Warm > Comfort everyday. I returned my etherlite xt extreme because of cold spots. It was very comfortable but sleeping cold is a no go for me. Bought the xtherm instead and it's kept me warm and therefore comfortable for the 2 winter seasons now
The range of pads, like so many camping kits, has expanded hugely over the years. I'm a 3 season camper and am still using the Thermarest that I bought in 1993. It cost £50 at the time which was expensive, but it's never let me down - ! 😊
OMG! That's good to hear, i bought the x-therm on a whim on black friday because I sleep cold and had a bad experience camping with a regular sleeping mattress in really cold weather. It was pricey and I like to hear when people say they last forever.
The old ones last forever. Who knows about the newer ones. I bought 2 used thermarest pads at a yard sale a decade ago that the guy said he'd bought a long time ago. Still going strong! I wonder, with so much emphasis on UL nowadays, if the new ones will last. I hope so!
I want something that doesn't let me down. I'm so frustrated at waking up on sad pads. It's the worst. My Neoair Xlite lasted about a year. I'd much prefer something a little heavier that just lasts and lasts.
@@simongee8928 That's the kind of gear I'm looking for, thanks for mentioning it. I think I've had my Limelight 2p for 16 years now. It's nice to have stuff you can just rely on.
Not sure why "Noise" wasn't a category for the rating system. Even if a pad is warm and comfortable, it'll wake you or a partner up all night if it crinkles like half filled Mylar balloon.🙂
I was on the AT at a hiking shelter blowing up my Big Agnes Q-Core, and another hiker said "I hope that's not a noisy one." I just looked at him, smiled, and said," Put some earplugs in. This is what I'm sleeping on."
@@TWAAAAACKS nah the crinkle noise of the Neo Air is a major deal breaker for many hikers. Thermarest finally took note and changed their design to be less noisy.
I had a valve leaking issue with the Klymit Insulated Static V sleeping pad. Replaced it with the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra and that pad has served me well so far.
I really wished you had also covered durability in your testing. I ended up with eight patches in my Nemo Tensor (your #4) w/in 18 months and about 100 nights of use. and gave up on any further repairs because i could not find whatever hole was leaking (pretty quickly no less). I do concur it was a very comfy pad, and my experience with the Tensor Insulated was what led me to this one. Guess I'll try the BA pads you put at #1 and #2 and see how it holds up the next 8 months in EU/UK.. Thanks for all your hard work on running through these tests!
If you UK I think the sea to summit is great I have no complaints, very durable, great warmth with a quilt and very comfy and quiet. Think we get swept up in the thru hike ultralight trap, the weight penalty is recouped with the quilt and I use a bigger backpack anyway. Horses for courses. Also thankful of the massive depth when a river came through my tent haha
@@MrDancingBishop Agreed - I'm a big fan of the S to S. The slightly higher weight is because they are using a superior welding technology that requires a heavier fabric. The payoff is a pad that won't blow its baffles let you down in the field. Like you I find it comfortable, quiet and a pleasure to use. Not a single leak so far.
Great video. I upgraded feom the Etherlight to a Tensor and its better in every way. Less noisy, feels nicer on the skin, packs smaller, weighs less and warmer.
As others have suggested, it's worth mentioning the materials the mats are made of and taking that into account, especially considering weight is used during scoring. For example, the EitherliteXT Extreme has a 30D Top/40D Bottom nylon construction whereas the Nemo Tensor has a 20D Polyester. This suggests, all other things even, that the S2S pad will be markedly more resistant to damage than the Nemo, while also heavier, both due to the more durable material used and the increased thickness of the material. I often see the Eitherlite pads being ragged on in video reviews (and sometimes S2S pads in general) but they nearly always completely ignore the thickness and strength of the materials used. I don't own a Eitherlite so I'm not just trying to justify a purchase or something lol.
I have an Etherlite XT "insulated". I'm male, 175cm / 85kg, or 5'9'' / 185lbs. I chose the women's large (WL) because I wanted the extra width and "insulation" but don't need the length of the men's large. I'm a side sleeper. For me it beat out the Thermarest options on comfort, noise, and cost. It's not silent, but the Xtherm pads are, for me, unbearably noisy. The S2S is a very cold pad. The first time I used it was in 0C (32F). I wore a full merino base layer, Arcteryx Proton LT insulated jacket, 400g fill 800+ loft down quilt (One Planet Quest Pro -3C), S2S Thermolite liner, in a double-wall tent. I absolutely froze. Warm on top and frigid underneath. Barely slept. After that I took to doubling up with my summer quilt (S2S Traveller TR1) zipped into a tube between the liner and Quest. This was noticeably better, and I imagine a cocoon-style sleeping bag of 5-600g fill would be about the same. I survived a -8C (17F) night with this setup with the tent sheltered from the wind on a concrete floor, but it was chilly. It slips all over the tent floor, so I double-sided taped about a dozen small squares of thin rubber drawer-liner matt to the bottom. This upped the noise slightly but completely solved the slipping problem. However it is comfortable, even as a side sleeper, has an excellent valve system that makes it easy to inflate and easy to adjust the pressure even while tucked in to bed, and had zero punctures during 2 months non-stop use - your point about durability is a good one, and in my experience holds true. However I'd never use it without a ground mat. I was keen to try a Tensor, but Nemo equipment was literally impossible to get in 2021/2022. I think my next pad will either be a Tensor or Big Agnes.
Apart from being resistant to leaks, StoS use a heavier fabric because it's required for the superior welding technology they are using. This means that baffle failures are pretty much unknown, in contrast to Thermorest and Exped pads which have let me down in the past.
The Nemo Tensor Insulated didn't keep me warm at temps around the freezing mark. I could feel cold spots every time I rolled over. I exchanged it for a Thermarest Neoair X-Therm and have no regrets. It's super warm, a decent weight, and perfectly comfortable (as long as it's not too inflated).
Thanks for making all these videos! Suggestion for all: future videos: would love to see the packed size of items, especially in comparison to each other, and perhaps against a 1L Nalgene for sizing reference.
I bought a Therm-A-Rest XTherm about two years ago, and I use it year round. I can't compare it to the other pads you mention, but I can say that it's a great pad. Some people complain about it being noisy and (as you mention) uncomfortable, but I have no issues with either. It's comfortable and warm, and with a 70D fabric on the bottom, I feel fairly safe in terms of puncture risk.
does it feel uncomfortable in hotter temps? I’m deciding between the xtherm or an xlite + ccf pad. where I live the temps can be over 100F or under 15F depending on the time of year…
@@frogturtle I have never had issues with the heat of the pad. I've used it in the same temperature range, and in warm weather, I regulate my temperature with a thinner quilt and/or covering myself less. I find the sleeping bag/quilt to be a bigger factor in overheating than the pad I've not yet had a need for adding a ccf pad. Gear choices are a matter of personal preference, but my recommendation would be to go for the XTherm and have a pad that - while heavier - can be used year round. I should add that I'm not an ultralighter. I'm more traditional and also do a little bit of bushcrafting as well, so I come from a mindset of versatility and preparedness, and prior to getting the XTherm, I have been caught off guard with a pad that turned out to bee too cold. Not fun.
i got the same one, issue i have with it is i bought the regular version not knowing there were other ones. So this one is really small with only 51cm width. once you move in your sleep, you're on the ground
Thanks for the detailed rundown! Owned a thermarest NeoXT at the start of my trip. Internal baffle failure in Alaska. Got the money back, but I am concerned what would have happened in more extreme conditions, away from civilization. My warmshowers host in Whitehorse had exactly the same failure with the same product. I've since met another rider who crossed Canada. Same issue. Many online 'reviews' will not begin to touch on what it's like to live with the product in the long term. If I did the occasional weekend or yearly hiking trip I might have been convinced that I had a good product. Since I'm riding from Alaska to Argentina, I need a product which is durable and/ or field serviceable over the long term. Sticking with closed cell/ self inflating for the time being. Bulkier, heavier, but will be there for me when I need it.
Switch to the StoS - they are using a superior weld technology compared to the others and baffle failure is almost unknown. The well-designed valve is field-repairable too. I'm out a lot, and had too many failures with Exped and Thermarest baffles. I walk in remote places and need something I can rely on - the StoS hasn't let me down.
The Thermarest pads can be hard but can be made more comfortable. I blow them up, then lay down on them, and then let air out slowly until it feels good. It's like a sleep number mattress on the trail because it is uniformly firm or soft. I own both an Uberlight and Xtherm.
