Why Is This Pad So Popular?! I'd Rather Sleep On A ROCK!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ต.ค. 2024
- A few years back I ditched the NeoAir Xlite and have been using other pads. When I realized a regular wide version was now available, I bought one to try again, and turns out, it's still not a good pad for me as a side sleeper.
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Gear is a personal issue for each of us. Not 1 piece of it is ideal for all of us. We are all unique and have differing levels of desire. That being said I love my NeoAir Xlite! I am a side sleeper and use the regular/wide version with a quilt, a silk liner, and an inflatable pillow. Love it! The wide allows my arms to remain by my side and as a side sleeper my top knee which I roll across my body still remains on the pad. I love the R value and the weight as well. Even the noise level, which some complain is too crinkly, isn’t a problem for me. I think over time with usage that crinkly sound diminishes. Thermarest has outstanding customer service too. My pad wasn’t holding inflation throughout the night so I sent it in for repairs. They sent me a brand new pad within weeks. One thing that helps with the comfort factor is I either put a 1/8” foam pad under the Xlite pad to prevent the pad from sliding on the dyneema flooring of my tent or I put my sit pad which is a Thermarest Z Lite Pad (1/2 Pad - 7.2oz) under it. This setup adds comfort, increases R value, and prevents sliding. A good nights sleep is critical and my setup works great for me!
I bought it, tried to sleep on it several times, traded up to Xtherm, & now sleep warm & comfy. I'm 77 years old, 5'3" & weigh 106#. I, too, am a side sleeper.
The XTherm has a 70D underside which, at least in my mind, is highly resistant to punctures/leakage; more so than any other inflatable mattress.
I have the Thermarest Trekker chair wrapped around my XTherm mattress that is a wonderful addition to my kit because it provides me with INSULATED back & seat support when sitting inside or outside my Hilleberg Enan tent plus it keeps my legs/feet insulted from ground.
Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada
Before Nemo redesigned the Tensor to be equal r-value, there was no other pad that came close on the weight, packed size and warmth of the xlite. You couldn’t get a pad with an r value of 4 anywhere near this weight.
Now that the Tensor is about equal warmth, it’s supremely more comfortable, with a better valve and inflate sack, at only a few extra ounces. I don’t know why you’d choose the xlite. If 3 oz makes a big difference to you, I’d go with the Uberlight to shed even more weight, and get a separate winter pad.
6’3 200lb 100% side sleeper here. I love my long/wide/“large” size of this pad. I started with thick big Agnes pads and even have the sea to summit ether light 4” pad. I actually like this one better. I don’t sleep with it filled to max and still manage to stay off the ground. I think the rectangle large xtherm I have (same thickness, baffles) is even more comfortable.
Every body is different!
Thermarest is updating the xlite and xtherm for 2023. Supposedly, the xlite will be 3" thick and also offer a rectangle version. Hopefully this brings it up to the same comfort level of most pads today while staying light.
Unfortunately not, for me at least. I got the NXT and had the exact same issues. Although I was on a regular size, not wide - however I’m pretty sure it just has to do with the baffles. On other pads I don’t experience this issue.
Personal taste... I (like many others) find vertical baffles and quilted to be unworkable as a side sleeper. I've never bottomed out, even running my pad soft, but I am not a large person. Many people find the X-lite to be comfortable, and are willing to overlook the fact that it is a loud pad because of it - there are other equally light pads, so it's not solely a weight issue.
I don't think it's a pad problem, it's just not the right pad for YOU. Which is fine.
I have this pad as well and ya I totally agree, I've never got a good night of sleep on it when I'm on the ground. I'm usually a hammock camper and it works great as a light liner to break the wind, that's how I've always used it.
I love my neoair xtherm and xlite! They can be a bit noisy but that doesn't really bother me. I am primarily a side sleeper but I often back sleep while camping because there isn't enough room for me to sprawl out like I like to sideways. I am 6'3" and about 200 lbs and have had no problems bottoming out or with the size. My only wish is that I got the rectangle versions to have a bit more foot and head space
Comfort is relative.
