You may have seen parents sitting in these types of seats at their childrens’ sporting events or outdoor competitions. Canvas camping chairs have quickly replaced the director’s chair models of the past, due to their high degree of comfort and portability. Many come with a carrying bag or case, to keep them folded neatly when not in use and to help move them from one location to another with ease.

The older style chairs are somewhat handy and lightweight, but the wooden frame does not allow them to be folded to the extent of the newer products. Because they are less flexible, they do not give where they need to for additional comfort. They also do not come in such a wide range of colors as the outdoor folding chairs.

There are many other benefits of using these new canvas folding chairs. They are typically constructed of a lightweight steel frame, usually aluminum, with several pivot points between the arms, seat and legs. Many consist of cross bars as well, for additional support. The pivot points provide more flexibility, which means these seats give a bit more, making  them a more comfortable seating option.

There are many different models and styles to choose from, in a wide range of color options. Some are even available in more than one color or in a print schemes. For those who use the products occasionally, at games or backyard barbecues, style may be the most important feature. They can be purchased to coordinate with deck or patio furniture, for a more unified look.

For those who spend quite a bit of time outdoors, on activities such as camping or fishing, comfort and additional feature are likely to be more important than style. Durability is also a factor. There are models with a bit heavier frame construction and wider seats, to accommodate large frames comfortably. They typically contain a bit more hardware such as the pins used around the pivoting corners.

Additional features can include cup or drink holders. A round ring of plastic with netting is usually sewn into the arms, to support a variety of can, cup or bottle sizes. With the stretchable netting, they give a little, to prevent drinks from spilling or being knocked over. They can also be used as pockets to store outdoor gear, such as sunglasses or sunscreen at the beach, or compasses, field glasses, GPS devices, keys and many more items when used for camping.

Some models are padded, so they can provide additional relaxation in the outdoors. Foam padding is sewn into the canvas on the seat and neck area of some models. Others simply come with a removable cushion with foam sewn inside the canvas. Coleman folding chairs come in a variety of models such as those mentioned, to meet the needs of any person who enjoys the outdoors.

Reclining outdoor seats are easier to use than the typical aluminum frame with nylon mesh. There is no need to lift the foot or back portion to a specific position to fold the item. It simply folds into itself. In addition, canvas is easy washable with a mild soap and is porous, so it dries quickly in the open air.
photo credit: aprilzosia