What I used to do for cold winter camping when I used to camp in central Ontario and near the arctic in the winter, is take an inflatable pad and put my boiled English wool blanket around it. The blanket was fairly light and very thin, but the bottom would help with punctures and the top made a remarkable difference in how it filled the cavities of the pad and kept me MUCH warmer. Up in high latitudes in Winter, relying on only an inflatable pad is a bit suicidal. It's not the place for ultra-light, especially in the days before cel phones etc.
I think those of us in the Midwestern area + Ontario understand this more than the coastal mountain/forest campers. It's all fun and games until you're cold, wet, and extreme windchill is rolling in. I think it comes from the amount of fishermen and loggers that settled the area all came from Scandinavia, Germany, and Poland taught this lesson. So well that every grandmother scares into her grandkids. Sure it sounds excessive but I'd rather have heavy wool to wake up sweaty in than un @liv3d by lightweight synthetics. Sure 40lbs winter load outs may suck to carry but staying alive is more important.
I use foam and insulation foil (from hardware outlet), I have never had any comfort or cold issues even when sleeping on snow. The foam pad and insulation foil costs less than £30 (~$38), weighs about 800g and I can pack both inside the backpack. With a foam pad there is zero risk of a puncture!
One flaw with this style of temperature testing is that those dimples and grooves would likely fill up with sleeping bag insulation that can keep it's loft as it wouldn't be getting compressed by your weight
That is indeed Klymit's design philosophy of these V pads, allowing your sleeping bag insulation to fill in the V channels and provide insulation. They rate their insulated pads much warmer than the official R Value rating because of this, and I've slept on my Insulated Static V Lite pad in 20F temps and was comfortable. Because of this design however, I wouldn't advise sleeping on one in cold weather using a quilt rather than a sleeping bag, as it needs insulation beneath you to fill in those channels in the pad.
I think Dan Becker said something similar on his channel. If you have a sleeping bag and a Klymit pad; the sleeping bag material on the bottom fills the gaps.
I've slept with the Klymit pad in pretty cold temps and been comfortable to around -7C and it's definitely higher than 1.9R, probably about 3.2 or 3.5.
Upgrading my husband and I’s sleeping pads and imagine my surprise when I see the man who got me into backpacking in the first place! Way to go Steven!
my non-scientific studies supports my pad of choice: the thermoform x-lite. Sounds like a bag of potato chips when you move around on it, but 1) it's super lite, 2) keeps me warm enough (with my sleep layering system) and 3) is very light. Great video!
Great review. I have used the Warmlite down Air Mattress for years. Really warm and light. When I go winter camping, the snow below the mattress does not melt.
I have the Sea to Summit self inflating pad with an R value of 4.3 and a thickness of 3”. For where I live, it’s super comfy even in spring/fall. It’s a bit heavy at 2+ lbs, and a bit bulky, but for car camping in the edge seasons, it’s perfect.
I have tried a number of Thermarest pads - and still have an old Prolite - but switched to Klymit years ago. I think their R-value is misleading, I find them significantly warmer than many advertised three season pads, despite the standard Klymit Static V/V lite being only rated at 1.3. Their V baffles seems flimsy if you just sit on it, but as soon as you lay down it solidifies and I think the sleeping bag is able to loft between the baffle spaces. Super comfortable as a side sleeper too.
I've been hiking the Te Araora this year and have the sea to summit etherlight xt, it's a great pad warm and comfortable, the only sad thing is I'm on my 3rd pad as the first two the construction on the plastic welds failed and would leak out air. The shop I bought it from found that a lot of people would bring those pads back with the same issue. They had no issues swapping mine out thankfully, but it's a shame I can't have full trust in my pad.
I originally bought the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated but ending up switching to the Exped Ultra 3R MW because I just couldn't sleep well on the Sea to Summit. The Exped is much better for me, even though it has a lower R-value, the comfort, size and weight is better for me. I use a quilt so I also found the feel of the Ether Light wasn't great......it felt sticky, whereas the Exped has a better feel. Great video. :)
I went in the other direction. I find the Exped pads uncomfortable, and had too many failures with both baffles and valves. On one occasion a valve literally disintegrated into powder - some kind of major quality snafu. On another a baffle blew in the middle of a thru-hike, causing significant discomfort and inconvenience. What didn't you like about the StoS? I find their sprung cell system gives me the most comfortable sleep I've experience in over 50 years of wild camping.
I have a Hikenture ultralight sleeping pad that ran me about $20. Ironically it’s the heaviest pad I own, but not only is it $100 cheaper than all the pads listed here, but it’s also quite comfortable, it’s a wider pad, has its own pump bag, is firm but comfortable, durable, and just overall a pretty good pad. I can’t say if it’s as good as these higher end expensive pads, but if you camp on a tight budget like me, then you really can’t go wrong with it. As someone who’s slept on just the ground with a sleeping bag…it’s leagues and miles better
Given the cost of some of these, it seems that durability should be relevant, although I understand that it can almost impossible to test for. Personally, I purchased the NeoAir XLite NXT Pad in late January and unfortunately, by the end of April, same year, the layers began to come apart and "bubbles" started to form. Consequently, I had to return it. In contrast, a previous version of the XLite had lasted me four years.
Nice to see the Thermarest XLite scoring high as I’ve just got one and worked well for my test. It’s a great choice for bikepacking and ultra racing where the weight is even more important. Thanks for the review.
I have the BA Q Core SLX and the TR NeoAir XLite. Both are great. I almost always bring the BA though. It's wider, more comfortable and quieter to sleep on. My daughters have the new BA Rapide SL and it's comfortable for sure (even though my legs hang off...haha). Thanks for the review.
@@dfkman I found the same thing. Sleeping on the side it was comfy. But, I mostly sleep on my back and I had a sore back within a couple hours...which is why I am here watching reviews. I do love the Schnozzle, though.
@@dfkman Never thought of it, both, but mainly back outdoors. I try to find the right balance of air in the mat, sometimes a match right away and other times not. But now you have made me aware. 😂
@@cgmllr100 Did you let air out of the mat so that you are 2-3 cm from the ground at the lowest points? If you have a sitting pad or cell foam like ridgerest under it will be perfect is my experience as a back sleeper.
Super solid review video! One thing you didn't mention is the ease of repair in the field. That's one thing that the baffle design of the ThermaRest has going for it - it's a lot easier to repair in the field than trying to squish the repair tape into an oddly shaped quilt style baffle. Last comment: Go to hammock camping and you'll never have to buy a pad again! :)
GearAid has stretchy Tenacious Tape patches now. I would deflate the pad, apply the stretchy pad (and optionally some SeamGrip for a bombproof seal), then reinflate the pad after the SeamGrip has had time to dry.
My #1 criterion is reliability. Having a pad slowly leaking on a trail, temperatures down to freezing and no easy bailout, is no fun. Happened to me twice with Thermarest trash. Never again. And never without an extra foam pad.
I’ll confirm that the Zoom UL is not as warm. Several nights on it so far from 17°f at the coldest to 33°f at the warmest for overnight lows, I’ve been cold on it every time. But the comfort of the pad is unreal!
@@scottc3626 I personally find it more comfortable because of the fabric used and the side bolsters that just help you stay more centered on the pad. It’s minimal but is noticeable.
what is your opinion on the noise, some people are saying it's loud and crinkly? I am considering buying it but the noise complaints are throwing me off
Thanks for the video! I pulled the trigger and bought a lightweight pad in the form of the Big Agnes Zoom UL, partly on your recommendation. (Moosejaw was sold out of the long-wide so I bought it elsewhere.) Hopefully I will be happy with it (my older equipment is SO much heavier). I expect I will be happy since I don't do winter camping.
I'm still using a Thermarest Guidelite that I got a couple decades ago, and I have been considering upgrading to one these more modern designs. I expected the weight difference to be larger; the information I'm able to find lists my Guidelite at 900g; about double the lightest pads here, and only a couple hundred grams more than the heavier modern options. Sure, the newer ones (at least at the heavier end) will be thicker and more comfortable, but the cost for the nicer modern pads is substantial and the cheaper ones don't actually seem like much of an upgrade (despite the difference in technology) unless you're counting every gram, and I certainly don't like the idea of sleeping on a potato chip bag as many modern pads seem to behave like. I think I'll stick with what I've got until it gets worn or enough holes that it's not worth repairing any more. Great video though, and thanks for the informative round-up!
Looking at those Klymit baffles, they might even be far enough apart for the bottom of a sleeping bag to loft within those dead spots. Definitely not a great design for quilt users though. I have an Exped Synmat 5 and been pretty happy with it's performance under my sleeping bag so far. Since that has rather deep grooves, I might test it with the quilt I now got myself for summer.