So strange! I tested about 20 pads before I landed on my favorites. The Xlite was in the top 3 for me (Nemo Tensor, Xlite, Ether XT...only came in 3rd because it's so incredibly noisy!) . I'm a side sleeper as well and I'm taller and weigh more than you. I had such a different experience than you and found it incredibly comfy (when deflated just a tad under max) and one of the few that kept me from bottoming out on my shoulder/hip area. My only gripe is the mummy shape - that's why I ultimately didn't keep it. If you are having issues with your shoulders falling asleep - maybe a taller pillow would help? (I'm no pro - I just tested literally every commercially available backpacking pillow I could get my hands on and discovered it's a HUGE part of the side-sleeper comfort equation. I sleep with 2 pillows now and it's changed my life in terms of sleep quality))
I ultimately landed on the Nemo Tensor and the XTherm (for winter, it's basically a beefed up version of the Xlite and comes in rectangle shape) for any other big&tall side sleepers out there reading this.
Sorry you had such a lame experience with the Xlite!
i found the wide verson of the xlite mummy shape to be wide enough where the mummy shape didn't bother me. Plus the mummy shape really opens up a lot of options for an ultralight tent. Most ul backpacking tents aren't 50" wide to fit 2x wide rectangle pads like nemo tensor. The big agnes ul tents aren't wide enough, they taper. For trekking pole tents there are only a few that fit 2 wide pads: durston xmid2, tarptent straospire2 and smd lunar duo.
@@shaneb395 yeah the mummy shape definitely opens up many more 1-person UL tent options. Good call on that!
The Lightheart Gear duo also fits 2 wide pads by the way. My favorite tent!
I had the same issues with my arm falling asleep, I thought it might have been an issue with the pillow too. However after using the REI Helix, I did not experience my arm falling asleep while using the exact same pillow. Some people just aren’t meant for the X-lite. Though admittedly, I maybe could have messed around with the inflation levels more…but then I’m losing R-value.
I bought a regular wide Xtherm and use it with the Z-lite under it. No problems side-sleeping. You can also add a liner on the Thermarest so you won't feel the baffles. Things to make you more comfortable side sleeping are pillows and a correct temperature-rated quilt or sleeping bag. Please remember that a piece of equipment cannot adapt more than a human can. Wishing you a good restful sleep on your Xtherm when you finally use it!
I like the weight but its not comfortable as a side sleeper. Definitely agree 👍
I have the women's xlite and love this pad. I love the weight, ease of blowing up and the warmth it provides. If it's cold outside I slide the pad into my quilt, cinch the straps and I couldn't be happier. I pair it with my sea to summit blow-up pillow.
As a side sleeper who uses NeoAir pads exclusively. About the only thing that I can relate to that you said is the shoulder falling asleep. I've never had the issue with bottoming out like you talked about. My first gen venture has narrower baffles and is definitely less comfortable than the Xlite. My shoulder feels it sleeping on that pad for sure. They changed the baffles in the two newer generations of that pad. If you over inflate it the pad will be less comfortable. But 2.5" has been plenty to keep me off the ground personally. And generally I'll have some roots, rocks or sticks underneath me that I never feel. That said I prefer a supportive or firmer mattress. If you use a pillow top or something like that then that might be the issue. Also as a side sleeper a standard width is enough. If I slept on my back I'd probably want a 30" pad because I'm fat.
I'd be tempted to try one of the new fangled pads. But the idea of waking up on the ground due to a leak keeps me sticking with neoair pads. Let's be honest they pioneered modern inflatable pads. The ones you seem to appreciate wouldn't be here without them. And their reputation for reliability is second to none hands down. Perhaps the other companies are starting to catch up in terms of reliability but in my mind it's too soon to really know. When other pads start to get a reputation of surviving triple crowns then I'll consider picking one up. But it seems like every year there is a new king followed by reports of issues with leaks and so on. I've had one issue with my original Xlite and it wasn't a leak. And 4 other pads from them with zero issues.
