As the weather turns cooler, I’m always on the lookout for gear that can make my time outdoors more comfortable and hassle-free. Recently, I had the chance to test out two products: the Crazy Creek Original Chair and the KwikCan instant container. Both products seemed designed to address two common issues—comfortable seating and easy trash management—whether you’re out for a game, a picnic, or tackling some yard work. Here’s my experience with each product and whether they live up to the hype.
Where to Purchase
Below are links where you can pick up the items featured in this review.
Crazy Creek Original Chair
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Crazy Creek Chair came in a straightforward design with side straps that, at first glance, seemed basic but sturdy. It’s marketed as an outdoor-friendly chair with a weight capacity of 250 pounds and a versatile design that supposedly works on any surface—whether you’re sitting on bleachers, rocks, or grass. The first thing I noticed was the padding; it’s not especially thick but looked promising for quick outings or sporting events.
Putting It to the Test: Is It as Comfortable as They Claim?
When I first tried to sit in the chair, I noticed that without adjusting the straps, it felt unstable. Thankfully, tightening the straps made a big difference. Once adjusted, I could lean back securely, and the chair offered decent support. While not the coziest seat I’ve ever used, it was definitely more comfortable than sitting on bare concrete or rocks. The versatility became more apparent as I moved it to different surfaces around my yard. Surprisingly, it even made sitting on uneven rocks a more comfortable experience, which would be ideal for camping.
One notable feature is the ability to adjust the angle by tightening or loosening the straps, allowing for various levels of recline. However, the padding is minimal, so after a while, I could see how some might wish for a bit more cushioning, especially on harder surfaces. That said, it’s portable and lightweight, making it easy to bring along to a stadium or picnic without too much bulk.
Ideal Uses and Limitations
Overall, the Crazy Creek Chair seems perfect for those who want a quick, portable seating solution for short-term use, like attending sports games, camping, or tailgating. For longer lounging, the minimal padding may fall short, but for quick outings, it delivers solid comfort and support. Just be prepared to tweak the straps for the best stability.
KwikCan Instant Container
Setting Up: Out of the Box and Into the Bag
The KwikCan came in a simple package and is essentially a flat, foldable tool that lets you turn any large trash bag (from 33 to 55 gallons) into a stable container. With a bit of muscle, it unfolds and slips into a bag, creating a makeshift trash can that stands on its own. It’s very thin, about the size of a big credit card when flat, so storing it takes up virtually no space—a nice bonus for anyone with limited storage.
Field Test: Raking, Weeding, and a Bit of Breeze
For the test, I used the KwikCan to hold a 39-gallon bag while doing some weeding. With just me holding the bag, the KwikCan added enough stability that I didn’t need a second person to keep it open—making it much easier to just toss weeds and leaves straight into the bag. The device held the bag wide open and didn’t shift, even when I stuffed in weeds and debris.
Emptying the bag was straightforward, too. I simply squeezed the sides of the KwikCan and slid it out of the full bag without spilling the contents. I also found that it keeps the bag exterior clean, as the KwikCan prevents direct contact with rough or sharp debris, minimizing the chance of tearing.
Practical for Yard Work and Beyond
The KwikCan is simple yet surprisingly effective. It would be an excellent companion for fall yard cleanup, camping, or any situation where you need a quick trash solution without an actual can. If you often find yourself raking or bagging large amounts of leaves, this could save you a lot of frustration by keeping bags open and upright on their own.
Final Thoughts
In the end, both the Crazy Creek Chair and the KwikCan proved to be helpful, budget-friendly solutions for outdoor enthusiasts. The Crazy Creek Chair brings much-needed support to any surface, though it could benefit from additional padding for longer comfort. Meanwhile, the KwikCan impressed me with its simplicity and effectiveness, making bagging yard waste a breeze. If you’re preparing for tailgating, camping, or a yard cleanup, these two products are worth considering.
If you’ve used either of these products, tell me what you think in the comments below!