@@helpfulcommenter Man, my experience has been vastly different. I switched from a standard Thermarest prolite to the Klymit and find it really comfortable as a side sleeper. I also find it warmer than the typical 2.4r value Thermarest pads. I actually tried some more expensive models like the Neoair and still prefer the Klymit. Durability has been fine, probably 7-8 trips with it without issue. Sure, not a ton, but, decent for me.
@@helpfulcommenter Lol. Sure it’s an inexpensive pad, lots of cheaper options though. I would much rather spend more money on my bag and pillow. Can’t stand not having a good pillow.
Good Review!! It is noted that the Sea to Summit (S2S) pads in Australia are significantly cheaper then allot of the other offerings. My S2S ether light xt insulated in the regular size was $180 AUD as apposed to an Therm-a-Rest xlite regular which is $400Aud.
@Sam Big life saver for us in NZ!! EVERYTHING is super expensive here (bought thermarest xlite regular for $480-550) and having a quality and affordable option is a breath of fresh air
One thing I didn't see mentioned, is that most pads will bottom out when you sit on them or close to the edge. I've only found Thermarest pads to remain stable and not bottom out, so you can enjoy breakfast in bed in comfort. Most pads with vertical and boxed baffles will let you touch the ground when you sit on them.
They are FKING HEAVY!!! There's nothing to compare!!! NO backpacker worth THEIR SALT would ever carry such stupid monstrosity!! Strictly car camping!! Also they are uncomfortable as it comes!!
I think that the REI Helix needs to be included in all new pad lists. Low cost, amazing comfort, very warm! Let me know what you think and whether or not you've tried it.
I got the helix on sale for $65 last year and it's been such an upgrade in comfort over my older thermarest. I'm definitely feeling older and more willing to carry a bit more weight for a thicker comfortable pad
I was trying out the Helix and the Nemo Tensor in the store today and was very surprised to find myself gravitating towards the Helix! I may still very well go with the Tensor though as it packed down considerably more.
I must confirm that it’s Big Agnes Q-Core for me or nothing. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and durable. If you use it with an integrated bag you don’t get any of the noise some people complain about. Hike on!
I love my rapide pad. Gladly carry the extra weight for the quality of sleep I get. I’m a side sleeper and this is by far the most comfortable pad I’ve ever used.
I ordered 6 different pad's and sent 5 back. STS, BA, Nemo, Exped, Thermarest. All long wide and all under 700g. After testing them I am 100% convinced it's mostly personal preference. Of the 6 pad's I tried the WORST was the STS Ether Light XT (look up the youtube reviews, it gets 10/10 score and is also listed as QUIET... it sounds like a big bag of CHIPS, and its not that comfy.. not even close to the nr 1. The absolutely best was the Nemo Tensor Insulated. I am 190cm and 100kg btw.
I would really like a more in depth video comparing the tensor, xlite and zoom ul. I toss and turn a lot and mainly sleep on my sides. So I’m leaning towards the tensor or the zoom. But the xlite is very tempting since it seems most reliable in terms of insulation. The main things I’m wondering are the comfort and the durability between these 3 pads.
I'm a side sleeper and bought both the xlite and tensor to try out. I sent the xlite back and went with the tensor as it was by far the most comfortable. I found myself rolling off the xlite as the sides just don't hold you on. Also the xlite was far too noisy compared to the tensor.
I have the previous xlite. As a side sleeper it's very uncomfortable. But it is insanely light....if you don't mind carrying an extra oz or two go with big Agnes or Nemo.
Nice review. I’d like to see you test one of the new Exped Ultra pads. I’ve owned and tried the Tensor, BA Rapide, and Xlite (not the NXT though), but for me the Exped is better.
I have some of the older Exped mats (Synmat 7 LW and Downmat XP 7 LW) and the Ultra 3R. They never let me down. Very durable and very comfortable. Synmat and Downmat are not the lightest, though.
Used the Therm-a-rest Xlite short on the Appalachian trail, and as a 6’2” guy it definitely took some getting used to. But honestly for only being 8.2 ounces it was pretty good and would take it again
As a bit on the "belly-belly" side of weight (1m83 / 90Kg) I went with an EtherXT which is very confortable and very light. For insulation, like in Iceland I usually add a survival blanket.
Except the durability box. A mattress can be 99.999% perfect, but if in the first year it starts developing bubbles and microleaks because the delamination process starts spontaneously even when using on a safe flat cushion surface, then it doesn't do much good.
STS Etherlight Extreme was the LOUDEST and most uncomfortable pad I ever tried. DownMatt 9 by ExPed was the most comfortabke and warmest matt ever tried followed by ExPed Dura Matt 8. The Tensor Insulated comes in 3rd after the Dura Matt. I borrowed an Xtherm and it felt like a cheap pool toy. I was surprised the insulated Klymit was more comfortable than the Xtherm. The NEMO Astro was comfortable and quiet. The pads that never need to be reinflated even after leaving them at basecamp for nearly 6 weeks- only ExPED DownMatt and Duramatt never, ever lost air, even after 3-4 years use each. Both ExPed pads have faced temps below -30 F a number of times.Klymit held air well. Sea to Summit did not hold air for a whole night,ever. Xtherm held air for a full night but if I inflated it and left it inflated, it lost air over days.
100% agree on the STS Etherlight. But I had the Etherlight XT, not extreme. LOUD and not comfy at all... Sent it back after 1 day. Nemo Tensor Insulated is the nr #1 for me.
A tip for anyone out there. Some pads require you to use your breath, especially the cheap ones. The problem with that is that it can develop mold inside it. That sounds nasty as heck, so I chuck my mat into the freezer as soon as I get home. Just to slow down anything from becoming too bad.
That myth persists in spite of no one ever producing evidence of their worry. There are however several videos showing them cutting open an old pad with zero mold or dirt. I made my many years old, sierra living, nemo with the primaloft insulation ....a mold magnate Nemo Tensor into a shorty - the inards looked hospital clean. The myth helps sell gear. Cheers
@@willek1335 What people perceive as mold is the insulation degrading over time. So what was once say a solid sheet of mylar insulation has holes and that is what shows when you shine a light at the pad.
Hi Steven! My husband and me are looking for a good sleeping pad and we wondered if we should buy one big duo sleeping pad or two single ones. What would you recommend? And thank you for all your great Videos! You are our favorite camping expert 🥳🍀
I know it's 6 months later, but just thought I'd mention that zpacks sells coupling straps that cinch together two individual pads. I've used them with good luck. especially with two rectangular pads. feels about the same as a duo pad, which I've also used.
This video is for rich people planning on Everesting. For mild to good weather the GGOV is super comfortable at under 30 bucks. It also looks like it will last a long time.
Your video's have taught me so much about camping, I even got rid of Netflix due to watching these videos. Thanks again for all the valuable information !!!
My most important criterion for sleeping pad performance became reliability after several days in the backcountry with a failed pad (one on your list) that was unrepairable. I know it’s harder to evaluate, but I wish reviewers would attempt to address reliability. I went with a pad that had dual chambers for redundancy. No pad is warm OR comfortable when it’s flat.
hmmm I wonder if army surplus would fit that criteria best. The consensus usually seems to be that you trade weight and bulk for durability with military kit.
Absolutely spot on. This has been my experience also... You can throw money at a fancy bit of lightweight kit, but Murphy's law dictates it fails when you need it most. Kit needs to be durable and/or field repairable, in my opinion...
@@dahof2789 Well either I'm that 1%, or you are doing something wrong. Put a repair (vinyl sticker) on months ago in Mazatlán and it's still holding perfectly fine. Was a basic patch that came with a run of the mill flocked airbed, nothing particularly hi-tech. Beats waiting on warranty...
@@chrisjackson1188 I’ve found that repair success depends on location of the leak. Typical puncture is on the top of a baffle and that very repairable. Typical product failure due to design or workmanship flaw is at a seam or weld point-I would go with the 1% estimate on those being repairable.
Holy smokes! I love the Tensor pads,I have both uninsulated & insulated(3.5 R value version) regular wide pads, love them…but I paid $175 for the reg. wide insulated one at the end 2020. I know it’s the old lower R value but holy cow it’s $220(2.5yrs later) now! That’s more inflation than added r value 😂
@@frogturtle I actually have the Xlite and a Thermarest ZRest that I take in winter in temps down to -20F often. I have about ten pads in total currently and 4 are CCFs. If you've ever had a "flat" in winter, you'll never want to experience it again. Did some extensive testing traversing on the Greenland Icesheet for several months with a few different pad options ranging in temps from 0 to -60. After 30+ years of hiking in all seasons, I always bring a CCF in combo in winter, always have my OR Advanced bivy for my "floor"/emergency shelter in winter...and a flask of whisky.
