First Impressions of Coghlans Seat Cushion
The Coghlans Seat Cushion promises comfort in the great outdoors, a simple solution for a common problem. As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless attempts at portable seating, from flimsy folding stools to elaborate inflatable contraptions. This Coghlans offering aims for simplicity and portability, a self-inflating cushion designed to provide a bit of respite from hard, cold, or uneven surfaces.
I was led to this product by years of personal discomfort during extended outdoor activities. Whether it’s waiting for that trophy buck, enduring a long day of fishing, or simply needing a comfortable spot during a backcountry lunch break, a reliable seat cushion can be a game-changer. Upon unboxing, the Coghlans Seat Cushion felt surprisingly compact and lightweight.
Compared to similar self-inflating cushions, like the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat or the ALPS Mountaineering Self-Inflating Seat, the Coghlans Seat Cushion appeared less bulky and easier to pack. I chose it for its simplicity and the reputation of Coghlans for producing dependable, no-frills outdoor gear. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – it seemed like a practical, budget-friendly solution for a common discomfort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Coghlans Seat Cushion to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Coghlans Seat Cushion during a late-season deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Pennsylvania mountains. The ground was frozen, and the exposed rocks offered little comfort for long hours spent glassing for deer. Placing the Coghlans Seat Cushion on a rocky outcropping made a noticeable difference.
While not a plush armchair, it provided a welcome layer of insulation and cushioning against the hard, uneven surface. The self-inflating feature worked as advertised, filling the cushion about halfway within seconds. A few extra puffs of air brought it to the desired firmness.
There were no immediate issues, although I did notice the black color attracted sunlight and warmed up quicker than the surrounding environment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during hunting trips and ice fishing outings, the Coghlans Seat Cushion has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being tossed in and out of backpacks and exposed to harsh weather conditions. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to clean it, removing mud, snow, and even fish scales.
Compared to previous experiences with other seat cushions that either deflated prematurely or were too bulky to carry, the Coghlans Seat Cushion offers a decent balance of comfort and portability. While not as luxurious as some higher-end options, its durability and ease of use make it a reliable choice for basic outdoor comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Coghlans Seat Cushion
Specifications
The Coghlans Seat Cushion boasts the following technical specifications: Dimensions: 11.8″ x 15.3″ x .86″. The pack size is 2.6″ x 2.6″ x 6.4″. It self-inflates to half full in seconds, requiring only a few puffs of air for complete inflation.
The cushion is made from a soft-to-the-touch material and comes in black. It is bulk packed. These specifications translate to a highly portable and reasonably comfortable seating solution.
Performance & Functionality
The Coghlans Seat Cushion performs its primary job of providing a comfortable seating surface adequately. It effectively insulates against cold and provides a degree of cushioning on hard surfaces. It meets expectations for a basic, portable seat cushion, though its cushioning is minimal compared to thicker, more expensive options.
Its biggest strength is its simplicity and packability. A potential weakness is that someone looking for significant cushioning might find it lacking.
Design & Ergonomics
The Coghlans Seat Cushion features a straightforward, rectangular design. The soft-to-the-touch material is comfortable against the skin. The lightweight and compact size make it easy to carry.
There is virtually no learning curve – simply unroll it and let it self-inflate, adding a few puffs of air as needed.
Durability & Maintenance
The Coghlans Seat Cushion is constructed from reasonably durable materials and should last for several seasons of moderate use. A quick wipe down is usually sufficient for cleaning, making maintenance simple.
Repairing a puncture would be possible with a patch kit designed for inflatable mattresses, though I haven’t yet needed to test this.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Coghlans Seat Cushion comes with no additional accessories. There are no customization options available for the product itself. However, users could add a small carrying strap or clip for easier attachment to a backpack.
It is universally compatible with any situation where a small, portable seat is desired, making it essentially “compatible” with any user’s specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Coghlans Seat Cushion
Pros
- Highly portable due to its compact size and lightweight design.
- Self-inflating feature allows for quick and easy setup.
- Provides insulation from cold surfaces, improving comfort in harsh conditions.
- Durable material holds up well to regular outdoor use.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Minimal cushioning may not be sufficient for extended periods of sitting on very hard surfaces.
- Black color can absorb heat in direct sunlight, making it uncomfortably warm.
Who Should Buy Coghlans Seat Cushion?
The Coghlans Seat Cushion is perfect for: campers, hikers, hunters, anglers, and anyone who spends time outdoors and needs a lightweight, portable seating solution. It is also suitable for stadium seating or any situation where a bit of extra comfort is desired.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking significant cushioning for back pain or those who require a chair-like seating experience. Those individuals might be better served by a more substantial, though less portable, option.
A must-have modification could be to glue reflective material on one side to reduce heat absorption.
Conclusion on Coghlans Seat Cushion
The Coghlans Seat Cushion is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for adding a bit of comfort to your outdoor adventures. Its compact size and self-inflating feature make it a highly portable option for anyone needing a place to rest on the go. While it may not provide the same level of cushioning as more expensive alternatives, its durability and ease of use make it a reliable choice.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. I would personally recommend the Coghlans Seat Cushion to anyone looking for a basic, no-frills seating solution for outdoor activities.
Add the Coghlans Seat Cushion to your pack and say goodbye to cold, hard, uncomfortable seating situations!