If you’ve ever hiked deep into the Sierra backcountry, paddled across an alpine lake, or just spent a weekend camping under the towering Jeffrey pines, you know that comfort isn’t always guaranteed. Enter Crazy Creek, the pioneers of portable outdoor seating, who just launched two new products designed to bring next-level relaxation to the wild: the AirLounger and the Canoe IV Chair. Whether you’re setting up by Lake Tahoe, floating down the Merced River, or unwinding after a long day of hiking, these new designs promise comfort, durability, and portability—without weighing you down.
Testing the AirLounger in the Sierra
Last year, we fell in love with Crazy Creek’s classic backpacking chair—an absolute game-changer on our multi-day treks in the Mokelumne Wilderness or Yosemite backcountry. So, when we heard about the AirLounger, we knew we had to test it in some of our favorite Sierra locations this spring and summer. Imagine this: you’re lakeside at Echo Lake, or perched on a granite slab above Saddlebag Lake, watching the sun sink below the jagged peaks, and instead of sitting on the hard, uneven ground, you’re kicking back in a plush, inflatable chair that doubles as a sleeping pad. Sounds pretty perfect, right?
The AirLounger is a 2-in-1 inflatable chair and sleep pad, ideal for lounging by alpine lakes, post-hike relaxation, or as an ultralight addition to a minimalist camping setup. It inflates in just five breaths, weighs 32 ounces, and rolls up to a compact 3-inch diameter. Even better, it transforms from a chair into a 50-inch sleep pad, making it a multi-purpose piece of gear for those who want to pack light but still enjoy serious comfort. It’s made from recycled 420D/210D ripstop nylon and is PFAS-free, ensuring it’s tough enough for Sierra adventures while being mindful of the environment. MSRP: $139.95.
The Canoe IV Chair: Built for Sierra Paddlers
If your Sierra adventures involve more time on the water, Crazy Creek’s updated Canoe IV Chair is designed for paddlers who want comfort without compromising function. An upgrade to the brand’s beloved Canoe III, this latest model includes a multi-foam layer bottom cushion, a low-profile wing design, and drain holes to prevent water buildup—because we all know that wet gear can be a trip-ruiner.
The Canoe IV securely straps into place on any canoe, offering lumbar support for those long paddles across June Lake or down the slower stretches of the Tuolumne River. At just 36 ounces, it folds flat and features side straps for easy carrying and storage. If you’ve ever struggled to stay comfortable during an all-day paddle, this chair is built to change that. MSRP: $79.95.
Sierra Tested, Adventure Approved
We’re planning to put the AirLounger through its paces this spring and summer at some of the most scenic mountain lakes in the Sierra, from Lake Tahoe’s East Shore to the remote waters of Ansel Adams Wilderness. Whether you’re basecamping in Yosemite, floating the Truckee River, or just setting up a comfy spot at your lakeside campsite, Crazy Creek’s newest innovations look like they’ll be the ultimate backcountry luxury.
In addition to testing the AirLounger, we’ll also be trying out the Crazy Creek Pack Table, a compact and adjustable surface perfect for Sierra backcountry setups. This 12” x 12” textured tabletop packs down to a 6” x 6” x 2” cube, making it an ultralight companion for lakeside picnics, backcountry kitchens, or even inside a tent. Its adjustable legs (ranging from 5 to 8 inches) ensure stability on uneven terrain, while its durable polypropylene construction and keystone and shock cord framework provide impressive support for up to 10 lbs. Whether you need a steady place to cook, play cards, or hold your lantern, this Montana-made table is shaping up to be an essential piece of our 2025 gear list. MSRP: $59.95.
Stay tuned for our full field test review later this year, where we’ll dive deeper into real-world performance. Until then, if you’re looking to upgrade your relaxation game in the Sierra, you can check out Crazy Creek’s new lineup at crazycreek.com.
More Gear Spotlights Coming Soon
This article is part of Sierra Rec Magazine’s Outdoor Gear Spotlight Series, where we highlight new and innovative products designed to enhance your adventures in the Sierra Nevada. Got gear you’d like us to test? Let us know in the comments or email us at sierrarecinfo@gmail.com