Working in Hawai’i conservation, I need durability and comfort. I’m currently using a nemo quasar 3D & a megamat lite 12. I use the megamat for multi-day helicopter operations & the quasar for backpacking. The megamat lite is as comfortable as my bed at home, and the quasar is a notch or two lower yet still very comfortable. I wanted to share because a lot of the reviews and ratings online for sleeping pads aren’t applicable to tropical areas where insulation is negligible. I hope someone finds this helpful!
Great video and what a fantastic breakdown. I do wish there was such a list for Price+Comfort+Weight and ignoring the warmth aspect. I wonder if there's a way you could show the raw scores for that?
Something I missed in this review was the thermals when you lay down on them. I can imagine that changing the shape thus the insulation. I can imagine that that's hard because you can't use the thermal camera in that case but it might be an interesting test.
The most impressive thing about this video is that you managed to say a whole line while lying on top of that stack of inflated pads. I knew that was a challenge and you confirmed it with the outro. Well done! 😂
We have 2 Berghaus Air 10 Mattresses, which are super comfortable and part self inflating, but we have had problems with deflation. Does anyone have any great tips or tricks of how to stop them deflating, we think it might be the valves. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks 🙏 Would love to stop our butts hitting the floor in the middle of the night 😂
I’m convinced you make the best backpacking videos on TH-cam. The Xlite is one of the most uncomfortable pads I’ve ever slept on. I’ll throw a thin lite pad underneath a colder pad for the warmth. The Zoom UL is almost perfect, if it was offered in mummy it would be too notch.
I got Big Agnes Rapide SL long wide, im so glad! Its so awesome and comfy, here in UK they seem to be much more popular them Zoom one. Also got Ether Light XT. Both of them are the most comfy pad on the market in my opinion. I sold Thermarest one, they are ok but nowhere near so nice to sleep on!
For 30 years I used a closed cell pad that cost me around $5 in 1978. Compared to that any air pad is way more comfortable! But I've been using a cheap pad that only cost about $25, it's as warm as my old 9mm cell pad and weighs less than a pound. No way would I spend $250 on a pad, I just double up the cell and air pads in winter!
I've started with klymit, it allowed me to get into backpacking. Now i still have it, to borrow my friends, and for beginner it's adequate. I myself switched entirely to thermares. in my opinion, cold weather s2s pads are worse scam than klymit, in regards of insulation
I'm curious what you'd consider the realistic R value or comfortable temperature range for the Zoom UL after factoring in the misleading R value claim. As for Nemo Tensor reviews over the last year, a crazy high % says that it leaks badly and is fragile. Quality has apparently gone downhill drastically.
Sea to summit extreme getting shade for being bulky. It's warm for quilt sleepers, 4 season, comfy, quite, durable hench the size. Only real alternative is xtherm that i moved from because its loud uncomfortable and slippy as fork. Think you need to sub categories this review but also thanks for doing it 😂
No Exped pads? My DownMat UL 7 is by far the best piece of camping gear I own, absolutely changed camping for me with how comfortable it is and how warm it keeps me.
How you store your Downmat? I put it on clothes hanger in wardrobe but everytime when I go camping I need to rearrange feathers because they stuck at the ends.
@@38201270298 I roll it lightly without the initial folding into thirds you need to fit it in the bag, then use the bag to hold the end of the roll together. Seems to keep all the feathers where they should be without compressing too much. Makes storage pretty easy.
What, no love for the Amok Fjol pads:) I use the Fjol pad from my wife's Amok hammock when tenting. While heavy it is warm for 3 season use a r value of 3 and is rugged with a 75D polyester ripstop top and bottom and costs only $90. I can't speak about their Winterlight or Ultralight pads but they weigh about half of the weight of the regular Fjol (around 31 oz and 24.5 oz), have a r value of 5 and 3.5 respectively. They cost about $150. All Amok pads are 25.5 inches wide, 3.5 inches thick and 78 inches long.
How did the regular rapide do for your thermal camera test? You kind of combined the light version in your analysis, does it also seem to let more cold through than its rated R value?
i have an outdoor vitals longwide i got from my dad its been pretty great for me so far it was very much like a cheaper version of the red one at the end its very thick so to me its been way better than the think klymit i had before
Not on the list, but I found the older tensor alpine comfortable and warm. Think the temperature got down to 15-20°F once, and it was still nice and warm even though my sleeping bag with limit rating of 18F. struggled to keep me warm from the top side. I guess itwould be quite similar to the tensor insulated when it comes to confort, and the R value rating is better (4.8). Think the weight for the regular/mummy size is a hair more than 1 pound, so not any heavier either. Just as expensive though. Bought mine for $199 a little over a year ago.
Anyone else find the Klymit intolerable in comfort?! So awkward feeling! The uninsulated cheap SleepNGo is way more comfortable for 1/3 the price. It was so interesting to see the heat videos thanks so much for that!!
back sleepers v. side sleepers v. stomach sleepers make comfort ratings so hard to figure out. My pad is super warm and gets good reviews from back sleepers... but it is terrible for side sleepers imo, also noisy (which I'm not that bothered about as I camp solo). I stayed warm in quite cold weather, but only managed 4 hours of sleep due to how often I woke up with my arm asleep). I think my only real option is to get a summer sleeping pad for side sleepers and stack it in cold weather.
For me I find that short pads (from hips to shoulders) are the best tradeoffs as you save a lot of weight and bulk but still get the comfort and insulating your core. Well, unless you sleep on snow... I even cut down Z-rests for summer backpacking so they are only just long enough to cover me from hips to shoulder. This old backpacker is appalled by the weight and cost of modern full-length inflatable sleeping mats.
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Sleeping Pads from this video:
Klymit Insulated V: geni.us/ONPs
Ether Light XT Extreme: geni.us/lIGGhB
Ether Light XT Rectangular: geni.us/uEA4zp
XTherm NXT: geni.us/a3Yx0
Static V: geni.us/pt8B
Insulated Tensor (newer version): geni.us/PzoR
Xlite NXT: geni.us/950XEty
Rapide SL: geni.us/Qu8G5
ZOOM UL: geni.us/gprgMe
Warm > Comfort everyday. I returned my etherlite xt extreme because of cold spots. It was very comfortable but sleeping cold is a no go for me. Bought the xtherm instead and it's kept me warm and therefore comfortable for the 2 winter seasons now
Comfort > Warmth when it comes to pads that are over 4 r-value anyway
The range of pads, like so many camping kits, has expanded hugely over the years. I'm a 3 season camper and am still using the Thermarest that I bought in 1993. It cost £50 at the time which was expensive, but it's never let me down - ! 😊
OMG! That's good to hear, i bought the x-therm on a whim on black friday because I sleep cold and had a bad experience camping with a regular sleeping mattress in really cold weather. It was pricey and I like to hear when people say they last forever.
The old ones last forever. Who knows about the newer ones. I bought 2 used thermarest pads at a yard sale a decade ago that the guy said he'd bought a long time ago. Still going strong! I wonder, with so much emphasis on UL nowadays, if the new ones will last. I hope so!
I want something that doesn't let me down. I'm so frustrated at waking up on sad pads. It's the worst. My Neoair Xlite lasted about a year. I'd much prefer something a little heavier that just lasts and lasts.
@@syberphish As I've mentioned, probably best to choose Thermarest. My 30 yr. old mat is still doing well. 😊
@@simongee8928 That's the kind of gear I'm looking for, thanks for mentioning it.
I think I've had my Limelight 2p for 16 years now. It's nice to have stuff you can just rely on.
Not sure why "Noise" wasn't a category for the rating system. Even if a pad is warm and comfortable, it'll wake you or a partner up all night if it crinkles like half filled Mylar balloon.🙂
ya some of them have such a loud crinkle noise... my ex had one and woke up pissed off demanded to use my pad haha.
I don't think most have to worry about a small crinkle noise waking them up lmao
@@TWAAAAACKSBut its not a small noise, its large one !
I was on the AT at a hiking shelter blowing up my Big Agnes Q-Core, and another hiker said "I hope that's not a noisy one." I just looked at him, smiled, and said," Put some earplugs in. This is what I'm sleeping on."
@@TWAAAAACKS nah the crinkle noise of the Neo Air is a major deal breaker for many hikers. Thermarest finally took note and changed their design to be less noisy.
I had a valve leaking issue with the Klymit Insulated Static V sleeping pad. Replaced it with the Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra and that pad has served me well so far.
I really wished you had also covered durability in your testing. I ended up with eight patches in my Nemo Tensor (your #4) w/in 18 months and about 100 nights of use. and gave up on any further repairs because i could not find whatever hole was leaking (pretty quickly no less). I do concur it was a very comfy pad, and my experience with the Tensor Insulated was what led me to this one. Guess I'll try the BA pads you put at #1 and #2 and see how it holds up the next 8 months in EU/UK.. Thanks for all your hard work on running through these tests!
