Battle of the Camping Cots: Helinox Cot One Convertible vs NatureHike ArmyWild Camping Cot

Chapters:
Intro: (0:00)
Packaging & Weight: (0:42
Contents of Each Package: (2:24)
Racheting Mechanisms: (4:48)
Helinox Cot Assembly: (5:55)
Low Mode: (8:12)
High Mode: (9:15)
NatureHike Cot Assembly: (10:10)
Side by Side Comparison in High Mode: (11:04)
Cot Discussion: (12:38)
Side by Side Comparison in Low Mode: (15:37)
Reasons I Bought Each Brand: (16:07)
Disassembly Note, Cam Buttons: (18:29)
Specs: (18:58)
Summary & Signoff (19:11)

We’re comparing camping cots from two different companies and seeing how they are similar and where they differ. I picked up a couple of Helinox Cot One Convertible cots a few years ago for packing in my winter setup. In the past year or so, I’ve gotten wind of other brands making inroads to create knockoffs of the Helinox products, and this cot was no exception.
The form and fit of these two cots are very similar in most every detail. There are a few differences in terms of fit and finish where the Helinox shines, but at more than twice the price, do those minor differences make a big difference?

Usage:
The low height mode is suitable for use in a tent or on solid ground. The extended height mode is suitable for use on grass, muddy or damp ground, or for storing items underneath the cot at night.

Assembly and Takedown:
These two are almost identical, with the exception of the pushbutton/lever locking mechanisms on the swing arms. The Helinox one is built better, but works stickier than the Naturehike during disassembly.
The leg extensions on the Helinox lock in better and replacement leg extensions can be purchased in packs of 12 or 16. The support rods on the Helinox are slightly thicker and have a small washer type spacer in the middle section. Other than that, these two cots are pretty much identical enough to be interchangeable. The extension legs actually fit and lock into place on both brands interchangeably.

Pricing and Politics:
Helinox is a well established western brand who leads in designs and product development. Their products are well built but they come with a hefty price tag. Naturehike is a Chinese owned company established around 2010 and it offers more affordable gear and sometimes copies designs from other manufacturers and sells them at a cheaper price. The price difference between these two are substantial though. You could buy three NatureHike cots with the extension legs included for the price of one Helinox Cot One Convertible plus the additional purchase of the leg extension kit. Until recently, Helinox was the only game in town on this type of cot design. Now, the knockoffs are abound.


Specs:
Naturehike ArmyWild Camping Cot with Leg Extenders:
Supports up to 330 lbs
Cot surface: 74.8 inches x 25.6 inches
Heights: 6.7 inches (without legs); 15 inches (with extension legs)
Cot weight: approx 5 lbs / 2.3kg
Frame material: aircraft grade 7075 aluminum
Features quick lock mechanism for easier assembly.
Cot material: tear resistant 600D Oxford fabric
Colors: black or khaki
Packed size: 20.5 inches x 7.5 inches
Kit includes 12 extension legs.
List Price: $149. Sells for $119 on Amazon


Helinox Cot One Convertible
Supports up to 320 lbs (145 kg)
Cot surface: 74.5 inches x 26.5 inches (190cm x 68cm)
Heights: 6.5 inches (without legs), 15 inches (with optional extension leg kit)
Cot weight: 4 lbs, 14 oz (2.22kg). Packaged weight: 5 lbs, 1oz (2.31kg)
Frame material: aircraft grade aluminum alloy
Features quick lock mechanism for easier assembly.
Cot material: tear resistant 300D polyester
Colors: black, coyote tan, blue bandana, rainbow bandana, multi block
Packed size: 21.5 inches
List price: $349. Sells for $299 during sales at CampSaver.com and Backcountry.com
Optional Helinox Cot Leg Conversion Kit - 12 piece
List price: $99. Sells for $89 during sales at CampSaver.com and Backcountry.com

LInks:
Helinox Cot One Convertible: https://helinox.com/products/cot-one-...
Leg Extension Kit: https://helinox.com/products/cot-leg-...
NatureHike Army Wild Cot: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087PTSZPF/...

Summary:
Overall, these are both decent cots. The legs may stay on a little better with the Helinox, judging from a couple of user reviews on Amazon for the Naturehike ArmyWild cot.

If you have money to burn or want to support American owned businesses and support innovation, go with the Helinox. If your wages don’t afford you the luxury of being choosey, go with the NatureHike. Either one will serve you well.


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