Yeah, when I was getting into backpacking a lot of people were buying these pads up and recommending them to everyone. I never understood because the reviews were often negative. Noisy, valve issues, leaks in other places too requiring repairs, and lots of people said their brand new pads had slow leak issues before they had even used it for one full night. Many people said they woke up on the ground in the middle of the night and had to keep pumping up their NEW pad several times throughout the night. People also wrote in their reviews that they had great difficulty getting the company to replace their brand new leaky pad. Those pads are expensive and should not be having ant issues for a long while after buying it imho. I bought a Sea to Summit 4 inch pad instead. I remain very happy with my decision to this day. I had the same sorts of issues when it came to considering Zpacks gear as well. I don't own anything from Zpacks. For these types of prices this gear should be made to last. If it's not sturdy, I'm not interested, because gear with lightweight materials can be made to last regardless. Some of the lightweight gear is so cheaply made. That's why I sometimes agonize over gear purchases because I don't ever want to buy this cheaply made gear they charge us a fortune for. We are paying for their brands, not their shotty quality gear.
I think it is because of the warmth/weight ratio is good. For ultralighters maybe ? There should be new version this or next year which will be much quieter and 1 inch higher
I'm a side & belly sleeper & I find my X-Lite NXT it very comfortable. I inflate it fairly soft & no part of me is on the ground at all. 67 yo 5'6" 130#, keto diet = zero inflammation, low body fat. If it's cold, then the sleeping bag keeps my arms on the pad. If it's not cold & my bag is unzipped like a quilt & my arms can go on the ground but that's not a problem as it's not cold. I tend to combine a bag, liner & a quilt/blanket to cover all seasons. Generally use a thicker heavier duty space blanket as a footprint under the floor. If it's extreme freezing cold I may use some extra foam as well.
I don't even need to start thinking about a Thermarest pad. I'm 95 kilos (202 lbs), 6 ft 1" and a side sleeper. Plus, I need a certain width because I have a rather broad frame and turn around regularly when I'm sleeping. I always need a rather thick (at least 3 inches) pad, especially for ground setups.
I have used the BA air core ultras for a few years. I find them to be one of the most comfortable pads. I usually use a hammock, but find I have to go to ground sometimes. Definitely worth the $140 pricetag, because I actually sleep. Now to figure out a way to secure my pillow, so I don't wake up to chase it.
NEMO Tensor Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad is a superior pad overall, Regular: Thickness 3inches, R-value 4.2, stated weight 15oz, mine weighs 15.2oz (2022 Version) and quiet for $189, compared to the NeoAir xlite: Thickness 2.5 inches, R-value 4.2, stated weight 12.5oz, mine weighs 13.1oz and noisy for $199. Every person I regularly hike with has moved to the Tensor from the xlite.
Sea to Summit Either Light XT is BOSS. I'm 6'2" and 235lbs and I sleep like a baby.
I considered this pad because of it's popularity but I did not like crinkle sounds the pad made with every move I made...too noisy.
Yeah that pad is excellent!
@@BackcountryExposure I love mine. Absolutely no complaints.
Totally agree. It really suck if you don't have the correct pressure. It is more sensitive due to its lack of thickness. It takes a while to find it but once you do it works just as good as other pads. I am a sidesleeper too.
The pad works for me. I have the long wide. I’m 6’4” 225 lbs. My hips don’t touch the ground. When I do lay on my back I put a stuff sack next to me to keep my arms from falling off the side. If it’s 3 oz less, I’ll keep it.
Right on!
I'm not surprised that some folks find the Xlite uncomfortable. Everyone is different. I use the Xlite womens version. For me, its been great I've used my Xlite on a thru hike of the HST and JMT as well as winter backpacking trips in my home state of PA. I roll all around "in place" and side sleep a lot and I find it to be comfortable. I am 5'5" and 175 lbs (althletic build). I do agree that when lying on my back my elbows can fall off the sides of the pad but for me personally, it doesn't cause any issues even in winter. I side sleep most of the time.
I am a side and back sleeper. When it is fully inflated it is much to hard and my hips and back will hurt. So I worked out a quite simple solution, since I was on trail and not able to change to another pad. I lay down on my side on the fully inflated pad and then let carefully out some air (it works really good with the outlet) until it gives in at my hips and shoulder while not touching the ground. It worked really well down to temperatures just above freezing.
Noise is not a big deal anyway.
I haven't used this pad, but your comments are exactly what I was concerned about and wht I chose the latest and greatest Tensor instead
Sorry
but i don’t understand why horizontal baffles are uncomfortable
Sea to Summit Ether Light XT rectangle not tapered. Buy once cry once it's the best and iv tried alot I have alot of titanium in my body so I go to extremes in sleep comfort I have the black one too in tapered shape and iv never been cold or uncomfortable but I do like to have the extra room.