Same experience. Great pad until it lasts which for me was very disappointing for an expensive pad.
If you UK I think the sea to summit is great I have no complaints, very durable, great warmth with a quilt and very comfy and quiet. Think we get swept up in the thru hike ultralight trap, the weight penalty is recouped with the quilt and I use a bigger backpack anyway. Horses for courses. Also thankful of the massive depth when a river came through my tent haha
@@MrDancingBishop Agreed - I'm a big fan of the S to S. The slightly higher weight is because they are using a superior welding technology that requires a heavier fabric. The payoff is a pad that won't blow its baffles let you down in the field. Like you I find it comfortable, quiet and a pleasure to use. Not a single leak so far.
Great video. I upgraded feom the Etherlight to a Tensor and its better in every way. Less noisy, feels nicer on the skin, packs smaller, weighs less and warmer.
As others have suggested, it's worth mentioning the materials the mats are made of and taking that into account, especially considering weight is used during scoring. For example, the EitherliteXT Extreme has a 30D Top/40D Bottom nylon construction whereas the Nemo Tensor has a 20D Polyester. This suggests, all other things even, that the S2S pad will be markedly more resistant to damage than the Nemo, while also heavier, both due to the more durable material used and the increased thickness of the material. I often see the Eitherlite pads being ragged on in video reviews (and sometimes S2S pads in general) but they nearly always completely ignore the thickness and strength of the materials used. I don't own a Eitherlite so I'm not just trying to justify a purchase or something lol.
I have an Etherlite XT "insulated". I'm male, 175cm / 85kg, or 5'9'' / 185lbs. I chose the women's large (WL) because I wanted the extra width and "insulation" but don't need the length of the men's large. I'm a side sleeper. For me it beat out the Thermarest options on comfort, noise, and cost. It's not silent, but the Xtherm pads are, for me, unbearably noisy.
The S2S is a very cold pad. The first time I used it was in 0C (32F). I wore a full merino base layer, Arcteryx Proton LT insulated jacket, 400g fill 800+ loft down quilt (One Planet Quest Pro -3C), S2S Thermolite liner, in a double-wall tent. I absolutely froze. Warm on top and frigid underneath. Barely slept. After that I took to doubling up with my summer quilt (S2S Traveller TR1) zipped into a tube between the liner and Quest. This was noticeably better, and I imagine a cocoon-style sleeping bag of 5-600g fill would be about the same. I survived a -8C (17F) night with this setup with the tent sheltered from the wind on a concrete floor, but it was chilly.
It slips all over the tent floor, so I double-sided taped about a dozen small squares of thin rubber drawer-liner matt to the bottom. This upped the noise slightly but completely solved the slipping problem.
However it is comfortable, even as a side sleeper, has an excellent valve system that makes it easy to inflate and easy to adjust the pressure even while tucked in to bed, and had zero punctures during 2 months non-stop use - your point about durability is a good one, and in my experience holds true. However I'd never use it without a ground mat.
I was keen to try a Tensor, but Nemo equipment was literally impossible to get in 2021/2022. I think my next pad will either be a Tensor or Big Agnes.
Apart from being resistant to leaks, StoS use a heavier fabric because it's required for the superior welding technology they are using. This means that baffle failures are pretty much unknown, in contrast to Thermorest and Exped pads which have let me down in the past.
The Nemo Tensor Insulated didn't keep me warm at temps around the freezing mark. I could feel cold spots every time I rolled over. I exchanged it for a Thermarest Neoair X-Therm and have no regrets. It's super warm, a decent weight, and perfectly comfortable (as long as it's not too inflated).
Thanks for making all these videos! Suggestion for all: future videos: would love to see the packed size of items, especially in comparison to each other, and perhaps against a 1L Nalgene for sizing reference.
I bought a Therm-A-Rest XTherm about two years ago, and I use it year round. I can't compare it to the other pads you mention, but I can say that it's a great pad. Some people complain about it being noisy and (as you mention) uncomfortable, but I have no issues with either. It's comfortable and warm, and with a 70D fabric on the bottom, I feel fairly safe in terms of puncture risk.
does it feel uncomfortable in hotter temps? I’m deciding between the xtherm or an xlite + ccf pad. where I live the temps can be over 100F or under 15F depending on the time of year…
@@frogturtle I have never had issues with the heat of the pad. I've used it in the same temperature range, and in warm weather, I regulate my temperature with a thinner quilt and/or covering myself less. I find the sleeping bag/quilt to be a bigger factor in overheating than the pad
I've not yet had a need for adding a ccf pad. Gear choices are a matter of personal preference, but my recommendation would be to go for the XTherm and have a pad that - while heavier - can be used year round. I should add that I'm not an ultralighter. I'm more traditional and also do a little bit of bushcrafting as well, so I come from a mindset of versatility and preparedness, and prior to getting the XTherm, I have been caught off guard with a pad that turned out to bee too cold. Not fun.
@@miquelbech5580 awesome, thanks for the detailed reply. I’ll consider your points!
i got the same one, issue i have with it is i bought the regular version not knowing there were other ones. So this one is really small with only 51cm width. once you move in your sleep, you're on the ground
Thanks for the detailed rundown!
Owned a thermarest NeoXT at the start of my trip. Internal baffle failure in Alaska. Got the money back, but I am concerned what would have happened in more extreme conditions, away from civilization.
My warmshowers host in Whitehorse had exactly the same failure with the same product. I've since met another rider who crossed Canada. Same issue.
Many online 'reviews' will not begin to touch on what it's like to live with the product in the long term. If I did the occasional weekend or yearly hiking trip I might have been convinced that I had a good product.
Since I'm riding from Alaska to Argentina, I need a product which is durable and/ or field serviceable over the long term.
Sticking with closed cell/ self inflating for the time being. Bulkier, heavier, but will be there for me when I need it.
Switch to the StoS - they are using a superior weld technology compared to the others and baffle failure is almost unknown. The well-designed valve is field-repairable too. I'm out a lot, and had too many failures with Exped and Thermarest baffles. I walk in remote places and need something I can rely on - the StoS hasn't let me down.
The Thermarest pads can be hard but can be made more comfortable. I blow them up, then lay down on them, and then let air out slowly until it feels good. It's like a sleep number mattress on the trail because it is uniformly firm or soft.
I own both an Uberlight and Xtherm.
I do this on my Xtherm, but you do lose a bit of warmth. Best to keep it full when it's super cold.
What I used to do for cold winter camping when I used to camp in central Ontario and near the arctic in the winter, is take an inflatable pad and put my boiled English wool blanket around it. The blanket was fairly light and very thin, but the bottom would help with punctures and the top made a remarkable difference in how it filled the cavities of the pad and kept me MUCH warmer. Up in high latitudes in Winter, relying on only an inflatable pad is a bit suicidal. It's not the place for ultra-light, especially in the days before cel phones etc.
I think those of us in the Midwestern area + Ontario understand this more than the coastal mountain/forest campers. It's all fun and games until you're cold, wet, and extreme windchill is rolling in. I think it comes from the amount of fishermen and loggers that settled the area all came from Scandinavia, Germany, and Poland taught this lesson. So well that every grandmother scares into her grandkids. Sure it sounds excessive but I'd rather have heavy wool to wake up sweaty in than un @liv3d by lightweight synthetics. Sure 40lbs winter load outs may suck to carry but staying alive is more important.
I use foam and insulation foil (from hardware outlet), I have never had any comfort or cold issues even when sleeping on snow.
The foam pad and insulation foil costs less than £30 (~$38), weighs about 800g and I can pack both inside the backpack.
With a foam pad there is zero risk of a puncture!
One flaw with this style of temperature testing is that those dimples and grooves would likely fill up with sleeping bag insulation that can keep it's loft as it wouldn't be getting compressed by your weight
Interesting. I wonder how that can be tested. Compressing the bag on top of the pad, then infrared somehow?
That is indeed Klymit's design philosophy of these V pads, allowing your sleeping bag insulation to fill in the V channels and provide insulation. They rate their insulated pads much warmer than the official R Value rating because of this, and I've slept on my Insulated Static V Lite pad in 20F temps and was comfortable. Because of this design however, I wouldn't advise sleeping on one in cold weather using a quilt rather than a sleeping bag, as it needs insulation beneath you to fill in those channels in the pad.
I think Dan Becker said something similar on his channel. If you have a sleeping bag and a Klymit pad; the sleeping bag material on the bottom fills the gaps.
I've slept with the Klymit pad in pretty cold temps and been comfortable to around -7C and it's definitely higher than 1.9R, probably about 3.2 or 3.5.
