By Jae-Ha Kim
Chicago Sun-Times
May 22, 2003
With Memorial Day just around the corner, you’re probably thinking about picnics and–if the weather ever cooperates–heading to the beach or pool. Those of you who thought those collapsible chairs with built-in cupholders were the be-all, end-all are going to love the latest trend in portable chairs: the multitaskers.
That’s right–It’s a cooler, a backpack and a chair all rolled into one. And yes, the ubiquitous built-in cupholder still is included.
Chairs such as Kelsyus’ popular three-in-one chair ($39.99) make carting your summer gear around a hands-free experience. Besides containing a pocket large enough to hold a jacket or sweater, there’s also an insulated mini-cooler that can keep six cans of soda or, ahem, a stronger potable cold.
And get this–when you’re ready to head back home, it folds back up into a tidy little backpack. Weighing just 9 pounds, the steel frame can accommodate up to 250 pounds.
Want something specifically designed for the beach? Kelsyus also boasts a 7-pound backpack beach chair ($34.99) that contains an oversize pouch roomy enough to store snacks, coverups and sunblock. The breathable mesh seats dry quickly–a nice touch for those of us who only like to feel wet when we’re swimming.
If you love the sun but need extra protection from the rays, it may be worthwhile to invest in a canopy ($14.99) that is compatible with either chair.
“There has really been a demand from our customers for convenience,” says Kelsyus spokesman David Olsen. “They were tired of lugging so many different bags and chairs around, so we came up with a way to provide them with ways to make their summer outings easier. The convenience factor is pretty phenomenal.”