Thank you for making this video, I almost bought this pad and being a side sleeper, it takes a lot for me to get a decent night sleep
I'm only 5'8" and bought the small XLite, one reduced price and it doesn't bother my side sleeping. I fill it 3/4's full. I use it as a 3/4 pad.
I totally agree with you. I have just finished the Laugavegur in Iceland today and as a side sleeper this pad was horrible. I woke up every 20 minutes because of the pain in the hip. I am so happy to be back in Reykjavik and I can sleep in a wonderful bed tonight.
Some people sleep on a 1/8” foam sheet and are happy with it. I would not be able to do that, ever. I have a neo air xlight and manage to get some comfort with it only after several nights. I rather put up with it than a heavy pack that destroys my shoulder blades.
I’ll finish this with an old saying: “The best quality of a human being is his adaptability”. I try to follow this… try not succeed!😄
Agree! Also tried a bunch of klymit which I stopped using. wish I had access to a big agnes...
The Klymit pads are also not thick enough for me.
I can't sleep on a narrow pad that lacks bolstering along each lengthwise side.
I use a leaky 25" Big Agnes XL 4.2 pad in warm camping. Tip: put a Tyvec ground sheet under your pad when sleeping on wooden bunks in shelters. I didn't and got a leak on that fairly new pad.)
I have a new Sea To Summit 6.7 XL 25" tapered pad I have not yet tried. I got it for fall, winter and spring camping in New England. (I am currently injured from a 3/31/22 dog attack, and seem to need hernia surgery and PT, so I have been missing this year.)
It is enormous to carry, but I have a large Seek Outside Divide backpack that can fit it well, even with the large Bear Vault. I love the stuff sack-as-inflation bag feature. It works extremely well. This pad's valve blows away the Thermarest valve, pun intended.
I love the pack. Very light XPAC, with many set-up options and rated to carry up to 200 lbs.. It is much more comfortable, adaptable and rugged than my ZPacks Arc Haul, which cannot carry the Sea To Summit pad.
I have never used any of the current ultralight Thermarest pads. I still have the original Thermarest inflatable pad, though. I don't mind that it bottoms out for side-sleeping. But I hate having my arms dropping over each side when I lie on my back because it is too narrow. This annoyance is even more annoying on thicker pads, FYI. It will drive you crazy.
I totally agree! I had the exact same experience, the regular width is comfortable but not the wide one, I think it was not designed for that. Unfortunately the regular width is not wide enough for me so I moved on to Sea to Summit large pad and I sleep very comfortably!
My problem with that pad was the noise and I kept rolling off the edges. I never actually fell asleep long enough and ditched it a couple hours into the night.
S2S ether lite xt for side sleepers. The Nemo tensor is good too but I had two that delaminated on me.
Well, I can't comment on the Xlite itself but I sleep very comfortably on my Xtherm and I'm also a side sleeper. I was told they are quite similar comfort wise, but I never slept on the Xlite, so not sure if it's true. Your Tarptent Double Rainbow Li was quite distracting though. Love that tent!! I'm very happy with it. Works well for me.
(Es tu Québécoise? )
@@woodchip2782 Oui!
For the ground, I only like it for the warmth to weight ratio. but I would go with a different pad for essentially all other features.
Works well in the hammock though.
I totally agree ... it's why I took mine back. Absolutely the worst sleep I've had in the backcountry! Though I have kept my x-therm for winter trips.
I love my Thermarest Uberlight. I’m primarily a side-sleeper. I would have gone for a wide if it had been available when I bought it, but the regular does just fine for me.
I bought this as my second pad. I did T find it comfortable at all. I eventually ended up loving the sea to summit with all its baffles.
Agree! I had to go back to a Nemo Tensor even though it’s heavier and supposedly more prone to leaks.
I've owned three Tensor pads, and never had a leak issue with mine.
The x-therm I use has been okay to me. I can definitely see how going to a really light pad could be miserable in many situations, but that is often the case with that type of gear.
