Kelty Lowdown Chair Review (Bought & Tested!)
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TL;DR: The Kelty Lowdown Chair is a great chair with really functional features (like adjustable armrests and a carry bag that doubles as a footmat). It’s one of the better low-profile chairs I’ve tested, but I wouldn’t say it’s the best.
RELATED: The 21 Best Camping Chairs
I’ll link to my YouTube review here when it’s done (TBA):
Check out the Kelty Lowdown Chair:
1. Set Up
The entire setup is pretty straightforward. Here’s how:
- Lay the bag on the ground, locate 3 buckles holding it together, and undo them all.
- Roll open the carry bag and slide the chair out from its feet pocket.
- Grab opposite ends (backrest/armrest), pull to open, and you’re done.
Setup time: ~7 seconds
2. Pack Away
The unique wrap-and-buckle system makes packing a breeze compared to top-loading bags that require squeezing.
- Grab opposite corners (preferably backrest and seat).
- Lift off the ground and pull everything together into a bundle.
- Slot feet into the carry bag pocket, wrap snugly, and secure the 3 buckles.
Pack away time: ~23.5 seconds (including getting it back into the bag)
3. Unfolded Dimensions
Here are the measured dimensions for the unfolded chair:
- Width: 31.25in (79.4cm) from armrest to armrest
- Length: 20.5in (52.1cm) from side to side
- Height: 28.4in (72.2cm) from ground to top of chair
4. Detailed Measurements
Now, if you want more detailed seat measurements, here is everything to know. There is often a difference between what is marketed and what is actually usable space, particularly regarding seat height sag.
- Total seat length: 20.5in (52.1cm)
- Real seat length: 17.1in (43.4cm)
- Seat depth: 15.5in (39.4cm)
- Front seat height: 12 inches (30.5cm)
- Actual sit height: 6.7in (17.0cm)
- Backrest height: 20.75 inches
- Recline angle: ~14 degrees (slightly reclined)
5. Breathability
This chair is thickly padded for warmth and comfort, but it lacks mesh ventilation.
- Breathability: 0% Mesh
- Temperature rise: Starting temp 76.1°F → After 1 hour: 86.9°F (14.2% increase)
This chair is meant to retain body heat and keep you warm, making it unsuitable for hot summer camping. It is designed more for cooler conditions or campfire seating, where warmth is preferred over ventilation.
6. Armrests
The armrests are padded and adjustable using buckles at the back, offering customization without leaving the chair.
7. Storage
It features a cupholder that fits a regular can and a 1-liter Nalgene bottle simultaneously (tight fit).
- Cup Holder: 3.5 x 5.5 inches
8. Carry Bag
The carry bag is thick, padded, and features an adjustable shoulder strap. You can also use the bag as a footrest or let a pet rest on it while you relax.
9. Materials
The build quality is high, featuring thick materials that prioritize durability over weight savings.
- Fabric: 600D polyester, thickly padded (no loose threads)
- Poles: Steel, approx. 0.61 inches (1.55cm) thick
- Joints: Simple rivets
10. Stability
The chair has a low-profile design, but I had no issues with stability.
- Structure: X-pole structure on all sides
- Stability: Low-profile design and decently sized feet result in no stability issues despite the low height
11. Portability
The chair is heavier than budget competitors but includes a high-quality carry bag with a shoulder strap.
- Weight: 7.6 lbs total (Chair: 6.8 lbs + Bag: 0.8 lbs)
- Packed Size: 31.8″ (L) x 8.3″ (W) x 7.25″ (H)
12. Warranty
Kelty offers a limited lifetime warranty on this chair, which is significantly better than the one-year standard found on budget gear.
13. Pros & Cons
Now, what are the pros and cons, and would I recommend the Kelty Lowdown Chair?
Pro #1 – Easy to Use
Setup takes only ~7 seconds, and pack-away takes ~23.5 seconds; among the quickest chairs available.
Pro #2 – Great Carry Bag
The unique wrap-and-buckle system is easier than squeezing into top-loading bags. Includes padded shoulder strap, foot mat utility, and pet rest capability.
Pro #3 – Decent Features
Adjustable armrests, a large cupholder capable of holding multiple items, and a lifetime warranty.
Con #1 – Seat Height Very Low
Actual sit height is less than 7 inches (marketed as 12″). Not recommended for those with trouble getting out of low seats.
Kelty’s marketed specs can be confusing or inaccurate regarding seat dimensions. My testing reveals significant differences between advertised and actual usable space, particularly seat height.
| Feature | Marketed Specs (Inches) | My Testing (Inches) | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Width | 31.5 | 20.1 | Marketed width is armrest-to-armrest; actual seat width is smaller. |
| Depth | 23.0 | 15.5 | Seat depth is significantly less than the advertised total length. |
| Backrest Height | 17.0 | 20.75 | The backrest is actually taller than the marketed specs suggest. |
| Seat Height | 12.0 | 6.7 | Actual sit height is <7 inches due to sag. |
Overall Recommendation
Buy If: You want a low campfire chair for cooler weather, need adjustable armrests, or value a high-quality carry bag with extra utility (footrest/pet mat).
Skip If: You camp in hot climates (lack of breathability), have mobility issues requiring higher seat heights, or strictly need budget pricing.
The Kelty Lowdown Chair is a step up from budget options like Coleman, but at roughly double the price, it should be purchased on sale if possible.
14. Bonus – MUST Read!
I know this because I tested the Kelty Lowdown Chair against 20 other camping chairs. Check out my 21 Best Camping Chairs post to find out more.
Or, check out the Kelty Lowdown Chair:
