The 40-Year Evolution of an Icon: The Story of the Kermit Chair

In the world of outdoor gear, few things are built to last a lifetime. Rarer still is a product that defines an entire subculture. Yet, since 1984, the Kermit Chair has done exactly that—evolving from a DIY solution for a single rider into a global symbol of adventure-ready craftsmanship.

Born on the Open Road: The 1984 Blueprint

In the early 80s, Kermit Easterling, a lifelong rider and engineer, faced a dilemma: most camp chairs were either too bulky for a motorcycle or too flimsy for real comfort.

Kermit’s "Aha!" moment came when he decided to stop searching and start building. He engineered a chair that utilized a sophisticated breakdown design—compact enough to tuck into a pannier but sturdy enough to support a rider after a 500-mile day.

When he debuted his prototype at BMW rallies, the response was immediate. Word-of-mouth spread through the tight-knit riding community, and the Kermit Chair quickly became the "gold standard" for riders who refused to compromise on quality.

Passing the Torch: From One Enthusiast to Another

By 2003, after nearly two decades of hand-building chairs with his friends and family, Kermit was ready for retirement. It didn't feel natural to look for a corporate buyer; so he turned to his fellow riding buddies instead.

The company was soon acquired by his long-time friend Tom Sherrill, a fellow BMW enthusiast who understood that the Kermit Chair wasn't just any kind of furniture—it was a piece of specialized gear. Tom relocated the company to his hometown of Nashville, Tennessee, where he and his buddies established a new production ecosystem dedicated to preserving Kermit’s original specifications.

A Nashville Legacy, A Global Reach

Since the mid-2000s, the Sherrill family has guided the brand’s expansion. Today, the Kermit Chair has moved beyond the motorcycle community to become a staple in:

• Overland Expeditions: Favored by 4x4 explorers in Australia and the US.

• Global Adventure Travel: A common sight at remote campsites across Asia and Europe.

• Design-Savvy Backyards: Embraced by hobbyists who appreciate the aesthetics of American White Oak and Black Walnut.

Three Facilities, One Family Standard

Now in our 40th year, the Kermit Chair Company is run by Tom's son Miller.  Each purchase of our furniture supports an ecosystem of over three family-run facilities in the Nashville area. Every chair and table produced since the mid-2000s has been overseen by the family, ensuring that the "Miller-standard" of excellence is baked into every piece of wood and every stitch of fabric.

We still build them like Kermit did: with high-grade hardwoods, marine-grade finishes, and a commitment to portability. Whether it’s strapped to a pillion seat, stowed in an RV, or sitting on a patio, our goal remains the same: to provide an heirloom-quality companion for your life’s greatest adventures.