The trick is so push your self so hard with 15+ mi and 5000ft elevation gain that you're so tired when you get to camp you could sleep on a rock. Agree it's not the most comfortable pad I think the nemo tensor and sea2summit etherlite are more comfy. BUT the xlite has the best combo of low weight, high R value and decent comfort. I also have maybe the most comfortable pad you can get the nemo quesar 3d insulated reg wide, it's really plush at 3.5" thick. Even with the quesar 3d wide pad I toss, turn and don't get a great night sleep. I think the more important thing is being really tired when you go to bed so you can pass out, no outdoor sleeping pad with be like the mattress you're used to sleeping with in your bed room. I really want to try the 2023 xlite nxt at 3" thick, that will be a beast of a pad, with high R value and under 16oz. Don't forget ISO sleeping bag temperature ratings are based on the use of a sleeping pad with an ASTM R-value of 5.38, so you really need something like an xtherm or an over rated bag to be warm = comfort on a cold night.
Tried the Xlite NXT for 4 hours and was in pain between numb arms and sore back. Though try it for yourself and see if it works for you. It is a very nice pad for other reasons - weight, R-value, packability.
I don't like it either 😅 Always tought I was the only one.
I finally found the perfect sleeping pad for me! I'm a side sleeper, so the 5cm think is just enough :(
I bought the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Insulated Air Sleeping Mat for summer and i also bought the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT Extreme Insulated Air Sleeping Mat for the winter.
These two sleeping mat are 10cm think!
So for side sleeper, it is perfect
Ether light is my current favorite too. Very comfortable, especially as a side sleeper. Not too heavy, packs down pretty small. I’m a fan.
ima side sleeper and find its not stiff enough, after using 4 different thick pads I went back to inch and half self inflater thermorest and it fixed all problems.
I've been wanting to get one to save weight but thank you so much for saving me. I'm a contractor and have been working in the trades since I was a teenager so my back is ruined. I have the STS Ether Light XT and my back still hurts sleeping on it. I'd like to try the Tensor or a Big Agnes pad.
I find the Paria Outdoors Recharge S very comfortable due to it's thickness (3.5"), even though it is a 7/8 length pad for me. It's only 13oz and the claim is that it is R4 rated (it is closer to R3 by my experience). It is also 23" wide which is just wide enough. Only $75
Absolutely agree. I would rather carry my last model year Nemo Tensor Regular Wide pad with an OV 1/8 inch foam pad to equal the R-Value of the Thermarest. I think people get obsessed with weight in terms of saving energy and forget that fatigue due to lack of comfort can be just as bad. Example, I have realized that, for me, carrying a heavier backpack that is more comfortable helps me go further than an ultralight pack that is less comfortable. I decided I will save weight everywhere except my pack, my sleeping pad and my shoes because those are the things that cushion my body.
I’ve had one. Never could get too good of sleep on it. Now using an etherlight XT for 3 season and love it.
Ironically I sleep pretty well on my Xtherm in the winter. But I think I’m just so exhausted after being in the cold all day that I’m just happy to be warm.
God the Big Bgnes SL LW, which I really love, I had the Nordisk Vega that have vertical baffles which I don't recommend.
Had it for 3 years now. 1st year it was extra crinkly but the air held and it had excellent warmth. By the 3rd year everything's basically the same with alot less crinkle. Didnt have an issue side sleeping. You will fall off the sleeping pad. No issue for me since i sleep like a monster anyways. I had the regular size.
Good info as I am starting to look at wide sleeping pads. Thanks man!
The trifecta for me is the Ether Light XT, Rapide SL or Tensor/Quasar 3D!
I got the X-lite NXT, 3 inches tall instead of 2.5. Still had the exact same problems as you - arm kept falling asleep and back pain. It sucks because the specs are amazing. Mine was a regular, not a wide, but I really think the numbness and pain issues are because of the baffle construction, if I had to guess.
I bought an REI Helix RW to try out. Infinitely more comfortable, and warmer, and packs down similarly small to the X-lite RW. Downside is it’s just damn heavy at 10 ounces heavier than the X-lite.
Ugh. The search continues…
I tried Sea to Summit Ether Lite and had the coldest, most uncomfortable night ever - I wouldnt even give it away because I couldnt subject anyone else to that... I bought an Xlite back before they did the regular wide - had to buy a long wide and cut it down to 3/4 length and reseal with an iron (was nervous doing that) to get my ideal 25" wide 3/4 length pad. Its excellent and I am really comfy although I will admit a bit noisy but I dont move around alot in my sleep so not a big problem.
