the Skyline is heavier but more stable and supportive. I knew I was carrying extra weight, but I didn’t mind. For longer camp sessions, the comfort wins.
Final Thoughts
The Big Agnes Skyline UL Chair works well for backpackers who want comfort without bulk. It’s solidly built with smart details: color-coded poles, metal joints, and a tall, supportive seat. At 15 inches off the ground and weighing 28 ounces, it’s not for every trip but it’s perfect for those where comfort matters.
For trips in Western North Carolina, whether snacking on wild blueberries, watching blue ghost fireflies, backpacking solo, or hiking the Art Loeb Trail. The Skyline UL has earned its place in my pack. It adds real value to camp life without dragging me down the trail.