You would then have to take into account the bag’s temp rating during testing.
Upgrading my husband and I’s sleeping pads and imagine my surprise when I see the man who got me into backpacking in the first place! Way to go Steven!
my non-scientific studies supports my pad of choice: the thermoform x-lite. Sounds like a bag of potato chips when you move around on it, but 1) it's super lite, 2) keeps me warm enough (with my sleep layering system) and 3) is very light. Great video!
Great review. I have used the Warmlite down Air Mattress for years. Really warm and light. When I go winter camping, the snow below the mattress does not melt.
I have the Sea to Summit self inflating pad with an R value of 4.3 and a thickness of 3”. For where I live, it’s super comfy even in spring/fall. It’s a bit heavy at 2+ lbs, and a bit bulky, but for car camping in the edge seasons, it’s perfect.
I have tried a number of Thermarest pads - and still have an old Prolite - but switched to Klymit years ago. I think their R-value is misleading, I find them significantly warmer than many advertised three season pads, despite the standard Klymit Static V/V lite being only rated at 1.3. Their V baffles seems flimsy if you just sit on it, but as soon as you lay down it solidifies and I think the sleeping bag is able to loft between the baffle spaces. Super comfortable as a side sleeper too.
Yeah I have the static v lite insulated and it’s a bit better then the one he talked about . It’s a really good pad
I've been hiking the Te Araora this year and have the sea to summit etherlight xt, it's a great pad warm and comfortable, the only sad thing is I'm on my 3rd pad as the first two the construction on the plastic welds failed and would leak out air. The shop I bought it from found that a lot of people would bring those pads back with the same issue. They had no issues swapping mine out thankfully, but it's a shame I can't have full trust in my pad.
Great post my friend. I appreciate all the information you are sharing here. I plan to spring for the best pad rated here. I cherish my sleep time ! 😊
I originally bought the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated but ending up switching to the Exped Ultra 3R MW because I just couldn't sleep well on the Sea to Summit.
The Exped is much better for me, even though it has a lower R-value, the comfort, size and weight is better for me.
I use a quilt so I also found the feel of the Ether Light wasn't great......it felt sticky, whereas the Exped has a better feel.
Great video. :)
I went in the other direction. I find the Exped pads uncomfortable, and had too many failures with both baffles and valves. On one occasion a valve literally disintegrated into powder - some kind of major quality snafu. On another a baffle blew in the middle of a thru-hike, causing significant discomfort and inconvenience. What didn't you like about the StoS? I find their sprung cell system gives me the most comfortable sleep I've experience in over 50 years of wild camping.
@@tullochgorum6323 I'm a very active side/front sleeper, and i just found it wasn't comfy, ant the material felt sticky.
I have a Hikenture ultralight sleeping pad that ran me about $20. Ironically it’s the heaviest pad I own, but not only is it $100 cheaper than all the pads listed here, but it’s also quite comfortable, it’s a wider pad, has its own pump bag, is firm but comfortable, durable, and just overall a pretty good pad. I can’t say if it’s as good as these higher end expensive pads, but if you camp on a tight budget like me, then you really can’t go wrong with it. As someone who’s slept on just the ground with a sleeping bag…it’s leagues and miles better
Given the cost of some of these, it seems that durability should be relevant, although I understand that it can almost impossible to test for. Personally, I purchased the NeoAir XLite NXT Pad in late January and unfortunately, by the end of April, same year, the layers began to come apart and "bubbles" started to form. Consequently, I had to return it. In contrast, a previous version of the XLite had lasted me four years.
I still have xlite from 2016. At this point I'm not giving it up until it falls apart.
I had uberlite small and it lasted a week until it bubbled. Worst spent money since thermarest lifetime warranty is a bubble too.
Nice to see the Thermarest XLite scoring high as I’ve just got one and worked well for my test. It’s a great choice for bikepacking and ultra racing where the weight is even more important. Thanks for the review.
I have the BA Q Core SLX and the TR NeoAir XLite. Both are great. I almost always bring the BA though. It's wider, more comfortable and quieter to sleep on. My daughters have the new BA Rapide SL and it's comfortable for sure (even though my legs hang off...haha). Thanks for the review.
Around $200 (at least in my country) you could get an Exped LW (either downmat 9 or R8) with great R value. My main mat, winter or summer.
Are you a back or side sleeper? I find the Dura 8R to be comfortable on my side but as a mostly back sleeper the ridges feel weird to me.
@@dfkman I found the same thing. Sleeping on the side it was comfy. But, I mostly sleep on my back and I had a sore back within a couple hours...which is why I am here watching reviews. I do love the Schnozzle, though.
@@dfkman Never thought of it, both, but mainly back outdoors. I try to find the right balance of air in the mat, sometimes a match right away and other times not. But now you have made me aware. 😂
Exped tend to be best in Europe
@@cgmllr100 Did you let air out of the mat so that you are 2-3 cm from the ground at the lowest points? If you have a sitting pad or cell foam like ridgerest under it will be perfect is my experience as a back sleeper.
I have no hesitation in choosing Lighttour R7.5 now. I bought it for 2 months and it keeps warm very well.
Super solid review video! One thing you didn't mention is the ease of repair in the field. That's one thing that the baffle design of the ThermaRest has going for it - it's a lot easier to repair in the field than trying to squish the repair tape into an oddly shaped quilt style baffle. Last comment: Go to hammock camping and you'll never have to buy a pad again! :)
but you will have to buy an underquilt instead.. they cost pretty similar too
GearAid has stretchy Tenacious Tape patches now. I would deflate the pad, apply the stretchy pad (and optionally some SeamGrip for a bombproof seal), then reinflate the pad after the SeamGrip has had time to dry.
Gotta factor in the noise level of these pads. Amazing how many reviewers overlook that.
My #1 criterion is reliability. Having a pad slowly leaking on a trail, temperatures down to freezing and no easy bailout, is no fun. Happened to me twice with Thermarest trash. Never again. And never without an extra foam pad.
I’m surprised any of the Expeds mats or pads weren’t tested. I’ve heard that they are some the best nights sleep type of mats and pads.
I’ll confirm that the Zoom UL is not as warm. Several nights on it so far from 17°f at the coldest to 33°f at the warmest for overnight lows, I’ve been cold on it every time. But the comfort of the pad is unreal!
how does the zoom ul comfort compare to the etherlight xt? price and warmth seem about the same.
@@scottc3626 I personally find it more comfortable because of the fabric used and the side bolsters that just help you stay more centered on the pad. It’s minimal but is noticeable.
what is your opinion on the noise, some people are saying it's loud and crinkly? I am considering buying it but the noise complaints are throwing me off
In the market for a new pad, thanks for the informative review. Love the bloopers at the end.
Thanks for the video! I pulled the trigger and bought a lightweight pad in the form of the Big Agnes Zoom UL, partly on your recommendation. (Moosejaw was sold out of the long-wide so I bought it elsewhere.) Hopefully I will be happy with it (my older equipment is SO much heavier). I expect I will be happy since I don't do winter camping.
I use an Exped Synmat 7 and it's warm, not too heavy, not too bulky, and affordable for the warmth rating. 👍
I'm still using a Thermarest Guidelite that I got a couple decades ago, and I have been considering upgrading to one these more modern designs. I expected the weight difference to be larger; the information I'm able to find lists my Guidelite at 900g; about double the lightest pads here, and only a couple hundred grams more than the heavier modern options.
Sure, the newer ones (at least at the heavier end) will be thicker and more comfortable, but the cost for the nicer modern pads is substantial and the cheaper ones don't actually seem like much of an upgrade (despite the difference in technology) unless you're counting every gram, and I certainly don't like the idea of sleeping on a potato chip bag as many modern pads seem to behave like. I think I'll stick with what I've got until it gets worn or enough holes that it's not worth repairing any more.
Great video though, and thanks for the informative round-up!
Looking at those Klymit baffles, they might even be far enough apart for the bottom of a sleeping bag to loft within those dead spots. Definitely not a great design for quilt users though.
I have an Exped Synmat 5 and been pretty happy with it's performance under my sleeping bag so far. Since that has rather deep grooves, I might test it with the quilt I now got myself for summer.
I got a Klymit just to try it out because it was so cheap. Let's just say you get what you pay for. It's now the backup to the backup.
@@helpfulcommenter Man, my experience has been vastly different. I switched from a standard Thermarest prolite to the Klymit and find it really comfortable as a side sleeper. I also find it warmer than the typical 2.4r value Thermarest pads. I actually tried some more expensive models like the Neoair and still prefer the Klymit. Durability has been fine, probably 7-8 trips with it without issue. Sure, not a ton, but, decent for me.