I absolutely agree with you. I bought one of these pads back in April and I really wish I hadn't. It's too narrow, it slips about all over the tent floor, and it's not even very comfortable.
I also struggled with this pad. I tried to force myself to like it because it was so expensive and highly rated, but I switched to the thicker Big Agnes QCore SLX. I have even taken a huge Sea to Summit Comfort Deluxe Self Inflating pad (4.5 lbs!) on backpacking trips. Way heavier, but the sleep I get is so much better and was worth it for a base camp style of backpacking trip.
I would take a Helinox cot lite (2 lbs 13 oz) with exped dura (2 lbs) over that
I have a thermarest trail pro and have exactly the problems you spoke about in this video ive not managed to sleep at all with the thing so now im looking at the nemo tensor pad .Love the channel .keep it up and all the best to you.😊👍
Definitely concur with you and I’m a side sleeper too. Been using Nemo Tensor, just got the switchback to put under. I plan on getting a Big Agnes pad next.
I've never understood the hype on this pad. As a side sleeper, no chance.
Just bought and trying out this weekend.. made in Ireland too 🇮🇪
I got rid of my Tensor and Etherlight and switched to all Neo Air. Packability and warmth for essentially the same comfort as the others won out. I don’t have the issues that you describe but maybe my side sleeping is different. Neo Airs are bit noisier but the current models aren’t that bad after you use then a few times IMHO.
I'm a side sleeper and have no problem with my neoair. I believe this is an issue with your particular body, whatever it is that causes you to be a side sleeper.
Maybe it’s the TH-cam gear review echo chamber in play? Most reviews I have seen on this pad only discuss the specs and not the quality of sleep. In videos where quality of sleep is actually reviewed, like in your video, this pad rarely gets high marks…especially for side sleepers.
Those Thermarest pads are used a lot because they provide high R values while taking up very little space and being lighter than other options. The thru-hiking and ultralight scenes are just very influential so the pads get recommended beyond those use cases.
Hot takes! But I appreciate the input. Haven’t tried this one, but it’s one that I’ve been interested in.
Actually not being in a hammock is the first mistake LOL.
Touché sir, touché…
I have an Uberlite long/wide which I understand is the same comfort level and I agree its not the most comfortable. But.... @ 12oz I can deal with it when doing long multi day trips like on the CT in 4 weeks. I spent 10 days on trail last year and I did okay with it. I'm also 52 and its a heck of a lot more uncomfortable when your my age. When you're my age they better have a 12" thick mattress for you! 🙂Just giving you a hard time like you expected. I do want a thicker more comfortable one for shorter hikes. I'm just hoping and waiting it out for that 12" thick pad that weighs 8oz.
I couldn’t agree more. I bought one based on reviews on YT, and I hated it. I only carried it for one season. It’s noisy, I bottom out if it’s not filled all the way, my hips were always sore. The only positives are the weight and packability. Which to me, aren’t enough. You have to be able to get quality sleep. I’d rather carry a heavier pad and sleep well.
Thanks Jim! I come from the mindset that it's important to save weight, but a few ounces added on a couple pieces of gear is weight you aren't going to feel anyway. The Nemo Quasar 3D is nearly 2 pounds, and I freaking love that pad!
@@BackcountryExposure for quick one trips I’ve been carrying the Nemo Flyer regular wide which is obnoxiously large in terms of pack space. haha. And pretty heavy. (1lbs 12.9oz according to my scale). But I sleep so well on it. For multi night trips I carry the Sea To Summit Ether Light XT. It’s comfy and not too heavy (1lbs 3oz on my scale). I sleep better on Nemo, but the pack size becomes an issue on longer trips.
Probably all that is going on is that you are getting older. It is a true saying that the older you get the thicker the pad that is needed. When I was in my twenties I just used a thin closed cell foam pad or sometimes no pad at all. Then I went to a self inflating pad. Then I used the Thermarest Neo Air, the first one that came out. That was wonderful but now I use a hammock and there is no going back.
hey buddy, I do absolutely agree with you... it felt like a brick. I tried the light weight alternative, nemo Tensor insulated...this one is a keeper! enjoy your outdoors. best greetings frenkieoutdoors :)
Plenty of trees in the Uintas. Take your hammock.
