Solo Stove Mesa XL Review
The Ultimate Portable Fire Pit for Camping and Backyard Use
The Solo Stove Mesa XL revolutionizes portable fire pits with its innovative smokeless design. After extensive testing, we found it delivers an impressive flame with minimal smoke, making it perfect for camping trips, beach outings, and backyard gatherings. Its compact size and efficient burn system set it apart from traditional fire pits.
Key Features
| Feature | Solo Stove Mesa XL | Traditional Fire Pit |
|---|---|---|
| Smokeless Design | Yes | No |
| Portability | 7.5″ diameter, 5.5″ height | Bulky and heavy |
| Fuel Efficiency | Uses small sticks/twigs | Requires large logs |
| Setup Time | Instant | 5-10 minutes |
| Versatility | Camping, beach, backyard | Mostly backyard only |
| Cleanup | Minimal ash | Lots of ash |
Solo Stove Mesa XL Highlights
Solo Stove Mesa XL
The perfect portable fire pit with patented 360° airflow design for efficient burning and minimal smoke. Works with twigs and small sticks.
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Smokeless Performance
The Mesa XL’s double-wall design creates a secondary combustion that burns smoke before it leaves the fire pit. This means more heat and less eye irritation.
Ultra Portable
Weighing just 1.1 lbs, the Mesa XL fits in your backpack but produces a surprisingly large flame. The stainless steel construction is durable yet lightweight.
Frequently Asked Questions
While not 100% smokeless, the Mesa XL reduces smoke significantly compared to traditional fire pits. The secondary combustion burns most smoke particles, resulting in about 80-90% less smoke. You’ll still get some smoke when first lighting or if using damp wood.
The Mesa XL works best with small sticks and twigs (about pencil to thumb thickness). You don’t need special fuel – just gather small branches from your surroundings. Avoid using charcoal or liquid fuels as they can damage the stove.
With proper fuel management, a fire can last 30-45 minutes. Since the Mesa XL burns so efficiently, you’ll need to add small sticks every 10-15 minutes. The upside is it produces more heat with less fuel than traditional fires.
We recommend using the Mesa XL on a non-flammable surface. While the bottom stays relatively cool, sparks could potentially damage wood surfaces. Solo Stove sells a stand specifically for deck use that we found works well.
Why Trust Gear Guide HQ?
Our team tested the Mesa XL on multiple camping trips and backyard gatherings. We evaluated its performance in various weather conditions, with different fuel types, and compared it directly to traditional fire pits. Our review is based on real-world experience, not just specifications.
Design Features
What makes the Mesa XL special:
The Mesa XL features a patented double-wall design that draws in air at the bottom, preheats it between the walls, then releases it at the top to feed the flames. This creates a secondary burn that consumes smoke particles. The 304 stainless steel construction is both durable and lightweight.
Real World Performance
How the Mesa XL performs in different scenarios:
Perfect for campsites
Great for beach fires
Ideal for backyards
We found the Mesa XL excels in all outdoor settings. At campsites, its small size and efficient burn make it superior to traditional campfires. On beaches where fires are permitted, it leaves no trace. In backyards, the minimal smoke means happier neighbors. The only limitation is cooking – while possible, it’s not designed as a cooking stove.
What’s Included
The Mesa XL package contains:
Mesa XL fire pit
Carrying case
User manual
The Mesa XL comes with a nylon carrying case that makes transportation easy. While accessories like the stand and shield are sold separately, we found the basic package provides everything you need to start enjoying smokeless fires immediately.
Final Recommendation
Conclusion
The Solo Stove Mesa XL delivers on its promise of a nearly smokeless, portable fire experience. After extensive testing, we can confidently recommend it for campers, beachgoers, and backyard enthusiasts who want the ambiance of a fire without the smoke. Its efficient design means less fuel gathering and more enjoyment.
With the current 20% discount, this is an excellent time to purchase the Mesa XL. While not ideal for cooking or large groups, it’s perfect for 2-4 people to gather around. Just remember to check local fire regulations before use in public areas.