@@JimYeats If the cheapest pad on the market works well for you, consider it a blessing from the backpacking gods
@@helpfulcommenter Lol. Sure it’s an inexpensive pad, lots of cheaper options though. I would much rather spend more money on my bag and pillow. Can’t stand not having a good pillow.
Good Review!! It is noted that the Sea to Summit (S2S) pads in Australia are significantly cheaper then allot of the other offerings. My S2S ether light xt insulated in the regular size was $180 AUD as apposed to an Therm-a-Rest xlite regular which is $400Aud.
S2S is based in Australia (no import taxes)!
@Sam Big life saver for us in NZ!!
EVERYTHING is super expensive here (bought thermarest xlite regular for $480-550) and having a quality and affordable option is a breath of fresh air
One thing I didn't see mentioned, is that most pads will bottom out when you sit on them or close to the edge. I've only found Thermarest pads to remain stable and not bottom out, so you can enjoy breakfast in bed in comfort. Most pads with vertical and boxed baffles will let you touch the ground when you sit on them.
I'd love to hear about your thoughts on air vs. foam pads.
I second this
They are FKING HEAVY!!!
There's nothing to compare!!!
NO backpacker worth THEIR SALT would ever carry such stupid monstrosity!!
Strictly car camping!!
Also they are uncomfortable as it comes!!
@Ralph Reilly there’s also a lot of experienced resources out there that have the best/worst sleeping pads of 2023. Yet here we are
I think that the REI Helix needs to be included in all new pad lists. Low cost, amazing comfort, very warm! Let me know what you think and whether or not you've tried it.
I got the helix on sale for $65 last year and it's been such an upgrade in comfort over my older thermarest. I'm definitely feeling older and more willing to carry a bit more weight for a thicker comfortable pad
@@BeeWhere if willing to go down that route might want to look at some of the expeds
I was trying out the Helix and the Nemo Tensor in the store today and was very surprised to find myself gravitating towards the Helix! I may still very well go with the Tensor though as it packed down considerably more.
I must confirm that it’s Big Agnes Q-Core for me or nothing. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and durable. If you use it with an integrated bag you don’t get any of the noise some people complain about. Hike on!
I love my rapide pad. Gladly carry the extra weight for the quality of sleep I get. I’m a side sleeper and this is by far the most comfortable pad I’ve ever used.
I ordered 6 different pad's and sent 5 back. STS, BA, Nemo, Exped, Thermarest. All long wide and all under 700g. After testing them I am 100% convinced it's mostly personal preference. Of the 6 pad's I tried the WORST was the STS Ether Light XT (look up the youtube reviews, it gets 10/10 score and is also listed as QUIET... it sounds like a big bag of CHIPS, and its not that comfy.. not even close to the nr 1. The absolutely best was the Nemo Tensor Insulated. I am 190cm and 100kg btw.
I would really like a more in depth video comparing the tensor, xlite and zoom ul. I toss and turn a lot and mainly sleep on my sides. So I’m leaning towards the tensor or the zoom. But the xlite is very tempting since it seems most reliable in terms of insulation. The main things I’m wondering are the comfort and the durability between these 3 pads.
I'm a side sleeper and bought both the xlite and tensor to try out. I sent the xlite back and went with the tensor as it was by far the most comfortable. I found myself rolling off the xlite as the sides just don't hold you on. Also the xlite was far too noisy compared to the tensor.
I have the previous xlite. As a side sleeper it's very uncomfortable. But it is insanely light....if you don't mind carrying an extra oz or two go with big Agnes or Nemo.
Nice review. I’d like to see you test one of the new Exped Ultra pads. I’ve owned and tried the Tensor, BA Rapide, and Xlite (not the NXT though), but for me the Exped is better.
I have some of the older Exped mats (Synmat 7 LW and Downmat XP 7 LW) and the Ultra 3R. They never let me down. Very durable and very comfortable. Synmat and Downmat are not the lightest, though.
Used the Therm-a-rest Xlite short on the Appalachian trail, and as a 6’2” guy it definitely took some getting used to. But honestly for only being 8.2 ounces it was pretty good and would take it again
As a bit on the "belly-belly" side of weight (1m83 / 90Kg) I went with an EtherXT which is very confortable and very light. For insulation, like in Iceland I usually add a survival blanket.
I think the nemo has the best all round stats. Affordable, comfortable, silent, warm, it just checks all the boxes.
Except the durability box.
A mattress can be 99.999% perfect, but if in the first year it starts developing bubbles and microleaks because the delamination process starts spontaneously even when using on a safe flat cushion surface, then it doesn't do much good.
STS Etherlight Extreme was the LOUDEST and most uncomfortable pad I ever tried. DownMatt 9 by ExPed was the most comfortabke and warmest matt ever tried followed by ExPed Dura Matt 8. The Tensor Insulated comes in 3rd after the Dura Matt. I borrowed an Xtherm and it felt like a cheap pool toy. I was surprised the insulated Klymit was more comfortable than the Xtherm. The NEMO Astro was comfortable and quiet. The pads that never need to be reinflated even after leaving them at basecamp for nearly 6 weeks- only ExPED DownMatt and Duramatt never, ever lost air, even after 3-4 years use each. Both ExPed pads have faced temps below -30 F a number of times.Klymit held air well. Sea to Summit did not hold air for a whole night,ever. Xtherm held air for a full night but if I inflated it and left it inflated, it lost air over days.
100% agree on the STS Etherlight. But I had the Etherlight XT, not extreme. LOUD and not comfy at all... Sent it back after 1 day. Nemo Tensor Insulated is the nr #1 for me.
love my downmat7, but it's way better once you get a chair kit.
Random Q: What's the brand of your hoodie in this video?
A tip for anyone out there.
Some pads require you to use your breath, especially the cheap ones. The problem with that is that it can develop mold inside it. That sounds nasty as heck, so I chuck my mat into the freezer as soon as I get home. Just to slow down anything from becoming too bad.
That myth persists in spite of no one ever producing evidence of their worry. There are however several videos showing them cutting open an old pad with zero mold or dirt. I made my many years old, sierra living, nemo with the primaloft insulation ....a mold magnate Nemo Tensor into a shorty - the inards looked hospital clean. The myth helps sell gear. Cheers
@@nedanother9382 That's interesting. Thanks for sharing. That makes me wonder, where did this myth originate from?
@@willek1335 What people perceive as mold is the insulation degrading over time. So what was once say a solid sheet of mylar insulation has holes and that is what shows when you shine a light at the pad.
No need to do that. It’s not mold.
@@willek1335 seems to make perfect sense ...it was really surprising how clean it was. There were so many little holes i thought it would be filthy.
Hi Steven! My husband and me are looking for a good sleeping pad and we wondered if we should buy one big duo sleeping pad or two single ones. What would you recommend? And thank you for all your great Videos! You are our favorite camping expert 🥳🍀
I know it's 6 months later, but just thought I'd mention that zpacks sells coupling straps that cinch together two individual pads. I've used them with good luck. especially with two rectangular pads. feels about the same as a duo pad, which I've also used.
This video is for rich people planning on Everesting. For mild to good weather the GGOV is super comfortable at under 30 bucks. It also looks like it will last a long time.
Your video's have taught me so much about camping, I even got rid of Netflix due to watching these videos. Thanks again for all the valuable information !!!
Big agnes q core deluxe at $109 is the one of best value to performance pads in my opinion
My most important criterion for sleeping pad performance became reliability after several days in the backcountry with a failed pad (one on your list) that was unrepairable. I know it’s harder to evaluate, but I wish reviewers would attempt to address reliability. I went with a pad that had dual chambers for redundancy. No pad is warm OR comfortable when it’s flat.
hmmm I wonder if army surplus would fit that criteria best. The consensus usually seems to be that you trade weight and bulk for durability with military kit.
Absolutely spot on. This has been my experience also... You can throw money at a fancy bit of lightweight kit, but Murphy's law dictates it fails when you need it most.
Kit needs to be durable and/or field repairable, in my opinion...
@@dahof2789 Well either I'm that 1%, or you are doing something wrong. Put a repair (vinyl sticker) on months ago in Mazatlán and it's still holding perfectly fine. Was a basic patch that came with a run of the mill flocked airbed, nothing particularly hi-tech. Beats waiting on warranty...
Thermarest trail scout self inflating mat
@@chrisjackson1188 I’ve found that repair success depends on location of the leak. Typical puncture is on the top of a baffle and that very repairable. Typical product failure due to design or workmanship flaw is at a seam or weld point-I would go with the 1% estimate on those being repairable.