Big Agnes Q Core is what I use. Side sleeper. All around 👍
Love the Q-Core!
2023 xlite next will be much quieter, 3” height, higher r value
2.5 inches thick if tough for sure sleeping...but specs are so good... Wish they made a thicker pad with same tech!
Agree! Maybe with a little curve to the baffles like the Nemo Quasar so it’s less board like when fully inflated. 🤷🏻♂️ ha ha
I was going to say I like my OV wide pad..
Haven't tried one yet as they can be quite expensive where I live
Totally disagree. Love the pad. Super comfortable and I don’t get all the noise complaints. Mine is plenty quiet. I’m 6 ft 150 lb back sleeper. Everyone is different. That’s why there are so many options.
I believe you, what’s good for one person is not good for the next person. You could take two of the pads and ca glue them together with activator and have a double pad. ( just kidding).
Nemo FTW. :)
Quasar 3D!!!
Is the Pump sack now extra $ on the Tensor?
I tried the Tensor insulated in ‘20 and it left me flat on the ground on the first trip with it in the middle of night- 8 miles backcountry in Yellowstone. A pinhole so small I couldn’t find it w/o popping it in the bathtub. So I returned it and went with Thermarest- haven’t had a leak yet in my Xtherm or Xlite. I really liked the comfort of the Tensor but didn’t feel I could trust it.
I bought the xtherm reg wide....it suxs!! I hate it. It will keep u warm....but, it takes me forever to get to sleep using this pad.
I recently bought a Xtherm Max regular wide intended to be used for my winter trips this year. I am nervous about what my sleep will be like on that...
@@BackcountryExposure Any updates on the Xtherm?
I am a side sleeper never blow it up to max sleep fine.
Noise alone sent me to a heavier pad.
So what's the best pad for side sleepers? I have an uberlite and after a few trips I realized it was trashing my back. I don't have another pad to try, but I thought the problem was inflatable pads in general. But maybe its because of the baffle design like you mention?
It was a couple trips until realized it was the pad. When I figured it out, I slept on the ground for the remainder of the trip. The next trip I brought my trusty closed cell and left the pad at home. Honestly, I'm skeptical that another pad will work. Side sleeping sucks for backpacking.
Definitely something like the Ether Light XT or the Nemo Tensor. I have a mummy version of the 3.2 R value one, and a rectangular version of the 6.2, and they're both thick enough for side sleeping, though the rectangular shape is nicer because it's a lot easier to stay centered on it. It actually feels almost like sleeping on a small mattress.
I have the x lite and like it. Tried the Uber lite to save weight. Took it back; not worth the weight savings. Good luck.
I got the Sea to Summit Ether lite. Big side sleeper too.
Numb arms and shoulders are what led me to hammocking. Thanks for your objective approach to this lame duck! 😀
I have another pad shaped like that and I hate it.
Shots fired! You can't beat Thermarest for a weight to warmth ratio but they suck. I've had 2 horizontal baffel pads (diff companies) and had the worst nights sleep on them. I won't buy Thermarest pads.
ha ha! I also added the Xtherm Max to my kit for my winter trips this year. I am hoping that my experience with the Xtherm is not 100% the same. We will see I guess...
@@BackcountryExposure was it any better?
Have you tried digging a depression under you hips. It can really help a bad pad. It's called a hip hole.
Lol
7-8 yrs of use and you just now say it terrible haha slow learner ?
Ha ha! Must be…
maybe you should try your bed.....lolol. just joking. I was planning on get this one. thanks for the feedback
My bed is so comfy!
As an old geezer I am sick of all the light weight uncomfortable stuff that the youth run around carrying. My next pad will be a wiggys. I may not go far ( O usually hammock) but I am at an age where if i cannot sleep well - I go home . bah grumph.
My fellow slide sleepers AVOID at alltimes
This pad should be discontinued or refunded. Its that bad. SMH
I’ve never understood what the hype was with this pad. It sucks. The only people that like this pad are the people that revolve their entire personalities around being ultralight.
It's not uncomfortable, it's ultralight!