Holy smokes! I love the Tensor pads,I have both uninsulated & insulated(3.5 R value version) regular wide pads, love them…but I paid $175 for the reg. wide insulated one at the end 2020. I know it’s the old lower R value but holy cow it’s $220(2.5yrs later) now! That’s more inflation than added r value 😂
Warmth isn't everything...but safety is. I won't hike in lower temps without a closed cell foam combined with an insulated pad and a repair kit.
so if I were trying to decide between the xlite + ccf or just the xtherm, you’d go with the former? or would you just take the xtherm and a ccf pad?
@@frogturtle I actually have the Xlite and a Thermarest ZRest that I take in winter in temps down to -20F often. I have about ten pads in total currently and 4 are CCFs. If you've ever had a "flat" in winter, you'll never want to experience it again. Did some extensive testing traversing on the Greenland Icesheet for several months with a few different pad options ranging in temps from 0 to -60. After 30+ years of hiking in all seasons, I always bring a CCF in combo in winter, always have my OR Advanced bivy for my "floor"/emergency shelter in winter...and a flask of whisky.
@@hilltigger awesome, appreciate you sharing your knowledge. sounds like I’ll be in the market for a CCF pad
Working in Hawai’i conservation, I need durability and comfort. I’m currently using a nemo quasar 3D & a megamat lite 12. I use the megamat for multi-day helicopter operations & the quasar for backpacking. The megamat lite is as comfortable as my bed at home, and the quasar is a notch or two lower yet still very comfortable.
I wanted to share because a lot of the reviews and ratings online for sleeping pads aren’t applicable to tropical areas where insulation is negligible. I hope someone finds this helpful!
Great video and what a fantastic breakdown. I do wish there was such a list for Price+Comfort+Weight and ignoring the warmth aspect. I wonder if there's a way you could show the raw scores for that?
It’s in the description so just delete the warmth rating and add it up
Something I missed in this review was the thermals when you lay down on them. I can imagine that changing the shape thus the insulation. I can imagine that that's hard because you can't use the thermal camera in that case but it might be an interesting test.
I just ordered the Zoom SL and can’t wait to try it out!
If I value comfort and durability and am willing to carry a little more, would you stack one higher?
I would have liked to see the size fully packed up, which one is smaller. I don't care much about the weight, but I only have so much room.
The most impressive thing about this video is that you managed to say a whole line while lying on top of that stack of inflated pads. I knew that was a challenge and you confirmed it with the outro. Well done! 😂
We have 2 Berghaus Air 10 Mattresses, which are super comfortable and part self inflating, but we have had problems with deflation. Does anyone have any great tips or tricks of how to stop them deflating, we think it might be the valves. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks 🙏 Would love to stop our butts hitting the floor in the middle of the night 😂
I’m convinced you make the best backpacking videos on TH-cam. The Xlite is one of the most uncomfortable pads I’ve ever slept on. I’ll throw a thin lite pad underneath a colder pad for the warmth. The Zoom UL is almost perfect, if it was offered in mummy it would be too notch.
I got Big Agnes Rapide SL long wide, im so glad! Its so awesome and comfy, here in UK they seem to be much more popular them Zoom one. Also got Ether Light XT. Both of them are the most comfy pad on the market in my opinion.
I sold Thermarest one, they are ok but nowhere near so nice to sleep on!
Just got the exped downmat ul winter m, with an R Value of 7.1.
Second hand with 2 small patches for 100.-
best thing i ever found on craigslist
Need to consider warranty. I warrantied my nemo tensor and they told me it will take at least 3 months before I get it back.
For 30 years I used a closed cell pad that cost me around $5 in 1978. Compared to that any air pad is way more comfortable! But I've been using a cheap pad that only cost about $25, it's as warm as my old 9mm cell pad and weighs less than a pound. No way would I spend $250 on a pad, I just double up the cell and air pads in winter!
I've started with klymit, it allowed me to get into backpacking. Now i still have it, to borrow my friends, and for beginner it's adequate. I myself switched entirely to thermares.
in my opinion, cold weather s2s pads are worse scam than klymit, in regards of insulation
I absolutely LOVE the new-ish REI Helix
I'm curious what you'd consider the realistic R value or comfortable temperature range for the Zoom UL after factoring in the misleading R value claim. As for Nemo Tensor reviews over the last year, a crazy high % says that it leaks badly and is fragile. Quality has apparently gone downhill drastically.
Xtherm is the one im saving for. I just want to buy a sleeping pad ONCE, take care of it and have it last as long as it can.
I’m still glad I bought my xtherm, even if everyone that goes with me can’t sleep because it’s so loud.
Just got back from an overnight and wanted to research a better inflatable pad. So. Thanks!
Sea to summit extreme getting shade for being bulky. It's warm for quilt sleepers, 4 season, comfy, quite, durable hench the size. Only real alternative is xtherm that i moved from because its loud uncomfortable and slippy as fork. Think you need to sub categories this review but also thanks for doing it 😂
No Exped pads? My DownMat UL 7 is by far the best piece of camping gear I own, absolutely changed camping for me with how comfortable it is and how warm it keeps me.
How you store your Downmat? I put it on clothes hanger in wardrobe but everytime when I go camping I need to rearrange feathers because they stuck at the ends.
@@38201270298 I roll it lightly without the initial folding into thirds you need to fit it in the bag, then use the bag to hold the end of the roll together. Seems to keep all the feathers where they should be without compressing too much. Makes storage pretty easy.
As a control group, especially for diy, you should also do a heat reflection test of reflectix?
What, no love for the Amok Fjol pads:) I use the Fjol pad from my wife's Amok hammock when tenting. While heavy it is warm for 3 season use a r value of 3 and is rugged with a 75D polyester ripstop top and bottom and costs only $90. I can't speak about their Winterlight or Ultralight pads but they weigh about half of the weight of the regular Fjol (around 31 oz and 24.5 oz), have a r value of 5 and 3.5 respectively. They cost about $150. All Amok pads are 25.5 inches wide, 3.5 inches thick and 78 inches long.
+1 for the Fjol UL. I use it in the Amok Draumr and as my go-to pad when tent camping. Solid performer!
How did the regular rapide do for your thermal camera test? You kind of combined the light version in your analysis, does it also seem to let more cold through than its rated R value?
I use an Xtherm on the trail, and a Sea To summit pad at home. That may sound odd, but I use a sleeping pad in lieu of a bed.
FYI to anyone watching this in Fall, 2023 - The Nemo Tensor is on sale for $99 right now at REI because the two newer models are coming out!
i have an outdoor vitals longwide i got from my dad its been pretty great for me so far it was very much like a cheaper version of the red one at the end its very thick so to me its been way better than the think klymit i had before
Thanks for this super comprehensive test !
Did you ever try Exped pads, what do you think about them ?
If you like the Zoom UL, I can't wait until you try the REI Helix! Other than being maybe a little heavy, it's such a good all around sleeping pad
1 Week out from my first trip of the year, this is EXACTLY the video I needed. OOOOO WHOS EXCITED!?!?!
Not on the list, but I found the older tensor alpine comfortable and warm. Think the temperature got down to 15-20°F once, and it was still nice and warm even though my sleeping bag with limit rating of 18F. struggled to keep me warm from the top side. I guess itwould be quite similar to the tensor insulated when it comes to confort, and the R value rating is better (4.8). Think the weight for the regular/mummy size is a hair more than 1 pound, so not any heavier either. Just as expensive though. Bought mine for $199 a little over a year ago.
Anyone else find the Klymit intolerable in comfort?! So awkward feeling! The uninsulated cheap SleepNGo is way more comfortable for 1/3 the price.
It was so interesting to see the heat videos thanks so much for that!!
Nothing can beat all the pads stacked together 😂
I am always impressed with the quality of your production. Thank you. I know it is a lot of hard work, but know it is appreciated.
Love you gear reviews! Always entertaining and informative…
back sleepers v. side sleepers v. stomach sleepers make comfort ratings so hard to figure out. My pad is super warm and gets good reviews from back sleepers... but it is terrible for side sleepers imo, also noisy (which I'm not that bothered about as I camp solo). I stayed warm in quite cold weather, but only managed 4 hours of sleep due to how often I woke up with my arm asleep). I think my only real option is to get a summer sleeping pad for side sleepers and stack it in cold weather.
For me I find that short pads (from hips to shoulders) are the best tradeoffs as you save a lot of weight and bulk but still get the comfort and insulating your core. Well, unless you sleep on snow...
I even cut down Z-rests for summer backpacking so they are only just long enough to cover me from hips to shoulder.
This old backpacker is appalled by the weight and cost of modern full-length inflatable sleeping mats.
Big Agnes pads have always been comfortable.
Did you do any comparison of the durability of the materials used?